Toot toot! Leave the car at home and get a taste of Macedon Ranges’ wine, cider, craft beer and gin at country pubs along the V/Line. Hop-on-hop-off the train, wet your whistle and take in stunning scenic autumn landscapes along the way.

Follow the timetable to choose your own adventure – whether it’s a full day, an overnighter or a multi-day stay. Fit in a local bevy at each stop. Or choose to linger longer and skip a stop here and there. The pace is yours to set around the train schedule and what tickles your fancy.

See the V/Line train timetable to plan your journey on the Bendigo line.

The first stop on your Tipple Train Trail adventure is a classic railway pub. The Riddells Creek Hotel is a local’s fav and family-friendly watering hole. Sit under their old oak tree in the beer garden or cosy up inside by the fire. This unpretentious pub is a great starting point to shake off the big smoke and get into a country vibe.

Baringo’s fabulous Whistle Stop Bar is located a hop, skip and jump from the New Gisborne train station. This is the perfect pit stop to try one of our region’s cool climate wines and to get a wee bite to eat before jumping onboard the next train.

Woodend is home to two charming, historic pubs within a very short walk from the train station. The first one you’ll reach is The Victoria Hotel with a bustling bistro and Rock and Wombat Bar serving tapas and locally produced craft beer, gin, cider and wine. A little further down the street is Holgate Brewhouse and a state-of-the-art Taproom.

If you’re a craft beer fan Woodend is where you need to make a beeline!

All aboard! The next stop on your Tipple Train journey is a historic pub in Kyneton.

Heading downhill from the station (approximately 1.2km), you’ll soon arrive at the Kyneton Hotel. Along the way you’ll pass by the entrance to the beautiful Kyneton Botanic Gardens – worth a lazy stroll under the autumn leaves later if you’ve time.

Open seven days, this comfy pub serves a delicious menu to fill your tummy while sipping on local brews and tipples.

Kyneton is the perfect pit stop to spend a couple of nights so you can relax and explore the many other pubs, wine bars, restaurants, cafes and shops in town.

After exploring the scenic stops along the Tipple Train Trail, your journey concludes at either the Malmsbury Hotel or the Stables, with the Stables offering an Autumn Special – the Bellini Peach Cocktail.

Located just a 900-meter walk from the historic train station, the charming village of Malmsbury awaits. As you stroll downhill, be prepared to navigate around friendly geese.

Upon arrival, indulge in a refreshing Peach Bellini at the Stables, a cozy restaurant and pizzeria. Alternatively, you can visit the Malmsbury Hotel for its unique atmosphere.

After enjoying your drink, make your way back up to the station for your return trip home.

Both venues neighbour the stunning Malmsbury Botanic Gardens, offering vibrant autumn colours and featuring a magnificent bluestone viaduct bridge.

If you’re tempted to prolong your stay, consider booking a room at The Malmsbury Hotel. Additionally, Kyneton offers a plethora of accommodation options, cafes, galleries, and shops for further exploration.