Escape city life take a few days off in Hepburn Springs Australia
Italian Swiss immigrants came here for the gold but found that there was a familiarity to this location with the natural springs. You can enjoy the influence and culture of these individuals brought with them to this area.The hot springs were a real draw and could be able to bring a fortune their way even more than finding gold would. Coming from the northern regions of Italy they were well acquainted with the benefits of mineral water.
The Romans had their bathhouses that used the mineral waters to heal and relax them this process was called terme. The Italians that landed here decided to bring this idea to Hepburn Springs. They also brought the culture and food of Italy as well. The first pasta ever made was here at the Macaroni Factory. Still standing today you can tour the factory and view the beautiful frescos painted on the ceiling.
Coming to the area means experiencing the springs. The Hepburn Bathhouse is the perfect place to do that. The building has been here since the middle of the nineteenth century but has recently been completely redone. Now you can come and sit in communal baths, have a massage or body treatment in one of the thirty rooms, or simply relax in the cafe sipping on a latte.
The Swiss Italian influence has permeated the town and Parma House is the biggest example of the architecture that is popular in Italy brought here. They also brought farming of lavender as seen at the Lavandula Lavender Farm with the charming cottages and cobbled squares. But the epitome is the Swiss Italia Festival where all things Italian are celebrated every October.
There is more than just water here, Mount Franklin is an extinct volcano that allows for stupendous views and vistas to see the whole region. Hiking to the top is a chance to either do some camping or simply bring a picnic to enjoy. The Blowhole was a blast through quartz that left a hole where the water from a full creek blows through. It is fun and interesting to see.
The ambiance of Italy is definitive with the individuals who made this location a bit of home in Australia. They brought their love of dining and cafes and the city still shows that hospitality today. Even the ever increasing and popular wine region of Victoria was founded by the Italian immigrants. But the springs are the focus so enjoy learning about how they are formed by visiting Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve. You can walk through the volcanic rock that infuses the water with magnesium, calcium, silica and other nutrients and minerals.
However you plan your visit to Hepburn Springs you will find yourself swept away with relaxing and culture. Whether you enjoy the waters or walk throughout the beauty you will find enough to keep you wishing a vacation lasted forever.