Malmsbury

About

Malmsbury began as a settlement of squatters farming sheep and cattle, but after gold was discovered in the region in 1858, it grew in importance as a service center for miners. As the settlement grew, local bluestone was used in the construction of new buildings, which are now the foundation for Malmsbury's historic charms. When your arrive in town, stop by the excellent Malmsbury Bakery for a sweet treat and to pick up a map for a self-guided walking tour. It will lead you along streets lined with unique bluestone gutters to the 19th century Anglican church and the town's standout monument - the 152-metre-long viaduct, which was the longest bridge in Australia when it was built in 1859. Malmsbury's oldest attraction however, isn't a building, but the serene botanical gardens, which were established in 1850. Enjoy a picnic by the ornamental lake (maybe with some goodies brought from the bakery), before heading back to town to sip on some locally roasted coffee or regional wines.