Step off the beaten track with these unique tours of Canberra

The best things come in threes and this adventure into the capital’s favourite flavours is no exception. Indulge in wine, gin and chocolate with the Vin & Gin Tour.

Visit three local cellar doors and enjoy lunch before having dessert with a regional chocolatier and a cheeky drink at a gin distillery. Including lunch and all tasting fees, this small group day tour runs Friday to Sunday.

See Canberra through the lens of your camera with Capture Canberra Photography Tours. Master light capturing techniques as you soak up the capital’s stunning landscapes and get creative as you snap unique architecture.

A natural behind the camera, the guide will share tips and tricks throughout the tour and provide advice on the best vantage points. Design your own photo tour to tailor the session to your interests or skill development goals.

Join Dhawura Tours on a journey through Ngunawal land, travel back in time to become a part of ‘The Dreaming' and learn about Aboriginal culture. Listen as local Ngunawal Traditional Custodians interpret sites of significance and connect with the diversity of landscapes, wildlife and natural bush in the Canberra region.

Customised tours are available or choose an interactive workshop to learn the art of traditional weaving, how to cook with bush tucker or the foundations of the Ngunawal language.

Hop on two wheels for an inspired tour of the highlights of Canberra featuring intriguing stories, local know-how and all the best photo spots. Canberra is a city best experienced by bike and this half-day tour covers many of the capital’s historical, cultural and natural delights.

Ride along a mix of bike paths, quiet streets and roads at a relaxed pace. A guide, bike, helmet and small bike bag to carry gear is all included. The best bit? The route is mostly flat with some gentle inclines so riders of all abilities can enjoy the day.

Treat your taste buds to the best local fare with Eat Canberra Food Tours. Choose between a smorgasbord of options including exploring Braddon’s foodie precinct, finding the best local produce at the farmer’s market and indulging your sweet tooth. Rest assured, whichever tour you choose is guaranteed to have one delicious dish after another.

Axes and Ales – the ultimate combination. Learn the art of axe throwing with the crew at Axxe before challenging your mates to a ‘friendly’ competition. Once you’ve finished channelling your inner Viking, go behind the scenes at two of Canberra’s most popular breweries. Enjoy guided brewery tours, dig into a pub lunch and find your new favourite brew with craft beer tastings.

What could be better than 18 holes of golf complete with carts, drinks, nibbles and a guide to help you negotiate the scenic course? Add a post-game meal at Poachers Pantry plus private transfers and you’ve got the perfect day with Classic Capital Golf Tours.

Analyse your shots over a two-course lunch featuring Poachers Pantry’s signature smoked meats before raising your glasses in honour of the winner with a bottle of vino from the on-site winery. The Gift of Golf Tour also includes a framed photo of your golfing group.

Take to the skies to see Canberra from a completely new angle. Discover the thrill of a flight with Canberra Helicopters as you do a ‘lap of the lake’ or head out to the Brindabella Ranges. If you prefer a peaceful start to the day take in the sunrise with a hot air balloon flight from Balloon Aloft or Dawn Drifters.

Author Marg Wade spent decades researching her Canberra Secrets guidebooks. So the plunge to imparting her vast knowledge of the city as a tour guide offering private, tailored experiences was the natural next step. She’ll expose the hidden gems and secrets only a local knows on her tours that take in national attractions, cultural heritage, food and wine and city sights.

Tours are also regularly run at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, National Arboretum Canberra, Museum of Australian Democracy, National Museum of Australia, National Portrait Gallery and the Royal Australian Mint. Book visits and tours ahead of time to secure your spot.