You’re travelling to Canberra today – Australia’s capital city and home to a number of important landmarks and historic buildings. To ensure you get the most out of the day, your Driver Guide will provide expert commentary throughout the journey.
Berrima
On the way to Canberra you’ll stop in the quaint little township of Berrima. Here you can treat yourself to morning tea (own expense) or take a short stroll through the village and along the river.
Mt. Ainslie
Before you get to Canberra you’ll visit the summit of Mt. Ainslie in Canberra’s National Park. From here you can take in the view of this unique city and surrounding mountain ranges. A great spot to take a few photos.
Australian War Memorial
Your first stop in Canberra is the Australian War Memorial, our memorial to those who lost their lives in the wars of the Commonwealth of Australia. You’ll be deeply moved as you wander through the shrine and come to realise the enduring impact that war has had on our society.
National Museum of Australia
Now you’ll visit the National Museum of Australia where Australia’s social history is preserved and interpreted. While the building itself is an architectural landmark, it is the Museum’s collection that will amaze you. Please note at times this may alternate with a visit to the National Gallery of Australia.
Parliament House
Next you’ll take a guided tour of Australia’s Parliament House. Subject to sitting times, you may even get to witness the Houses of Parliament in session. Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988, the building was designed to represent two boomerangs and boasts an 81 metre flagpole at its peak. During the tour you’ll visit many of its 4,700 rooms and learn more of its architecture, history, artwork and the Australian democratic process.
The Lodge
After Parliament House you’ll take a look at the Prime Minister’s official residence, the Lodge. Built in the mid-1920s, the Lodge is a 40 room Georgian style mansion set on 18,000 square metres of majestic gardens. There’s many a story to be told of the Prime Ministers who have lived in the Lodge and your Driver Guide will share some of these stories with you along the way.
National Library
You’ll also get to see the National Library, the origins of which go back to 1901, however the building that you see today was opened in 1968. Located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, it is the largest reference library in Australia with up to 10½ million materials on its bookshelves.
High Court of Australia
You’ll also see the High Court of Australia located in the Parliamentary Triangle on Lake Burley Griffin. In the Australian system, the High Court sits at the top of the hierarchy and is the final court of appeal. The building was opened in 1980 and the majority of sittings are held here.
Lake Burley Griffin
As you drive around each of the key landmarks in Canberra you will see much of its centrepiece, the man-made Lake Burley Griffin. While many national institutions are located on its shores, the Lake and its beautiful parklands, walking tracks, cafés and restaurants, provide the ideal location for recreation.
Carillion Bell Tower
In the heart of Lake Burley Griffin, on Aspen Island, you will see the Carillion Bell Tower. This stunning gift from the British Government to mark 50 years as the nation’s capital, stands 50 metres tall and is home to 55 bronze bells. The beautiful music of the bells can be heard across Lake Burley Griffin into the heart of Canberra city.