BENDIGO
GET TO KNOW
THE AREA
Gracing many a postcard, Bendigo is where locals embrace its heritage with pride and celebrate the bountiful produce the area provides. Synonymous with the gold rush era, Bendigo is still reaping the rewards of its heyday. From nostalgic wide streets and century-old architecture to a thriving food and creative scene, Bendigo takes top prize for being one of regional Victoria's most vibrant centres.
Lifestyle
Bursting with country hospitality, Bendigo has an old-world charm that truly delights. Yet, it's what lies just beneath the surface that thrusted this once unassuming town into the spotlight, bringing people from all over the world dead-set keen on striking gold.
To this day, Bendigo is still benefiting from its prosperous past, with heritage architecture, public sculptures and beautifully landscaped gardens being the pride of the town. Museums speak to the Chinese influence in the region, heritage trams transport you back in time, and Australia's oldest working pottery teaches an art form that locals have an enduring love for. And although a history buffs dream, Bendigo has so much more to boast about.
Read MoreLifestyle
Bursting with country hospitality, Bendigo has an old-world charm that truly delights. Yet, it's what lies just beneath the surface that thrusted this once unassuming town into the spotlight, bringing people from all over the world dead-set keen on striking gold.
To this day, Bendigo is still benefiting from its prosperous past, with heritage architecture, public sculptures and beautifully landscaped gardens being the pride of the town. Museums speak to the Chinese influence in the region, heritage trams transport you back in time, and Australia's oldest working pottery teaches an art form that locals have an enduring love for. And although a history buffs dream, Bendigo has so much more to boast about.
Heritage buildings have been transformed into cafes, restaurants and wine bars – all of which celebrate homegrown produce. The arts and culture precinct has boutique shopfronts filled with local designers, lost trades and vintage goods. And the town's social calendar is jam-packed full of festivals and events that celebrate the best of the region.
Pall Mall is the beating pulse of this regional centre. It's where big-name brands and smaller boutiques sit alongside on-trend cafes, restaurants, bars and old-fashioned pubs oozing with old-world charm. Away from the main streets, Bendigo takes on a calmer, much more easy-going feel with leafy neighbourhoods filled with heritage homes and quality schools for families seeking a much slower pace from the glittering lights of Melbourne CBD. It really is impossible not to fall in love with Bendigo.
Neighbours
There's a reason why families have been calling Bendigo home for generations. From prestigious schools and sporting clubs to friendly neighbourhoods that thrive off community spirit, Bendigo has a nostalgic appeal that keeps locals put and city folk moving in for a taste of the good life. With its rich history and vibrant foodie scene, holidaymakers are also a regular fixture.
Neighbours
There's a reason why families have been calling Bendigo home for generations. From prestigious schools and sporting clubs to friendly neighbourhoods that thrive off community spirit, Bendigo has a nostalgic appeal that keeps locals put and city folk moving in for a taste of the good life. With its rich history and vibrant foodie scene, holidaymakers are also a regular fixture.
Area features
GOLDEN HERITAGE
Arguably Bendigo's biggest drawcard, the remnants of the Gold Rush era continue to play a starring role in Bendigo's identity. Bendigo's golden past is still prevalent, from the elegant buildings that define the town centre to the museums, gold mines, and tourism trails that take you back to a bygone era.
ART & CULTURE
Bendigo has made quite a name for itself in Australia's art community, with galleries and studios showcasing local talent, especially pottery, which is what Bendigo is renowned for. Then there is the line-up of cultural events throughout the year, including festivals and markets.
FOOD & WINE
Locally grown produce is highly celebrated, especially among the vast selection of cafes and restaurants that give their Melbourne counterparts a run for their money. Plus, the wineries and breweries are an attraction within themselves.