National Arboretum

Rising from the scars of the 2003 Canberra bushfires, the National Arboretum is a breathtaking living museum of forests from around the world. Spread across 250 hectares of rolling hills, this ambitious project features 94 forests of rare, endangered, and symbolic trees, each plot telling a story of resilience and global connection. The sweeping views over Lake Burley Griffin and the distant Brindabella Ranges are spectacular, making this a serene escape just minutes from the city centre. Whether you're a nature lover, a keen photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful walk, the Arboretum offers a uniquely Australian blend of horticulture, design, and history.

Highlights & What to See

• The Himalayan Cedar Forest — the centrepiece, with over 3,000 cedars planted in sweeping concentric curves, creating a mesmerising pattern visible from above.
• The Bonsai Collection — a stunning display of miniature trees housed in a purpose-built pavilion, with specimens over 100 years old.
• Village Centre — architecturally striking, this timber-and-glass building houses the excellent Pod Playground (a favourite with kids), a café with panoramic views, and the Tree Top Discovery Walk.
• Forest 20: The Cork Oak Forest — a tranquil grove of cork oaks from Portugal, offering dappled shade and a sense of Mediterranean calm.
• Dairy Farmers Hill — the highest point in the Arboretum, with a lookout that offers 360-degree views over Canberra and beyond.
• Margaret Whitlam Pavilion — a peaceful glass-walled space used for events, with beautiful views over the central valley.

Suggested Time to Spend

Set aside at least two to three hours to properly explore the Arboretum. Arrive early to enjoy the morning light on the forests, then spend an hour meandering through the Bonsai Collection and the Cork Oak Forest. Grab lunch at the café in the Village Centre, then take a leisurely walk to Dairy Farmers Hill for the best views. If you're short on time, a one-hour loop around the Himalayan Cedar Forest and the Village Centre is still rewarding. The site is easily combined with a morning at the Australian War Memorial or a lakeside picnic at Regatta Point.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra — just a 10-minute drive, the capital offers world-class museums, galleries, and dining.
• Lake Burley Griffin — ideal for a paddle, cycle, or stroll along the shore after your arboretum visit.
• Mount Ainslie Lookout — a short drive away, this viewpoint gives a classic panorama of the city with Parliament House in the foreground.
• Australian National Botanic Gardens — a different botanical experience focused on native Australian flora, just 15 minutes east.
• Namadgi National Park — for a deeper nature fix, this wilderness area offers hiking trails and alpine scenery 30 minutes south.

Please check official sources for current details.