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9 Unique Things To Do in Canberra in Winter
July 15 2024
Written by Y Suites
things to do in Canberra in winter

Wondering what to do around Canberra during your mid-year break?

Whether you want to take it slow by immersing yourself in the arts or get rid of the winter chill with a trip to the snowy mountains, Canberra is the perfect place to be!

Here we’ve collected ten unique activities you can try to enjoy the most of the season in the capital.

 

What to Consider Before Going on an Adventure This Winter

 

Adventure This Winter

Before heading out on your winter holiday, there are a few key considerations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

Weather Conditions

Always check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities. According to Australia Tourism, Canberra’s winter is cold with average temperatures between 1 – 12°C, dropping below 0°C at night.

Snow falls in the nearby Australian Alps, so Canberra’s winter can bring unexpected changes; be prepared for cold, wet, or icy conditions.

Appropriate Clothing

 

explore Canberra in winter

Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable. Invest in good-quality winter gear such as thermal clothing, waterproof jackets, gloves, and hats. Proper footwear is essential for activities like hiking or skiing.

Safety Measures

Inform someone about your plans and expected return time, especially for activities in remote areas. Carry a fully charged phone, a map, and a first aid kit.

If you’re heading to the mountains, check for avalanche warnings or safety advisories.

Transport and Accessibility

Plan your transport in advance, whether it’s public transport, ridesharing, or renting a car. Ensure you know the routes and any accessibility considerations for your destination.

Check out our uni student guide on travelling around Australia!

 

9 Canberra Winter Activities You Shouldn’t Miss

1. Go Tobogganing

 

Canberra Winter Activities You Shouldn't Miss

Embrace the winter chill, create unforgettable memories, and inject some fun into your university break.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, tobogganing is a must-try winter activity that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Just a 45-minute drive southwest of Canberra, Corin Forest Mountain Resort is the closest snowfield to the city centre. Aside from tobogganing, they also offer ski and snowboarding lessons, 1-hour Alpine Ride slide sessions, and other snowplay activities.

 

2. Experience Christmas in July

 

celebrate Christmas in July

Get into the festive spirit with the Christmas in July Festival at Park Lanes Lawn!

This winter celebration brings all the joy of Christmas with a snowy twist.

Enjoy festive markets, delicious French-inspired food, live music, and beautiful light displays. It’s a perfect way to take a break from your studies and embrace the festive spirit with friends.

Here, you can enjoy authentic wood huts, Christmas-themed workshops, craft stalls, private igloos, hot chocolate and melted cheese stations, and mulled wine bars, all set against the stunning backdrop of Canberra’s sprawling landscapes.

 

3. Take a Hike

 

Take a Hike

There’s no better way to stay active during the colder months than a brisk winter hike.

The cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to stay active so long hikes are instantly more enjoyable. Hiking trails are also typically less crowded in winter so if you’re looking forward to reconnecting with nature, you can be rest assured of a peaceful experience.

One Tree Hill, near Hall, is conveniently located in the northern suburbs of Canberra and is part of the Canberra Centenary Trail, a 145-kilometre loop around and through the city.

The walk is a steady 4.1-kilometre climb to the summit, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views.

 

4. Feast at The Truffle Festival

 

Feast at The Truffle Festival

Source: The Truffle Farm

Treat yourself to a gourmet adventure at The Truffle Festival!

Join a truffle hunt at The Truffle Farm Canberra for an authentic experience and a chance to enjoy fresh truffle tastings. You can also participate in cooking classes and truffle-themed events for a fun and educational winter outing.

It’s a unique and delicious way to spend your winter in Canberra.

 

5. Try Out Skiing and Snowboarding

 

For an adrenaline rush, head to the snowy mountains for skiing and snowboarding.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, the slopes offer excitement and adventure. It’s a great way to enjoy winter sports and bond with friends.

Thredbo and Perisher are top ski resorts within a few hours’ drive from Canberra.

They offer fantastic slopes for all skill levels. Both resorts have equipment rentals, lessons for beginners, and a variety of slopes and terrain parks for more advanced skiers and snowboarders.

 

6. Spend Time With Wildlife

 

Winter is a great time to visit wildlife reserves and see animals in their natural habitat.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, Australian National Botanic Gardens, and Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary are excellent places to spot kangaroos, koalas, and other native wildlife.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers guided tours and the chance to see a variety of Australian wildlife up close. You can also explore the sanctuary’s wetlands and eucalyptus forests, participate in interactive exhibits, and learn about conservation efforts.

 

7. Visit Galleries and Museums

 

Change: Stories from your Pocket Exhibition Canberra Museum + Gallery

Arts, films, nightlife, sport talks—how well do you know the capital? Winter is the perfect time to explore Canberra’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.

Visit the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra Museum + Gallery, and the Window Gallery at the Belconnen Arts Centre. These venues offer warm indoor experiences filled with fascinating exhibitions and educational programs.

The National Gallery of Australia often features special winter exhibitions that are both inspiring and educational. Additionally, you can join guided tours, attend art workshops, and enjoy the cosy café inside the gallery.

 

GAUGUIN’S WORLD: TŌNA IHO, TŌNA AO National Gallery of Australia

Source

Te Paepae Aora’i – Where the Gods Cannot be Fooled SAVĀGE K’LUB National Gallery of Australia

Source

8. Blow Your Own Glass

 

Blow Your Own Glass

Have you ever been mesmerised by glassblowing videos online? Winter is the perfect time for this sweltering activity!

Get creative and try your hand at glassblowing. Canberra Glassworks offers workshops where you can create your own glass art. It’s a unique and artistic way to s a winter day and make something beautiful.

Sign up for a glassblowing workshop at a foundry like Canberra Glassworks to learn from skilled artisans and take home your creation. The facility also offers exhibitions, artist talks, and a shop where you can purchase unique glass pieces.

 

9. Go On an Alpaca Adventure

 

Go On an Alpaca Adventure

Source: Alpaca Magic

Don’t let the winter end without a visit to an alpaca farm!

Spend time with these friendly animals, learn about their care, and maybe even take one for a walk. It’s a delightful way to unwind and enjoy the countryside.

Alpaca Magic, located near Canberra, offers farm visits where you can meet and interact with alpacas and llamas.

The farm also provides educational tours, wool crafting workshops, and the opportunity to purchase alpaca wool products.

 

Warm Up After Your Winter Adventures at Y Suites’ Premium Student Accommodations

 

Whatever you have in mind, it’s good to know that you have a convenient space to go home to after enjoying the day out.

Y Suites on Moore is centrally located, making it easy to access a variety of winter activities.

Strategically located within walking distance or a bus ride away from Canberra’s major universities and convenient amenities like major public transport hubs, supermarkets and more, each apartment is tailored for uni students who want to balance studies and socials.

And what’s more? Our all-in-one rental solution guarantees peace of mind with zero hidden fees and no unexpected expenses!

 

Book Now & Enjoy:

✅Premium, fully furnished student rooms and shared apartments, inclusive of Wi-Fi and utilities

✅Full access to various common areas for socialising, studying, exercising, playing, and resting

✅The opportunity to connect with other like-minded students from different prestigious universities through our community events

✅Excellent security measures that ensure your personal safety

✅ Hassle-free customer service managed by our attentive and well-trained staff

BOOK YOUR ROOM TODAY



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