Seven Rewarding Pit Stops to Make When You're Tackling the St Kilda Foreshore Trail

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The St Kilda Foreshore Trail follows the water's edge, tracing the coastline for 11 kilometres from Port Phillip to St Kilda then Elwood. It's dotted with palm trees, beaches, cafes and parks — and is often packed with Melburnians enjoying the sun and salty air as they walk, cycle or jog the track. To help you make the most of your next walk or run on the trail, we've teamed up with Adidas to bring you seven rewarding pit stops to make along the way. Take a look, then plan your own adventure using the map below.

Visit Victoria

PERC WHITE RESERVE

Start your run at Perc White Reserve, which you'll find at The Boulevard in Port Melbourne, near the Maritime Cove Community Park and Sandridge Beach. The natural reserve offers a perfect place to prep for the route ahead. Find a spot near some native bush to limber up with a few stretches and light movements, like legs swings. You can also go for a quick stroll along the dock to get the blood flowing and warm your muscles. As you do, you'll be spoiled with impressive views of the city and Williamstown.

Taylor Franz; Unsplash

SANDBAR BEACH CAFE

After around four kilometres, stop in at Sandbar Beach Cafe, along Beaconsfield Parade. As you look out over Port Phillip Bay, rehydrate with a cold-pressed orange, apple or watermelon juice. Alternatively, grab a hot coffee or tea to keep you going in the colder months or early mornings. Whatever you choose, take time to relax on the deck rewarding yourself with ocean views, or stroll along the beach to keep your legs moving.

MIDDLE PARK BEACH

A little farther along, Middle Park is a one-kilometre stretch of south-west facing beach that's a popular spot for swimmers. It's sandwiched between the Kerferd Road Pier and West Beach Pavilion with a low seawall separating it from the promenade and bustling Beaconsfield Parade. Relax on the sand, soak safely in the sun, or go for a dip. The best part is: it's dog friendly. So you can often catch some cute, furry guys frolicking in the waves.

Visit Victoria/Josie Withers

CATANI GARDENS

As you reach St Kilda West, around 1.3 kilometres away, you'll come to Catani Gardens. It's a well-known hang out spot for families and other runners, and the gardens boasts expansive, well-manicured lawns framed by Canary Island palm trees. Here, you can catch your breath in the shade or have a rest under the notable rotunda in the heart of the gardens. There's also a drinking fountain to refill your water bottle and plenty of spots to get in some stretches or lunges.

ST KILDA SEA BATHS

Alternatively, a short stroll away is St Kilda Sea Baths, where the hydrotherapy spa pool and 25-metre seawater pool are heated to a pleasant temperature. As well as feeling salty and soothing, the seawater is said to have therapeutic qualities, too, such as helping to stimulate senses and relieve sore muscles. Take a moment to relax in the aromatherapy steam room (currently closed due to COVID restrictions) or sit in the lounge area with views of the bay. You'll find the baths at Jacka Boulevard.

Unsplash; Larry Crayton

ST KILDA OUTDOOR GYM, MO MORAN RESERVE

Another 1.6 kilometres away is MO Moran Reserve Outdoor Gym, where your legs can take a small break while you work your arms, abs, shoulders and back. You can access the gym via Marine Parade where you'll find a hub of callisthenics equipment, such as parallel bars, dip bars, a push up bar, step and incline bench — all designed to build strength and give you a full-body workout. What makes it rewarding? All that strength training will help protect your joints for future runs.

ELWOOD BATHERS

Then, after another kilometre or so, you'll come to Elwood Bathers & Elwood Bathers Pizza, where you can refuel and relax after clocking up your step count. The waterfront restaurant boasts casual seating and stellar views of Port Phillip Bay. As you've finished your run, it's time to give yourself the ultimate treat: food. Order a wagyu or chargrilled chicken burger, beer-battered flathead and chips, or a well-earned slice of mushroom, prawn or prosciutto pizza. Wash it down with a grapefruit soda, spicy ginger beer or sparkling mineral water. Alternatively, enjoy a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc or a cool pale ale, draft or cider.

In need of a new pair of runners? Take a look at the new Adidas Ultraboost 21 runners here. Launch the map below to start plotting your own running adventure in and around Melbourne. 

Top image: St Kilda Beach, Visit Victoria