Five winter wonders to make you fall in love with Melbourne’s snuggle season

Baby, it’s cold outside. But with this round-up of exceptional wet weather outings, we have a feeling you’ll be head over heels with the romance of Melbourne’s winter wonderland in no time. Here’s what’s on near Docklands Private Collection of Apartments.

The Winter Village

Cue ice skating, private igloos and espresso martinis on tap. Winter in Melbourne is anything but cold-hearted. Warm the cockles just down the road at Federation Square, where Skyline Terrace has transformed into a magical celebration of the chilly season. Try out your skills on the ice rink, check out the live music on weekends or simply sit back and take in the city views surrounded by plenty of faux snow. It’s open from 12pm Monday–Thursday and 11am Friday–Sunday until August 31.

White Night

It’s the first year we’ll see this adored annual all-nighter with its new winter backdrop,  and the perfect reason to pull on the beanie for an evening in the elements. The event now forms part of a huge new festival taking over Carlton Gardens, Birrarung Marr and the National Gallery of Victoria. While the after-dark illumination still runs over a single evening, the festival will be a three-day soiree from August 22–24. Keep an eye out for more music, design, film, food, performance and street art events to be announced.

High Cheese

Forget high teas, High Cheese is the best way to banish those winter blues. The Westin Melbourne and cheesemonger Maker & Monger have teamed up for a creamy, dreamy tiered cheese experience in the heart of the city. For $70 a ticket, you’ll be treated to both sweet and savoury cheese dishes, including scones infused with gouda and served with whipped butter, cheesy and salted white chocolate tiramisu, cannoli-filled with ricotta and baked Normandy camembert served with lavosh for dipping. Wash it down with unlimited cups of coffee and tea. It’s on from 5.30pm every day until August 31.A short free tram ride from Docklands Private Collection of Apartments.

Queen Victoria Winter Night Market

Your Hump Day is set to be even happier this winter. Take a short walk down to Queen Victoria Market on Wednesday evenings and be treated to a cool slice of city life after dark. Taste international flavours as you stroll the aisles, with Italian loaded flatbread, churro bowls with oozy hazelnut sauce and legendary pastas on the menu. Grab a glass of mulled wine or steaming cider to warm your hands while shopping and listening to live music. It unfolds from 5-10pm every Wednesday until August 28. Heads-up for July attendees: there’s a month-long Christmas in July theme, so be sure to pull on your best ugly Christmas sweater for your shot at a prize.

Whisky, Wine & Fire

Hot Toddy fans, rejoice. Whisky, Wine & Fire returns to Caulfield Racecourse from July 18-21 with a soul-warming schedule of tastings, fire-driven feasts, cocktails and art. From boutique local shiraz to bone-warming whiskies, there’s a brilliant bunch of top Aussie winemakers and distillers waiting to show off their finest wet weather drops. The setting encourages relaxation, with live music, talks from the makers and a theatrical fire sculpture garden perfect for afternoon wanderings.