"To Market, To Market" - TOCA's March cruise of Farmers Markets, Weir View to Castlemaine

TO MARKET, TO MARKET: A Scenic TOCA Cruise From Melbourne’s Fringe to the Goldfields

Join your fellow TOCA members for a relaxed and scenic cruise through the Macedon Ranges, Central Victoria, and historic Goldfields — a journey that showcases some of the state’s most rewarding backroads, landscapes, and local produce.

We begin with breakfast at the Jolly Miller in Melton South (Weir Views), on Melbourne’s western edge, before heading gently northwest as the suburban fringe gives way to open plains and rolling farmland. Our first stop is the Ballan Farmers Market, a charming country market and an ideal place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and enjoy the relaxed pace of a classic Victorian railway town.

From Ballan, the road climbs into cooler, greener country as we enter the Central Highlands and arrive in Trentham. Nestled among tall forests and known for its gold-era heritage, Trentham is also home to the legendary Red Beard Historic Bakery — famous far beyond the district for its world-class vanilla slices. This is a well-earned indulgence stop and a highlight for many who know the route.

Leaving Trentham, we enjoy one of the most scenic legs of the drive: quiet, winding backroads through high-country tablelands en route to Kyneton. The Kyneton Farmers Market is lively and bustling, offering local produce, baked goods, and a vibrant country-town atmosphere — perfect for a short wander and refuel.

Our final leg takes us north into Goldfields country, finishing in Castlemaine, where we’ll gather for lunch at our final but fascinating stop:  The Mill Castlemaine — a relaxed, welcoming venue with excellent food options. (Click the pic for more info)

All doable on a single charge – most likely a recharge needed for some for the return to Melbourne. PlugShare will show you the chargers in Kyneton, Trentham, and Castlemaine. If you travel a good distance to get to breakfast, note there are fast chargers in the car park in Melton South to restore to 100%.

Family-friendly. Dog-friendly. Vegan-friendly.

So, put March 14 in your diaries, and join your TOCA friends and family for a thoughtfully paced cruise with great roads, great company, and even better stops along the way.

In the week before, expect more information including your turn by turn instructions for each of the four legs. 

For more information, contact Les Posen 0413040747. Route subject to change due to weather, roadworks or market variations.