Heathcote is situated at the junction of the Northern and McIvor Highways, between Bendigo and Kilmore.

Heathcote originally developed mainly due a number of significant gold strikes in the area that began in 1851, which resulted tens of thousands of people living in the area, mostly in tents and shacks on the fields. The population declined as the gold dwindled during the 1890s, with the town's focus shifting to logging, sheep and cattle production.

In recent times, Heathcote has become recognised as a producer of extraordinary Shiraz wine, with a large selection of vineyards, many with cellar doors, dotted across the landscape.

Heathcote's commercial centre is situated along the long tree-lined boulevard of High Street, which features a number buildings of historical significance. The Camp Hill Gaol, located in Herriot Street, was built in 1861, while the town's hospital features a sandstone structure built in 1859. The McIvor Creek runs parallel to High Street, passing through Barrack Reserve which offers BBQ areas and sporting facilities.

A number of attractions are worth exploring in the Heathcote region. The Mount Ida Lookout, accessed via Mt Ida Road off the Northern Highway, offers good views over the surrounding district. Closer to town is the Viewing Rock lookout, accessed via Range Drive, providing views over the town centre. Pink Cliffs, off Pink Cliffs Road, features brightly coloured pinnacles and valleys which were creating during gold mining activities. Take a scenic drive along the winding Dairy Flat Road between Heathcote and Tooborac and see undulating fields of giant boulders.

Lake Eppalock, Victoria's fourth-largest reservoir, is a popular recreation area for fishing, swimming and boating enthusiasts. The surroundings of the lake include several caravan parks, camping grounds, picnic areas and public boat ramps.

Heathcote-Graytown National Park Covering almost 13,000 hectares, this park encompasses the McIvor Range and Mount Ida, including large old tree sites, fauna refuges, Aboriginal cultural sites and the largest remaining Box-Ironbark forest in Victoria

Heathcote on Show Heathcote showcases itself for this weekend event where visitors can visit cellar doors, taste local produce, enjoy live music and see works from local artists

Heathcote Tourism A visitor guide covering attractions, events, dining, wineries and touring of the area

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