Looking for a quick winter getaway? Just a stone’s throw from Melbourne, Trentham is a quaint gem waiting to be explored. Perched on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, this small town has long been a local favourite for year-round escapes, but winter might just be its secret season. Home to one of the most charming main streets in Victoria, the gold rush era town is brimming with cosy cafes, trendy boutiques, and vintage buildings, which seem to take on an even more enchanting quality in the cooler months. If you like the idea of curling up by a toasty log fire, sipping quality coffee, or enjoying life’s simple pleasures, add this tiny but mighty spot to your travel list. Here are some of the best things to see, eat, and do in Trentham this winter.
Things to do in Trentham this winter
Recently voted one of Victoria’s top tourism towns, a visit to Trentham will take you back in time with beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings and plenty of old-world charm to boot. The town boasts a lively blend of gift shops, warm cafes, and a surprisingly vibrant food scene for its size. And if that wasn’t enough, there’s a majestic waterfall just a few minutes from the town centre.
Kick off your day with a stroll through Trentham’s charming main street, and admire the aesthetic old cottages and timeless country charm. Also on the edge of Trentham’s main street is Quarry Street Reserve, a quaint little park with a sparkling lake and a postcard-ready red bridge.
Prefer to stay out of the cold? Trentham’s stellar boutiques offer an excellent refuge. Head to Kuki Trentham for stylish homewares and fashion, Pegasus Gallery & Gifts for local art and souvenirs, and the House of Marcelle and Mr John for an eclectic mix of upscale antiques, art, chic decor and more. Little Gallery Trentham is another cosy spot, showcasing works from both emerging and established Australian artists.
You won’t be short on food and drink options, but make sure to start with the historic 120-year-old Redbeard Bakery for flaky pastries, top-notch sourdough, and smooth, velvety coffee. Trentham Bakery is another local favourite, famous for its homemade pies and sausage rolls, while Trentham General serves up excellent breakfast, strong coffee, and lovely decor.
For wood-fired pizzas, regional wines and a cosy spot by the fire, make a beeline for The Cosmopolitan Hotel, a longstanding local establishment since 1866. Du Fermier offers a fresh, garden-to-table French menu that changes weekly, while Hotel Trentham delivers classic pub fare in a laidback setting. Pig and Whistle is another standout, serving everything from bangers and mash to crispy fish and chips, and an inviting beer garden.
What else can you do?
There’s plenty of outdoor adventure to be had around Trentham, too. Just a short walk from the town centre, the stunning Trentham Falls stands at 32 metres, making it Victoria’s tallest single-drop waterfall. The area is perfect for a serene picnic by the river, and you can also enjoy the scenic trails nearby. The best time to visit the falls is during winter or spring when the creeks are full and the drop is at its most impressive.
For panoramic views that stretch across Mount Macedon, the You Yangs, and the Dandenong Ranges, drive to Blue Mount or McLaughlins Lookouts in Wombat State Forest. You can also soak up the winter sun and tackle the Wombat Trail, an 8km loop that circles the town. Read more about Trentham and find accomodation options here.
How to get there
Trentham is a short 1-hour, 15-minute drive from Melbourne. If you prefer public transport, take a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station to Woodend Station, then transfer to a bus to Trentham. The journey should take no more than 2.5 hours. Plan your travels on Public Transport Victoria.