The article is written by Sam Burrell
Living in Melbourne, there are so many exciting things to see and do. What about the International Comedy Festival last week or Flight Facilities on Tuesday! Between going out and all other life responsibilities, like taking Dexter for a walk, there calls time for realigning. And I don’t just mean your back from all the time you spend in the chair. Getting out in the sunshine, or under the clouds where it’s not too hot, there are plenty of places to do this, especially in the city. The gardens in and around Melbourne are a great place to find some realignment of the mind and body. Let me take you on a tour to some of these green spots.
Royal Park Parkville
The biggest of them all, and right near University of Melbourne and Monash Universities Parkville campus, Royal Park has it all in the way of outdoor activities and open space. You may find some clarity in the open spaces or, take part in 9 holes of golf, or watch some baseball, cricket, netball, hockey, football (Aussie rules), or just take it easy walking and resting. If that isn’t enough you’ll be right near the Melbourne Zoo!
Transport: Trams 19,57,58,59
Parliament Gardens Reserve, Treasury Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens
Spring Street / Wellington Parade
These three greenbelts are a collective of greenness on the northeast side of the central business district. If you go to Parliament station you’ll be within a minute’s stroll. In such a small area you’ll find a great array of places to relax. Whether you enjoy sitting under Elm trees in Fitzroy gardens, relaxing at the pond of the John F. Kennedy memorial in Treasury Gardens, or listening to the cascading water at Coles Fountain in Parliament Gardens Reserve. A visit to the Conservatory, nestled in the Fitzroy Gardens, will provide much colour to your day.
Transport: Trams 86,96 / walk from Parliament Railway Station
Carlton Gardens
Nicholson Street / Rathdowne Street
This World Heritage-listed place of peace in the city is disputably Melbourne’s most beautiful Garden. That may be contested by Royal Botanic Gardens; see that mentioned below. The deciduous trees are gleaming with colour this time of year. Not to mention, the fountains, flower beds, and two ornamental lakes. Here, the Moreton Bay Fig trees were once a gathering spot for aboriginal people. Look for the rows of trees planted in honour of the Dalai Lama.
Transport: Trams 86,96 / Bus 250,251
Victoria Green (Docklands Community Gardens)
Import Lane, Docklands
This urban garden is a community focused project. It’s a place where peace is found by being around people and the environment. The citrus trees and herbs, and a veggie patch provide for Docklands residents and all who make the journey to this unique green space.
Transport: Trams 11,35,48,70,75
Royal Botanic Gardens
Alexandra Avenue / Anderson Street
This is a garden of flora diversity. Upon entering this temple of green you will be transported to a paradise. This is a busy environment at times as it is a popular tourist location. There are so many areas to the gardens to explore you will eventually find a spot to rest your mind and body. Enjoy the peace of mind.
Transport: Trams 3/3a,5,6,16,64,67,72 / Bus 216,219,220,605
There are many more green spots around Melbourne to explore and find your own space for some well earned time out. Breathe Melbourne in, and get back to nature.