The Australian Capital Territory ( ACT) was established in 1911 to create a capital for the newly federated country of Australia.  Some 2330 square kilometres (900 square miles) was set aside, 53 per cent of which today remains nature park or reserve.
 
Canberra, the urban centre of the ACT, is a thriving modern city of 325,000 people with stylish restaurants, hip bars, boutique shopping, fun for the kids and a busy calendar of events and festivals.
 
The surrounding rural areas and stretches of natural bushland are home to charming rural townships such as Tharwa and Hall, award-winning wineries, and stunning nature parks.
 
Just 45 minutes drive from the city is Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve which offers walking trails, ranger-guided activities, Australian animals in their natural habitat, delightful wildflowers during spring and rich Indigenous and pioneer heritage.
 
Namadgi National Park, also 45 minutes´ drive from the city at the northern end of the Australian Alps, is perfect for a picnic or bushwalk on the numerous marked trails, or to experience native flora and fauna and enjoy spectacular wildflowers in spring. The Indigenous rock art and Aboriginal shelters are easily accessible. Camping is possible in pleasant bushland settings with fishing and horse riding permitted in designated areas.