Beechworth accommodation from AU$124

Beechworth was once a gold rush town that was especially prosperous during 1850s. During this time it was also the centre of government, and it is even said that one candidate rode a horse with solid gold horseshoes! This served as inspiration for the town’s logo, a golden horseshoe. However, gold mining isn’t the town’s only claim to fame; Beechworth also has links to Ned Kelly, Australia’s most notorious outlaw. Kelly spent time in the HM Prison Beechworth, and was held there during his famous committal trial in 1880. To celebrate their ties, Beechworth commemorates the anniversary of the bushranger’s hearing with the Ned Kelly Weekend, held in August each year.

Step into the past and head on a heritage walk, which will take you past some of Beechworth’s finest examples of architecture. Buildings include the Post Office, a beautiful cream building with laneway arches and a clock tower, several of Beechworth’s churches and the Courthouse, where Ned Kelly’s last trial was heard. If you’re feeling really brave, you can visit the Beechworth Lunatic Asylum on a ghost tour!

Need a strong drink after a ghostly encounter? Then head to one of Beechworth’s wineries, which specialise in classic reds and zesty whites. Spoil yourself with a nice meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes that use local produce to give their dishes a unique twist. Love beer? Visit the Bridge Road Brewery and try some of the region’s finest craft beer. Visitors with a sweet tooth will also be delighted with the famous Beechworth Honey located in the CBD. Try their tasty treats and bring a jar or two home for the pantry!

Beechworth sits at the foot of the Australian Alps, the highest mountain range in Australia. Here you can visit one of the Alps’ many National Parks, which are filled with incredible landscapes such as frosty mountain ranges, rocky formations weathered by the elements, glacial lakes and lush, colourful forests that look like something from a picture book. Head to one of the parks’ walking or 4WD trails, pack a picnic to enjoy under the shade of the trees or bring your binoculars and see if you can spot wildlife like kangaroos, reptiles, birds and even the rare mountain pygmy-possum.

Beechworth is three hours north of Melbourne, four and a half hours south of Canberra and seven hours from Sydney by car. Rather let someone else do the driving? Then catch a train or a coach from Sydney or Melbourne. With so many exciting experiences at hand, wot’s not to love about Beechworth? Get set with one of our Beechworth hotels and get ready for a Victorian adventure!