Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are known as Australia's spa capital for good reason: the area holds the largest concentration of natural mineral springs in the country. It's a place people have come to restore themselves for well over a century — and it pairs beautifully with a stay that already has a sauna, spa bath and outdoor tub of its own.
The historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
The grande dame of the region, the Hepburn Bathhouse has offered mineral bathing on this site since 1895. A major refurbishment recently added five private bathing rooms, an apothecary experience where you blend your own scrub, and a refreshed treatment menu. There are three areas: the communal Bathhouse (all ages), the adults-only Sanctuary with its salt-and-magnesium pool and steam rooms, and private rooms for a personalised soak — try the Mineral Milk Bath. Entry gives you around two hours; upgrade for a robe, towel and locker. It's about fifteen minutes from Bellavita, and it books out on weekends, so reserve ahead.
The haven that is The Mineral Spa
A relaxing sanctuary day spa that includes 'The Retreat' a bathing area with hot and cold plunge pools that look over the manicured gardens then jump into one of the saunas or steam room. A more intimate space than the Hepburn Bathhouse, there is also a full range of treatments available.
Japanese calm at Shizuka Ryokan
For a completely different mood, Shizuka Ryokan brings a slice of Japan to Hepburn Springs, with a menu of Japanese-inspired spa and wellness treatments in a serene, traditional setting.
The Spa at Lake House
Tucked into the cottage gardens that wind down to Lake Daylesford, the spa at Alla Wolf-Tasker's celebrated Lake House is beautifully cloistered — a good pick if you want to fold a treatment into a special lunch or overnight.
Taste the springs (for free)
Bring a bottle to the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve and taste natural mineral water straight from the pumps — Locarno, Soda, Sulphur, Wyuna, Liberty, Golden and Argyle each taste a little different due to varying mineral content. It's a lovely, low-key ritual and a nice walk between the springs beneath the eucalypts.
How to plan the perfect wellness day
Start slow with a forest walk or the Peace Mile around Lake Daylesford. Mid-morning, taste the springs and pack a picnic from Cliffy's or the Sunday Market. Book your bathhouse session or treatment for the afternoon — the quietest times are midweek and off-peak. Then come home to Bellavita, fire the sauna, and finish the day in the outdoor bath as the sun goes down. Book spa treatments well ahead, especially on weekends and public holidays.
Opening hours, pricing and treatment menus change seasonally, so confirm directly with each venue when you book.
