OUT OF TOWN / Daylesford 3460

The wellness seekers of the late 1800s flocked to Hepburn Springs, drawn by the lure of central Victoria’s mineral-rich waters. Almost 130 years since its first customer dipped a toe in the pools, nothing much has changed at the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, although additions like a steamy Turkish hammam and rose quartz facials have brought it into the modern age.

“Hepburn Springs and Daylesford are two sides of the one coin,” says Belle Property’s Will Walton. “We really are a two-town destination. “They’re both attractive destinations for discerning purchasers thanks to the natural beauty, gorgeous period homes and a culinary scene that really punches above its weight.” Just 1.5 hours from Melbourne – and 30 minutes from Ballarat, should the siren song of Bunnings and Kmart prove irresistible – Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are well placed for people who want to go country – but not too country. The median house price hovers around $890,000 (although, Walton says, “it’s a bit distorted as renovated properties with three bedrooms and two bathrooms can sell for $1.2 million to $1.5 million on a good-sized block”), which makes it attractive for first-home buyers, particularly those working from home. Walton says there’s also a big trend towards architect-designed homes that are energy-e cient and sustainable.