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5 top walks you simply must do

Walk #1 

Darebin Parklands - Nature preserve in Alphington

Location - Separation Street, Alphington

This reserve is fabulous to explore. The council have done a lot of work to make this a really lovely place to visit. Follow the path to explore the creek, check out a whole lot of wildlife and enjoy the facilities for a BBQ or picnic. There are great off-lead areas for your pooch and places to have a swim. More info  - dcmc.org.au 

 

Walk#2

Princess Park

Location-  200-590 Royal Parade, Carlton

No doubt Prinnie Park is already on your dog walking list. It's worth another mention though. The 2.9km circuit is just the ticket for a short walk or do a double track to really get pooch excited. There are some great ovals to do some off lead running, as well as the Carlton Football Club training ground. There's also a children's playground, BBQ facilities and 'Within Three Worlds' sculpture.  If you have a small dog, there's a group that meet every  Saturday at 2pm. More info - whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au

 

Walk#3

Yarra Bend Park

Location - Off Heidelberg Road, Fairfield

This amazing parkland is located just 4 km from the Melbourne CBD. The yarra river runs through the middle with lots of walking paths and off the track hiking opportunities. Both the Alphington and Kew Boatsheds provide an opportunity for a bite to eat. The list of activities is endless from boat hire to fly fishing. Considered a 'multi-zone' park, there are lots of places for you and your pup to explore. Don't forget to check out Dights Falls while you're there! More info - parkweb.vic.gov.au

 

Walk#4

Warrandyte River Reserve

Location - Yarra Street, Warrandyte

Ok, so this isn't exactly a city walk but it's so beautiful we had to mention it. So much to do here, fishing, paddling, swimming or just a nice long walk for you and you're pup to enjoy. There are a number of off lead areas and some great places to stop and have a coffee or cold drink to refresh. Warrandyte State Park and Stiggants Reserve are close by. More info - melbourneplaygrounds.com.au

 

Walk#5

Finns Reserve

Location - Templestowe Road and Union Street, Templestowe Lower

This is a top spot not just for you and your dog but your family too. There's a great play space 'Wombat Bend' for the kids to enjoy. Please note pooch is not allowed in this part of the reserve but the rest of the reserve can be explored at will. There's a really cool suspension bridge to check out too. More info - manningham.vic.gov.au

 

All opinions, advice and observations are my own and based on my work as a teacher, facilitator, community development manager and owner and friend to Pixie, Sulu, Woody, Max and Daphne over a lifetime.