Black Mountain Nature Reserve

Black Mountain Nature Reserve rises in the heart of Canberra, the bushland-clad hill crowned by the landmark Telstra Tower. A much-loved natural and recreational area, it offers walking and mountain-biking trails through native bushland, lovely views, abundant wildlife and birdlife, and — from the summit and the tower — spectacular panoramas over the capital and beyond.

The appeal is that combination of bushland nature, great walking and riding trails and spectacular views: the trails wind through the reserve's native forest with the chance to spot wildlife and wildflowers, while the summit (and the iconic tower) offer sweeping panoramas over Canberra, the lake and the ranges. It's a wonderful natural escape and a genuine landmark right in the heart of the city.

With a 4.4 rating from more than 2,100 reviews, it's a much-loved spot. The reserve and trails are free and open, but conditions vary with the weather and some tracks are steep, and the Telstra Tower has its own access arrangements, so it's worth checking before you go — and taking water, sun protection and decent footwear — while enjoying the bushland, the wildlife and the spectacular views from Black Mountain.