With the mornings getting chillier it’s the ideal time to get moving and warm up your body, and what better way than with a mood-boosting run? Layer up, skip the treadmill and hit the ground feeling good with these scenic and energising runs.
MELBOURNE
The Tan
Undoubtedly Melbourne’s most popular running track, this 3.8km run loops around the picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens. Start at the top of the hill on Anderson Street and make your way around to Kings Domain, Government House Reserve and the Shrine of Remembrance Reserve.
Albert Park Lake
Start or end your day with a 4.8km lap around Albert Park Lake, home of the Australian Grand Prix. Want to go the extra mile? Extend your run to Catani Gardens and the St Kilda foreshore to finish up at the beach.
Princes Park
If you’re a beginner looking for a simple, flat running track, a 3.2km lap of Princes Park is just the ticket. Favoured by athletes and sports teams, it’s conveniently located near Carlton’s cafe strip so you can motivate yourself with the promise of a post-run latte.
Abbotsford Convent & Yarra Bend Park
Build up to this longer 10km run that takes you from the historic Abbotsford Convent and around the banks of the Yarra River where you’ll get magical views of Melbourne’s city skyline at sunset.
Solar System Trail
Take in solar system sculptures and beautiful sea views of Port Phillip Bay on this 5.9km run from the Sun (Marina Reserve) to Pluto (Port Melbourne).
SYDNEY
Bondi to Bronte
A stunning 2.5km clifftop run that takes in not one but three iconic beach locations — Bondi, Tamamara and Bronte. If you’re lucky you may even spot some whales or dolphins!
Bondi to Coogee
This 6.1km cliff-to-coast run isn’t technically flat the whole way but you’ll barely notice as you take in the breathtaking sea views.
Centennial Park
This leafy 3.7km track set around one of Sydney’s oldest and largest parks is ideal for a quick jog.
The Domain
Take in the sights of Sydney on this easy 3km run adjoining Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden, with views of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Woolloomooloo.
Hyde Park
Surrounded by leafy trees and meticulous gardens, enjoy the serenity within Sydney’s CBD, as you run the 2.4km perimeter of this heritage-listed urban park.
BRISBANE
River Loop
This 6.4km run as it all — city glimpses, the Botanic Gardens, Southbank and clifftops. Start at Eagle Street Pier then run across the iconic Story Bridge and alongside the river to Cliffs Boardwalk before crossing back via the Goodwill Bridge.
Kangaroo Point
Want the best vantage point to see Brisbane’s city skyline? You can’t go past a standalone run along these heritage-listed cliffs. For an added challenge: Scale the infamous 107-steps at Kangaroo Point Stair Climb.
Newfarm Riverwalk
Located in downtown Brisbane this is a great running route for beginners. Start at the Eagle Street Pier ferry terminal and head along the City Beach Boardwalk until it becomes New Farm Riverwalk, then continue on your 4.1 km run to New Farm Park, one of the city’s oldest, grandest and largest parks.
Three Parks
Why do one park when you can run through three? Follow the 5km three-park river stretch that takes in Orleigh Park, Riverside Lands Park and Davies Park at West End for an energising job… There’s even outdoor gyms along the way if you need to stretch!
Roma Street Parkland
Set in the heart of the city, sprint your way around 16-hectares of parkland, and take in immaculate designer gardens, carefully manicured lawns and stunning blooms as you get your heart rate up. Two laps will give you a 3km run.
WE’LL BE WEARING
