Chewton

Chewton, situated in the Victorian Goldfields area, is a delightful village on the Pyrenees Highway that lies about 5km away from the historic town of Castlemaine, and roughly 120km north-west of Melbourne. This tightknit community is made up of around 1,300 people and is known for its eco-conscious and artistic vibe.

Despite being a small hamlet, this former gold mining town has easy access to a range of shopping amenities in nearby Castlemaine. And there are plenty of fun attractions in the area too, such as the Jirrahlinga Dingo Conservation & Wildlife Education Centre, Rod Hadfields Hot Rod Museum, and Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park.

Here you’ll find a mix of young families, retirees, and artists. The community has a strong focus on sustainability, with many residents growing their own food, composting and using alternative energy sources.

Homes here span from heritage-listed properties to modern builds, with many residents preferring spacious and private houses on large plots. A range of housing styles can be found, including Victorian, Edwardian, and environmentally friendly designs, all surrounded by the area’s stunning natural landscape.

If you're interested in moving to Chewton, you'll be glad to know that the town has its own community-owned general store, as well as several schools including Chewton Primary School, Castlemaine Primary School, Castlemaine Secondary College and Victory Christian College. The village and its surrounds make a great option for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle with easy access to Melbourne, which is around 1.5 hours’ drive away.