Rise early and head to Gisborne, home to The Block Country 2022. When you arrive into town, get a takeaway coffee and enjoy a tranquil walk from Gisborne Botanic Gardens, along Jackson’s Creek Walk, and through to Sankey Reserve.

Tip: Drop by Jumbuck Sheepskin & Leather for your own Akubra to get into the country vibe.

If you’re arriving in the afternoon, check out dog-friendly Gisborne Peak Winery for a vino and wood-fired pizza. Or if you’re a gin fan, stop by Mountain Distilling’s tasting room for their award-winning artisanal gin.

Download the google route map and start your journey.

Wind your way along Barringo Road through the scenic Barringo Valley, taking in gorgeous vistas towards Mt Macedon, Mount Towrong and the Mt Charlie State Forest.

Turn right when you reach Shannons Road then look out for Gap Road on your left, which will take you towards Cherokee and towering forests.

The forest hamlets of Cherokee and Kerrie are home to lush farm properties, many of which are planted with vibrant deciduous trees. Look out for farm gates along the way selling fresh eggs, honey and produce.

When you reach Tunnel Creek Road, turn right towards Kerrie. It’s then a left turn into Kerrie Valley Road towards Hesket until you hit Romsey Road.

Head along Romsey Road towards the village of Woodend. Look out for cracking views to Hanging Rock from the intersection of Romsey Road and Straws Lane. A great spot to pull aside for a photo opp!

Make sure to drop by Hesket Estate Winery along Romsey Road – their cosy cellar door is open on weekends from 12-5pm.

The charming village of Woodend offers great shopping, country pubs, cafes and bakeries.

Swing by New Leaves Bookstore for a new read, or drop into the fabulous Mort & Pestle kitchen shop if you’re a lover of quality kitchenware and accessories.

Woodend General is a beautiful store for clothing and giftware, while Endangered is a unique shop that exclusively sells 100% Australian-made goods.

When you’re ready to chill, drop by Holgate Brewhouse Tap Room and their state-of-the-art distillery for a craft beer tasting.  Or relax by the fire at The Victoria Hotel with a glass of local wine and classic pub fare.

PS. You can’t leave without a visit to Woodend Ice Cream Co for the most amazing ice cream you’ve ever tasted!

It’s time to head into the mountains with a scenic drive that winds its way up Mt Macedon.

Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, drive further up to the summit of Mt Macedon for sunset at Mt Macedon Memorial Cross. Or if you’re feeling energetic, hike up to the top of Camels Hump for stunning views from the lookout.

Like nearby Hanging Rock, the rocky outcrop that is the Camels Hump is a volcanic feature formed six million years ago when thick lava squeezed up through a small vent in the earth’s crust. It is the highest peak in the Macedon Ranges at 1011m and offers superb views of the surrounding countryside.

It is a steep 500m ascent to reach the viewing platform the top, but it’s worth it!

Make sure to plan ahead for dinner. Pre-book at the sublime Mount Macedon Winery or for something more casual try the local Mount Macedon Hotel. Note – taxis are in short supply in the country so pre-book a cab well in advance if you don’t plan to have a designated driver.

After brunch on the mount, it’s time for an audio sensory hiking adventure in Macedon Regional Park.

Download The Murmuring Walk audio track in advance and be prepared to zen out. The Murmuring Walk is an audio-guided walk reflecting the environment, birdlife and natural rhythms of Sanatorium lake, which is on Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung land.

If bushwalking is not your cup of tea, take an easy stroll in the beautiful Forest Glade Open Gardens instead.

Afterward, head to Mount Towrong Winery for wine tasting and an Italian-inspired lunch (weekends only, advance bookings a must).

Check out whether Macedon Railway Hotel’s got any live music action in Annies Hall Band Room via our What’s On page to while away the afternoon.

If you’re a gin fan, consider taking a drive to Big Tree Distillery for gin tasting on Jacks Springs Farm. Big Tree Distillery is the result of a gin-loving husband and wife team who love good gin so much they decided to make our own! Their award-winning gin can be tasted at their distillery door on weekends from 11-4pm and Monday 10-3pm (please note they are closed over winter and will re-open for spring).

Check out of your mountain abode and take a scenic drive down Straws Lane. Wind your way through rural vistas in the direction of Kyneton, home to fantastic cafes for a wholesome brekkie and friendly vibe.

Post brunch, there’s an abundance of boutiques, art galleries and homewares stores waiting to be discovered on Piper, Mollison and High Street.

When you want to take a break from shopping, go on a peaceful stroll starting from the Kyneton Botanic Gardens and along the Campaspe River Walk.

Finish off back on Piper Street for lunch and cocktails at gin bars and hidden wine cellar doors. Make sure you have a designated driver to get you back home!