About this tour
Walk through Hepburn's layered past on a guided Friday evening tour exploring the Swiss and Italian migrants who shaped this Victorian village. Over an hour, you'll see distinctive period architecture, hear settler stories, and visit heritage sites normally off-limits to the public. The tour wraps at a local pub where you can grab a drink and debrief with your guide.
Highlights
- Swiss and Italian architectural styles throughout the village
- Access to heritage buildings typically closed to visitors
- Stories of early European settlers and their families
- Recognition of Dja Dja Wurrung Country and first nations presence
- Small group format for genuine conversation
- $4 per ticket supports Swiss Italian Fiesta community festival
What to expect
Expect a steady pace walk around Hepburn's main streets and laneways, stopping at churches, schools, guesthouses and hotels to discuss their architectural details and the people who built them. Your guide opens doors to buildings you'd otherwise pass by, sharing personal accounts of Swiss and Italian families who arrived to work the local springs and establish businesses. You'll learn how these communities shaped the village's character whilst acknowledging the Dja Dja Wurrung peoples who occupied the land first. The walk finishes at a neighbourhood pub—a natural gathering spot where locals and visitors continue chatting over drinks you purchase yourself.
Good to know
Departs every Friday at 5pm. Moderate fitness required for walking and gentle inclines. Prams welcome for infants. Service animals permitted. Bring comfortable shoes and a layer if the evening cools. Drinks at the pub aren't included in your ticket price.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.