Searching for the mythical city of El Dorado? Instead of voyaging to South America, why don’t you stay closer to home and explore Eldorado right here in Victoria? While we can’t promise a lost city of gold, this small town in the High Country is home to a rich mining history. You’ll find it three hours away from Melbourne, and just 20 minutes away from Wangaratta and Beechworth.
Eldorado in High Country, Victoria
This particular town received its name long before gold was discovered in the area. In 1841, settler Captain William Fury Baker renamed his property near Chiltern “El Dorado”, to symbolise his way to a rich life. Years later, in 1854, gold was discovered in the area, and as miners moved into town, they began to call it El Dorado, or Eldorado.
Before 1895, the main form of mining was via deep shafts, but after a collapse killed six miners, open cut mining became the main method of gold extraction. In 1936, a massive bucket dredge was built, and it mined alluvial gold and tin until 1954. It was one of the largest dredges in the Southern Hemisphere. In its 18 years of operation, the dredge produced 70, 664 ounces of gold and 1, 383 tons of tin concentrate. You can still visit the dredge today. Take a stroll around the historic reserve and learn all about its history through various signposts.
For even more history, visit the El Dorado Museum, which is located inside a former school building. Dotted around town, you’ll find other reminders of the past, such as cottages, churches and a cemetery.
While you’re in town, swing by the McEvoy Tavern, which is known as the smallest pub in Victoria.
Walk along Reedy Creek and admire the surrounding forest. Cross the Eldorado Swing Bridge, and see if you can spot any gold or gems in the water below. You can still try gold panning and gem fossicking in the creek, you’ll just need to obtain a recreational Miner’s Right.
Between Eldorado and Beechworth, you’ll find stunning sights like Woolshed Falls and Barry Falls. Venture further into the Chiltern-Mount Pilot National Park and look out for wildlife and scenic views.
Keen to check it out? You can start planning your visit here.