Winter in Beechworth brings crisp days, cool nights and plenty of reasons to slow the pace and stay awhile.
The town’s granite buildings and wide streets feel especially inviting at this time of year, offering space to explore Beechworth’s rich history, local produce and well loved places to gather.
Saturday mornings are ideal for a wander through the Beechworth Farmers’ Market, held on the first Saturday of every month in the grounds of Christ Church.
Local growers and producers showcase fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods, preserves and handmade items — a great way to pick up supplies before spending the rest of the day exploring town or shopping along Ford and Camp Street’s independent stores and galleries.
As temperatures drop, Beechworth’s hospitality venues turn on the charm. Roaring fireplaces are ready to welcome visitors at both Tanswell’s Commercial Hotel and The Stanley Pub, perfect spots to settle in with a locally sourced meal and a glass of regional wine.
A short drive up the hill to Stanley reveals one of winter’s seasonal highlights.
Apple picking is in full swing at Europa Gully Orchard, open Friday through Sunday, where visitors can gather flavour packed apples and chestnuts straight from the trees while soaking up views across the alpine foothills.
Beechworth also makes a great base for exploring nearby towns.
Yackandandah, just 20 minutes down the road, is well worth a day trip, with a strong focus on boutique retail and giftwares, cafés and visiting small batch whisky and gin distilleries.
For more ideas on what to see and do this winter, visit explorebeechworth.com.au.