The reason why I'm not giving this place 5 stars, is because it took a massive chunk out of my self…read moreesteem as I realised how much core strength I was lacking to complete these vertical (and sometimes parallel to the floor) stunts. This place is not quite rock climbing, but what is known as bouldering. Your aim is to climb to the top unassisted, with the safety of a considerably large air mattress beneath you. The do provide bandages if you start to blister. Good to know they think about your well-being. It's got a fun atmosphere, caters to different levels, and really challenges you. The entry and shoe hire are quite affordable (under $20) and there's an indoor bike rack. I am definitely coming back to improve my bouldering skills, improve my strength, and to beat that wall that mocks my attempts.

I am entirely new to rock climbing and bouldering. Although I didn't have much success on my first…read morevisit, I definitely am coming back to improve my bouldering skills. There are different difficulty levels to cater to all levels. Everyone there is friendly and the open gym ensures the air is fresh.

We we're really excited to find out about this venue prior to arrive in Melbourne…read more The glass walls make for an exterior spectacle (see the photo from outside). Unfortunately it did not quite live up to expectations. The most significant problems this climbing facility faces is a lack of proper air-conditioning, ceiling exhaust fans, change rooms greater than room for 1 and lockers. The humidity and heat make the climbing that much harder because you slip off the crimpy little holds purely due to sweat. We had to use that much chalk it probably felt like it was snowing on those below belaying. The climbs themselves are actually pretty good. Some really challenging climbs that require some thought and decent balance. The climbs are also quite high and there are decent inclines on a few with a few cracks to boot. With a couple of automated climbs and lead climbs it has everything you need but ultimately the Nunadwading hardrock is much better

I liked this place, although there are a few practicalities about it which are a bit annoying. But…read morefirst the good stuff!: The walls are high and there is a lot of variety. Im impressed that there is a large staff presence - as there seem to be a lot of beginners and first time climbers around, so the staff presence is very reassuring. The city location makes it a nice sociable place - as do the couches. The baths accross the road also work well with it (after climbing, being submerged in water is good for your sore muscles). The place opens at noon - which is the major drawcard! I think that Cliffhanger at Altona is a better place to climb for numerous reasons, but the fact that this one is open from noon is a real plus! (Cliffhanger opens at 4pm). Now for the annoyances: Parking: this place is impossible for you want free parking. And its a tad annoying to have to go in on the train in your climbing/gym clothes. There are small change rooms, but its still annoying. Its a bit more expensive than Altona too. There are a lot of people in here and you have to wait for the ropes at times - but thats really a minor issue, not a major one. All in all, its a good place and Im looking forward to going back!

We came during school holidays. The kids (12, 11 & 8) had a great time…read more We did both the play and climb with a jump and big slide also. The 2 older were wanting the climbing to be sooner (we played for 2.5hrs before hand). The food from the cafe was great (dips and bread, chips and wedges). All the staff were extremely helpful. There were some holiday programs there at the start but the kids still had room to play. It did quieter down once the groups left. Staff were very attentive and helpful in the climbing area, we will be back.

I've been to Hardrock quite a few times before and I always find it an enjoyable experience. It…read morecan be a little hard to find if you've never been before, as you need to turn down a small street and drive to the very end. Inside, you are greeted by whoever is at the desk. If it's your first time they get you to fill out a waiver form with your details. You are then given a harness and climbing shoes and thoroughly shown how to belay. After the instructor is satisfied that you've got the hang of belaying you're good to go. This Hardrock has one large main area with a range of levels, including a few challenging overhangs. The second room has a few shorter and easier climbs. It also has this cave like structure that does not require ropes as its less than 2m high and has thick crash mats underneath. The only downside about rock climbing is that you must go with someone so that you can be belayed. You cant simply decided to go on your own one day. It's also on the pricey side being over $30pp.

First timers at Hardrock Nunawading as we are regular WA climbers…read more Originally we were just going to hit up the CBD centre but saw the gallery on the website of this location and couldn't resist the 16 metre plus climbs. They use a different top-rope system to what we are used to so bring a carabiner (unless you want to buy one like I had to). Bunny-ear knots onto your carabiner as a backup against your figure 8 knot on the top rope climbs. A half figure 8 is already tied onto each line so you just have to loop it through your harness and follow the knot around again - easy enough but a tad annoying initially. Great climbs! Tallest I've done indoors and the inclines are decent. The 15-18 aren't too reachy with decent holds and a few "think it through" spots. The bouldering wall is 15+ years of age. Kids groups are possible here - birthday parties etc and there are a lot of child friendly "mini climbs" to induct them. We took my 8 year old nephew and he loved it! (Even got up a 10 metre double over hang level 8 and it was only his second time climbing) The only downside (apart from the carabiner issue) is the lack of food! Coffee, drinks and chocolate bars only - they need a cafe otherwise I'd give star this place

Great club, top line equipment, friendly social interactions, recommend if you are local or passing…read morethrough.

Full disclosure: I'm approaching 40 years old and haven't been a member of a gym in my life…read more That's a lie. I was a member of a rival gym a couple of years ago. When I joined up I was given an introductory personal training session in which I was reminded how unfit I was and sent packing with a detailed report on my woeful state of health. Or that's how it felt. Totally demoralising and I never went back. That was the background to my contact with Virgin Active (Bourke St.), following a new determination to get fit. It loomed in the background as I perused their site and filled in the contact form. So much so that I shared it with them when they called me back the same day. And again when I had a tour. But my experience with Virgin was nothing like what I experienced elsewhere. It was positive, inclusive, accommodating. They looked to take their cues from me and support my goals rather than impose their own standards. I could talk about the equipment (loads of it), the space (masses of it), or the range of activities (pool/spa/sauna? Check. Indoor rock climbing? Check.) I could mention the cleanliness of the venue or friendliness of the staff. But what it comes down to here is care. Is this a warehouse full of keep fit stuff or does it house a culture of care? It's the latter. Virgin Active have my ongoing business because at each stage they have proven themselves to care about who I am, where I'm at and what I'm aiming for. And that's valuable.

Came here once 1.5 years ago and my daughter had a blast. This time... absolutely appalling…read moreexperience. If you want rude staff, zero atmosphere and your child to experience direct hostility in a crappy atmosphere... this is the spot. I asked if I could take a photo of my daughter rock climbing... just met with the word "No" repeatedly - no matter how a question was phrased. No No No. She wanted to go on the dodgem cars... the lady put her in by herself... ran it for 30-45 seconds then just switched them off, and wordlessly pushed her out. If you are unable to civilly interact with children... I'd suggest finding a different line of work than a supposed children's play centre. And this was consistent across all staff in direct contact with children. Would not return. Would not recommend. We lasted about 30-45 mins maximum. I regret giving them a cent of my money. Utter crap and an awful experience.

From the owner: Rainbow Town is set to become the largest play centre in South East Melbourne…read more Featuring a range of activities such as the indoor Playground, Rope Course, Mini Car Play Centre, Rock Climbing Wall, Trampolines and Ninja Course, Rainbow Town is looking to deliver a safe, fun and unforgettable experience for kids of all age.