10 Melbourne Microadventures to Tick Off in 2023

If like Ben, you’ve packed away last year’s memories for safe-keeping and you’re looking to find new adventures on which to build wonderful memories in 2022, then these ten microadventures around Melbourne might just be the ticket.

 

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands and waters for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

1. Watch Sunrise From Albert Park Lake

Serenity can often be hard to find in the inner city. Luckily, only 4km from the rattle and hum of Melbourne’s CBD, Albert Park is an oasis of tranquillity. Albert Park is an easy walk that lets the mind chill and warms the heart. Take it easy for a few laps as you enjoy the loop around the lake. Make sure you take your camera! At sunrise and sunset, Albert Park is a picturesque paradise that’s sure to keep photographer’s busy.

Day Hikes Near Melbourne

@patwhelen

2. Cast a Line

There’s something to be said about the joy of dropping a line as a way to relax and unwind. For those eager anglers amongst us, Albert Park Lake provides the perfect mix between beautiful scenery and challenging fishing. You’ll find Yellow belly, Carp, Estuary perch and Rainbow trout in plentiful supply here.

Melbourne Fishing Spots

3. Go Picnicking

If sitting by a riverbank watching the world go by is your idea of perfection spend a day at Studley Park Boathouse and Picnic Area, just a short drive or bike ride from the city centre in Kew. Once there, you can unfurl a blanket in the shade by the banks of the Yarra River for a picnic or try out the historic café or kiosk. Make sure to take a stroll along the Burnet Bushland Circuit or follow the narrow Bushland Trail along the bank of the Yarra.

4. Explore the Yarra River by Kayak

Do you like mucking about on boats? Then this next adventure is for you. Whether you prefer to kayak solo or share a boat with a friend, spending a day on the Yarra River is a must-do. Paddle out from the Yarra Bend Boat Ramp towards Bellbird Park or head towards Dights Falls.

Don’t worry if you don’t have your own watercraft, there are many places to rent a kayak, canoe, or boat, like Studley Park Boathouse! Or head out on an urban adventure tour with Kayak Melbourne.

Kayaking Around Melbourne

5. Get on Your Bike

For something a little more up-tempo, why not jump on two wheels? Follow the bike path along Royal Parade, Kew and head towards Princess Park Drive. From here, you can head toward the Inner-City Rail Trail. Whether you take it slow and steady or belt it out, this ride is bound to get your heart pumping. 

If an inner-city ride isn’t your style, try one of the many mountain bike trails found just outside of Melbourne’s city limits. 

Melbourne Bike Paths

@abbyvogelsang

6. Wander Through Melbourne’s Natural Spaces

A walk along the banks of the Yarra River, listening to its quiet murmur is a great way to clear your head or just while away a few hours. Whether hiking the Dandenong Ranges or wandering through the Botanic Gardens, pumping those legs is a fine way to explore in and around Melbourne. 

One of my favourite walks takes me from the city centre across to Federation Square and through the Royal Botanic Gardens. The 38 hectares of the Botanic Gardens have been part of Melbourne life for almost 200 years and are home to 8500 species. 

Photo thanks to Visit Vic

7. Try Your Hand at Bouldering

From the Royal Botanic Gardens, head just off Barkly Avenue Burnley and to the Burnley Bouldering Wall.

This hidden gem offers three free climbing walls tucked away underneath the freeway, making this an adventure that tests determination, strength, and resilience. The three walls offer challenges for everyone, from beginners to experienced climbers. 

Warm down by taking a walk back towards the MCG and then into the CBD and reward your efforts at one of the many cafes. 

8. Rock Climbing

For climbers looking for something a little more challenging, head out to You Yangs Regional Park. The park boasts a range of designated climbing spots for abseiling and rock climbing. Climbers can book in with a range of accredited guides for an affordable experience that’s bound to test your limits. 

Melbourne Climbing Gyms

Rock climbing at Big Rock, You Yangs Regional Park

9. Escape for the Weekend

Sometimes, the best way to relax, reflect, and unwind is to escape for a whole weekend. And Victoria’s iconic Grampians National Park might just be what you need. 

Heritage-listed and part of the Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape, a weekend in the Grampians offers a choice of stunning campgrounds, long hikes, and world-class views. If you’ve got plenty of time, enjoy a multi-day hike or just choose to relax and enjoy the serenity. 

For a budget-friendly escape, check out these free campgrounds near Melbourne. 

Grampians National Park

10. Head to the Beach

With so many world-class beaches on Melbourne’s doorstep, it’s easy to see why summer is synonymous with sun, sand, and surf. But if a road trip along the Great Ocean Road is a little out of your way, don’t fret, there are plenty of great beaches close to the city. 

In under 20 minutes drive you can be enjoying the summer sunshine in St Kilda on Melbourne’s southside. From skydiving to beach volleyball and cricket there’s something for everyone!

Round out your adventure by kicking back and relaxing at St Kilda Pier as the sun sets over Port Philip Bay. Grab some tasty takeaway or unwind in a local restaurant or bar.

Beach Escapes From Melbourne

Whatever you choose to do, make sure you relax, reflect, and look forward to building more memories on your next Melbourne microadventure.

Photos thanks to Parks Victoria