AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
Australian Capital Territory, as the name would suggest, contains Australia’s National Capital, Canberra. It is the centre of Government and is located approximately 290 kilometres south of Sydney. The city lies on the ancient lands of the Ngunnawal people, and owes it’s name to the ancient word “Kamberra” meaning “meeting place”. Canberra is home to National Instutions such as The Australian Parliament, the High Court of Australia, The National War Museum and the National Art Gallery.
The Australian Capital Territory was created to house the nation’s capital Canberra. Explore the treasure trove of national attractions, sprawling parklands and fashionable restaurants and bars. Just a 45 minute drive from the city, you’ll find the wildlife, walking trails and Aboriginal rock art of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park in the northern Australian Alps. Drive the Poacher’s Trail to the wineries, farms and galleries of the surrounding scenic countryside. Hike past wildflowers and glacial lakes in the Snowy Mountains and spot dolphins from pristine beaches on the South Coast.
Canberra.
Soak up Australia’s history while in the Australian Capital Territory, explore our culture and character in the many museums and galleries. Contrast Australia’s political past with our modern democratic government at Old Parliament House and Parliament House. See Australia through the eyes of our artists at the National Gallery of Australia and celebrate Australia’s proud sporting achievements the Australian Institute of Sport. When you’ve finished with the national attractions, get into the great outdoors. Walk or cycle the lake, parklands and native bushland surrounds. This planned, modern city sits amidst green open space and wears the decorations of four distinct seasons, from golden autumn leaves to glorious spring blooms. Beneath the foliage lie great restaurants and nightlife and a non-stop calendar of festivals and events. [Read More..]
Snowy Mountains.
Outside of canberra, The Australian Capital Territory has much to offer. See glacial lakes, snowgum woodlands and colourful alpine meadows on the climb to Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s tallest peak. At the top you’ll find a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with 20 species of plants found nowhere else in the world. In winter, hit Australia’s highest ski slopes at Charlotte Pass or carve up the snow at Thredbo and Perisher Blue. In summer, hike, bike or horse ride past fields of wildflowers or soak up the scenery going caving, rafting, kayaking and four wheel. Fish for trout from the clear streams around historic Cooma or throw your line in Lake Jindabyne. Don’t miss the show of autumnal leaves around Tumut, also the place to also explore the huge stalactites and thermal pool of the Yarrangobilly Caves.
South Coast.
During your visit to the Australian Capital Territory, don’t miss the coast. Walk pearly white beaches and see dolphins frolic in the sparkling water in Jervis Bay. Spot whales from Eden on the Sapphire Coast, see native and exotic animals at Mogo Zoo and explore the wildlife haven of Montague Island, near Narooma. Go kayaking through the Kangaroo Valley and cruise down the pristine Clyde River in Bateman’s Bay. Taste oysters in Merimbula and award-winning cheeses in Bega. Bushwalk past freshwater lakes and magnificent beaches in Bournda National Park and through the undisturbed wilderness of Wadbilliga National Park.The South Coast has 30 national parks, marine parks and reserves, as well as gorgeous beaches and rich Aboriginal history for you to explore.
Surrounding Country.
While in the Australian Capital Territory, meander past churches, old-time pubs, galleries and antique stores in historic Braidwood and charming Bungendore. Trek past the waterfalls, wildflowers, rainforest gullies and sandstone cliffs of Fitzroy Falls and Moreton National Park, near Bundadoon. Explore English-styled country gardens and art and craft shops in the highland getaway of Bowral and 1830s Georgian-English architecture in Berrima. Stay on a working farm at Yass, visit wineries in the Hilltops district and buy fresh produce in Young, Australia’s cherry capital. Learn about the life of Australia’s best cricketer at the Bradman Museum in Bowral and see world-renowned glass works in Bowning.