Holiday houses in Sunbury

Melbourne is blessed with several wine regions within easy reach. Remarkably, you can leave the city and be in Sunbury — the closest, and one of the state’s oldest, grape-growing areas — in around 45 minutes. The historic, family-owned vineyards here cut a striking form across the countryside, the neat rows of vines intersected by farms, historic homes, grand seasonal gardens, and twee towns. Drop in to cellar doors producing standout Shiraz (the hero grape here), Chardonnay, Riesling, and Semillon, then branch out to discover the idyllic countryside that has attracted artists and creative types for generations.

This part of the state lies within the Macedon Ranges of central Victoria, a dramatic spine of mountains swathed in native forest and ringed by lush farmland, with so many wildlife reserves — Hanging Rock Reserve, Black Hill Reserve, Wombat State Forest, and Macedon Regional Park — in between. Needless to say, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking and cycling trails here to suit all time frames and experience levels.

Melbournians flock to Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges year round — for good reason. Regardless of season, it’s convenient to reach and activities abound. Visit in summer for cool mountain escapes, ideal for picnics, as well as a number of cultural festivals. Autumn, meanwhile, sees the region’s oak-lined avenues and grand gardens transform with fiery hues, perfect for leaf-peeping.

Spring colours the countryside with daffodils, magnolias, and rhododendrons, while farmers’ markets are heavy under the weight of bountiful seasonal produce. And winter is all about hiking and hibernation — think hot drinks by the fire and entertaining events like the Woodland Winter Arts Festival (June).

Hanging Rock

Thanks to a number of dramatic Australian books and movies, the reputation of this immense geological structure precedes itself. Fictional mysteries aside, the rock is one of the best examples of a volcanic plug in the world. Trek the Summit Trail to the top, or gather for a picnic on the expansive lawn surrounding the outcrop.

Macedon Ranges Arts Trail

Sunbury and the greater Macedon Ranges have long been a magnet for creatives, as you’ll soon discover on the self-guided Macedon Ranges Art Trail. Download a map or pick one up from any number of visitor information centres, then discover private studios, galleries, and design stores at your leisure — optionally punctuated with a pit-stop at one of the region’s wineries.

Forest Glade Gardens

This wonderous private garden is a floral paradise, attracting nature lovers, artists, and those seeking serenity in equal measure. Spanning 5.6 hectares (14 acres), the grounds consist of four distinct themes: Japanese, replete with a bonsai house; woodlands; a fern gully; and the English section, with its exotic deciduous trees. Regardless of where you wander, expect water features, fountains, and plenty of places to lay down a picnic rug.