Nono

Nono, a tiny settlement on the edge of the Namadgi National Park, is the kind of place that feels like a secret whispered among Canberra locals. It’s not a town with shops or cafés—it’s a scattering of rural properties, a historic homestead, and a landscape that demands you slow down. Here, the bush is ancient, the silence is profound, and the stars at night are dazzling. Nono is a stop for those who want to feel the rhythm of the high country, not just see it.

Highlights & What to See

• Nono Homestead: This 19th-century stone building is a tangible link to the region’s pastoral past. You can’t go inside, but the exterior and its setting against the mountains make for a hauntingly beautiful photo.
• Namadgi National Park: Nono is the gateway to this vast wilderness. Hike the Yankee Hat trail to see Aboriginal rock art, or tackle the more challenging Mount Gudgenby for panoramic views.
• Stargazing: With zero light pollution, Nono offers some of the best night skies in the ACT. Bring a blanket and a star chart—the Milky Way arcs overhead like a river of diamonds.
• Wildlife spotting: Kangaroos, wombats, and echidnas are common. Early morning or dusk are prime times to see them grazing near the roadside.

Suggested Time to Spend

Nono itself is a brief stop—an hour to explore the homestead area and soak in the views. But to truly experience the region, plan a half-day or full day. Combine it with a walk in Namadgi (allow 2–4 hours for a short hike) and a picnic lunch. If you’re a keen photographer or stargazer, consider an overnight stay at one of the nearby campgrounds or a cosy cabin in the surrounding area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Namadgi National Park: The park’s visitor centre at Tharwa is a good starting point; from there, explore the park’s many trails and scenic drives.
• Tharwa: A historic village with a general store and the oldest bridge in the ACT. It’s a logical stop for supplies or a coffee.
• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: About 30 minutes north, this reserve offers easy walks, a sanctuary for endangered species, and the chance to see platypuses in the wild.
• Canberra: The capital is an hour’s drive away, making Nono a perfect escape from the city for a day trip or a quiet overnight.

Please check official sources for current details.