The jewel in the crown of the Goldfields region, a visit to Ballarat with its remarkable Victorian architecture and open-air museum, Sovereign Hill, feels like stepping back in time over 150 years to the incredible upheaval of gold rush fever.

Established in 1838 on the shores of Lake Wendouree as a humble sheep station, Ballarat’s fortunes were transformed just over a decade later with the discovery of gold. Your guide will introduce you to the gripping tales of triumph and tragedy that followed. This rich history comes to life at Sovereign Hill, an outdoor museum that replicates 1850s life, complete with costumed characters depicting gold diggers, blacksmiths, wheelwrights, and candlestick makers.

In keeping with the historic theme, enjoy a lunch of locally sourced produce paired with fine wine in the superb, glass-roofed gallery at Craig’s Royal Hotel, Australia’s legendary gold rush-era hotel, or perhaps opt for a simple café lunch—the choice is yours.

After lunch, admire the magnificent architecture funded by the great wealth drawn from the ground as you wander Ballarat’s wide streets. Then, visit the intimate Ballarat Wildlife Park, offering the opportunity to feed friendly kangaroos and view koalas, dingoes, and other iconic Australian animals.