Bacchus Marsh Tourism, VIC Australia

Bacchus Marsh is located mid-way between Melbourne and Ballarat, in a rich and fertile valley that consists of orchards, market gardens and pastoral fields. The town has a long history, dating back to just before gold was discovered in nearby Ballarat during the mid 1850s.When entering Bacchus Marsh from Melbourne, the main road into town is The Avenue of Honour, which is lined by hundreds of elm, oaks and plane trees, planted to honour those who served during World War One. This road leads directly into the commercial centre of town which offers a mix of retail outlets in both historic and modern buildings. Attractions within town include the historic Court House, the Tudor-style Border Inn, the Blacksmith's Cottage, and a number of churches dating back to the 1800s. The Chicory Kiln, in Taverner Street, has been preserved since its construction in 1885 when chicory roots were roasted before being ground and added to coffee.To gain an overview of Bacchus Marsh and the surrounding fertile valley, there are a couple of good vantage points. Off Flanagans Drive is the Our Lady Ta Pinu Marian Centre, located on a hilltop at the eastern entrance to town. The circuit drive around the cross monument offers impressive views across the rich farming land along The Avenue of Honour and towards the surrounding mountain ranges. The road along the northern boundary of Bacchus Marsh Grammar School (accessed via South Maddingley Road) offers a more urban outlook with views over the town centre and surrounding residential areas and towards the mountain ranges in the north.Bacchus Marsh is surrounded by a rich collection of state parks, national parks and waterways which offer bushwalking tracks and the opportunity to explore the scenic gorges and ranges in the area. There are also picnic spots along the Lerderderg River, Werribee River and at the historic bridge over Djerriwarrh Creek, just off the Western Highway. The Merrimu Reservoir, just a short drive drive north of town, offers BBQ and picnic facilities beside the water supply for towns in the area.