For a date with a difference, Ballarat has got you sorted.

From beautiful gardens to charming wineries, acclaimed restaurants to cooking masterclasses, the choice is yours…

The picnic in the gardens

Pre-order a gourmet grazing box from Pipers By The Lake and then head over the road to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens for a romantic picnic amongst the historic trees and colourful floral displays.

Follow this up with a walk around the picturesque Lake Wendouree.

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The hands-on experience

Kick things off with a gin tasting flight at Kilderkin Distillery, the home of Ballarat’s very own Larrikin Gin.

Then get your hands dirty with a gnocchi or pasta masterclass at Carboni’s Italian Kitchen or show your creative side with a paint and sip experience at Pinot & Picasso Ballarat.

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The winery/brewery crawl

For the vino lovers, choose your own adventure on a self-guided tour of the Ballarat region’s acclaimed wineries.

Our top picks include Wayward Winery, Michael Unwin Wines and Eastern Peake.

If beer is more your thing, add Aunty Jacks, Cubby Haus Brewing and Red Duck Brewery to your itinerary.

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The winning trio – good food, good wine and gelato

Start your date off with a glass of local wine and a cheese board at Mitchell Harris Wine Bar.

Then stroll around the corner to Spanish tapas bar Meigas for a share plate dinner of patatas bravas, meatballs, calamari, fried eggplant and bullhorn peppers.

And to finish it all off? A yummy artisan gelato from Il Piccolo Gelato.

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The classic dinner and a movie

It’s the winning date night formula that’s stood the test of time.

First stop – dinner at modern Asian bar and eatery Roy Hammond.

Next stop – snuggle up while you watch a movie at the historic Regent Cinemas.

Final stop – grab a little night cap at cocktail bar Renard, described as a “bistro-esque discotheque, of sorts”.

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The ultimate luxury

When you really want to impress, you pull out Ballarat’s big guns.

Set the mood with a couple’s massage and private bathing experience at Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa.

Then it’s time for Ballarat’s newest upscale culinary destination, Underbar. Just make sure you book well in advance though because this acclaimed 14-seat restaurant fills up fast.

For an experience like no other, stay the night at the one-of-a-kind luxury offering that is Hotel Vera Ballarat.

The hotel’s seven personalised suites merge modernity, sustainability and seclusion for a truly ethereal stay.

Main image: Take in the views of the Pyrenees Ranges at Wayward Winery