subject: Explore The Historic Places Of Beechworth [print this page] Located in the northeast region, Beechworth is recognized as the best preserved gold mining town in Victoria. It grew to prominence during the mid-1850s gold rush and for a short time had great influence and power as a centre of government. The town is now a prominent tourist destination and is fast becoming a leader in Australian wine production.
The golden horseshoe that makes up the town logo design is a tribute to the extravagance seen during the boom years. Daniel Cameron was a candidate when the first election was held in 1855. He was remembered for the solid gold horseshoes seen on his mount as he rode through town. Even today, tourists and visitors are invited to pan for alluvial gold in local creeks and streams.
Nature lovers can explore the 1020 hectares that make up Beechworth Historic Park and its magnificent granite outcrops, waterfalls and babbling creeks. Gigantic cypress pines and eucalyptus trees dominate the forest. Take the Gorges Scenic Drive past these natural wonders. The trail also meanders past a number of relevant gold mining sites, an historic minors hut and the old powder magazine. Alert hikers may spot lace monitors, koalas and wallabies in their natural habitat.
The magazine was used during the gold rush years to store gun powder used for blasting at quartz and gold mines. The all copper fittings and formidable lightning rod were designed to avoid an explosion. Closed in 1918, the building was falling apart and about to be destroyed when the National Trust saved and restored it in 1966.
The native Australian animals and plants that live among the gum trees and frolic near the waterfalls include kookaburras, kangaroos and koalas. Any of these creatures may be spotted from the numerous trails that wind through the brush. Trails are designed to accommodate hikers of all skills and fitness levels.
A colonial town that has this much history is bound to have a few ghosts hanging around and according to many, the place to find them is the Mayday Hills Asylum. Guided tours are given through the original structure that sits on land that is now part of a university campus. If the walls could talk they could speak volumes about what many consider to be among the most haunted locations in Australia. Increase the fear factor by taking the midnight tour on a full moon night.
The Burke Museum contains a variety of old collections and displays that chronicle life in the region during a time when gold mining ruled the town. Visitors can stroll along the authentic streetscape that has been reproduced for the Street of Shops exhibit.
Sunny days and cool nights at elevation make the hills around Beechworth the ideal place to grow wine grapes that are naturally balanced. Vineyards that specialize in small scale production of a variety of grapes dot the hillside. Wine production around this area is a relatively new industry but the region is quickly becoming recognized for producing quality wines.
Travellers to Beechworth will find luxury accommodations, fine dining and plenty of shopping to sustain them while they enjoy all the countryside has to offer.
