A Formula One Driverās Guide to Melbourne, From Surf Spots to Burger Joints
by Jordi Lippe-McGraw via WSJ
Travelers headed to Melbourne, Australia, for the Formula One Australian Grand Prix will find a city that perfectly blends high-octane sport with a relaxed, coastal-urban lifestyle. Set around Albert Park Lake on March 5 to 8, the circuit is a stoneās throw from the beach, making it easy to go directly from the racetrack to the shore. The ease of access to both city landmarks and natural retreats makes the city in Victoria a truly unique host for F1ās season-opening race.
Often hailed as the sporting capital of the world, the city is a home away from home for New Zealandāborn Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson. He enjoys the area for its proximity to his family, vibrant sports culture, stunning beaches and world-class dining.Ā
āThe atmosphere over race weekend in the city is unreal, and thereās something about it being the first race of the season which makes the vibes even better,ā Lawson said.
Here, he shares his favorite places to stay, eat and explore for a day in Melbourne, a city that comes alive during race weekend.
What makes Melbourne such a special city to visit?
I think what makes Melbourne so great is how the city blends urban life with super easy access to beaches and parks, which is pretty rare. While I love the vibe of being in a cool city, sometimes you need to reset in nature, and Melbourne makes that so easy.
Where do you like to stay in Melbourne?
I personally like being close to Albert Park. I grew up by the beach, so being by the water feels like Iām closer to home. But the Langham [hotel] is amazing. Itās in Southbank, so not central Albert Park, although not far. It feels very luxurious and isnāt too far from the lake, which is perfect for a morning or evening walk if you want to unwind.
Melbourne is famous for its brunch culture. Whatās your go-to breakfast spot?
Lune Croissanterie. Their lemon-curd cruffin is unbelievable.
How about lunch and dinner?
Thereās a place called Charrd, which does unreal burgers. The menu is small and simple, but that means theyāre the best at what they do. Charrd Double with fries, you canāt go wrong. And one of my top spots for dinner is this place called Nomad, where everything is smoked over a woodfire. The way they cook the rib-eye and flatbread is honestly just so good. I often donāt have room for dessert, but if you do, they have this olive-oil ice-cream sandwich that hits the spot.
What landmark in Melbourne has made a lasting impression on you?Ā
One morning I went surfing with friends at Bells Beach. To see a community of surfers come together before whatās considered to be the normal working day is really cool. Itās as though everyone is living multiple days in one.
Speaking of the beach, where is your favorite place to relax?Ā
I love St. Kilda Beach. Although I like unwinding, I canāt actually sit still for very long, so youāll probably find me doing water sports there. Itās the perfect spot.
If fans spotted you around the city, where would they be most likely to find you?
Probably at Royal Melbourne Golf Club. Iāve recently taken up golf, so any chance I can play, I take. The club has a lot of history, which feels pretty special. Itās also built on a sand belt, which adds a unique character to the course. Itās just a beautiful place to play.
Do you have a favorite hidden gem?
Greville Records is very cool. They have so many genres of music and it provides a hub for people to meet and discuss their love of music, too. It feels like a community there, which I love.
Is there a canāt-miss experience that captures Melbourneās lively atmosphere?Ā
I donāt think I could answer this without mentioning the Australian Grand Prix. Itās like everyone in the city has been waiting for this moment, then when itās finally here, everyone comes together for a great time.
With only 24 hours to explore, whatās your number one tip to make the most of a short stay in the city?Ā
Walk everywhere. Iāve often come across my favorite hidden gems, some of which Iām keeping to myself, while walking around.