Victoria's frenetic, though often short lived gold rushes have left a lasting and vivid legacy. In their heyday the gold diggings yeilded almost 2.6 million ounces of gold each year. As has happened in other parts of the world these riches were followed by a building boom. Lavish private homes resulted in splendid streetscapes. Public money was available for grand buildings and public works such as the Market Building in Castlemaine and the spectacular Maryborough Railway Station which is now a major tourist attraction with an art gallery, craft workshops and antique businesses. Apart from its great architecture the region is rich in fine art galleries, museums and historic sites, and of course fine food and wine. In fact wine is the new riches of this region.

Maryborough marks the beginning of the Golden Way, a heritage trail, that winds through many of the original gold towns, each with its own specific attractions. Follow the signs bearing the golden G through a carefully orchestrated itinerary of historical and scenic highlights.

Ballarat

Gold laid the foundations for the wealth of this region in the wide, tree-lined streets and impressive architecture of Ballarat. The Ballarat fine art gallery houses Australia's largest and oldest regional public art collection. It is also home to the original Eureka flag, icon of the Australian spirit. The Mining Exchange marks the place where troopers set off to quell a revolt by miners at the Eureka Stockade. The Eureka Stockade Centre is a memorial that chronicles life on the goldfields, the miner's rebellion and its terrible suppression. Nearby Sovereign Hill recreates the past through a typical goldmining settlement and its people. The Gold Museum tells the story of gold, from mine to money. Ballarat also lays claim to having one of Australia's most historic theatre buildings, where local and visiting stage dramatics continue to thrive today.

Ballarat is sited next to a large lake, Lake Wendouree. Follow the scenic route around the lake and see the rows of boathouses or visit one of the excellent pubs or restaurants beside the lake. Ballarat has an excellent reputation for its Botannical Gardens, with seasonal displays in the spectacular Robert Clark Conservatory, and from March to May the gardens are resplendent with the colours of the Begonia Festival. As well there is the famous avenue lined with bronze busts of Australia's past and present prime ministers.

Bendigo

Bendigo is another great historic goldmining town. Tree lined Pall Mall is a superb example of boom-time grand 19th century architecture. The Bendigo Art Gallery houses an outstanding collection of European paintings and decorative arts. It has a stunning sculpture annexe. The Golden Dragon museum celebrates the goldfield's Chinese heritage and is home to the world's longest imperial dragon. At Emu Point one can visit the fascinating Chinese Joss House.

At the Central Deborah Goldmine one can descend 60 metres underground and see how gold was once extracted from the quartz reefs running deep beneath Bendigo.