When Russell Eastcott was looking for a beautiful day out with his beautiful wife, Nicole, he found himself by Lake Burley Griffin on a picnic.
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The North Nowra newlyweds, who are regular Canberra visitors, were brought to the capital for an IKEA visit, but stayed for a picnic lunch at Commonwealth Park near the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, complete a with a bottle of wine, cheese and some cold meats.
"It's probably the first time ... my wife and I have only been married not long, haven't had a chance to do too many picnics so that was the first one," Eastcott says.
"We just had a bit of gentle sun on our back and a bit of shade from the trees that were there, it actually worked out not to be a bad spot, it was a little bit breezy but we were sheltered by the road behind us.
"It was just really nice being down by the water with a little breeze a little sun."
Of course, Commonwealth Park is not the only place to lay out a picnic blanket. For anyone whose ideal day includes adventuring outside, sitting under a tree and watching the world guy by with a few tasty treats, then Canberra with its good weather and diverse open spaces is your best friend.
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"To beat the heat, you can't go past the Australian National Botanic Gardens," VisitCanberra director Jonathan Kobus says.
"An oasis close to the city, you can play spot the water dragon and find a shady spot under the trees. Wander through the rainforest section to cool down.
"For great views, the National Arboretum is a winner and has the bonus of a great playground and cafe for parents.
And for a floating picnic, the Go Boat experience on the lake is a must - their electric boats are specially designed for BYO picnics."
Canberra's top three picnic spots, according to VisitCanberra
1. Canberra Nara Peace Park
Within the Lennox Gardens you'll find - as the name suggests - an oasis of calm just minutes from the city.
2. National Arboretum Canberra
There are so many good picnic spots in the National Arboretum but to really feel like you're a world away head into the Himalayan Cedar Forest barbecue area where you can enjoy yourself surrounded by lush forest.
3. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
It may be closed at the moment due to the recent bushfires, but Tidbinbilla is still worth putting on the list for future picnics. Located on the outskirts of the Namadgi National Park, it is home to many native Australian animals including kangaroos, koalas and echidnas. Also making the list nearby is Gibraltar Falls - which is good if you're looking for a place to dangle your feet in the water - and Corin Forest which is perfect for a fairytale-esque adventure.
- For the full list of picnic spots go to visitcanberra.com.au