So… I did it. I finally made it to Daylesford.
After years of hearing about this magical little food-lover’s paradise and never quite finding the opportunity to get there, I woke up one day last week and thought — if not now, when?
With my birthday coming up, I messaged my friend to see if she could sneak away for a night. After a bit of juggling on her end, it was locked in. A quick midweek getaway. A celebration. A feast.
Come Tuesday, I tied up a few bits and pieces at the golf club, packed the car, and we hit the road just after midday. By 3:30 pm we were rolling into Daylesford, pulling up at our gorgeous little Airbnb. It was filled with natural light, quirky in all the right ways, and incredibly welcoming. And — the best part — it was literally right next door to The Lake House.
Now, The Lake House has been on my food bucket list since I first started learning about food awards and fine dining in Australia. It’s iconic. One of those dream restaurants that has been whispered to me in passing over the years. So to be right next door? Fate.
We wandered over before 6pm, had a cheeky cocktail in the lounge (as you do), then rolled into their 5-course dining experience. We opted for the 140ml wine pairing because it was a birthday! And food. And celebration. We made sure to choose different dishes for each course so
we could share and taste more of what the menu had to offer — and wow. How wild is it that the right wine can unlock a dish? Like, actually open up your taste buds and turn a beautiful meal into something next-level. It's food alchemy.
By course four we were full full — but of course I still made room for a cuppa tea. And in true birthday fashion, they brought out extra sweets and chocolates to finish. We strolled back to our Airbnb in 4-degree weather, warm and full and just... blissed out.
The next morning started with coffee and Tim Tams in the kitchen, chatting and laughing before heading out for brekky. We found Cliffy’s — what a vibe. That place is funky, cosy, and the food? Absolutely spot-on. And don’t even get me started on the coffee — proper crema, the kind I dream about.
A little bit hungover, very well-fed, and buzzing on caffeine, we hit the op shops for some treasure hunting, picked up a few goodies, and then cruised home.
I feel so lucky. Thankful for the food, the laughs, the company, and the little push to make it happen. Daylesford was everything I needed and more. And yes — I’ve already messaged my friend saying next year… we’re doing two nights, not just one. 😂
