Canberra is not just the nation’s capital and the urban centre of the ACT. It is also a brilliant base from which to explore the surrounding Capital Country region and the Snowy Mountains.

While the modern city, with 320,000 people, has many features and cultural events to boast about, its surrounding area can sometimes be overlooked.

Canberra’s rural towns like Tharwa and Hall abound in charm, award-winning wineries and stunning nature parks.

Visit the historic town of Braidwood’s quaint churches, old time pubs, galleries and antique stores. Neighbouring Bungendore is renowned for award winning wood work and the Bungendore Wood Works Gallery.

Established in 1911, the ACT still comprises of 50 per cent nature park or reserve.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is only a short 45 minutes drive from Canberra’s city centre. Arriving at Tidbinbilla you can’t help thinking you are miles and miles away from civilisation. Green rollings hills, with roaming emus and wallabies make this place supremely tranquil. And, with walking trails, ranger-guided activities, rich Indigenous and pioneer heritage – there’s no chance of getting bored.

A 45 minute drive north of Canberra is Namadgi National Park, at the northern end of the Australian Alps. Pack a picnic or bushwalk on the numerous marked trails at Namadji, or just sit and watch the native flora and fauna around you. Camping, fishing, horse riding and visiting Indigenous rock and Aboriginal shelters are also possibilities at Namadgi.

The Snowy Mountains are also just a short drive from Canberra. Watch the glorious view from the top of Mount Kosciuszko – Australia’s tallest mountain. Bushwalk amidst the national park, or watch the legendary Snowy Mountains brumbies (wild horses).

Lake Jindabyne, Lake Eucumbene and Blowering Reserve are popular with angler. Perisher Blue, Thredbo and Selwyn are great snowfields during the winter months.

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