Ballarat embodies the birthplace of the Australian spirit. Ballarat is an historic town, rich in heritage and culture. Gold was first discovered in Ballarat in 1851 and within a year 20,000 miners had arrived from all over the world.

For every glimpse of those goldrush days, you'll discover a surprising view of the city's modern face. Experience a vivid re-creation of the tumultuous mining era at Sovereign Hill, the breathtaking Robert Clark Centre and The Conservatory in the Botanical Gardens.

Festivals are in abundance too, from the riotous colours of the Begonia Festival to the ceremonies surrounding Eureka Week. Other attractions include Yuulong lavender Estate, Historic Montrose Cottage, Eureka Stockade Centre & the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery.

Not just Ballarat……

Once you've explored Ballarat's past and present, there's a whole region to discover, and Ballarat is easy to reach (just 110km. from Melbourne along the Western Freeway) and is central to Victoria’s greatest assets.

The Barkly Motor Lodge is only a day trip away to most of central Victoria's finest attractions, including: