Luxury Escapes Around Castlemaine: Chauffeured Journeys to Premium Stays, Fine Dining & Boutique Wineries
If you're dreaming of a regional Victorian escape steeped in style, Castlemaine is your perfect starting point. This historic goldfields town is home to elegant accommodations, top-tier dining, and an abundance of fine wine experiences just a short drive away.
Whether you're arriving via train or looking to plan a chauffeured itinerary from your front door, Flying Fox Chauffeur ensures every kilometre is travelled in comfort — with reclining heated seats, local refreshments, and total door-to-door service.
Let us take you on a curated tour of the best luxury stays, restaurants and wineries in the Castlemaine region — complete with estimated travel fares from Castlemaine Railway Station.
This photo was taken at the fabulous restaurant in Heathcote called Chauncy. If you are expecting the finest dining experience available in the region, this place should be at the top of your list!
🌟 Luxury Accommodation in and Around Castlemaine
Castlemaine is host to a number of premium B&B’s. Here’s a shortlist of 5 top rated stays and Flying Fox fare estimates from the Castlemaine CBD. Please note the fares are mostly estimates.
1. MillDuck Accommodation – Walmer (near Castlemaine)
Distance: 9 km
Fare:
Min fare + 6.5 km × $2.20 = $14.30 → Total: $39.30
A hidden sanctuary just outside Castlemaine, MillDuck Strawbale Bed & Breakfast offers unique, hand-built strawbale and mudbrick lodgings nestled in native bushland. The eco-friendly cottages are warm in winter, cool in summer, and feature rustic timber interiors, wood fires, and deep bathtubs for ultimate relaxation. With resident peacocks, starry skies, and total tranquillity, MillDuck is a favourite for those seeking a retreat into nature without sacrificing comfort or character.
2. Castlemaine Boutique Accommodation – Castlemaine
Distance: Varies (within 2 km)
Fare: $25 (minimum fare -/2.5km)
A collection of immaculately restored heritage properties spread throughout central Castlemaine, each with its own distinct charm. From gold rush–era terraces to converted churches, Castlemaine Boutique Accommodation offers luxurious furnishings, clawfoot baths, designer kitchens, and curated local art. Ideal for groups, families, or guests wanting a stylish home base within walking distance of cafes, galleries and gardens.
3. BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park – Castlemaine
Distance: 2 km
Fare: $25 (minimum fare -/2.5km)
This is not your average caravan park, trust me! — Set alongside the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, BIG4 Castlemaine redefines glamping. Their luxury safari tents offer queen-sized beds, ensuites, private decks with outdoor settings, and sweeping views of bushland and Mount Alexander. With firepits, BBQs, and proximity to local walking trails, it’s perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature — without compromising on comfort. There are also ‘Glamtainer’ container homes available that are truly out of this world.https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/vic/goldfields/castlemaine-gardens-holiday-park
4. The Midland Hotel – Castlemaine
Distance: 200 m
Fare: $25 (minimum fare -/2.5km) — ((A stones throw from Castlemaine railway station.))
A local landmark directly opposite the railway station, The Midland Hotel offers a unique fusion of art deco architecture, European-style hospitality, and boutique accommodation. Each room is filled with vintage touches and contemporary comforts, while the hotel's restaurant and bar serve modern classics with local ingredients. A perfect stay for travellers arriving by train who want elegance without needing transport at all.
5. 52 Views – Castlemaine
Distance: 1.5 km
Fare: $25 (minimum fare -/2.5km)
Perched above the town with panoramic views of Castlemaine’s treetops and rooftops, 52 Views is an architect-designed retreat made for modern luxury seekers. With minimalist interiors, designer furniture, a full chef’s kitchen, and an expansive balcony overlooking bushland, this stylish property is ideal for couples or creatives seeking peace, light and inspiration. Walking distance to the station and Castlemaine cafes but be mindful it is perched up on the high hills of Castlemaine.
🍽️ Fine Dining Destinations Worth the Journey
1. Wild Food & Wine – Castlemaine
Distance: 1 km
Fare: $25 each way (minimum fare)
Housed in Castlemaine’s historic fire station, Wild Food & Wine offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. The menu showcases local produce through creative, seasonal dishes, complemented by an extensive selection of regional wines. The ambiance blends heritage charm with modern elegance, making it a perfect spot for both casual lunches and intimate dinners.
2. Gornelly’s – Castlemaine
Distance: 1.2 km
Fare: $25 each way (minimum fare)
Gornelly’s is a European-style café and wine bar located in the heart of Castlemaine. Known for its cozy atmosphere and curated wine list, it offers a menu of shareable plates and hearty mains that highlight local ingredients. Whether you're stopping by for a leisurely lunch or an evening meal, Gornelly’s provides a welcoming setting for all occasions.
3. Chauncy – Heathcote
Distance: 74 km
Fare:
71.5 km × $2.20 = $157.30 → Total: $182.30 each way (excl. waiting charges if applicable)
Set in a stately sandstone building in Heathcote, Chauncy is a French bistro that brings a touch of European sophistication to Central Victoria. The restaurant offers a seasonal set menu that changes regularly, focusing on local produce and classic French techniques. With its intimate setting and attentive service, Chauncy is ideal for special occasions and culinary indulgence.
4. Voor Ouker – Castlemaine
Distance: 1 km
Fare: $25 each way (minimum fare)
Voor Ouker is an Indonesian-inspired restaurant that pays homage to the owner's Dutch and Indonesian heritage. Located in Castlemaine’s historic Temperance House, the restaurant offers a menu that blends traditional flavors with modern interpretations. The inviting atmosphere and unique culinary offerings make Voor Ouker a standout dining destination in the region.
🍷 Premium Wineries in Central Victoria
Here’s a short list of some truly fantastic wine producers in the region. There are many, many more that I will create a separate blog exclusive to vineyards in the region. Also worth noting that I offer full day packages to bounce between a set number of wineries, but keep in mind that bookings are absolutely essential!
For more details on full wine-tour pricing, feel free to reach out! Also keep in mind my vehicle does not have a liquor license as of writing this blog so there is only sparkling and still mineral water available for these trips.
1. Munari Wines – Heathcote
Distance: 72 km
Fare: 69.5 km × $2.20 = $152.90 → Total: $177.90 each way (excl. waiting charges if applicable)
Nestled in the renowned Heathcote wine region, Munari Wines is celebrated for its robust Shiraz and Italian varietals. The family-run winery offers a welcoming cellar door experience, where visitors can sample a range of handcrafted wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. The picturesque setting, with views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills, provides a perfect backdrop for a leisurely tasting.
2. Mandurang Valley Wines – Bendigo
Distance: 45 km
Fare: 42.5 km × $2.20 = $93.50 → Total: $118.50 each way (excl. waiting charges if applicable)
Located just 10 minutes from Bendigo's city center, Mandurang Valley Wines is a family-owned winery established in 1995. The Vine family produces a diverse range of wines, including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Visitors can enjoy tastings at the air-conditioned cellar door, relax in the garden setting, or partake in light lunches and afternoon teas. The winery also hosts occasional wine dinners and events.
3. Panacea Estate – Welshmans Reef
Distance: 25 km
Fare: 22.5 km × $2.20 = $49.50 → Total: $74.50 each way (excl. waiting charges if applicable)
Panacea Estate offers a tranquil escape with panoramic views over vineyards, gardens, and a serene lake. Open on weekends and by appointment, this family and dog-friendly winery provides wine tastings, cheese boards, and a relaxed atmosphere. The estate is also available for weddings, birthdays, and corporate events, offering flexible options to suit various needs.
4. Guildford Vineyard & Cellar – Guildford
Distance: 11 km
Fare:
8.5 km × $2.20 = $18.70 → Total: $43.70 each way (excl. waiting charges if applicable)Guildford Vineyard is a boutique winery practicing organic, biodynamic, and regenerative farming principles. The vineyard offers "Long Lunches" on weekends, featuring four-course menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients, paired with their handcrafted wines. Set under the shade of Grey Box trees, the dining experience combines culinary excellence with a commitment to sustainability.
Chauffeured Elegance with the Castlemaine Flying Fox Limo
Every trip with Flying Fox Chauffeur includes:
Luxurious plush seating with heated, massaging, and reclining with controls for A/C and a rear drinks fridge.
Locally sourced refreshments including Hepburn Springs mineral water and Cabosse & Feve chocolates for all longer trips.
Onboard charging for phones and laptops, plus a business-grade Telstra phone signal booster.
Flat-rate pricing with no surprises and complete discretion
We cater to couples, groups up to max of 4, and solo travellers seeking a personalised, relaxed way to explore the region — whether it's a day trip or a cheeky weekend indulgence.
Book Your Chauffeured Experience
Your escape begins the moment you step onto the platform at Castlemaine Station — or from your doorstep anywhere in Central Victoria.
Let Flying Fox Limo make your journey as exceptional as your destination.
Enquire or book now by calling Voksy on +61 402 598 492 or visit the ‘Booking’ page on this website!
The Flying Fox luxury Lexus ready for a winery tour at Munari Wines, one of Heathcote’s premier cellar doors.
