Goldfields discovery Travel Package: 3-day Ballarat & Clunes
Step into the stories of the Victorian Gold Rush on this curated 3-day slow travel experience in Ballarat and Clunes.
Designed for travellers who value depth, history, and connection, this unique package blends immersive storytelling, heritage architecture, and exceptional local dining. Discover hidden laneways and underground goldmines, indulge in a vintage lakeside picnic, and explore rarely seen goldfields-era buildings in the picturesque town of Clunes. With time to relax, reflect, and roam, this is a thoughtful regional escape for those who crave meaning in their travels.
✔️ Perfect for culture seekers, couples, and small groups
✔️ Includes immersive walking tours and exclusive access to heritage sites
✔️ Taste your way through Ballarat’s local flavours and distillery gems
✔️ Slow-paced itinerary with time for rest, exploration, and connection
Why these slow travel packages Are Unlike Anything Else:
We don’t just show you Ballarat & Clunes. We take you into its hidden history, secret spaces, and forgotten stories.
Each day is crafted for curious travellers who crave something different:
Real Stories, Not Just Facts → Uncover scandalous tales, underground secrets, and hidden gems most tourists never find.
Curated, Boutique Experiences → Forget crowded buses—our small-group and private tours offer an intimate and exclusive journey.
Beyond the Tourist Trail → From lost underground bakeries to secret basements, we take you where history still whispers.
Feel Like an Insider, Not a Tourist → With expert storytelling guides, you'll explore Ballarat like a local with a backstage pass.
What Our Guests Say:
“Hidden Lanes tours in Ballarat was such a great way to get to know the city as a new arrival! Jarrod really brought the history and local characters to life. Highly recommend if you’re looking to explore Ballarat’s hidden spots with a fun guide. A hidden treasure.” - Peter
3-day, 2-night Itinerary
Day 1 – Ballarat - Wednesday
12:00 PM: Victorian Vintage Picnic – A delightful 1880’s Victorian-inspired picnic lunch with tea.
1:30 PM: Self explore beautiful Lake Wendouree and Ballarat Botanical Gardens or have a doze on the picnic cushions.
2:30 PM: Rest at the hotel or self explore Ballarat.
3:30-5:30 PM: Ballarat City Tales Tour – Uncover hidden laneways, local history, and intriguing tales from the goldfields.
6:00 PM: Dinner at Lola’s – Enjoy exceptional dining in historic Ballarat.
Day 2 – Sovereign Hill & Foodie - Thursday
9:30 AM: Sovereign Hill Immersive Living Museum Experience – Step back in time at this historical living museum (optional horse carriage ride/Goldfields costume and photo experience).
10:30AM: Underground goldmine tour
12:00 PM: Australian pie & Devonshire Tea or Waffles – A hearty Australian meal followed by The New York Bakery’s famous waffles or scones with jam and cream.
1:00 PM: Self explore Sovereign Hill, browse the sweets shops and other activities.
2:00 PM: Rest at the hotel or self explore Ballarat.
5:00PM: Ballarat Foodie & Gin Distillery Tour + Dinner Discover hidden tales of Ballarat’s culinary past, and taste some of Ballarat’s unique flavours and gin.
Day 3 – Clunes Gold Rush Friday
9:30 AM: Clunes Goldfields Hidden Buildings Tour – Discover and explore inside hidden Clunes buildings, the town where gold was first found in Victoria.
12:30 PM: Lunch at local cafe – Delight in locally sourced meals in a cozy setting.
1:30 PM: Explore Clunes – Self-explore local bookshops, antique shops and gift shops.
2:00 PM: Shuttle to Ballarat Train Station – Head back to your next adventure.
ballarat + Clunes tour package Pricing & Inclusions
3-Day Package (all prices in Australian $)
$1595 per person (twin share) / $1755 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, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Entry to Sovereign Hill & goldmine tour
Special Hidden Lanes Ballarat tea towel
Transport Add-On: Private Melbourne-Ballarat return transfer available for $180 per person.
Upcoming Dates:
Limited spots, 5-12 people
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 meals.
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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.