Now that we are well and truly in the depths of a classic Melbourne winter, it’s tempting to burrow down in your doona and hibernate until springtime. Whilst it’s true that the winter months don’t have the same social effervescence, or variety of outdoor activities as summer does, they offer us an opportunity to indulge and replenish ourselves before the madness of the sunny season takes hold again. This week, we take a look at four decadent winter activities which are guaranteed to replenish your soul and renew your faith in the cold weather months.
Enjoy a hot toddy by a roaring fire
As the southern bar capital of Australia, Melbourne is teeming with establishments that have perfected the art of serving up soul warming drinks in a cosy environment. There are plenty of bars around the city that boast a toasty fireplace and a hearty drinks list to warm yourself up on chilly Melbourne nights.
Go on a comfort food safari
Winter is the season of comfort food, so why not embrace it with a gastronomic adventure to one of the city’s many great eateries. Whether you choose to try a proper French croissant at the newly opened Gontran Cherrier in Collingwood, or go for a steaming plate of handmade ravioli at Rosa’s Kitchen, your stomach and your soul will be thankful.
Hunt down some decadent winter woollies
One of the great pleasures of cold weather is getting to swathe yourself in layers of soft, warm, knitted fabrics. Melbourne is of course famous for it’s wintry black sports luxe aesthetic, which can be found in shops like Assin, Verner, Bassike and Bùl, but there are plenty of local designers bucking the monochromatic trend with bright colours and whimsical patterns. Shops to check out if you want to add a pop of colour to your winter wardrobe include Curtin House residents P.A.M and dot Comme, Monkhouse Design on Lygon street, and Kuwaii in Cathedral Arcade.
Investigate some spa time down the coast
If you’re looking to invest in some serious downtime, then there is nowhere better to do it than at the Peninsula Hot Springs. With Melbourne on the Move’s Peninsula Hot Springs tour, you get a shuttle service to and from the springs, and three hours to enjoy the healing powers of the hot springs whilst taking in the gorgeous natural surrounds. Massages, facials, and other spa treatments are also available at the Spa Dreaming Centre.