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The view from Canberra lookouts

Canberra is commonly referred to as the ‘bush capital.’ The contrast between the city and our natural landscape can only be fully appreciated from above. There’s a few places you can go to take it all in; Mount Ainslie, Red Hill and the Mount Stromlo Observatory among the best of them. Each have their own perks and disadvantages but all offer an amazing view of our city.

Mount Ainslie view of Telstra Tower - Image by Bec Lawrence
Mount Ainslie view of Telstra Tower – Image by Bec Lawrence

Mount Ainslie is situated a few minutes from the city and has been a popular spot for cyclists and fitness fanatics for many years. The hill boasts an elevation of 843 meters challenging cyclists and walkers to reach its peak. The lookout is accessible by car and offers lots of car parks for those who choose this option.

Once at the top, the lookout offers a glimpse of many Canberra attractions including Parliament House, Anzac Parade, Telstra Tower, The Canberra Airport and a view of the city’s north. As well as offering great views there are some useful amenities that attract visitors to this lookout.

Other than parking facilities the lookout’s peak contains rubbish bins, drinking water and a paved walking trail to the War Memorial as well as all hours’ accessibility. Some future improvements to the location could include toilets and a café but for a quick trip you can do without these.

 

Red Hill lookout - Image by Bec Lawrence
Red Hill lookout – Image by Bec Lawrence

Arguably Red Hill offers the most for visitors. This lookout too attracts cyclists and walkers as well as foodies and bird watchers. Offering two eateries at the lookouts peak, visitors are given the option of a casual bite to eat at Little Brother or a more fancy meal at Onred.

 

Red Hill lookout cafe 1
Red Hill café and restaurant – Image by Bec Lawrence

From Red Hill visitors can spot Telstra Tower, a rear view of Old Parliament House and new Parliament House, the War Memorial, Anzac Parade and the Carillion. Other facilities include an external toilet, lots of parking and access to the Federal Golf Club.

There are enough facilities here to keep you comfortable if you wanted to spend a little while looking around or cycling without having to worry about bathrooms and food.

Mount Stromlo Observatory - Image by Bec Lawrence
Mount Stromlo Observatory – Image by Bec Lawrence

Founded in 1932 is the Mount Stromlo Observatory. A great place for a picnic or a cycle up the hill. At the observatory you almost feel like you aren’t in the capital anymore. The views are of lush bushland toward the Molonglo River, the Brindabella Ranges and a distant view of the Cotter Dam.

Mount Stromlo Observatory burnt down in the infamous 2003 bushfires, leaving ruins of old equipment which you are free to explore yourself. Though there are a number of facilities including BBQ’s, walking trails, parking for cars and coaches, picnic tables and the all-important emergency phone, the demand for a cafe has been more obvious since the closure of the previous one.

Stromlo lookout bbq area 1
Mount Stromlo Observatory BBQ area- Image by Bec Lawrence

Perhaps adding external bathrooms and better advertising would bring people back to Mount Stromlo. The café is currently closed and up for lease so the opportunity is available for someone to bring people back to this once popular site.

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