
Feeling a little on edge? Escape into the great outdoors, slow down and connect with the natural world with a stroll along one of Parks Victoria’s Nature Wellness Trails. Each trail is designed to help you unwind and recharge, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. To get the best out of this experience, simply use the NatureFix app, which will guide you through some simple nature-awareness activities at designated spots along the path. These activities will help you feel the benefits of being in nature, such as reducing your stress and increasing your clarity. This app is available on Apple’s App Store and on Google Play for Android. Of course, if you can’t download the app, that’s ok. You can always walk along the track and take in the sights. As this is an outdoor activity, remember to check the Parks Victoria website to see if there’s any conditions you need to be aware of, like weather-related closures.
Choose between three Nature Wellness Trails the next time you need some peace outdoors
Birrarung Park (Yarra Valley Parklands)
Located in Bulleen, and nestled by the Yarra and Plenty rivers, the trail in Birrarung Park is just a 30 minute drive away from Melbourne CBD. Amble along a 2.2km loop, and take in lovely views of wetlands and a mature tree canopy. Listen out for the sound of tweeting birds as you make your way through the natural bushland. This flat trail is also accessible, and is great for people looking for an easy walk, or using mobility aids or prams. Dogs are welcome to come along too, as long as they’re on a leash.
There’s six guided activities for you to try along the loop, including posture techniques, sensory practices and ways to help you reflect and unwind.
When you’re not on the trail, you’ll find picnic tables, grassy areas, a playground, accessible toilets and fireplaces with grills around the 33 hectare site. Chill out with a picnic before or after your walk. Just remember to take your rubbish with you, as there aren’t any bins around.
đź“ŤTemplestowe Rd, Bulleen VIC 3105
Sherbrooke Forest
Wander into Sherbrooke Forest, just an hour away from Melbourne, and walk along the 5.5km loop trail. Located within Dandenong Ranges National Park, this walk offers plenty of lush ferns and tall mountain ash trees for you to admire. Look out for lyrebirds and smell the eucalypts as you travel along this moderate trail.
There’s six rejuvenation stations to help you deepen your connection with nature. Engage in mindful breathing, practice gratitude, discover the language of birds and more.
The trail starts and ends in Grants Picnic Ground. Once you’ve completed the walk, stick around and enjoy the wonders of the Dandenong Ranges, and visit charming cafes or stroll through enchanting gardens.
đź“Ť12 Coles Ridge Track, Sherbrooke VIC 3789
Woowookarung Regional Park
You’ll find the final trail on the edge of Ballarat, just 90 minutes away from Melbourne. Woowookarung Regional Park covers a whopping 641 hectares, and there’s plenty of tracks for walking and cycling.
The Grass-Tree Nature Trail is the one for you to try. It starts with sweeping views from the Woowookarung Lookout, and takes you on to more sheltered forest spaces around the park. The path showcases the best of the Australian bush, including the grass-trees. It’s 1.8km one-way, and the app will invite you to slow down and reflect as you make your journey.
Dogs are welcome to come along, as long as they’re on a leash. Please note that there aren’t any toilets in the park, so remember to ‘go’ before you go.
đź“ŤKaty Ryans Rd, Mount Clear VIC 3350