Melbourne has a vibrant energy that permeates everywhere, from its bustling laneways and markets to its electrifying sporting events and concert venues. But as irresistible a draw as the city is for those seeking excitement and adventure, sometimes you just want some quiet time.
On these occasions, one of the best places to visit is Bundoora Park. Nestled in the more serene northern suburbs of the city, this expansive green space covers over 180 hectares and provides visitors with plenty in the way of recreational activities, beautiful natural landscapes, and interesting attractions.
Offering a tranquil escape from the frenetic pace of the city, Bundoora Park accommodates everything from walking trails to an interactive farm experience.
This article will outline what makes the park such an attractive option for Melbournians wanting a peaceful sanctuary to escape to. If you have not been to it for a while – or even at all – we’ll showcase why you should visit it.
Where is Bundoora Park?
Located in the suburb of Bundoora, the sprawling park comprises natural bushland adjacent to Darebin Creek.
Rising to Mount Cooper, the park is about 16 km north of the Melbourne CBD. It is easily accessed by car, and you can drive up to the park’s upper reaches to enjoy the sensational views of the cityscape and surrounding countryside. If you come from the CBD, you can take the M2 (Western Ring Road) and exit onto Plenty Road. Continue on Plenty Road until you reach Bundoora Park on your left. The park has plenty of parking spaces available.
If you don’t have a car, you can take a train to Reservoir Station and then catch the 561 bus, which stops near Bundoora Park. Alternatively, you can take a tram (route 86) to stop 66 on Plenty Road, just a short walk from the park.
Bundoora Park is easily accessible by bike via the Darebin Creek Trail, which runs through the park. You can enjoy a scenic ride and use the park’s bike racks for secure parking.
Once you arrive at Bundoora Park, you’ll find signposts and maps to guide you to its different attractions. The park’s entrance is well-marked, so first-time visitors shouldn’t have any issues navigating it.
Park Features
One of the standout features of Bundoora Park is its diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to a magnificent native wildlife reserve, where visitors can spot kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats.
The park accommodates two major areas of conservation – the River Red Gum Reserve and the Woody Grasslands. The reserve provides an excellent opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers to observe and capture these incredible trees up close. The picturesque walking trails
within the grasslands are also a great way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings.
For those visiting with children, Bundoora Park has a number of suitable family-friendly attractions and activities that guarantee a fun-filled day. The Bundoora Park Farm is a popular destination that allows children to interact with farm animals such as cows, goats, sheep, and chickens.
Whilst there, kids can feed the animals, learn about their habits, and even enjoy pony rides. Overall, it’s an educational and enjoyable experience that fosters a connection between children and animals while teaching them about farming and agriculture.
Another highlight of Bundoora Park is Cooper’s Settlement. A living history farm, it provides visitors with a glimpse into the early settler days in Melbourne. Here, you can explore historic buildings, participate in interactive demonstrations, and gain insight into traditional farming practices. The staff dress in period costumes to add an authentic touch to the experience, making it both educational and entertaining for people of all ages.
Within the park, a number of dog obedience classes are run, including those by the German Shepherd Dog Club of Victoria.
Park Facilities
In addition to its natural beauty and various attractions, Bundoora Park also offers fantastic recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy.
The park features expansive grassy areas perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply lounging in the sun. Additionally, sports lovers can take advantage of the park’s tennis courts, cricket nets, and soccer fields.
If you are into golf, you’ll want to enjoy a round at the Bundoora Park Golf Course. The par 72 course is known for its beautiful greens and fairways and challenging holes, of which four of them are par fives. Most par fours range from between 245 and 407 metres in length.
For those who want to go cycling and jogging, designated areas provide opportunities for fitness enthusiasts to enjoy both.
Park Amenities
As you would expect from such a big public green space, the park has a good range of amenities.
Overall there are plenty of parking spaces, as well as several well-maintained restroom facilities, some of which are easily accessible for people with disabilities. There are also paths that are specifically designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and lots of seating, picnic areas and BBQs.
By the entrance point to the farm, the Bundoora Park Cafe enjoys a lovely position overlooking the water in the Wildlife Reserve. It offers a pleasant setting in which to enjoy an outdoor meal. You can choose to eat onsite or take away for a picnic elsewhere.
The cafe has seating both indoors and outdoors, so it is open all year round. It also has a fireplace to warm you up in the winter and a child-friendly menu with several options most kids will love.
Events
Throughout the year, Bundoora Park hosts various events that cater to a range of different interests. They include music concerts, art exhibitions and food and wine festivals.
These events provide an extra reason to visit the park, giving visitors different experiences other than just relaxing or exercising.
Conclusion
Even though it is just a half an hour’s drive from the Melbourne CBD, Bundoora Park might as well be a world away.
Seamlessly blending natural beauty, wildlife encounters, recreational activities, and educational experiences, its diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for families, nature lovers or anyone needing a break from the pace of city life.
Whatever your motivation for going there, one thing is for sure. A visit to this park is sure to lift your spirits and rejuvenate your soul. So when you head back to the city, you’ll feel very much refreshed.