The Australian Capital Territory is the perfect destination for nature lovers, boasting a wealth of outdoor experiences and rugged countryside. Residents of this beautiful state are in luck when restrictions on regional travel lift – there’s plenty to do to whet any appetite for adventure and picture-perfect scenery. Here are some of Caravanning Australia’s hidden gem recommendations in Australian Capital Territory.
Jerrabomberra Wetlands, Fyshwick
Located on the Molonglo River floodplain, Jerrabomberra Wetlands is a 201-hectare reserve that forms part of Canberra Nature Park. A refuge for migrating birds from the Northern Hemisphere, the wetlands is a relaxing place to birdwatch. Kellys Swamp is in the southern part of the reserve, and is filled with bird hides, walking paths, refuge islands and screen plantings, and it’s a popular destination for a leisurely stroll.
Namadgi National Park, Namadgi
Namadgiis the Aboriginal word for the mountains south-west of Canberra, the park lying in the Australian Alps. Made up of vast bushland and steeped in Aboriginal heritage and history, there are limitless ways to connect with nature here. You can go bushwalking through eerie, granite boulders or traipse down Yankee Hat Track, which takes you to Canberra’s only known rock art by the Ngunnawal people – clay and ochre masterpieces from more than 21,000 years ago. Go cross-country skiing in the slopes, fishing for trout in the streams, or keep an eye out for any kangaroos, wallabies and northern corroboree frogs weaving throughout the landscape.
Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, Canberra
The Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve and adjoining Mount Majura Nature Reserve are must visits while in the Australian Capital Territory. The bush track behind the Australian War Memorial leads right up to the top of Mount Ainslie. Walk, cycle or drive up to the peak of the mountain so you can enjoy the sweeping vistas of the bush capital. It’s also home to many threatened plant and animal species, such as the rare Rosenberg’s goanna and the glossy black cockatoo.
Pictured is Mount Gudgenby, Namadgi National Park, Australian Capital Territory.
Image courtesy of iStock-1159575204.