SPRING is the ideal time to treat yourself to a garden picnic while enjoying the historic beauty of Buda in Castlemaine.

The cheerful bulbs and blossoms evoke a feeling of hope and renewal in the air. This significant and charming property, which was once the home of the Leviny family, is one of Australia’s unique treasures and is a must for lovers of the Arts and Crafts Movement, heritage gardens and gold rush architecture.

With ample room for the kids or grandkids to stretch their legs, a gentle stroll around the grounds could be capped off with a picnic lunch on the lawn overlooking the township or listening to the aviary birds while seated at comfortable tables in the courtyard. You are welcome to bring your own rug and picnic hamper, but for those travelling, or an extra special treat, why not book an exclusive Buda gourmet hamper featuring fresh seasonal, local produce? 

All gourmet hampers are self-contained, with picnic rug and thermos. With vegetarian options for each basket, dietary requirements can be catered for upon request and they also feature special Buda recipes direct from the diaries of the Leviny women. Baskets must be ordered at least 24 hours in advance and will be waiting for you upon arrival at reception. Baskets are simply delivered back to reception after your picnic. See the Buda Castlemaine website for ordering details.

The Buda Plant Nursery sells locally propagated plants – such as the rare Tulipa saxatilis – from Buda’s own garden as well as a fabulous range of local Indigenous tube stock from the surrounding district.

Buda’s gift shop also provides a range of Buda merchandise and handcrafted items for sale. Bus and tour groups can be catered for with morning or afternoon tea or lunch in our function room overlooking the garden but advanced bookings are essential. Visitors are welcome at Buda all year round for picnics and self-guided tours; visit budacastlemaine.org for more information and to check any Covid restrictions effecting opening hours.