Why You Should Consider Canberra for Your Next Romantic Trip Away

A hot air balloon is one of the more luxe (and fun) ways to see all of Canberra, including the stunning landscape of the mountains, national parks and man-made marvels. Balloon Aloft’s morning tours kick off about half an hour before sunrise (suck it up — you can sleep in the next day). After a quick briefing, you’ll be launched into the air to watch the sun fill the valley and lakes with soft morning light. Your pilot will be able to point out the sites while sharing top tips about Canberra.

Following your 45-minute flight, you can relive the experience over champagne at the Hyatt Hotel, which is included in the price of the flight. Want to go all out? You can book a private balloon ride for just the two of you and take in all the views in peaceful tranquillity.

Another great way to find your bearings around Canberra is to rent a couple of bikes and cycle around Lake Burley Griffin. With 40 kilometres of shoreline to explore, there’s plenty to see — and lots of opportunities for cruising conversations with your plus one. If you’ve arrived straight from the big smoke, it’s also a great way to connect with nature and shake off a busy week of work (not to mention get a bit of exercise).

The ride around the lake offers lots of stops, including the NGA, the National Museum of Australia and Canberra Glassworks, plus coffee shops and afternoon pop-up wine bars.

Time your ride to arrive for lunch at local favourite Snapper on the Lake. This peaceful waterside spot serves some great fish and chips and has the bonus of being fully licensed. After lunch, stop into the nearby Beijing Garden, where you’ll see examples of traditional Chinese stone, rock gardens and beautiful landscaping.

Image: Jinkyart.

For the ultimate indulgence with your person, book in a luxurious experience at Hale Spa. The spa offers a two-hour couples package, beginning with a relaxing aromatherapy oil-infused bath, followed by a massage and facial. Afterwards, you can enjoy complimentary sparkling wine and chocolate in front of the crackling fireplace in the Scandi-style lounge. You’ll also get free rein to explore the cave-like spa pool, steam room and infrared sauna.

Canberra is buzzing with cool spots to grab dinner and drinks. One that stands out is Temporada, a buzzing inner city eatery known for its bold share-style menu, with a cosy fit-out that’s perfect for a romantic evening. Start with a cocktail — perhaps a house negroni with locally made gin — before diving into the extensive wine list, which features a great selection of European and Australian labels.

The menu is seasonal and showcases local produce. Smaller dishes might include plates like a four cheese tapioca fritter with green harissa. You might then tuck into larger dishes like charcoal-grilled wagyu with hot bean paste and nashi pear. There are two set dinner menus currently available (an eight-course for $80 and a ten-course for $95).

Meet Gather Collect isn’t just a shop. It’s a manifestation of the many, many years that owners and married couple Thea and Pete Bollington have spent thinking about, exploring, curating, designing and making things. Every single object you see here is the creation of an Australian designer or maker and handpicked by Thea — like vases by Kim Wallace and hanging planters by Capra Designs. Looking for a low-key but fun activity? Keep a lookout on Gather Collect’s instagram to catch their next workshop.