The Great Outdoors

Melbourne’s Neighbourhoods The Great Outdoors

Whether you’re into hiking and cycling, history or horsies, there’s some fun to be had outdoors this spring.

Rippon Lea Estate

History Repeats

At its heart is a 150-year-old homestead, but wander further afield at Woodlands Historic Park,

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located 22 kilometres north of the CBD, and you’ll likely spot wildlife in the bushland. There’s a picnic area beneath red river gums, a number of walking trails, and a retirement ‘home’ called Living Legends for some of the country’s finest racehorses. Closer to the city, Rippon Lea Estate 14 was once a self-sufficient farm, but is now home to acres of gorgeous gardens – flower beds, a fernery and orchards – to explore. Take a picnic and spread out a blanket by the lake. On the first Sunday of each month, there’s a makers’ market on the sprawling lawns featuring handmade art and design. +parks.vic.gov.au +ripponleaestate.com.au

Woodlands Historic Park Brian Thomas

Water Works

Set beside a lake in Broadmeadows you’ll find Jack Roper Reserve 15 . There’s an excellent adventure playground and a tiny jetty from where to contemplate the world. It’s also somewhere you can throw in a line and fish for trout (especially around the school holidays) and carp. If you want to catch a wave, but don’t have time to travel to Torquay, head to Tullamarine and Urbnsurf 16 . The huge pool serves up ocean-like waves to suit all abilities from dawn until night. +hume.vic.gov.au +urbnsurf.com

Pedal Power

It covers 29 kilometres, starts at Southbank and passes some of Melbourne’s most famous sights. But the Capital City Trail 17 also traverses Royal Park and follows Moonee Ponds Creek back to the start. Give yourself at least four hours to travel the full distance. Jump on your bike to explore the Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail 18 . It tracks for 23 kilometres along bayside beaches, starting at Scienceworks and heading towards Williamstown, Altona and Skeleton Creek. Check online before visiting

URBNSURF Ed Sloane

Altona Beach