Visit Riddells Creek
Mount Macedon descends in long ridges and valleys to the tiny village (and creek) of Riddells Creek, where the land opens up into livestock grazing country.
Here you'll find historic architecture and a relaxed country attitude city folk only dream of.
What to do in Riddells Creek
Riddells Creek is the perfect village to base yourself within for beautiful country drives, quiet escapes and cellar door adventures.
A gaggle of geese in the sleepy village of Riddells Creek.
Walking tracks and picnic spots
For a lazy stroll, get a country pie from the local bakery and have a picnic in Lions Park Reserve, located in the centre of town.
Bushwalking fans should head to a hidden gem called Conglomerate Gully Flora Reserve. Along this 2.9km walk, you'll find conglomerate rock formations, native orchids (between October to December), a small seasonal waterfall and an abundance of wildlife.
For a leisurely bike ride or hearty walk, try the 15.9km (return) walking and cycling trail between nearby Romsey and Lancefield.
Evidence of a bygone era can be found at the Walter J Smith Reserve on the Main Road. Here you'll find a heritage-listed rail bridge spanning Riddells Creek. Constructed in 1859, it's a fine example of 19th century bridge design and is one of the earliest bridges of its type constructed in Victoria.
The reserve is home to ducks and geese and shady trees. It's the perfect spot to spread a picnic blanket.
Wine tasting in Riddells Creek
Mount Charlie Winery's cellar door is usually open Friday to Sunday from 10 – 4pm. Here you can try estate-grown vintages including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shriaz-Merlot, Malbec and Temparanillo. Phone first to confirm they're open on 03 5428 6946.
You'll also find many other rustic and award-winning wineries in nearby villages, such as Romsey's Cope-Williams Winery, open on weekends.
For wine tasting and lunch seven days a week, check out Gisborne Peak Winery in Gisborne or Cleveland Winery in Lancefield.
Riddells Creek Farmers' Market
Time your visit for the third Saturday of the month and experience an authentic country farmers' market. This accredited market is the place to go for the freshest local produce, bread, meat, wine, beer and cider. You'll even find Alpaca fleeces, plants, preserves and jams, cakes and teas. Listen to local live music and soak up the country vibe from 9am-1pm.
Riddells Creek for families
Make sure to visit Dromkeen Homestead, a graceful National Trust classified 19th century homestead set in beautiful, established gardens.
Take a wander through the garden and enjoy Devonshire Tea or lunch at their cafe.
It also houses the Australian Children’s Literature Collection, where you can see the most complete collection of original artwork, manuscripts and other pre-publication material from Australian children’s books.
Where to eat and drink in Riddells Creek
For a simple pub meal head to the Riddells Creek Hotel. The Riddell Creek Bakery is also worth a visit.
Vics at Seasons is a good option for brunch and offers vegetarian and vegan options (open Wednesday to Sunday).
Spices & Pestle is also popular for Thai food (open for dinner Tuesday to Sunday.
For something different, travel a little way out of town and have a drink at the Coach and Horses Inn*, a National Trust registered building in Clarkefield.
*The inn is currently closed – stay tuned for updates.
Scenic drives from Riddells Creek
The scenic loop from Riddells Creek via Bolinda, Kerrie, Cherokee and Mount Macedon is truly beautiful.
Further on from Bolinda is Monegeetta, an example of a classic Victorian country village where you'll feel like you stepped back in time.
Clarkefield is also a wonderful little hamlet to visit for a history fix.
Places to stay in Riddells Creek
Treetops Scout Camp and Activity Centre offers a visitors a variety of accommodation including self-contained cabins, caravan and campsites.
Also check out neighbouring towns such as Romsey and Gisborne for places to stay near Riddells Creek.
Located in nearby New Gisborne are Mews Cottages – offering contemporary cottage accommodations a short walk from New Gisborne train station. Or enjoy a farmstay experience at Rooks Edge B&B, located on a registered sheep stud.
Joy's Guesthouse in Romsey offers a self-contained budget alternative.
How to get to Riddells Creek
From Melbourne CBD it is approximately one hour to reach Riddells Creek via the Calder Highway. Alternatively you can take the M2 and C325 (this route has tolls).
From Bendigo, it takes 1.25 hours' drive via the Midland Highway and Calder Highway.
You can also catch the comfortable VLine train from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station or Bendigo. The Riddells Creek Train Station is within walking distance to the local pub, bakery and shopping centre. However if you wanted to explore further afield you would need a car.
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