Take a journey back into Australia’s gold mining history at this heritage-listed mansion set in 55 acres of colourful gardens surrounded by a lake that’s perfect for fishing and boating. Feeling lucky? Grab a sluice, fossick for gold and gems.

Less than two hours from Melbourne, this relaxing – and romantic – escape provides the chance to unlock Australia’s epic mining history at Sovereign Hill and The Eureka Centre. Or you can indulge with a visit to a local winery before unwinding at a day spa. At Club Wyndham Ballarat, owners can slip into the resort’s heated indoor pool or adventure out on the lake in a paddle boat.