Things you need to do before it gets (too) cold

words by kim batto

Oh Melbourne, the only place where you can experience four different seasons in one day. The city that is 80% cold year-round. You can never really “store” your winter clothes if you live here because you know there would always be one random day during summer that you would end up needing that thick jumper. This is why Melburnians know how to maximise those sunny 27 degree days, and I’ll share a few things you need to do before it gets too cold.

Have A Drink In The Sun
Open 7 days a week, Arbory Bar and Eatery is by the Yarra river serves breakfast from 7.30am and has Nitro Espresso Martinis on tap. What more can you ask for?

See the city from a different angle and jump on the number 11 tram and head to Naked for Satan’s Naked in the Sky. Green Apple & Cherry, Lychee & Ginger, even chilli are just a few flavours of their Naked Infused Vodkas – definite must try.

Head up to QT Melbourne’s very own Rooftop Bar with breathtaking views of the city (the best even I might add). We’re not biased, you just have to see it to believe it.

Do you ever feel like someone is watching you? Happy Friday lovers! ?: @claireswilson

A post shared by QT Melbourne (@qtmelbourne) on Mar 30, 2017 at 3:43pm PDT

Get a scoop or four (nobody’s judging) of gelato
Head to Lygon Street and look for Pidapipo Gelateria. Their pistachio ice cream would send you travelling to the streets of Rome. Feeling something light? Their dairy-free watermelon is also a top choice.

You want a guilt-free alternative? Walk towards Melbourne Central and make sure to stop by Frozen by a Thousand Blessings. Their Raw Cacao, Soy Strawberry, or Green Tea are a must try.

Set up a picnic at the Royal Botanic Gardens
One will surely find a spot in the 36-hectare botanic garden that’s a fair walk or a quick tram from the city. Wine with cheese and crackers, a picnic mat (probably a blanket just in case – we’re still in Melbourne after all) with good music, a classic movie or a favourite book depending on your fancy and you’re sorted!

Squeeze in a market day, and get spoilt on food choices
Walk towards the Queen Victoria Market and feel the fantastic morning market rush. The coffee at Market Lane should be your first stop, and a must second should be for some hot jam doughnuts from the iconic American Doughnut Kitchen Truck.

Wander the organics shed and uncover these gorgeous bunches of chard and silverbeet – perfectly in season and perfect for that weekend autumn meal. Find them in Shed I at Vic Market Organics #queenvicmarket #vicmarket #foodie #organics #fresh #produce #healthy #melbourne #autumn

A post shared by Queen Victoria Market (@vicmarket) on Apr 21, 2017 at 6:36pm PDT

If you still weren’t able to find what you were looking for, jump on the 96 tram and head towards the South Melbourne Market. They have $1 oysters! If that’s not enough for you to venture down south, the croissants from Agathe Patisserie are surely worth the trip. Pop by Happy Place for a good old healthy smoothie, their I love Oprah with dried figs, dates and almond milk will keep you coming back for more.

Go for a drive to the Yarra Valley
Need I say more? Always yes to wine tasting!

Okay fine, you can do all these things in winter, but why wait? Admit it, you’re already planning your weekend with one, two or all of the above in mind.