The Welsh Village
In the 1850s, as with many places in Victoria, gold was discovered in this area, causing a rush of miners to come and seek their fortunes.
Many of the miners who settled here were originally from Wales, hence the name of Welsh Village. They built stone houses and other infrastructure, and formed a community that was nestled amongst the gold-bearing quartz deposits of Donkey Gully (at the parking coordinates) and Nimrod Reef (towards and around the village).
This is one of two caches that bring you to the quite numerous and significant remains of this heritage protected village.
Getting to the Welsh Village
At the parking coordinates there is an information board that is worth photographing before you start your journey as it provides a guide to the various ruins.
There are no separate signs or boards in the village itself. There are two QR codes on the board that are highly recommended if you want further detailed information.
Nearby there is also an information board about the impact European settlers had on the Dja Dja Wurrung people who inhabited the land for thousands of years prior.
The walking loop from the parking coordinates is 1.2km along an undulating to hilly gravel and earth path.
The loop takes you up past an impressive open cut slate mine before dropping into the Nimrod Reef diggings and the Welsh Village.
Please note:
- The Welsh Village is part of the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park. As this is Special Protection Area of historic signifance, no dogs, horses or bikes are allowed.
- The Park is closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger. However, it is recommended that you do NOT visit on hot dry windy days or when storms are forecast.
Map of walking loop
Map of village ruins