The vibrant city of Melbourne is considered one of the largest metropolises in the world. It is the capital of the state of Victoria and is a crucial trade town situated in Port Phillip at the estuary of the Yarra River.

Melbournians as the residents are affectionately known to love their entertainment. Nothing beats coming back after work and hitting the pub or going to a club or event on the weekends. Horse Racing has been a popular attraction in the city since its inception.

The sublime Flemington Racecourse is one of the most beautiful and immaculate racecourses in the world. It is home to the prestigious Melbourne Cup which is one of horse racing’s most coveted events.

Originally considered crown land belonging to the monarch of the United Kingdom, the land where the racecourse sits was first used as a horseracing venue back in March of 1840. The club is run by the prestigious Victoria Racing Club. The Victoria Racing Club comprises of a panel elected by members of the club to help manage and run the course and its respective events in the state of Victoria.

Shaped uniquely like a pair, the Flemington Racecourse comprises of a 1200 m straight known as the Straight Six”. There have been considerable refurbishments to the course over the years to help cater to the growing crowd numbers and advancements in technology.

As of November 2006 the Flemington Racecourse was awarded Australian Heritage Site
Status. The most prestigious event the club holds is the “race that stops a nation”, the famous Melbourne Cup. Held during the spring, the course is brought to concourse condition with flowers blooming and brass and silver polished to a shine. The Melbourne Cup Carnival is four day affair culminating in the all important horse race. During the four day period the “Loving Cup”(the Melbourne Cup trophy) is carried throughout the country where events are hosted in cities to help raise awareness on the cup.

Over the four days of festivities many parties are held by significant sporting and media personalities and many major corporations that sponsor the cup. The “Loving Cup” is brought to each of these events so that guests may get an up close look at the trophy.

The day of the Melbourne Cup is truly a brilliant spectacle. Be it the VIP enclosures or the grand stands, every spectator is dressed in their finest garbs and most fashionable hats showcasing a kaleidoscope of colour and style.

The Melbourne Cup is one of the many exciting events and attractions to take in when visiting the vibrant city of Melbourne. Or, if you are after some rest and relaxation, why not take advantage of the many Melbourne spas dotted around the city. For example the Chuan Spa Melbourne stands out as a premier institute among Melbourne day spas, offering a fusion of both western and eastern treatments. Choose from a range of therapies ranging from soothing massages to hydrotherapies to suit your exact needs.