Although Melbourne has been plunged into another lockdown, there are certainly some upsides to the situation - the days are getting longer and the sun is appearing from behind the clouds, making it the perfect time to explore!
Australia 108’s central location means you are surrounded by Melbourne’s best gardens, local produce and cafes, so we have put together the ultimate guide for exploring everything your ten-kilometre radius has to offer.
Want to go somewhere new for your daily exercise?
The Tan, Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra
Crowned Melbourne’s most popular running track, The Tan Track surrounds Kings Domain and the Royal Botanical Gardens, a short walk from Australia 108. The 3.8-kilometre, mostly flat gravel track is the perfect spot to go for a walk, run or cycle around to get your heart rate up.
The lifeblood of the city, the Yarra River is the perfect spot to revel at the beauty of the Melbourne skyline. While on a walk, snap a photo of the Instagrammable Evan Walker Bridge in Southbank or Webb Bridge in Docklands, and make sure you keep your eyes peeled for Salvatore, the Yarra’s resident seal!
Royal Botanic Gardens, Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra
For over 170 years, the Royal Botanic Gardens has been the quintessential spring destination for Melburnians. Wander through the over 38-hectares of luscious garden and discover the rare and unique plants and hidden waterfalls scattered throughout Melbourne’s green heart.
Want to get your essentials while supporting Aussie farmers and producers?
Queen Victoria Market, Corner of Elizabeth & Victoria Streets, Melbourne
The Queen Victoria Market has been the heart and soul of Melbourne for more than a century. While the market would typically be bursting with stalls offering everything from fine clothes to delicious food, even in lockdown you can still delight your senses with the smell of freshly baked bread, as well as other cultural favourites like Turkish gözleme and German bratwursts.
South Melbourne Market, 322-326 Coventry Street, South Melbourne
Venture to another part of the city and explore all the South Melbourne Market has to offer. Overflowing with takeaway food options, fresh produce, and great cafes, this Melbourne institution is perfect for your mid-week top-up shop or to get everything you need for a Michelin Star feast at home.
Melbourne Farmers Market, Carlton North Primary School/ Gasworks Arts Park, Albert Park
The Melbourne Farmers Market is a vibrant hub that brings Victoria’s freshest produce to over seven locations across Melbourne including Albert Park and Carlton. Open on the first Saturday of every month, it is the perfect way to start your weekend.
Don’t feel like a coffee from home?
CIEL, 48 Cecil St, Southbank
Start your morning on the right foot by stopping past CIEL to grab a fresh barista-made coffee. While you’re there, check out some of their delicious takeaway meals made with the finest local produce.
Jardin Tan, Royal Botanic Gardens, Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra
Reward yourself for getting your steps up around The Tan with a fresh coffee or smoothie from Jardin Tan, and why not grab a little sweet treat for the walk home while you’re there!
The Kettle Black, 50 Albert Road, South Melbourne
As one of Melbourne’s most sophisticated food and beverage hotspots, this local gem is located walking distance from Australia 108 just off St Kilda Road, and if the consistent line out the door is anything to go by, offers some of the best coffee in South Melbourne. With almost its full breakfast and lunch menu available for takeaway it’s worth the walk.