Your weekend mornings at the moment probably look a little cosier than usual, rugged up under a wrap of donnas and only making a move when coffee is on offer; that’s what mine look like at least. Summer in Australia is a wonderland of coastal excursions, lazy beach days and urban strolls; why not take a step off the treadmill and take your running to the streets? Motivation, tick. Excuse for brunch with a view post exercise, guaranteed. We’ve rounded up the best running routes in every capital city for the local or the visitor. If you’re not spurred on by summer is coming these spots are worth it alone just for the ‘gram opportunities.
Sydney
The Bay Run
Stretching 7kms this flat route circles Iron Cove with views of the harbour. Watch the rowers cruise by and take in glimpses of the Sydney skyline before heading to Drummoyne or Rozelle for a well deserved bite.
Getting our walk on! #stillsorefromoberon #bayrun #wintersunshine #countingsteps #raidersgameat3 @lucindavw
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Hyde Park – Mrs Macquarie Chair – Circular Quay
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A Sydney staple offering unrivalled views of the Harbour Bridge this track is a favourite for city workers. On the weekend you’ll have to compete with tourists for pavement space making your way from Hyde Park through the lush Botanic Gardens then along the foreshore but to avoid it head early morning or evening and witness a spectacular sunset/sunrise.
Wake up & run (& stretch!) ??? A photo posted by Kelly ??? (@kelly_runs_and_eats) on
Bondi to Coogee
Have you really been to Sydney if you haven’t done this distance? Probably not, the stunning coastal walk is ideal for those beginning their fitness regime or the workout stations along the way perfect for the more experienced. Good luck trying to find a new angle to photograph but the stunning views and stellar location makeup for it.
This little beach is located around the coast from Bondi Beach and is ideal for those who want the Sydney surf beach experience without the massive crowds. The costal walk strata from iceberg pools and winds across the cliff tops which offer spectacular views of the coastline. #ilovesydney #mthrworld_cities #mthrworld #wonderful_places #nakedplanet #australia_shotz #australia_views #sydney #tamarama #tamaramabeach #bondicoastalwalk #adventureisoutthere #theglobewanderer #natgeotravel #natgeotravelpic #exploretocreate #awesomeearth #discoverglobe #escapetoearth #liveintrepid #ourdailyplanet #worldnomads
Canberra
Lake Burley Griffin
More than just a school excursion Lake Burley Griffin is the epicentre of Canberra exuding a calmness to power you on your run. Sure it’s frosty now but it’s a flat route so no excuses. It’s well lit at night too for post dinner walks or an after work jog.
Good one Canberra! #lakesidewalks #canberra #staffybootcamp #winter #sunsets #visitcanberra #lakebg #skies A photo posted by Emma Taylor (@emtailz) on
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Mt Ainslie
Canberra is one well organised city and the view from the top shows that off. Mt Ainslie offers a whole new perspective of the nation’s capital, parliament house on full display. The run up is through National Park, great for a weekend adventure.
good as day? A photo posted by Kelsy Perkins (@kelsyperkinss) on
Melbourne
The Tan Track
Scouting around the Botanic Gardens, The Tan as it’s referred to by locals is an urban runners escaped. Tree lined surrounds and views of the city are on offer and the proximity to the CBD make it an A-Grade spot to lift your exercise game.
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Albert Park Lake Trail
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Palm trees in Melbourne? You read it right, Albert Park Lake trail is a little slice of paradise just outside the city. Flat footpaths extending 5km around the lake and a whole host of cafes along the way, how very Melbourne.
A photo posted by Melbourne Victoria in Pictures (@melbournetouristguide) on
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Dandenong Ranges – 1000 Steps
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This trek is a Melbourne must, 1000 Steps is just as it sounds a escalating track through the Dandenong Ranges. The surrounds are dense bushland with a canopy covering a lot of the walk. This one is not for the faint hearted, wear your best hiking shoes. Especially scenic but make sure you check the forecast, 1000 Steps is not a good idea if it’s raining.
Adelaide
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River Torrens Linear Park Trail
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Run your way through the park with views of Adelaide city as you circle the River Torrens trail. Paddleboat’s take to the water and cyclists join you along the 6km stretch; a favourite for locals. Make a day of it and enjoy a picnic in the park after you hit your PB, carb-loading is totally justified.
A photo posted by Allie Tenae’a Garland (@allietenaea) on
Belair National Park
13 kms from Adelaide is this untouched wonderland, Belair National Park with a number of running routes and plenty of lookouts for that drink break. Weave through the bush and in tunnel your way to the lookout up top for a spectacular view, you deserve it.
Brisbane
Mt Coot Tha
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Who knew Brisbane looked so good from above? Mt Coot Tha offers perspective over the river city like no other, day or night depending on your running preference. The lookout the ultimate reward for a hard slog up the hill.
A photo posted by Drew Ehlers (@dr3w_ehlers) on
The River Loop
See the city from within when you take on the River Loop, it’s a 30km route in all but you can stop along any of the bridges as you run. Night time is particularly spectacular as the city ignites with lights.
Perth
Lake Monger A little lakehouse all of your own and stellar views of the Perth skyline, Lake Monger has it all. Take on the 10kms and run around the locals, in this part of town thats the swans. Picture perfect.
A photo posted by Evie Hooper (@_emhooper) on
Perth Coastal Run
You may not be up to doing the total 25km stretch but the Perth Coast Run is perfect for feeling that soft sand burn. Cottlelsoe Beach is our pick, reward yourself with coffee after at the local teahouse, pictured below.
#perthisok @perthisok #cottesloe #cottlesloebeach #freo #westernaustralia #takemeback
Hobart
Neck Lookout, Bruny Island
Tasmania is seriously underrated period, make your way to the Neck Lookout and take the panorama of your dreams. This expanse is especially windy so rug up for your run, made up of boardwalk steps and nature trails.
A photo posted by Jacinta (@crispforest) on
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Mt Wellington
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The birds eye view of Hobart is spectacular. A hike up but those hills will have your legs burning in a good way. Get going.
A photo posted by Hobart & Beyond (@hobartandbeyond) on
