Experience fine dining in Canberra
Did you know Canberra is home to plenty of delectable gourmet fare, from wonderful wines to tasty truffles? That's right, this capital city is one of Australia's most mouthwatering foodie hot spots. The Truffle Festival in particular is something to get excited about. This mid-winter extravaganza runs from 1 June until 31 August and celebrates the local Black Perigord Truffle harvest. Over 45 venues around Canberra are getting behind the event with their own festivities, from degustations to cooking demonstrations, wine matchings and more.
The Truffle Festival isn't all that's on, however. Get a taste of more regional wine by visiting some of the 30 plus options on offer. Helm Wines is a wonderful place to start, serving up a dose of classic Riesling, while Clonakilla Winery is home to some simply unbeatable Shiraz Viognier. Take a gumboot tour across the grounds or opt for a group tasting. Canberra also has a stellar reputation when it comes to bitter-as-it-comes coffee and melt-in-your-mouth cake, so don't forget to check in out its cafe culture. Some of the city's most-loved cafes include Two Before Ten Cafe, Coffee Roasters and the Idelic Cafe. Then there's the famous Silo Bakery, where you can stock up on sinfully tasty pastries and fluffy artisan bread. Then there's Dream Cuisine in Fyshwick, which can't be passed up if you're a fan of deliciously sweet macarons of all sorts of flavours.
Art and culture in Canberra
When you've had your fill of Canberra's culinary wonders, make sure you explore its abundant artistic and cultural offerings. Pay a visit to the National Gallery of Australia, which is home to an incredible range of Australian and Aboriginal art. From paintings to prints and sculptures, there are eye-catching exhibits around every corner, and there's always a new collection or event on show. What about the National Museum of Australia?
This destination delves into the nation's social history. From Indigenous cultures to the arrival of European settlers and Australians' interaction with the environment, this museum sheds a light on the history and culture of Australia and is not to be missed.
Be sure to bring the whole family along to Questacon, the National Science and Technology Theatre, which offers an incredible and accessible foray into all things science and tech. With interactive exhibits, shows, displays and demonstrations, there's days' worth of exciting occasions. If that's not enough to get you excited about visiting Canberra, try the Cockington Green Gardens out for size. This extremely unique destination is home to gorgeous miniature buildings and greenery and is a hugely popular attraction, constantly growing and being added to.
Check out the English Village, International area, Rose Room and Dolls House. Then there's the fascinating Royal Australian Mint, where all of Australia's coins are made. Take a behind-the-scenes tour delving into how they're created, and check out old and rare coins throughout your visit. Maybe you'd even like to pick up your own collectible? If you're a real sports fan, you also need to visit the Australian Institute of Sport. Dedicate some of your afternoon to a 90 minute tour of the grounds guided by a genuine athlete who will show you where and how Australia's sporting stars train here. There are also fun and interactive exhibits and demonstrations. As you're taken around the facilities, you might spot top gymnasts or swimmers training. How's that for inspiration? With all this and more to be discovered and enjoyed in Canberra, a holiday here is sure to warm up your winter.
Making a weekend of it? There's a variety of great Canberra accommodation options to choose from.
