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A guide to the perfect girls' getaway to Canberra

Attention Shameless podcast fans!

If you're a fan of the Shameless podcast, then you know that hosts Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald love to explore new places and try new things. Wanting some inspo for what they should get up to on their Canberra girl's getaway? See the below list of some of our favourites.

Headshot of the two hosts of the Shameless podcast.
A group of friends sitting down at a table on a truffle farm
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Unleash your inner truffle hunter

Take advantage of the fact Canberra is one of the rare capital cities in the world to boast its own truffle farms. Thanks to the city's cool climate and fertile soil, it produces some of the most sought-after truffles in the world.

Join a talented guide and their furry four-legged friend at Pialligo Truffles or The Truffle Farm to unearth some of the prized black truffles on a farm followed by a dedicated degustation course where the star of the show is none other than your freshly harvested truffles.

Boat moving across lake with hot air balloons above
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See Canberra from new heights

Picture gazing out from a hot air balloon as the sun begins its majestic ascent over the cityscape - it's a memory you'll cherish for years to come. And if you're worried about the early start time, don't be! Trust us when we say the early morning wake-up call is totally worth it for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

After your balloon ride, why not keep the indulgence going with a fancy high tea at the Hyatt or The Marion

Mum and daughter looking at portrait of Hugh Jackman.
3

Visit the iconic national attractions

It's no secret that Canberra plays host to many cultural icons. The National Museum of Australia is diving deep into feminine power across the globe in the Feared and Revered exhibition while the National Portrait Gallery is showcasing more than portraits of some of our fave Aussie celebs with Portrait23 Identity, a collection of work from 23 artists across a variety of mediums. 

A couple standing at the rocky peak of Booroomba Rocks.
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Or seek out the natural attractions

Less than an hour's drive from the city centre you'll find Booroomba Rocks in Namadgi National Park offering  stunning views of Canberra and across the Brindabella Ranges. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the 10.5-kilometre return trip from the Honeysuckle Campground. Closer to the city you'll find the Australian National Botanic Gardens and the National Arboretum Canberra, both perfect for a relaxing stroll amongst nature.

Two men participating in a coffee tasting workshop
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Think you know your coffee? Try a cupping session

Not to be confused with the alternative medicine practice of cupping therapy. The Cupping Room, a cafe project of Ona Coffee, offers an insider's look at this sensory evaluation process. Compare filter, espresso, and milk-based roast profiles, and discover how coffee roasters and growers judge different blends side by side.

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Dive into the foodie hotspots

Canberra is a foodie's paradise, with new eateries popping up faster than you can say "yummy". From the team behind the two-hatted restaurant Pilot, Such and Such is all about fine wine and share plates that will have you drooling. If you're in the mood for something snackable, hit up Sandoochie for an ever-changing menu of inventive sandwiches and oven-warm cakes. 

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Take a stroll through buzzing Lonsdale St in Braddon

If you're after some Asian fusion cuisine, look no further than Lazy Su, serving up delicious Korean and Japanese-inspired dishes. 

Keep an eye out for eye-catching street art that adorns many of the buildings. 

Three friends clinking glasses over share platters at a winery.
8

Explore the best wineries for scenic sipping

Home to 140 vineyards and more than 40 wineries within 35 minute's drive of the city, Canberra knows a thing or two about the fruit of the vine.

Start by venturing to Mount Majura Vineyard for some serious sipping of their flagship variety, tempranillo before indulging in a bold Shiraz at Brindabella Hills Winery - there's just about a drop to suit every palate. But it's not just about the wine - the wineries themselves offer breathtaking views of lush vineyards and rolling hills as far as the eyes can see, making them the perfect backdrop for a lazy arvo. 

A massage bed and basin at a stylish and modern day spa.
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Rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul

Canberra has you covered with plenty of other luxurious experiences on offer from Hale Gym+Spa for the for the fitness-focused, to Jindi Eco Spa at the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Two people sit down holding a glass of wine in a glamping tent
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Stay in style with unexpected accommodation

Looking for an unforgettable stay in Canberra? Wake up in a tiny home or bell tent with Cubby and Co nestled among the grapes atop Mount Majura Vineyard or if you're feeling wild, spend the night only meters away from the kings and queens of the jungle at Jamala Wildlife Lodge. For those who prefer a more urban setting, the sophisticated Ovolo Nishi rooms are an ode to the natural world, with retro furnishings and bathrooms featuring luxe rain showers or deep concrete bathtubs.

Keep planning your Canberra getaway

Two women sit outside and a man stands and high fives a young boy at the National Museum of Australia.

Top 10 things to do in Canberra

Best new eats and bars

A mother and daughter in front of a portrait in a gallery

Museums and galleries

Aerial of some food dishes on a black table at Temporada | © Ashley St George

Wine and dine in the capital

Young couple dances in the coloured lights of a live music performance at Smith's Alternative.

What’s on in Canberra