Canberra, Australia’s Bush Capital
Canberra is Australia’s capital city and it is located in an enclave in south-eastern New South Wales. The city is a planned one with national monuments, galleries and museums built around an artificial lake. Being a bush capital, it is a great destination for outdoor enjoyment due to its abundant gardens, parks, bicycle and bushwalking areas, and nature reserves.
Getting Around Canberra and Seeing the Wondrous Sites
Getting around town is not a problem when you have a rented campervan. However, make sure to be aware of the speed signs and other road markers especially when heading out the main highways. The speed limit starts at 50kph, with several roads allowing 60 to 110 kph. Beware of speed traps as well, particularly when you’re out in the open speedways since there are cameras all around.
When you’re aboard a motor home, driving a little slow won’t be a problem since you want everyone to see the sites without leaving empty-handed or at least without any photographs. When there are great destinations to see, driving slowly or within the limit is enough reason to enjoy the area.
Make sure to visit these institutions especially if you have art aficionados aboard:
Australia War Memorial
See the country’s premier museums which cover the military history of the country – from Federation to present-day equipment, battle dioramas, and memorabilia.
Australian National Botanic Gardens
If you want to see a huge collection of native Australian flora, the Australian National Botanic Gardens is the place to visit. You can stroll around and see the collection, and then go for a picnic somewhere within the garden grounds.
Canberra Museum and Gallery
The works of Sir Sydney Nolan (famed Australian artist) are featured in the Canberra Museum and Gallery, as well as numerous exhibits and artworks of local artists.
National Capital Exhibition
Whether it’s the view of the Lake Burley Griffin or the exhibit on the Canberra city plan you’d like to see, the National Capital Exhibition is the place to visit.
National Museum of Australia
For interactive exhibits and concept items, visit the National Museum of Australia.
National Film and Sound Archive
Visit the National Film and Sound Archive for a unique collection of film and sound recordings with a mix of iconic Australian cultural history.
Canberra’s suburbs also offer great destinations to see and experience. There are sports houses, zoos, and parks all around. Some are open to the public without admissions, while others require a small fee. If you love small-town destinations make sure to visit the following: Royal Australian Mint, Government House, Embassies, the Canberra Reptile Zoo, National Dinosaur Museum, Australian Institute of Sport, Cockington Green, and The Lodge.
Canberra’s sceneries are truly a combination of modern and historic structures with a touch of greenery in the form of gardens and green parks. Two historic buildings to see are Blundell’s Cottage and Calthorpe’s House which both require a small tour fee. Make sure to visit Black Mountain Tower to see a 360-degree view of Canberra in all of its wondrous glory. Take a peek into the National Arboretum Canberra which houses a collection of trees and shrubs from all over the world. Visit the Australian National Botanic Gardens if you wish to relax and enjoy the view while snacking at the picnic grounds. Other sites to visit are Mount Ainslie, Red Hill, Mount Taylor, Mount Majura, Mount Pleasant, as well as Campbell Park to see the wild kangaroos. And don’t forget to visit the markets and local shops if you wish to buy local produce, snacks, and other products.
The country ACT or Australian Capital Territory is not Canberra city, but is a large national park in the country which offers plenty of sites and activities for tourists. Check out Tharwa Village, Lanyon Homestead, and Namadji National Park to experience these out-of-city destinations.
Where to camp your motor home in Canberra?
Canberra provides numerous parks and campsites for tourists all year-round. As the country is famous for its natural wonders, RV campsites are abundant to cater to those who love the outdoors.
Like most campervan parks and RV campsites, you will find plenty of them in Canberra with power and water hook-ups, family friendly facilities, and amenities to conveniently meet your needs. Check out Canberra Carotel, Canberra South Motor Park, Eaglehawk Holiday Park, Queanbeyan Riverside Tourist Park, and other nearby campsites.
