F O U R P O I NTS BY S H E R ATO N M E LB O U R N E D O C K L A N DS
CO LO N I A L TR A M C A R R E S TAU R A NT
MINAMISHIMA, RICHMOND
Q U E E N V I C TO R I A M A R K E T
MONDAY MORNING After breakfast, head into the CBD for a pamper session at Sakura Lounge [8–10 Warburton Lane], where you'll be able to relax and unwind in this Japanese oasis. Book the Friends and Lovers package for a foot treatment, massage and facial. Continue to treat yourself by heading to Damon Bradley [3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank] and testing out decadent, warm fruit dishes like the caramelised maple apple, which comes with sultanas, vanillabean ice-cream and walnuts. AFTERNOON After your tasty treat, it’s time to start prepping for race day. Pick up your race day flower from any of the city’s florists, and finishing touches from the abundance of fashion stores in the CBD. If you’re looking for a last-minute one-stop shop, the Bourke Street Mall is the place to go. For boutique stores, delve into Melbourne’s laneways to find something unique.
EVENING Book for dinner at Minamishima [4 Lord Street, Richmond], a hidden finedining restaurant where sushi is transformed into edible art. If possible, request a seat at the bar where you can watch the sushi wizards at work. Afterwards, head back to your hotel for an early night ahead of the big day to follow.
TUESDAY MORNING Rise and shine! It’s time to preen yourselves and polish your shoes for a funfilled day at Flemington Racecourse [448 Epsom Road, Flemington]. If you want to reserve prime position at the finish line, be sure you are trackside nice and early. Set up your picnic rug and settle in for a fun day ahead. Fingers crossed you’ll pick a winner. EVENING After the spring racing action, head back to Docklands and stop at Woolshed Melbourne [Harbour Esplanade, Docklands]. Enjoy the evening view of the
O’ B R I E N G RO U P A R E N A
ROYA L B OTA N I C GA R D E N S V I C TO R I A
docks as you tuck into tasty share platters and impressive cocktails. Riding the race day high? The Woolshed keeps buzzing into the wee hours of the morning.
WEDNESDAY MORNING Sadly, your getaway is drawing to a close, but it’s not too late to squeeze in one more fun experience. Check out of your hotel and head over to O’Brien Group Arena [105 Pearl River Road, Docklands] and hit the ice. If you’re feeling particularly inspired from the day prior, perhaps make a race of your own around the rink.
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