Strolling hand-in-hand alongside a scenic river. Sipping a glass of top-notch plonk next to a roaring fire. Tussling over the final forkful of spaghetti and meatballs. If this is your idea of the perfect romantic getaway, I know just the place for you — it’s Canberra, of course! With a stack of fine-dining spots, excellent wine bars and so many chances for new adventures, there are plenty of reasons why our nation’s capital is the best place for your next trip for two. Here are seven of them.
1. You’ll see some seriously impressive art
If you’re ready to shake things up and see something new, you’ve come to the right place. Art buffs will adore making their way through the must-visits like the incredible National Gallery of Australia (where you can check out the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, as well as modern and classical works from all over Australia and around the world 😍) and the National Portrait Gallery, but will also smaller spots like the Gallery of Small Things and the buzzy M16 Artspace. Nothing like a new perspective to put a little spice back into your romance!
2. There are plenty of places to raise a glass
At the centre of three cool-climate wine regions, Canberra’s right in the thick of some seriously delicious vino. As one of Australia’s best producers, Clonakilla is an unmissable spot to stop for a sip, while Brindabella Hills ticks all the boxes for excellent wine and food while also being set in a super scenic spot — perfect for admiring the mighty Murimbidgee (with a glass in hand, of course). And don’t forget the wonderful Eden Road Wines, ideal for lovers of organic plonk. Micro-winery Four Winds is fantastic for a low-key lunch — and, yes, I do recommend the wood-fired gorgonzola and potato pizza 😋
Not a quaffer? Not to worry. The city’s also having a serious craft beer boom — both BentSpoke Brewing Co. and Capital Brewing Co. produce award-winning ales. Tipsy Bull has a gin list with over 150 options 🤯, prohibition era-inspired The Highball Express specialises in rum-laced bevvies and sneaky speakeasy Molly has some expert mixologists whipping up unbelievable cocktails. Cheers to you!
3. The food scene is super indulgent
A special meal (or seven) with your special someone is a must in Canberra. Bar Rochford is a frontrunner, thanks to an excellent wine list, oh-so-cool vibe and ever-experimental menu (smoked beef tongue, scallop crudo and truffle-laced rigatoni anyone?)
If you’re after something a little different, don’t miss Inka. The menu is Nikkei — Peruvian and Japanese fusion — and will make a raw seafood enthusiast’s mouth really water. Or head for Raku for sleek modern Japanese in an exquisite setting. Still want the spaghetti and meatballs moment? Local fave Italian & Sons is your best bet for both good food and a little just-the-two-of-us magic 😁
4. You can really appreciate all the seasons
There’s something special about watching the seasons change. And Canberra’s temperate climate (thanks to its inland position) makes it the perfect spot to embrace all four of them. Visitors can expect hot, sunny summer days (may I suggest a sunrise balloon ride for this perfect weather?), incredible foliage in autumn, mild springs and cosy winters. Who could resist snuggling up to their special someone when there’s an open fire is nearby? 🥰
Insider tip: Visit between 17 September 2022 and 16 October 2022 to check out Floriade, Canberra’s incredible festival of plants and flowers. This year’s festival is all about the future of healthy, sustainable cities, and there’ll be gorgeous gardens, inspiring workshops, delicious tasting sessions and more. Who needs a bouquet when you can give your sweetie a whole city of flowers? 💐
5. There are heaps of swanky stays
Canberra might be small but you’ll be well and truly spoilt for choice when it comes to romantic — and memorable — stays. Ovolo Nishi is perfect for couples who love their stays with a side of cool (as well as an excellent on-site bar and restaurant), while Midnight Hotel, Autograph Collection is a dream for stylish couples who want to balance indulgence with wellness (the pool is just gorgeous!). Hotel Realm is a top choice for when nothing but understated luxury will do. Expect pillow menus, robe-and-slipper combos and a full-service on-site spa… need I say more?
If you don’t mind having your party of two crashed by a nosy meerkat or curious giraffe, bunk at Jamala Wildlife Lodge. It’s a safari-style experience with more than a few extras to tip it over into real indulgence — think canopy-style beds, rainfall shower heads and an on-site rooftop bar for atmospheric sundowners.
6. You’ll have your pick of romantic strolls
Did you know that Canberra was recently named the world’s most sustainable city thanks to all its lovely green space? That means you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to spots for you and your partner to get out into nature, hand-in-hand. Our pick? A stroll (or two) through the Australian National Botanic Gardens, where you can admire the beautiful living collection of native flora. Outdoorsy types will also love the walking and cycling paths that snake around Lake Burley Griffin, especially in the picturesque Central Basin area.
7. You can really switch off
Looking for a little couples’ pampering? Scandi-inspired Hale Spa is the kind of place you could easily disappear into for a full day 🤤 Soothing (and super chic) interiors are just the beginning here — you’ll also find a steam and sauna room, as well as a cave-like plunge pool and a couples’ suite dedicated to double treatments. It even has a giant bath for two 💕 You’ll have no trouble sailing away into bliss… together!
I’m sure you don’t need any more convincing, so all that’s left to do is get the other half on board! Feel free to use this article and our latest deals if you want to start dropping some hints 😉
Thanks to Vishal Pandey for the awesome feature image at the top of this article. Check out more of his work on his Instagram page: @wanderlust73
PLAN YOUR CANBERRA GETAWAYHeads up! Due to COVID-19, government restrictions are in constant review and travel guidelines may change. We strongly recommend that all travellers seek further information about destinations and attractions before scheduling trips or making bookings, take extra care and follow all rules.
