Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Points Of Interest In Country Beechworth, Victoria

By Jasmine Zahara

Beechworth is located in rural Victoria, Australia and boasts gold rush era origins that make it a facinating historical town. In recent years Beechworth has become famous for its gourmet delights and local produce that have gourmands visiting the town year round.

Outside of town there are several local wineries and vineyards that produce some very tasty drops. Winery tours can be organized in town and make great days trips. Some of the vineyards that can be visited include: Annapurna Estate, Moyhu Wine Company, Sam Miranda and Scion Winery.

In keeping with alcoholic beverage theme, the center of Beechworth has its very own micro brewery called the Bridge Road Brewery. Here you can try several local ales as well as having a scrumptious lunch or dinner. Several of the beers on offer at the brewery are award winners.

A great place to curb your hunger is at the Beechworth Bakery. This bakery is famous around Australia for its wonderful range of baked goods as much as its super energetic owner Tom O'Toole. There has been a bakery in the building since 1857 and it retains its historical facade.

There are many locally produced goods that make this town a popular destination for foodies. The olive groves, orchards, local honey and mustards are just some of the products you can visit, enjoy and take home with you. On top of this many restaurants around town use the best of local produce in their seasonal menus to cook sensational dishes.

There are plenty of activities to do in and around town that will have adults and kids alike fascinated. Many of the activities are also educational teaching visitors about Australian history, geology and biology. Since this is a gold rush town, gold panning is still available and you can try your luck at Sebastopol Park. This is the site where real gold fossickers from around the world hunted for gold. Australian legend and bushranger Ned Kelly also spent some time here trying to escape the police.

In town there is the historical area that is filled with buildings from the colonial and gold mining period of the 19th century. You can purchase a ticket to visit all the historical buildings which include: police stables and lock up, the town hall, Robert O'Hara museum, Courthouse, Telegraph Station, Gold Warden's Office, Chinese Protectors Office and Gold Office.

In addition to all the dining and historical activities you can strap on your hiking boots and get out to explore the hills around Beechworth. These are some of the best hiking trails that show off the best of the Australian bush. Trails around town also take you past various historically important sites. This is a top notch place to visit if you want a unique combination of great food, history and outdoors activities. It has something to offer each visitor and provides a glimpse into the past while providing a good view of contemporary Australia nestled into north eastern Victoria. Make the time to visit this little corner of the true Australia and you will leave with fond memories.

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