The Macedon Ranges is only 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD and 30 minutes from the Tullamarine Airport. The region consists of nine charismatic and historic villages bursting with vibrant autumn colours. Linking these villages are scenic rural landscapes ablaze in gold and crimson, tiny hamlets, eucalyptus and pine forests.
From Melbourne, follow the Citylink signs pointing ‘to Bendigo via the Tullamarine Freeway‘.
Note: An E-tag is required to pass through the Citylink tollway system. Car hire companies will provide E-tags in their arrangements or call Citylink on 13 26 29 to arrange a day pass.
Once on the Tullamarine, follow the signs to Calder Freeway (M79) towards Bendigo. The first turn off to the Macedon Ranges is Gisborne, where you can weave your way through backcountry roads to your destination. Or continue further along the freeway until you reach the village you’re planning to visit.
If travelling from the direction of Bendigo, head south on the Calder Freeway (M79). Your first turn off to the Macedon Ranges is Malmsbury. This is a very pretty village that connects to the large town of Kyneton via scenic back roads.
This area can get busy – read our advice and tips for visiting this destination.
Unearth autumn in the Macedon Ranges and discover nine unique villages across the region.
V/Line’s fast-rail service between Melbourne and Bendigo stops at Clarkefield, Riddells Creek, Gisborne, Macedon, Woodend, Kyneton and Malmsbury.
Note: Mt Macedon is not accessible by train. You’ll need a vehicle to ascend the mountain (or bring a road bike if you’re an experienced cyclist).
Accessible toilets are available on all Sprinter and VLocity trains. V/Line has an app to help you stay up-to-date with service information and timetables and plan your journey in advance.
We highly recommend catching the V/Line train and using our Macedon festival shuttle services, due to limited parking and high traffic volumes on weekends and public holidays during autumn.
There will be a couple of shuttle services in Macedon on weekends and public holidays from 1 April to 30 April.
Route: You can take a hop-on-hop-off shuttle service from Macedon’s Centennial Park up to the township of Mount Macedon and Forest Glade Gardens, with stops at open gardens along the way. Cost for a shuttle pass is $10 (families) or $5 (adults) and can be paid with cash or card.
If you do intend to drive to Macedon or Mount Macedon, make sure to read about important street closures and parking information in advance.
