Victoria's oldest and largest inland city is where for riders, some of the more mountain biker focused sections of the Goldfields Track start (if you are heading north), or finishes (if coming from the south). For walkers it is a chance to refuel before you head into the Creswick State Park.

It's a city steeped in history, nowhere more obvious than at Sovereign Hill where Victoria's gold rush heritage is celebrated. Just as important is the ‘Blood on the Southern Cross' light show, which re-enacts the 1854 Eureka Stockade rebellion and explains its importance to a young and emerging colony. Or take in the Art Gallery of Ballarat, the largest and oldest regional gallery in Australia.

Having cultured up you'll need sustenance and rest, and Ballarat can look after you there, offering a wide variety of accommodation and eateries.