The hamlet of Clunes in Victoria, is roughly 25 minutes drive north of Ballarat, or if you are driving up from Melbourne with Campervan Hire Australia, around one and a half hours. It is known as one of Australia’s most intact gold towns and was the location of a goldrush in 1851. In it’s boom time, it was actually the fifth biggest town in the colony of Australia.

If you are a history buff, this is a ‘must see ‘ destination. It is not known as an upmarket destination, but instead, is home to the rustic, in all senses of the word. Because of it’s country state, many films have been made in both the city and surrounding area, for example Ned Kelly in 2002, about Australia’s most famous bushranger. Clunes also has a 6,000 item, bottle museum of rare and strange bottles dating back to the 1850′s.

Today, Clunes is home to a largely inventive community and it really is worth having a look at some of their work. In addition, there are antiques and collectable shops to skim, as well as breathtaking walks. It is one of the favorite destinations for vintage auto clubs, bushwalkers, gold prospectors and history buffs, who regularly travel up from Melbourne for the day.

If you are visiting in May, the yearly Booktown event is a must and writers, bookshops and speakers from every part of the world descend on the knackered tiny town. During the event there are sales of thousands of rare, collectable and second user books, as well as writing workshops, talks, street theatre and obviously, abundant amounts of locally grown food and wines. All areas of the town and streets-cape are used in the course of the weekend.

If you like all things country, this is a fantastic spot as it is definitely not boutique in any fashion. The creative community of locals are friendly souls who like Clunes exactly as it is and who wouldn't have it any other way. If you do visit in May for Booktown, don't forget to take a warm coat.

This text was authored by Anton Maverick who has travelled Australia at length by campervan he reccomends when touring the southern states either campervan Hire Sydney or campervan hire Melbourne good luck with your travels.

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