One of the great things about South Yarra is its proximity and easy access to one of Melbourne’s most iconic running tracks – The Albert Park Lake loop. The track is easily accessible from a number of places, none more so than the Carousel café on Aughtie drive – this is also a great place to park if you’re driving to the start of your workout. Your route to the café will also take you past the Melbourne Sport and Aquatic Centre (MSAC) where there are some great facilities if you prefer to train indoors. Due to it’s proximity to numerous business districts it’s a great location for a bit of lunchtime exercise!
Once you’ve got to the carousel café it’s a short walk to the start of the loop- we suggest running anti-clockwise as it affords the best views. The track around the lake is 4.7km and follows the course of the Melbourne Grand Prix. It’s well maintained although not tarmaced, very flat and you get some great views of the lake and city on your way around. You’ll see plenty of flora and fauna and even have the opportunity to see one of the oldest trees in Port Philip Bay – the 300 year old gum tree on the corner of Fitzroy Street and Queens road. It’s also always entertaining watching people struggle with their boats on the lake! The only thing to beware of during the run is the odd swan who might wander onto the track!
If you’re feeling adventurous whilst running or walking around the lake there are also abundant exercise stations which can add a little variety to your workout and change it from a pure cardio workout to a cardio and resistance workout. There are even numerous playgrounds so it’s great for a walk with the family on the weekend – truly something for everyone! When you have done this one, another place for a HIIT workout is Fawkner Park in South Yarra.