Stay, Dine & Explore: Ballarat Luxury 3-Day Slow Travel Package
Luxury Ballarat Hidden Lanes Tour - Stay, Dine & Explore 3-Day travel package
This exclusive Ballarat escape is designed for interstate and international travellers seeking something richer than a standard getaway — a beautifully paced journey into the heart of one of Victoria’s most historic and character-filled cities.
Stay at the iconic Craig’s Royal Hotel, where grand architecture and old-world elegance set the tone for your visit. Over your stay, you’ll explore hidden laneways, uncover Ballarat’s Gold Rush legacy, and enjoy guided experiences that reveal both the city’s fascinating past and its vibrant contemporary culture.
Thoughtfully curated dining experiences showcase Ballarat’s best local produce and hospitality, while guided walks and storytelling bring the city’s history, wildlife, and creative spirit to life. With time to slow down, wander, and truly connect, this package is perfect for travellers who value depth, authenticity, and comfort.
Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing and memorable escape, this luxury slow-travel experience offers a refined way to discover Ballarat.
highlights
Ideal for international visitors, couples, and small groups
Stay at the historic Craig’s Royal Hotel
Guided tours exploring Ballarat’s laneways, heritage, and local stories
Curated dining at some of Ballarat’s top local venues
A relaxed, slow-travel itinerary designed for meaningful experiences
What Our Guests Say:
“Hidden Lanes in Ballarat was such a great way to get to know the city…Jarrod really brought the history and local characters to life. A hidden treasure.” - Peter
have your own Ballarat slow travel adventure
Day 1 – Ballarat Gourmet Discovery
11:30 AM:
Victorian Vintage Picnic – A delightful lunch with tea. Relax and unwind or enjoy free time to explore the Ballarat Botanical Gardens.
1:00 PM:
Vintage Tram Ride around the shores of Lake Wendouree.
1:30 PM:
Leisurely stroll at Lake Wendouree, taking in the scenery and lakeside atmosphere.
2:30 PM:
Return to the hotel to rest, or explore Ballarat at your own pace.
4:30 – 7:00 PM:
Ballarat Foodie Tour & Dinner – Uncover hidden laneways, local history, and indulge in a curated progressive dinner showcasing Ballarat’s finest food and drink.
Day 2 – Historic Ballarat & Wildlife
9:00 AM:
Ballarat Wildlife Park – Get up close with iconic Australian wildlife.
(Optional koala encounter experience at 11:30 AM.)
12:30 PM:
Lunch at a local café (not included) – Enjoy lunch at your leisure and continue exploring the park.
1:30 PM:
Optional visit to Ballarat’s local art spaces, discovering works that reflect the city’s heritage and creative spirit (self-paced), or return to the hotel to relax.
2:00 – 4:30 PM:
City Tales Walking Tour – Immerse yourself in Ballarat’s history through architecture, stories, and hidden details. Includes a coffee or hot drink.
6:30 PM:
Dinner at leisure (not included) – Enjoy exceptional dining in historic Ballarat, with personalised recommendations provided.
7:30 PM:
Evening at leisure. Optional visit to the grand Regent Cinema for a film.
Day 3 – Gold Rush & Culture
9:30 AM:
Sovereign Hill Immersive Living Museum – Step back into the Gold Rush era. Your guide will introduce the highlights of this world-class living museum.
(Optional underground mine tour and/or horse-drawn carriage ride.)
11:00 AM:
Candle-Making Workshop at Sovereign Hill – A hands-on experience showcasing a traditional Goldfields craft.
12:00 PM:
Lunch & Devonshire Tea or Waffles at The New York Bakery – A hearty meal followed by the bakery’s famous waffles or scones with jam and cream.
1:00 PM:
Free time to continue exploring Sovereign Hill at your own pace.
Please note: This is a self-drive itinerary. Transportation between venues is not included. All venues are a short 10-15 minute drive from accommodation with ample parking.
ballarat tour package Pricing & Inclusions
3-Day Package (all prices in Australian $)
$1495 per person (twin share) / $1655 solo traveler
Includes:
2 night boutique accommodation at Craig’s Royal Hotel
2 Hidden Lanes guided tours (Ballarat Foodie Tour & City Tales)
Gin at local distillery
Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Tram ride at Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Entry to Ballarat Wildlife Park & Sovereign Hill
Special Hidden Lanes Ballarat tea towel
Transport Add-On: Private Melbourne-Ballarat return transfer available for $180 per person.
small groups:
Small groups of 5-12 people may request custom dates.
Bookings via hello@hiddenlanes.com.au
P.S. Got Questions?
We’ve got you covered.
📩 Contact us at hello@hiddenlanes.com.au
📞 Call us at +61 455528733
Let’s make your Ballarat experience unforgettable.
FAQ
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The meeting point is at Craig’s Royal Hotel, or the Ballarat Railway Station (depending on your travel preference)
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The tour goes for approximately 3 full days and includes all breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner.
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Ballarat's weather is... infamous - be prepared for anything. Having said this, Mark Twain, the American writer was a big fan of Ballarat's weather when he visited in 1895!
However, bring a warm jacket and brolly and comfortable walking shoes. On icy winter days a hat and gloves are in order.
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This tour isn’t designed specifically for children, however the package may still be enjoyable depending on the child/family. For families with children we recommend booking a private tour so the pace/activities can be customized.
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For assistance in booking please email hello@hiddenlanes.com.au or call 0455528733
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Bookings close: 4 weeks before departure
Payment: Full payment required at time of booking
Rescheduling: Permitted up to 30 days before tour start
Cancellation Policy:
30+ days before: Full refund
15–29 days before: 50% refund
Less than 14 days: No refund
If Hidden Lanes cancels for any reason, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.