Holiday houses in Brunswick

Known as Iramoo by its Traditional Custodians, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation, this vibrant suburb north of central Melbourne was transformed by the discovery of gold in 1851. Once the main route to the gold fields, today its riches include alternative businesses, live music, and strong Greek, Italian, Turkish, and Lebanese communities, who settled here in the 1960s. The booming local food scene reflects the area’s multicultural character, with beer gardens and rooftop terraces popular for sunny brunch dates.

The annual Brunswick Music Festival blends local and global sounds with a packed program spanning six stages along Sydney Road, also home to an eclectic mix of indie shops, record stores, and secondhand goods. At the heart of the action, Lygon Street offers Greek eats, vegan treats, and everything in between. Within sight of Melbourne’s business district, a short hop away on the number 19 tram, Victorian architecture sits happily alongside street art, a fiercely independent spirit, and a creative, inclusive vibe.

All of the seasons have something different to offer here, with Melbourne’s famously multifaceted sports scene attracting big crowds throughout the year. Fans from all over the world traditionally flock to the famous annual tennis tournament in the city’s centre over the last two weeks of January, and the excitement and sunshine-fueled buzz spreads to Brunswick’s abundance of bars and restaurants. In October, leafy Albert Park is transformed into a street circuit for the much-anticipated season opener of the auto racing season. It’s advisable to add a layer or two if you’re visiting in the chillier winter months of June and July — and remember to pack an umbrella for October, when the weather tends to be wetter. Winter in the Southern Hemisphere is when crowds are at their lowest, and tourists are generally few and far between, making it an easier time to book an accommodation.

CERES Community Environment Park

Locals and visitors alike are drawn to the popular makers’ and flea market on Saturdays for open-air cafes and even expert permaculture advice. This not-for-profit environmental enterprise has developed a community garden, an urban farm, eco workshops, and a bike repair service, all spread over 10 acres of former wasteland.

Merri Creek Trail

Nature lovers will enjoy a change of scenery on the 21-kilometre Merri Creek Trail, perfect for walking off a treat from one of Brunswick’s host of cafes and bakeries. Running from Dights Falls to the Yarra River Trail, the extensive route showcases and protects indigenous wildflowers and vegetation while maintaining good public transport links for easy access.

Live music

Whether you prefer mellow beats with after-dinner coffee or kicking off the night with something a little more festive, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to music. There are venues for all tastes and budgets here, from jazz clubs to indie gigs to pop-up rock-ups. Much-loved local venue the Spotted Mallard has been given a new lease of life as the Brunswick Ballroom, providing a performance space for musicians, comedians, and cabaret artists.