Choose Bus Hire In Melbourne To Visit Top Summer Spots

Melbourne summers are notable for the occasional days of high temperatures with the numbers soaring up to 46, but that doesn’t deter its people from enjoying the gust of this colourful city with all heart and soul. If you are planning for a summer vacation anytime soon, make sure to choose bus hire in Melbourne for a safe ride to some of these popular destinations.

Explore the Pristine Beaches in Melbourne

Sit back and soak up the warmth of summer sun at one of the beaches in Melbourne popular for swimming, as well as shore-side dining. Warmer months are perfect to check out these top surfing spots:

• St Kilda Beach: Suitable for a smooth swimming experience, and a host of water-based activities, St Kilda Beach is one of the prime surfing destinations in the Port Philip Bay. The wide sandy beach is a favourite pick for boardwalk, as you take in the expansive city skyline views and marvellous sunset. There is an extensive boating facility at the marina, which also includes ramps. Nearby areas have suitable path for biking and walking, along with picnic spots and barbecue facilities.

• Brighton Beach: It’s a kind of a long stretch including the shorelines of Middle Brighton and Dandy Street beach. The region is famous for the vibrant colourful boxes set against the backdrop of city’s skyline. The widespread foreshore reserve has barbecue facilities, while you also have yachting and windsurfing options.

• Middle Park, Port Melbourne and South Melbourne: Crystal clear waters and the pristine sands of these beaches make for an ideal surfing destination, which is also a popular spot for beach volleyball and kitesurfing.

Witness the Stunning Wonders of Port Campbell National Park

One of the key highlights of the Port Campbell National Park is the rock formation of 12 Apostles. The beautifully stacked rock structure can be viewed from the lookout platform. Other notable landmarks inside the park include a grotto, London Bridge and The Arch. Undertaking a 144-mile trek to this iconic national park is worth the sweat for some breathtaking photos and great outdoor adventure. In case you are willing to drive through to the park, make sure to choose the path along the Great Ocean Road for some magnificent views of the area. If you are lucky enough, you may also spot kangaroos and koalas during your visit.

Immerse Yourself in Nature at the Royal Botanic Gardens

Having founded in 1846, The Royal Botanic Gardens of Melbourne is one of the longest existing botanical gardens in Australia with a green patch covering 94 acres. The parkland has a wide collection of region-specific plants and threatened species, along with a Perennial Border and the Gardens House. Statues, benches and pathways run throughout the length of the garden. Although it will take hardly 2 hours to stroll across this place, if you are here to appreciate the beauty of nature, make sure to take your time, as it is certainly a great spot for summer picnic, with loads of activities for children as well.

The exact location of the Botanic gardens is towards the south of Melbourne CBD by the Yarra River, and within walking distance from National Gallery of Victoria and the Shrine of Remembrance. Inside the park, there are restrooms, cafes, visitor centre and outdoor pavilions to cater all possible requirements. There is no entry fee charged, and group tours are offered as a complimentary service. However, there are a few specialty tours conducted by Aboriginal guides, for which you may be charged.

Go on a Winery Tour at the Yarra Valley

Surely the best winery region in all of Australia, this is where you will get a drink or two to suit any taste bud. With over 70 wineries spread across the breathtaking landscape, the Yarra Valley region boasts of vintage vineyards, including the varietal pinot noirs and Chardonnay of the Giant Steps, and the wine specialist, Domaine Chandon.

Different kinds of winery tours are available to suit all interests, and a private guide will take you on an exciting voyage to sample taste some of the best wines produced in the country. Hardly 40 miles towards the northeast of Melbourne CBD, you can either travel by a private car or book a wine tour. The latter is a good choice, if you are visiting here for the first time. Majority of wineries in the area will offer you sample tastings, which is a good way to know more about the history behind this exquisite selection of drinks.

Visit the The Block Arcade

Whether its fashion, food, art or architecture, there is something for everyone to enjoy at The Block Arcade. The interior of this place is reminiscent of an ancient structure with stained glass windows, mosaic floors, cast-iron details and skylights. There are over 25 galleries, boutiques and food stores housed inside the arcade, with some noteworthy names, including a Dr. Seuss-themed art gallery, Hopetoun Tearooms and Haigh’s Chocolates. The grand atmosphere of this place, along with delicious food offerings, makes it a must visit in Melbourne.

Located in the CBD, the Block Arcade is a few blocks away from the Ian Potter Centre and the State Library Victoria. Take public transport or hire a bus to reach the destination, since parking for private vehicles is quite expensive. The boutiques, architecture and eateries are spread in numbers, and entry to most of them is free of cost.

Tour the Iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground

What is Australia without cricket? And what is cricket without the history behind the Melbourne Cricket Ground? For a stadium that has witnessed some world-class cricket matches ever since its inception in 1853, it’s a pride to visit this home of living legends. From international leagues to domestic competition, there are plenty of matches scheduled during the summer season. You can come in with your rugs, and some refreshing drinks for a nice sun-bath at the grounds, as you enjoy your favourite team battling it out in the middle. There’s also a National Sports Museum located inside, with tours offered on a few selected days. Food and refreshments are available on-spot, although they are a bit pricey.