A territory born out of a stubborn dispute between Melbourne and Sydney
The ACT is the political heart of Australia, and Canberra is the nation’s capital, as the country could not choose between Sydney or Melbourne.
Canberra, a city featuring an architectural design that affords some of Australia’s most beautiful galleries and museums to be on perfect display is also a town of beauty.
Without the striking skyscrapers and renowned bridges of its sister cities, Canberra relies on a more subtle approach that can still glisten the eyes.
From Lake Burley Griffin to the Mount Ainslie Lookout there are many spots to not only get a view but to appreciate the immediate surroundings.
Don’t miss these surroundings amongst the political drone that can invade people’s perception of the capital.
Is Canberra a boring town?
While many locals might say it, you will be surprised.
Take a walk around the lake and take in the scenery from the centre of the city, view Parliament House, the War Memorial or the campus of ANU.
From here, there is easy access to much of what the town has to offer.
The Australian War Memorial heads the list of great places to check out in Canberra. The War Memorial is Australia’s most visited museum.
With so much detail, artefacts and history, this memorial is as much about Australia’s history as it is about how the Australian identity was defined.
With entrance free, there is no reason not to delve into this country’s short but eventful past.
Spectacular scenery all around
As an architectural masterpiece is enough reason for any traveller to check out Parliament House, with rooftop gardens offering 360-degree views of the city.
Even without any interest in politics, there is enough here for you to stake out.
The National Gallery of Australia holds much for art-lovers, and casual visitors will be turned even if just for a little while into art enthusiasts from the moment they enter.
Featuring the fantastic Aboriginal Memorial exhibition from Arnhem Land, the National Gallery contains contemporary Australian art, this describes our colonial past and also our multicultural present.
A day roaming around Canberra viewing some fantastic art and taking in the country’s history could leave many tired but not backpackers, and it is time to dive in and discover what Canberra has to offer at night.
Canberra is known for its unexciting politicians but beneath the surface is a bubbling student scene that takes over while ma and pa aren’t looking.
From the Uni Bar to Phoenix to Mooseheads, there is a surprising amount to choose.
All types feature in the city centre allowing for accessible pub or club hopping.
Whether you are after a fun live gig or a loud club full of bangers music, there is something for everyone, but don’t tell the others.
Away from the nation’s capital, you will find, unsurprisingly beautiful nature that seemingly stretches on into the far distance.
This untamed landscape offers the perfect chance for some more camping and the rustic towns surrounding give a glimpse into small-town life in Australia.
Because of this, why not base yourself in Canberra and get ready to explore the ACT.
Namadgi National Park is the perfect place to start. Explore the Namadgi Ranges via the Yerrabi Walking Track and surround yourself with vistas to make in the most veteran of hikers blush.
Ride on horseback or mountain bikes as you move through the ever-changing landscape before pitching your tent up in this unique wilderness.
With some brilliant Aboriginal rock art at Ngunnawal, mix history and views for a fantastic nature experience.
The nearby Murrumbidgee River is also another chance to get amongst the environment offering opportunities to camp out alongside the river, swim and kayak or even fish.
With the colder climate the ACT has some fantastic wineries to explore from Capital Wines to the Lerida Estate there are a plethora of choices.
The Murrumbateman region has an envious selection of wineries.
From the immaculately designed Canberra to the spontaneous rolling hills of Namadgi the Australian Capital Territory is much more than what may meet the eye.
While much of the nation’s history resides in this gentle region, there is much more out there for you to explore and scratch that adventure itch!!