Joanna James
Couples heading to the Victorian capital will find that the city is home to some of Australia's most romantic dating hotspots. Staying off-the-beaten-track, here are 5 unique highlights you can uncover on an unforgettable date in Melbourne.
While it may seem over the top as an idea for a date, soaring among clouds on a hot-air balloon is perhaps how all couples should kick-off their Melbourne getaway. The magical atmosphere of the hour of sunrise is not all that you and your partner will experience on this once-in-a-lifetime ride as the bird's eye views of popular landmarks will be equally impressive. The hour-long excursion which is capped off by a conventional Champagne breakfast for two is the perfect way to make memories together during a holiday in Victoria's capital.
Ideal for couples with a passion for days gone by and the city's cultural heritage, embarking on a horse and carriage ride in Melbourne has never been quite so romantic. Accessible via a number of local tour operators, you can not only trot past iconic points of interest such as the Princess Bridge and Queen Victoria Gardens but also some of Melbourne's oldest precincts. Glasses of sparkling champagne are also served in-carriage during this one-of-a-kind excursion that acquaints couples with the old-world charm that lay hidden beneath Melbourne's modern facade.
Gone are the days when Gondola rides were reserved for the canals of Venice as honeymooners and couples based at Pan Pacific Melbourne can also sign up for a memorable cruise on the Yarra River. Sailing by some of the most romantic places in Melbourne, this Yarra River gondola tour offers glimpses of the city's iconic structures flanking its shores. Apart from the stunning views of the Alexandra Gardens, Federation Square, Flinders Street Station and the Exhibition Centre that are part and parcel of the experience, couples can also look forward to snacking on canapés and downing glass of bubbly along the journey.
With a 170-year old legacy of crafting some of the world's finest Cabernet Sauvignons, Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, there's perhaps no better location for a couple's wine tour than Melbourne's Yarra Valley. As Australia's self-proclaimed wine country, the cellar doors and vineyards of this picturesque landscape offer couples the chance to taste the best vintages and savour local cuisine in one single location. Don't forget to bring back a bottle of Yarra Valley Shiraz as a keepsake as it will serve as the perfect reminder of your time in Melbourne.
A sunset kayaking tour on the Yarra River is a fantastic date idea for couples with a love of water sports. This guided tour sets out from Victoria Harbour and is open to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the basics of kayaking. Couple's photo sessions at sunset are also part of the package while this special outing culminates with an on-the-water dinner spread to remember.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
