Walking is the best way to clear your head while you're stuck at home. Many of us have been at home for months now, and with the cases in Victoria rising again it might be a while longer before we're all back together at work, and at family gatherings.
If you are feeling stressed, we've got some tips on how to keep calm here.
So, clear your head, and get some exercise while you're at it. Here are the best walks in and around Melbourne's suburbs.
For walks further afield, check out our best walks and hikes outside of Melbourne article.
Beaconsfield Parade Middle Park
Running alongside The Bay Trail, Beaconsfield Parade stretches from Albert Park down to St Kilda and offers up one of the city’s best esplanade walks thanks to its uninterrupted view of Port Phillip Bay.
Make a mid-walk pit stop at one of the cafes along the way or cool off at Middle Park Beach and take in stunning views of the city skyline. Plus, since it’s only located just 4km from the city centre, it’s perfect for a pre or post-work stroll.
Capital City Trail
Chuck on your comfiest activewear because you’re in for the long haul if you’re up for the Capital City Trail.
This 29km track circles the city and is best saved for the weekend, when you can really take in the sights like Southbank, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Zoo and Royal Park.
The best tip is to start at Princes Bridge near Flinders Street Station and trot off east towards the Royal Botanic Gardens but watch out for cyclists as this trail is popular with our two-wheeled riding friends.
The Tan
No visit to Melbourne is complete without a walk around The Tan.
The popular trail is pumping all days of the week with locals and visitors alike pounding the pavement around the city’s beautiful Botanical Gardens.
Only 3.8km in length, the one small ‘hurdle’ you have is at Heartbreak Hill—but don’t let the name scare you because it’s only 30m so it’ll be over before you know it.
Princess Park
The ‘Prinny,’ as the locals like to call it, is a park just north of the CBD that will have you feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Probably more famously known for being Carlton Football Club’s training ground, this little oasis is a one-stop-shop for fitness fanatics alike.
Whether you want to just wander around the 3km track or take it up a notch at one of the cricket or tennis facilities, Princess Park offers uninterrupted views of the city skyline to the south.
Brighton Baths Foreshore
You’ve ticked off The Tan, so why not go full ‘tourist mode’ with a walk along Brighton Baths Foreshore.
Part of a 17km track along the coast, the foreshore trail is a more palatable 2km walk that offers up viewing points at Middle Brighton Pier, Dendy St Beach, Green Point and of course allows you to see the colourful beach huts that have put this bayside suburb on the map.
Image credit: Urban List Melbourne