Sunbury’s Must-See Sights: An Insider’s Guide

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Sunbury’s must-see sights, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the town’s rich history, vibrant culture, and charming attractions.

Sunbury is a hidden treasure just 40 kilometres northwest of Melbourne. This charming town in the Macedon Ranges offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and laid-back country vibes. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, wine enthusiast, or travelling with kids, Sunbury has something special waiting for you.

1. Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Wonders

Organ Pipes National Park: Step into a prehistoric world at this geological marvel, just 20 km from Sunbury. The park’s star attraction is a set of basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows, resembling the pipes of a giant organ. Hike the easy 3 km circuit through the rocky gorge of Jacksons Creek, spotting native birds and wildflowers along the way.

Tip: Visit in spring to see the park carpeted in colourful wildflowers.

Jackson Creek and Albert Road Reserve: For a tranquil nature escape minutes from town, head to these interconnected reserves. Stroll along the creek, keep an eye out for kookaburras, galahs and echidnas, or enjoy a picnic in the shady grasslands of Albert Road Reserve, known as Wuruwurrt Biik to the local Wurundjeri people.

Fun Fact: The reserves are home to over 130 native plant species and an important remnant of endangered grassland.

2. Uncover Sunbury’s Storied Past

Rupertswood Mansion: Cricket fans, this one’s for you. Visit the birthplace of the Ashes urn at this grand 1870s mansion. Take a guided tour to learn about the legendary cricket match where the Ashes were first “won” and see historical cricketing memorabilia.

Old Sunbury Courthouse: Start your journey through Sunbury’s past at this 1885 courthouse turned visitor information centre. Grab a map for a self-guided historical walking tour taking in other heritage gems like the bluestone Craiglee Winery and Aitken’s Gap Gaol ruins.

Emu Bottom Homestead: Step back to pioneer days at Victoria’s oldest homestead, dating to 1836. Join a heritage tour to explore the rustic buildings and beautiful gardens, learn about early settler life, and maybe even spot the resident emus.

3. Fun for the Whole Family

Animal Land Children’s Farm: Get up close with friendly farm animals at this hands-on farm experience. Kids will love feeding lambs and goats, cuddling bunnies, milking a cow, and going for a pony ride. Don’t miss the baby animal nursery in spring.

Tip: Bring gumboots in winter as it can get muddy.

Galaxy Land Adventure Playground: Let the kids burn off energy at this space-themed playground next to the Sunbury Aquatic Centre. They’ll have a blast on the rocket ship climber, space shuttle, spinning UFO, and accessible play equipment. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the shady lawn.

Living Legends: Horse-mad kids and adults alike will love meeting retired champion racehorses at this unique horse home. Take a guided tour to get to know former Melbourne Cup winners and learn about their racing glory days. You might even get to feed them a carrot!

4. Sip and Savour Sunbury’s Finest

Craiglee Vineyard: Taste award-winning cool-climate wines at one of Sunbury’s original vineyards, est. 1863. Craiglee’s celebrated shiraz is a must-try, along with chardonnay, pinot noir and more. Visit the restored bluestone cellar door to sample the range with the winemakers themselves.

Goona Warra Vineyard: Discover another pioneering Sunbury vineyard at this historic winery founded in 1863. Taste their highly-awarded shiraz and chardonnay while soaking in the glorious views over rolling vines to the Macedon Ranges.

Tip: Many Sunbury wineries are open by appointment only, so be sure to call ahead.

Mountain Distilling: For something a bit different, visit this family-run craft distillery known for its small-batch gins infused with native botanicals. Book a tasting to try their signature Macedon Dry Gin and limited-edition seasonal releases. You can even make your own gin at their blending workshops!

Where to Eat & Drink

After working up an appetite exploring Sunbury’s attractions, you’ll find plenty of great places to refuel:

• The Spotted Owl: Popular cafe dishing up top-notch coffee and creative brunch fare. Try their Reuben eggs benedict.

• Roquette Bar & Grill: Local favourite for woodfired pizzas and pub grub on O’Shanassy Street. The ‘Sunbury Supreme’ sunbury pizza with the works is a must.

• Maloneys Grocer: Gourmet foodie haven stocking local produce, cheeses, wine and more. Perfect for a picnic hamper.

• Watts Fresh: Grab healthy salads, wraps and raw treats at this bright little cafe, a top pick among sunbury cafes.

Getting to Sunbury

Sunbury is an easy 40-minute drive northwest of Melbourne via the Calder Freeway (M79). There are also regular V/Line trains from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Sunbury Railway Station, taking around 30-40 minutes. The town centre is a short walk from the station.

Where to Stay

There are a few good options for hotels near sunbury if you’re looking to stay over and explore more:

• Emu Bottom Homestead: Stay in cosy cottages on the grounds of historic Emu Bottom for a taste of country life.

• The Spa Sunbury: Well-appointed motel with an onsite day spa, perfect for a rejuvenating getaway.

• Sunbury Cottages: Charming self-contained cottages on 32 acres, just 2 km from town.

With its enticing mix of natural beauty, fascinating history, family fun and foodie delights, Sunbury makes a rewarding day trip or weekend escape from Melbourne. And with an Airtel International Roaming plan, you’ll stay seamlessly connected to discover all this hidden gem has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Sunbury adventure today!