Wombat Hill House

Wombat Hill House is the casual cafe counterpart to Alla and Allan Wolf-Taskers’ Lake House Restaurant. It’s located on top of a volcano, within the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.

The building was once the caretaker’s cottage, and the interior maintains that cosy charm. A mural by artist Allan runs along one wall, depicting the mythical creatures that could inhabit the lush surrounding gardens.

Take a seat in the front courtyard where sunlight dips in through the conservatory-style roof and plant life is abundant. Or opt for a spot in the quieter rear terrace among the planters of herbs, vegetables and fruit trees. It’s perfect for a relaxed mid-afternoon glass of wine.

The menu is an all-day breakfast and lunch affair. The kitchen works with five local organic farms to shape the menu, which is heavy on daily salads.

The renowned heirloom tomatoes of Mt Franklin Organics farmer Florian Hofinger are the star of the seasonal bruschetta. They come roasted and paired with silky ricotta, fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of the cafe’s own Wolf in the Kitchen olive oil.

Allpress beans and Inglenook Dairy milk come together behind the coffee machine.

There’s an option for high tea, or you can pick up provisions and sweet treats for a DIY picnic in the gardens. Just don’t hang your hopes on spotting a wombat. They’re shy creatures at the best of times.

Explore Daylesford further using our detailed [Out of Town to Daylesford (https://www.broadsheet.com.au/melbourne/out-of-town/daylesford) guide.