Did you know that hidden among suburban Newport is the green oasis of Newport Lakes? It’s a refreshingly unexpected section of bushland on a site that was formerly a bluestone quarry and a rubbish tip.
You’ll find Newport Lakes Melbourne just off Mason Street in the centre of Newport. The car park is adjacent to the Newport Lakes Nursery which is a native nursery specialising in outdoor plants.
Newport Lakes Walking Trails
Newport Lakes Reserve is a lovely area for a short walk. A self-guided nature trail allows you to explore the lakes area at your own pace. The trail is about 2km and takes approximately 40 minutes. A brochure about the trail is available from the Newport Lakes Native Nursery.
There is a defined path around the lake though there are several areas where it is possible to deviate from the path and climb up and down the rocks and steep slopes. There are also paths on higher areas, making it possible to travel a different route along one of the four main trails every time you visit.
Find Hotels and Airbnbs near Newport Lakes, Newport
The kids love the stepping stones the most!
The paths are unpaved but reasonably easy to navigate with a pram. Note there are some short and sharp hills – Newport Lakes Parkrun (a free weekly timed 5km trail run on Saturdays 8am) is known as the place NOT to try for a running PB!
There are plenty of long sticks and water plants to create a make-shift pretend fishing rod (although its best not to stand too close to the edge of the lake as it can be slippery).
Rich in birdlife, there are over 85 species of birds recorded in the reserve. Most often spotted are ducks and swans who often mill around the rocky causeway dividing the lake.
Throughout the reserve you can find multiple several mosaic artworks on large rocks, and also information boards showing the Newport Lakes map and providing information about the wildlife.
There are picnic tables at the amphitheatre lookout near the north end of the lake, and plenty of grassy areas to spread out a picnic rug.
You’re not permitted to bring dogs into Newport Lakes park but there is an adjacent area looping around the reserve where there are frequently dogs exercising off-lead. It’s very common to pass dog walkers in the car park and nearby Pavey Reserve.
Next to the car park there is a public toilet block and a BBQ area with a large shaded seating area. On the other side of the large grassed Pavey Reserve is another challenging playground.
Get a drink and something to eat at Heart of Hall
Go on another one of the Best Short Walks in Melbourne with Kids
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class=”thon-hot-tips-panel”] Tips for Newport Lakes:
- Toilet block is next to the carpark;
- car park is adjacent to the Newport Nursery which is a native nursery specialising in outdoor plants;
- A self-guided nature trail is about 2km and takes approximately 40 minutes. A brochure about the trail is available from the Newport Lakes Native Nursery;
- Enter Newport Lakes via the gate at the top of the carpark of Lakes Drive;
- Take a picnic, or eat at Heart of Hall, Leroys or The Backyard;
- Picnic Tables;
- Water Fountains;
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from Newport Train Station; and
- dogs are not allowed inside Newport Lakes park.
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