Hidden Gems of Canberra: Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations for Adventurous Couples
If you're the kind of couple who believes there ain't no mountain high, valley low, or river wide enough to keep you from adventure, then Canberra's hidden gems are calling your name. From hot air ballooning to conquering rugged hiking trails, there's no shortage of things to do in Canberra. So pack your bags and book your stay at Avenue Hotel in Canberra, Australia, where you can come home to luxury and comfort after your excursion. This is where the adventure begins!
Explore Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Looking for a cool adventure near your hotel in Canberra? Check out Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve! It's the ultimate playground for adventurous duos within Namadgi National Park, just a short 40 km drive from Avenue Hotel in Canberra City. The main attraction is The Sanctuary, a huge wetlands area where you can wander and spot wildlife for hours. Tidbinbilla is home to all sorts of animals, including platypus, skinks, bandicoots, rock wallabies, and countless species of birds. So, keep your eyes peeled and try to plan your visit during quieter times to avoid crowds and make the most of your time in the wild.
Get Wet at Alpine River Adventures
Get set for an epic rafting adventure with Alpine River Adventures. South-East Australia's stunning wilderness sets the location for eco-tours perfect for couples seeking thrills with minimal environmental impact. Paddle through rocky gorges and beautiful valleys in the Byadbo wilderness, taking on easy-to-moderate rapids along the way. With expert training, comfortable camping, and superb scenery, it's the ultimate escape. Trips run year-round, but book early for prime water levels from August to November.
Hot Air Ballooning at Sunrise
Ready for some high-flying adventure with a touch of romance? Well, pray for clear skies and book you and your partner a Balloon Aloft Canberra hot air balloon ride at sunrise. We promise the early wake-up call will be worth it as you soar through the sky for about an hour of jaw-dropping views. And the best part? There's champagne waiting for you once you touch the ground. If you happen to be staying in the luxury Avenue Hotel rooms in Canberra during the Balloon Spectacular, don’t miss the annual party in the sky. There’ll be plenty of photo opportunities up for grabs as a kaleidoscope of hot air balloons glide over Lake Burley Griffin and Arboretum.
Hunt for Truffles at The Truffle Farm
Get ready for a seriously good time at The Truffle Farm located in the beautiful Majura Valley. Just a quick 15-minute drive from your hotel in Canberra, this place is pure magic. Think lush oak trees, stunning views of Mount Majura Winery, and the aroma of fresh truffles filling the air – it’s a total vibe. Join local truffle farmer, Jayson, and his dogs for the ultimate hunt, diving deep into the oak forest in search of the elusive black truffles. And when you find the perfect truffle, it's time to celebrate back in the truffle shed for a degustation feast.
Hike Mt Ainslie
Lace up your hiking boots and escape to Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, a protected area next to Mount Majura. Together, these two reserves form a decent chunk of forest overlooking Canberra. Getting there is easy - you can walk, cycle or drive up to Mount Ainslie Summit for amazing views of the city, Lake Burley Griffin, and Namadgi National Park. Why not pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with your partner amongst the quintessential eucalyptus trees? For extra thrill, cycling and horse riding are allowed on marked paths. Otherwise, take on the 4.5km winding trails by foot with spectacular views at every turn.
Horseback Riding at Burnelee
Reconnect with nature in the Australian countryside of Burnelee Horseback Riding Excursions. No matter your skill level, the guided horseback rides offer an unforgettable and safe experience. Located on a sprawling 3500-acre property just outside Canberra, Burnelee is guaranteed to strike the sweet spot of adventure and dating. Choose from a range of experiences to suit your preferences, including Bush Experience Rides, Muster Rides, and Twilight Rides during the warmer months for a magical evening experience followed by local produce tasting.
Conquer Booroomba Rocks
Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime at Namadgi National Park. Tucked away on Ngunnawal Country, this hidden gem offers a chance to ditch the tourist traps and dive into some real Aussie wilderness. Pitch your tent at Mount Clear Campground for basic yet beautiful camping and explore nearby historical sites like Brayshaws and Westermans Huts. For an adrenaline kick, tackle the challenging Booroomba Rocks trail, but watch your step on those cliff edges. With jaw-dropping views and plenty of adventure, Namadgi National Park promises an unforgettable experience for you and your partner.
Ready to dive into these adventurous things to do in Canberra? Book your stay at Avenue Hotel now for luxury rooms in the heart of the city.
