Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve
Discover natural mineral springs and a historic bathhouse in a serene, leafy reserve. Sample unique waters and relax in therapeutic pools.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover natural mineral springs and a historic bathhouse in a serene, leafy reserve. Sample unique waters and relax in therapeutic pools.
"A beautiful park with free natural springs where you can pump to fill up your water bottles."
💧 Bring Your Own Bottles
Fill up your reusable bottles with the free, natural mineral water from the taps. A unique souvenir!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the reserve's trails and springs with ease. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the walks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mineral Springs
Throughout the reserve
Sample naturally carbonated mineral waters directly from the earth. A truly unique and refreshing experience!
Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Adjacent to the reserve
Indulge in a relaxing soak in mineral pools or enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment. Pure bliss awaits!
Picnic and BBQ Areas
Designated spots
Enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Barbecues and benches make it a perfect family outing.
Nature Walks
Various trails
Explore the leafy reserve on foot, discovering hidden springs and enjoying the serene natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waters
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Your Own Bottles
Fill up your reusable bottles with the free, natural mineral water from the taps. A unique souvenir!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the reserve's trails and springs with ease. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the walks.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a delightful meal amidst nature. BBQ facilities and benches are available for a perfect day out.
🛁 Book Bathhouse in Advance
For spa treatments or pool access, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Your Own Bottles
Fill up your reusable bottles with the free, natural mineral water from the taps. A unique souvenir!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the reserve's trails and springs with ease. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the walks.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a delightful meal amidst nature. BBQ facilities and benches are available for a perfect day out.
🛁 Book Bathhouse in Advance
For spa treatments or pool access, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially on weekends.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Trails can be less marked; consider a map or GPS for longer hikes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of sampling natural mineral waters directly from the earth at Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve. The adjacent Bathhouse offers a luxurious spa experience, and the beautiful natural setting is perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. Some find trail navigation challenging, and the Bathhouse can get crowded.
"The Mineral springs reserve is like stepping back in time. Take a leisurely stroll around the springs. Pump the different mineral waters out of the ground and sample the waters. Stop at the Pavilion for a hot or cold drink or visit The Bath house for a lovely massage or soak in the pools. Take a picnic or cook up a BBQ. There's something for everyone here if you are looking for a beautiful relaxing day."
Natalie Pullen
"It's such a beautiful place, especially in autumn, with a colorful nature! The picnic area was really good with a few barbecues and benches. The toilets were clean and had hand wash soap. Overall, I absolutely enjoyed my trip to this beautiful park! It was a great chill day!"
Leila Rah
"Beautiful park with free natural springs with which you can pump to fill up your water bottles. Apparently they date back to a period of drought where they had to bore drinking water in the 1930s' , though all the original taps were replaced in 2007.
There are a few nature walks to more distant springs, however there are three or four within close walking distance of parking."
Nathan f
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Melbourne. You can also take a train to Daylesford and then a local bus or taxi to Hepburn Springs.
Yes, there is parking available near the main springs and the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. It can get busy on weekends.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination from Melbourne, offering a relaxing escape into nature.
While there are local buses, having a car offers more flexibility to explore the wider Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region.
The main paths around the central springs are generally accessible, but some nature trails may be uneven. Check with the Bathhouse for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve itself is free. You can wander the grounds and sample the mineral waters at no cost.
The reserve is generally open from dawn till dusk year-round. The Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has specific operating hours, which you should check on their website.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your spa treatments and bathing sessions at the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa in advance, especially for weekends and public holidays.
While the reserve offers free access to natural mineral springs for sampling, the 'hot springs' experience with heated pools is at the paid Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.
Entry to the reserve includes access to the walking paths, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and the natural mineral spring taps for sampling.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bring your own water bottles to fill up at the various taps. Each spring has a unique mineral composition and taste. Take a leisurely stroll to discover them all.
While there aren't formal guided tours of the reserve itself, the staff at the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa can often provide information about the springs.
Families can enjoy picnics, BBQs, gentle walks, and the unique experience of tasting different mineral waters. The nearby Bathhouse also offers family-friendly options.
No, the natural springs are for sampling and filling bottles, not for swimming. For swimming in mineral pools, visit the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.
The reserve has picnic areas with BBQs, benches, and clean public toilets. The adjacent Bathhouse offers cafes and other facilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The reserve itself has picnic and BBQ facilities. The adjacent Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has a cafe offering drinks and light meals, including scones.
Hepburn Springs and nearby Daylesford offer a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, often focusing on local produce.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks for a picnic is encouraged. There are also BBQ facilities available.
Yes, the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has a cafe that serves coffee, tea, and light refreshments, including Devonshire Tea.
The Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region is known for its focus on fresh, local produce, so you'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options at most restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural springs with their unique taps, the historic pavilion, and the surrounding lush greenery, especially in autumn, offer beautiful photo opportunities.
Yes, the architecture of the Bathhouse and the serene atmosphere of the mineral pools provide excellent subjects for photography.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering light for landscape and architectural photography in the reserve.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public reserves and near spa facilities. It's best to check local regulations or contact the reserve management for specific rules.
Always be respectful of other visitors' privacy. It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or groups.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the reserve itself is about gentle exploration, the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa offers family-friendly options for bathing, though it's primarily geared towards relaxation. Ensure children are supervised at all times, especially near the water. The natural beauty of the reserve provides a great backdrop for teaching kids about nature and local geology.
💰 Budget Travelers
For a truly budget-friendly experience, focus on exploring the reserve's walking trails and enjoying the natural springs. If you wish to experience the heated pools, consider visiting the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa during off-peak times or looking for any special offers they might have. Many visitors find immense value in simply enjoying the natural beauty and unique water-sampling experience.
💖 Couples & Wellness Seekers
+1The ultimate indulgence is a visit to the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, where you can book couples' massages or enjoy a private mineral bath soak, followed by a relaxing afternoon tea. The serene environment and therapeutic waters make it an ideal destination for rejuvenation and connection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Healing Waters: A Deep Dive into Hepburn's Mineral Springs
Each spring has a distinct character. For instance, the 'Hepburn No. 1' spring is known for its iron content, while others offer different blends of magnesium, calcium, and sodium. The practice of 'taking the waters' has been a tradition here for generations, offering a unique connection to the region's natural heritage.
While the reserve offers free access to these natural springs, the adjacent Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa provides a more structured and luxurious experience. Here, you can immerse yourself in heated mineral pools, enjoy private bathing sessions, and indulge in a range of spa treatments designed to complement the healing properties of the mineral water.
+1Planning Your Visit: From Relaxation to Exploration
+1For the more active traveler, the reserve offers several walking trails that lead to more secluded springs and provide opportunities to connect with nature. These trails are generally well-maintained, though some can be a bit uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The picnic and BBQ areas are ideal for families or groups looking to spend a longer day outdoors, enjoying the scenic beauty.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, like autumn or spring, to experience the reserve in its full glory. Autumn brings a spectacular display of fall colors, while spring offers blooming flora. Weekdays are generally less crowded, allowing for a more serene and personal experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit