We don’t know about you, but at lastminute HQ, we’re pretty damn excited about the “race that stops a nation” next week. So excited in fact, that two of the lastminute lovelies are flying in and out at you guessed it- the lastminute!
Unlike the lovelies though, (who have to get back to the office) those of you making the journey to Melbs for the race should make the most of it. Take your time, don’t cram Melbourne in at the Cup!Here are our top 10 non-horse related activities to help you extend your Melbourne Cup minutes:
1. Get lost in laneways: Grab a coffee and lose yourself in the winding laneways. Discover hidden nooks, stunning arches and don’t forget to stop in at boutiques for a fashion fix you just won’t get anywhere else.
2. Go kite boarding at St Kilda: For those craving a seaside thrill, head to St Kilda beach for a kite boarding lesson. Learning from experienced instructors, you’ll be bouncing over waves in no time.
3. Be entertained: Dress in your best, treat yourself to a delicious meal, and then watch as the stage comes alive. Whether it’s a musical, theatre performance or local gig, take in a good dose of Melbourne’s talent. Our tip? King Kong is GREAT and still showing at the Regent.
4. Taste Melbourne on a foodie tour: Looking glam and betting on horses will work up quite an appetite. Take one of Melbourne’s renowned foodie walking tours, with so many delicious dishes to taste, you’ll be thankful for the walk between meals!
5. Art, wine + cheese walking tour: Speaking of food tours, this tour merges food and art together. From street art to unmarked galleries, world renowned artists to up and coming locals, there’s something for everyone. At the end of the tour, relax with cheese and a glass of wine as you reflect on your art of choice.
6. Take on the Great Ocean Road: The Great Ocean Road is only a quick day trip from Melbourne and well worth the drive. The towering rock formations, rugged coastline and pristine beaches will leave you awe-inspired and refreshed for a hard day at the races.
7. Viva la Vino: You’ll no doubt enjoy a few glasses at the races but why not take the time to devour the best of the best cool climate wines as well? Take a relaxing day trip out to the Yarra Valley and visit a great mix of boutique and premium wineries like Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa, Domaine Chandon, Yering Station..shall we go on?
8. See the city from a champagne sunset flight: Add a special touch to your trip by taking off in your own private plane as the sun sets over the city. Ah-maze!
9. Sip a cocktail, or three: You’ll either need a drink to celebrate or commiserate your betting skills, but don’t worry – you won’t be short of choices as to where. Whether it’s hidden down a laneway, on a rooftop, or hiding behind a conspicuous door, there’s a hip watering hole waiting around every corner in Melbourne.
10. Explore Flinder’s Quarter: For Melbourne’s high end fashion, galleries, designers and cafes, head to Flinder’s Quarter to mix with the finest fashionistas. From Flinders Lane to the beautiful Cathedral Arcade, there’s something to suit every taste … and fill every suitcase!
It’s not too late to hit the Melbourne Cup next week. Book your Melbourne accommodation here.