Albert Park (Melbourne, Australia)
Albert Park: Escape to the Village by the Lake
A pretty, inner-city suburb in Melbourne, Albert Park lies about three kilometres from the CBD. It is named and best known for the sparkling inland lake along its eastern border. Formerly a series of swamps and lagoons, Albert Park Lake is surrounded by a lush green space, where you will often find the locals out jogging, cycling, or walking their dogs—that is, when they’re not out sailing, soaking up the sun on the beach, or filling the stands at the Australian Grand Prix.
Off to the Races!
Every Spring, Albert Park is transformed by the arrival of Formula One racing, when the roadway around the lake becomes the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit. The event takes place over three days, and the tickets are some of the hottest in town; spectators generally number in the hundreds of thousands! In addition to the excitement of qualifying races and the main event, attendees enjoy motorsport stunts, vehicle displays, air shows, live concerts, and much, much more. Die-hards can line up to meet the drivers and get their autographs, and fanatics with very deep pockets can walk the pit lane every day, enjoying an up-close look at some of the fastest racing machines in the world before retreating to the Paddock Club Lounge for champagne.
Sail, Swim, or Shop ‘til You Drop
While the Australian Grand Prix is a huge draw in early Spring, Albert Park also has plenty of year-round attractions, especially for those who love a day out on the water. Hire a paddle boat, kayak, or sailboat to explore Albert Park Lake, or charter a fishing boat to see beautiful Port Phillip Bay. Part of the lovely Port Phillip Bay foreshore falls within Albert Park and is an ideal spot for families; South Melbourne Beach offers a long stretch of soft sand and calm water, and the Plum Garden playground is just a few steps away.
Albert Park also has plenty of excellent cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops along its picturesque high street, many of which are housed in grand, century-old buildings. And, not far from Albert Park shoppers will also find the South Melbourne Market; at this lively indoor market, you will find everything from handmade jewellery to fresh oysters, kangaroo slippers, and hot jam donuts.
Where to Stay in Albert Park
While this part of Melbourne is not nearly as rich in hotels as the nearby suburbs of St. Kilda or Southbank, there are a few attractive options here. The Mercure Melbourne Albert Park and Mantra St. Kilda Road are top picks in the middle range, while your more luxurious choices are the Pullman Albert Park and The Blackman. All of these properties are located within just a few steps of the Albert Park Golf Course and the Grand Prix Circuit, so any one of these would make an ideal (if also rather pricey!) base for race weekend.
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Contact
Albert Park , 3206 | Official hotel site