Black Mountain Telstra Tower

Rising like a futuristic needle above the bushland of Black Mountain, Telstra Tower is Canberra's most recognisable landmark and offers the best panoramic views of the capital. Built in the 1970s as a telecommunications hub, this 195-metre concrete tower has become a must-visit for first-time travellers and return visitors alike. From its revolving restaurant and observation deck, you can sweep the entire city layout — Lake Burley Griffin, Parliament House, and the distant Brindabella Ranges — in one dizzying rotation.

Highlights & What to See

• Observation Deck – Two levels of floor-to-ceiling windows give a 360° view of Canberra; on clear days you can see as far as the Snowy Mountains.
• Revolving Restaurant – Enjoy a meal while the city slowly turns below you — the lunch and dinner menus focus on modern Australian fare.
• Black Mountain Reserve – The tower sits within a bushland reserve crisscrossed with walking trails, including the easy Summit Walk (1.5 km) that winds through eucalypt forest to the tower base.
• Interpretive Displays – Learn about the tower's engineering, the history of telecommunications in Australia, and a bit about the local Ngunnawal people's connection to this hill.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–1.5 hours for a visit: 30 minutes to drive up, park, and take in the views from the deck, plus extra time if you stop for a coffee or a meal in the revolving restaurant. If you're feeling energetic, combine the tower visit with the Summit Walk from the base — that adds another 40 minutes each way. The tower is especially photogenic at sunset, so plan your timing accordingly.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Australian National Botanic Gardens – Just a short drive or a 20-minute walk from the tower, these gardens showcase Australia's unique flora with excellent walking trails.
• Lake Burley Griffin – The lake's foreshore is ideal for a stroll, cycle, or picnic; you can also hire a kayak or take a cruise.
• Parliament House & Old Parliament House – The political heart of Canberra is only 10 minutes away by car, with guided tours and the Museum of Australian Democracy.
• National Museum of Australia – On the Acton Peninsula, this museum tells the story of Australia from Indigenous beginnings to the present day.
• Mount Ainslie Lookout – For another classic view of Canberra's symmetrical design, drive up Mount Ainslie — especially lovely at dawn or dusk.

Please check official sources for current details.