D is for Daylesford

Lovely Daylesford is a welcoming town, known for its artists and boutique shops. Jubilee Lake Camping Ground is very popular with (obviously) a lake, kiosk, canoe and paddle boat hire and helpful and friendly hosts. At Easter and other peak times, the 'overflow' areas are opened up and these boast generous sized sites with a toilet block and showers but not electricity. There is an easy walk around the lake and to the nearby mineral spring.

Jubilee Lake from the walk around the lake, looking back at the camp ground.

Unfortunately the lake surrounds are rampant with blackberries.  Did you know that these were brought from England to Australia by the founder of the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, von Meuller? He thought they were worthy immigrants because of their fruit and jam making properties. Landowners were advised to plant them along waterways to stop erosion and, of course, it didn't take them long to become a menace in our much milder climate. A major problem, is that the berries are delicious and enjoyed by many species of bird who then transport them in their gut before pooping them out in other places...in a capsule of fertiliser!

Another place to visit in Daylesford is the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens which are on the hill behind the Convent Gallery (which is also a must, not only because of the art but the lovely food in their cafe). The gardens boast a tower with a winding stairway of 100 steps.

When I was there, the hothouse was blooming with tuberous begonias.

Thanks to the foresight of our forebears, there are well established trees many of which are massive.

 ..but it is always the detail that catches my eye.

Many stems of a very old camellia

Bark of a monkey puzzle tree.

Fans of Daylesford, will tell you there is much more to see in this Victorian country town.  I didn't even scratch the surface with this post. It is well worth a visit, as is the adjacent spa town of Hepburn Springs where you can take the waters, and indulge in a spa and a massage.