Albert Park Lake

Albert Park Lake is a large artificial lake at the centre of Albert Park Reserve in the suburb of Albert Park, about 3 kilometres south of central Melbourne, Victoria. Surrounded by a 5-kilometre walking and cycling circuit and extensive parkland, it is known for its Melbourne skyline views, sailing and rowing activities, and as the centrepiece of the Australian Grand Prix circuit. The lake and reserve form a major urban recreation area for walking, cycling, picnicking and birdwatching.

Visitors can expect a large open lake surrounded by flat parkland and a sealed 5 km shared walking and cycling track with views of the Melbourne city skyline. The area includes grassed picnic areas, playgrounds, barbecue facilities, sailing and rowing clubs with boats on the water, and birdlife around the lake. The Albert Park Formula One Grand Prix circuit roads encircle the lake and are used as public roads outside event periods.

Albert Park Reserve was reserved as public parkland in the 19th century on former swamp and lagoon land south of the Yarra River. The lake was formed through drainage and landscaping works and has served as a public recreation area for boating, sports and community use. The reserve has also hosted military use and, since 1996, the Australian Grand Prix on a temporary circuit around the lake.

Albert Park Lake is a major urban recreational and sporting hub for Melbourne, valued for community sport, sailing and rowing clubs, and as the venue for the annual Australian Formula One Grand Prix which attracts national and international visitors.