Melbourne is one of the best cities in Australia to witness the true colours of autumn, with its stunning landscapes and blooming ambiance, along with the vibrant lifestyle and cultural heritage of the region. Remember to utilise minibus hire in Melbourne for your autumn travels so that you and your travel companions can make the most of your holidays here.
Get Your Humour Checked at The Melbourne Comedy Festival
One of the key highlights of autumn in Melbourne is the high-octane Melbourne International Comedy Festival, happening over a month’s time loaded with non-stop humour. Some of the well-known artists will join hands to showcase everything from national to international variety, theatre to visual arts and stand-up comedy to cabaret. Known to be one of the three largest comedy festivals in the world, this event is a must visit for a serious dose of laughter. Book a show for yourself, and manage a couple of shows around it. Each and every performance is expected to be unique on its own terms.
Visit the Steavenson Falls Reserve
Known to be one of the tallest waterfalls in Victoria, the Steavenson Falls has a total of 5 cascades with a descent of 122 metres. The scenic reserve blooms with autumn colours spread across an area of 470 acres, protecting the surroundings. A number of trails are there in the reserve, with various levels of difficulty. Lush forest extends across the Reserve in the steep-sided valley, and pure stands of Mount Ash grow in sheltered places.
Containing a mix of Narrow-leafed Peppermint, Mountain Grey Gum and other Eucalyptus species, the forest also has shiny green leaves restricted to areas of high rainfall. If you are lucky enough, you can spot a few lyrebirds in this major tourist attraction, attracting loads of people every year.
Taste The Seasonal Produce
Seasonal produce in the shades of autumn colours may easily be the best reason to visit Melbourne during this time. No doubt this city is known to be the food and wine capital of Australia, which is also highlighted by the annual festival held every year from February to March. There are loads of farmer’s markets and food markets to taste and purchase high quality regional produce. Don’t miss out on South Melbourne Market and Prahran Market for some all-round stuff.
The quality and variety of stuff sold in the marketplace is exceptional, and the collection is nicely assorted during the autumn months. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables, or maybe you can also try hands at some unique recipes put on display by local producers.
Attend the Australian Football Season
AFL is one of the premier sporting events held in Melbourne during the autumn months, and is undeniably the pre-eminent football league in the country. This unique football action involves competition between two teams of eighteen players each, fighting it out on an oval-shaped field. A team gets 6 points when they score by kicking the ball between two goal posts. You get only one point if the ball goes between the smaller post and the taller one. One with the highest score at the end of the game wins the match.
Regardless of the fact whether you know the game or football or not, you’ll be easily influenced by the fanaticism of the crowd, and appreciate the spectacle of this lovely game. Experience the sports culture in Melbourne by attending one match!
Visit the Shrine of Remembrance
ANZAC Day is celebrated every year in Australia to commemorate the citizens who have served and died in conflicts, wars and peace-making operations in the history of the country. It commemorates the anniversary of Australian Troop landing at Gallipoli in 1915. More than 100 years since the first conflict for troops happened for the newly formed country, the Australian New Zealand Army Cops was the name given to the body troops put together by New Zealand and Australia to assist the British Empire in the First World War.
The dawn service, being the significant part of the ANZAC day is conducted at the Shrine of Remembrance, followed by a march through downtown led by serving personnel and veterans, also descendants of veterans who rally in remembrance of the members who served. It’s a very memorable and emotive experience even for those who are visiting the first time, with the Shrine itself being a moving tribute to those who sacrificed their lives. Apart from that, there are audio visual presentations, permanent and temporary exhibitions and an exceptional visitor centre.
Tour the Alfred Nicholas Gardens
This masterpiece garden space is a natural beauty anytime of the year, but it’s even more charming during the autumn months. For anyone who fascinates the sight and smell of vibrant flora to the evergreen trees, Alfred Nicholas Gardens is a must visit. Soak up the breathtaking scenery, as you enjoy your delicious lunch sitting next to the waters. Surrounding the gardens, there are many hiking paths to suit all abilities. The moderately cool weather makes the stay even more pleasant, whether you are on a day trip or camping.
Do Wine Tasting In Melbourne
Home to some of the oldest vineyards in the country, the city of Melbourne is a great place to explore the delicacy of premium wines. The region surrounding the wineries brims with vibrant autumn colours, calling for a revitalizing effect on the mind. Grab this golden opportunity to taste some of the best wines in the state, while soaking up the mild breeze of cool autumn days.
Explore The Gardens Of The City
Renowned for the collections of Australian and European trees lining pathways and lanes leading to the Royal Exhibition Building, the Carlton Gardens is a wonder of Victorian Landscape. This heritage site also houses the Melbourne Museum, and a number of fountains. Another jewel in the ranks of Melbourne Gardens is the Fitzroy, featuring avenues and lanes, lined up with English elms along with collection of native flowering plants and ornamental shrubbery.
With a collection of over 10,000 species of plants, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne located on the southern bank of the Yarra River is another key highlight during the autumn months.