A local's guide to a long weekend in Beechworth
I’m so excited that you want to come and visit our little slice of paradise in the Victorian High Country. There’s so much to see and do here that you’ll wish you booked a longer stay.
I grew up in the area, and I love sharing everything that our beautiful area has to offer. This is how I would spend the perfect long weekend in Beechworth (or Beechie as the locals call it).
A little about our town.
Beechworth (no, it’s not spelt Beachworth, even though that makes more sense. English is so confusing!) is about 3 hours northeast of Melbourne, on the traditional lands of the Pallanganmiddang Nation. It’s one of Australia’s most well-preserved gold rush towns, with gorgeous historic buildings throughout the town.
Day 1
Rise and shine, and leave the car parked in the driveway, because today you can explore everything on foot. First stop is a fabulous brekkie and a good cuppa, and my recommendation is Project 49 right in the heart of Beechworth. Sit inside, or my favourite is to sit on the street and watch the town slowly wake up.
Then spend the morning exploring the Beechworth Historic Precinct. I recommend starting with the tourist information centre to buy your tickets and to get a map of the area. From there, explore the Old Courthouse, Telegraph Station and Burke Museum. Next, move on to the Old Beechworth Gaol and see where Ned Kelly spent some of his days. It was operational from 1860 - 2004, so it has a long and interesting history.
You will be well and truly ready to sit and have some lunch by now. Head back into the main street for a counter meal at Tanswell Hotel or a beer and pizza at Bridge Road Brewery. You can't go wrong with either. I personally love the apple and blue cheese pizza from Bridge Road Brewery. Oh, and don't forget to try their Free Time non-alcoholic beer. It's delicious.
Spend the afternoon exploring the wonderful shops in the heart of town. Some of our favourites are Beechworth Emporium, Dalcheri & Eva’s Sunday. Make sure you leave some time to explore Beechworth Honey. See their working beehive, and taste over 40 varieties of honey. Yum!
Next, take a little walk to Last St Brewery and sample their delicious cordials, beers, and spirits. As I wander back to The Inn, I like to explore the back streets and look at the historic homes and buildings that give the town its charm.
Before you arrive in Beechworth, I highly recommend booking dinner at Provenance Restaurant. It’s a special night out that you won't forget, but it needs to be booked well in advance.
Day 2
Let’s start the day right and enjoy a great cuppa and a yummy toastie for brekkie at Tiny’s. I'm not sure what they do to their toasties, but they are so delicious.
Now let's jump in the car and go for a little drive around the area. Don’t worry, you don't have to go far to see and experience so much. I suggest driving out to Woolshed Falls first, an easy 10mins drive from Beechworth. These waterfalls are beautiful anytime of the year, but if it's summer, it's a lovely spot to take a dip. But, be careful; the rocks can be slippery.
Next, move on to Yeddonba Aboriginal Cultural Site and see the rock art of the Dhudhuroa people. Also, stop by Mt Pilot, it's a beautiful view from its rocky outcrop.
If you enjoy wine, then continue to Rutherglen and spend the day exploring its award-winning wineries. My favourites are Scion, All Saints and Jones.
Or head to Yackandandah, where you can visit some of my favourite shops. First stop by Seventh Pocket, to see Lindy's range of gorgeous Australian clothing and giftware. Then head next door to Dave at Stone Hill View for one of his stunning blankets (they’re the ones we use at The Inn). Also, pop across the road to Feather and Drum for a custom hat. I'm usually getting peckish by now, and Gum Tree Pies hits the spot. Their Thai Green Curry is a particular favourite of mine. Finally, head to Yack Station to enjoy some of Backwoods Distillery’s whiskeys and gins. There are also some interesting shops, artists, and a bakery in the precinct.
If you like pottery, then I highly recommend visiting Kirby’s Flat Potter. John Dermer OAM pottery is incredible. From there, keep heading towards Myrtleford to visit the unique Pepo Farms. They're Australia’s first pumpkin seed farm. They have many different flavours of pumpkin seeds and oils to try. Try their delicious chocolate-covered seeds, they’re so yummy.
If you still have time (I told you that you would need more time in the area), then head to Stanley. The area grows delicious fruits and berries. In the summertime, head to High Grove Farm to pick your own berries, cherries and other fruits. It’s so much fun. Also, check if Black Barn Farm is open, their farm and philosophy are wonderful. Pop into Jim Jam Foods for all your jam, beans and chutney needs. Their farm gate is hidden in the Stanley bush and it’s a lovely little adventure to get there. Finally, you have to stop by the beautiful Stanley Pub. If you have time for a meal, then I highly recommend it. If not, stop for a drink at the bar or a cuppa at their lovely little country store.
After your full day, head the 9km back to Beechworth for some well-deserved rest and some dinner. If you like good old-fashioned Aussie Chinese food, then you can't go wrong with Beechworth Chinese Village. It’s so nostalgic and delicious.
If you still have some energy and like a little spooky nighttime activity, then why not sign up for a ghost tour? Set in the grounds of Mayday Hill’s Asylum, Asylum Ghost Tours are not for the faint-hearted.
Day 3
Before you leave, enjoy one last yummy breakfast at Project 49 and a wander around town for some last-minute shopping. Then take a drive up to Beechworth Asylum to explore the beautiful old buildings and grounds. Also, visit the Beechworth Cemetery to see the Chinese Burning Towers and learn about the important history that Chinese immigrants played in the gold rush.
Before you hit the road, pop by the famous Beechworth Bakery to get some goodies to enjoy on your car ride home. Their beestings are a weakness for me.
This is a little of what you can do in Beechworth and surrounds over a long weekend. There is so much I have missed because there just isn't enough time in a long weekend. You’ll have to come back and explore some more, and we would love to have you.
Take care,
Lee
Owner
The Inn Beechworth