All the best walking trails across Melbourne

The Tan is Melbourne’s most iconic walking trails. Located in the heart of the city, the trail is a 3.8 kilometre loop around the Royal Botanic Gardens where you’ll walk through the gardens and along the Yarra River. Along the way, you’ll get amazing views of Melbourne’s skyline as well as the stunning flora of the Botanic Gardens. Because the trail is flat, it’s great for a leisurely weekend stroll but it’s also a popular spot for jogging, running and cycling, too.

The 1000 Steps in the Dandenong Ranges is a popular trail that pays tribute to the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea. Starting at the base of Ferntree Gully Picnic Ground, the trail winds up a steep hill as you climb the 1000 steps. The stairs are quite steep which makes this a difficult, yet rewarding climb. Along the way, there are a number of signs where you can stop and read to get a brief history of the Kokoda Campaign.

Victoria is home to some of the most stunning coastlines in the country. If you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of Victoria’s beaches, then the Bayside Coastal Trail is one of the best scenic coastal walks you can do. Spanning 17 kilometres one way, you’ll start the trail at Brighton’s famous colourful bathing boxes, from here you’ll pass Sandringham, Black Rock, ending at Beaumaris. Along the way you’ll walk along boardwalks, sand and paved trails, which makes it an easy, accessible walk for everyone. If you need to rest or cool off during the walk, there are plenty of cafes and swimming spots to stop at, too.

You don’t need to leave Melbourne to find a serene walking spot, The Merri Creek Trail is a hidden gem where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life without going too far. The 21 kilometre trail follows the Merri Creek spanning from Dights Falls in Abbotsford to Coburg. Taking approximately 2.5 hours to walk, you’ll pass through parklands, bushy reserves and wetlands. The best part is that the walk starts and ends right near tram stops, so you can walk one way and take public transport back at the end.

Flinders Peak is the tallest mountain in the You Yangs, and the best way to fully appreciate its beauty is to walk around it. Located about an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the You Yangs are a national park filled with mountains, rocky terrain and stunning scenery. The East-West Trail is a four kilometre trail that takes you through bushland as you circumnavigate Flinders Peak. Though the walk only takes two hours to complete, it is a moderate hike that involves some climbing.

The Yarra Bend Park Loop is one of the best walking trails in Melbourne. Taking place amid the largest natural bushland park in the city, the best way to explore the park is by foot. The 9 kilometre trail leads you through bushland as you meander along the Yarra River. You’ll also get great views of the city skyline and historic sites like the Fairfield Boathouse. Though the trail is long, it’s also relatively flat and easy which makes it the perfect walk for a relaxed day out. If you want to take a break from walking, you can even rent a rowboat at the boathouse.