Video courtesy Visit Macedon Ranges
Discover the magic of Woodend
Woodend is an idyllic destination nestled in the serene northern countryside of Victoria. Treat your family to an unforgettable adventure that will captivate their hearts and minds. Leave behind the chaos of everyday life and embrace the tranquil beauty of rolling hills and lush forests that surround this picturesque town. Indulge yourselves in the rich flavours of locally crafted delicacies, renowned for their artisanal quality. Experience the crisp mountain air and immerse yourself in the charm of a vibrant village atmosphere, where exciting escapades await at every turn.
Conveniently located just a short distance from Melbourne and even closer to the airport, Woodend is the perfect haven for your next family getaway.
Welcome to Woodend, Macedon Ranges
Woodend lies in the centre of the Macedon Ranges only one hour from Melbourne CBD and is a great base for shopping, exploring the natural beauty of the region and satisfying your foodie cravings.
The vibrant local business community offers a variety of opportunities for exploring quaint, bespoke retail stores, cafes, pubs and cellar doors all within easy driving or walking distance.
The pretty Five Mile Creek that meanders through the village provides opportunities for an accessible stroll through our natural environment that takes in the popular Woodend Children’s Park.
A strong, local event scene includes iconic events such as the Woodend Winter Arts Festival, the Woodend Twilight Festival and for foodies, the popular Woodend Community Farmers’ Market.
Tourists and locals mingle happily in our High Street after exploring the ancient Ngannelong (Hanging Rock) made famous by the 1975 film ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’. Hanging Rock lies around 8km from the town centre and features stunning rock formations, walking tracks, picnic grounds and discovery centre and plays host to the famous Hanging Rock races twice a year - a must see event!
Woodend offers locals and visitors everything they need to live and work simply in peaceful surrounds among a strong community - come and join us for a day, a year or for life!
You’ll be made welcome by all.
What’s on in Woodend
A Taste of Woodend
Woodend is fast becoming a foodie hotspot for locals and visitors.
Restaurants and cafes are embracing the use of local, fresh and seasonal ingredients to craft their dishes all the while cleverly catering to all dietary and culinary tastes and preferences.
There’s a growing range of locally produced and award-winning craft beers, gin, wine and cider that all feature heavily on the menus of our pubs and bars as well as in their own cellar doors.
Australian-inspired while culturally diverse eateries are a specialty here in Woodend.
Locals Tip: Book ahead as they are always busy!
Coffee snobs can rejoice in the knowledge that each cafe is owned and run by coffee lovers like yourself, and with a locally owned and operated cafe every 100m or so along our High Street, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
On the first Saturday of every month, you will enjoy shopping for fresh, seasonal produce at our genuine Farmers’ Market where you’ll buy your food directly from the people who produce it.
Shop Woodend
Supporting local business is a small town way of life.
In Woodend we have a thriving strip of quaint, mostly family owned and operated businesses through the centre of town, while away from the shopfronts there is a vast array of online retailers with bespoke, handcrafted or perfectly curated products that showcase our region.
Why do we always make a point to ask folks to shop local?
Because when you buy local, you support the whole community. It’s as simple as that.
Many of our retailers have put their heart and soul into their business and really know how to make their customers feel loved. That’s what you’ll find when you pop into any of our shops in Woodend.
Enjoy!
Events in Woodend
Woodend is home to festivals that celebrate art, music, sustainability, wine, the seasons and living local feature heavily on our calendar, while regular farmers, community and craft markets keep our retail cravings satisfied.
Live Like a Local
When we say “Live Like a Local” we mean that we encourage you to think ‘Go Local First’ when looking for a trade or service. Woodend, due to our proximity to Melbourne has a surprisingly vast range of businesses and skills.
Locals Tip: Ask your local Facebook group for recommendations.
Find Your Place in the Community
Community groups and clubs are a great way to meet people, learn new skills and help to strengthen your community. Joining in involves working together as a community, making connections and helping to make the world a better place.
Finding your place in the community can start by volunteering at a festival or market, joining a sporting club or school committee or offering your skills to a local charity.
Stay awhile
Woodend is the perfect base to explore not just our village but the many and diverse neighbouring villages that are all only a short drive away.
Discover world-class wineries - famous for our cool-climate wines; natural wonders, rolling farmland and forests brimming with native wildlife.
A cosy retreat or space for friends
There is a range of accommodation options in Woodend. Some are a stone’s throw from our vibrant village centre, while others offer a peaceful retreat among the trees and bushland.
Wherever you stay, be sure to take the time to relax, unwind and enjoy Woodend and the Macedon Ranges.
