As the seasons change and nature reawakens, our nation's capital bursts to life with a riot of spring colours bursting from every corner creating the perfect back-drop for a rejuvenating getaway in the nation's capital.

Mild sunny days provide the perfect conditions for experiencing everything from world-class exhibitions and breathtaking blooms to the ultimate in relaxation with the launch of Australia's first 24/7 wellness centre, promising a nourishing escape for the mind, body and soul.

Canberra blooms
The arrival of spring sees Canberra become a living canvas of floral art as Floriade, the largest flower festival in the Southern Hemisphere, transforms Commonwealth Park into a floral wonderland (13 September to 12 October). Celebrating its 38th year with the theme of Science and Nature, dive into nature's laboratory and wander through millions of vibrantly coloured blooms which is complemented by a month-long festival boasting a diverse program of entertainment, music, cultural celebrations, food and wine and horticultural workshops. Entry to Floriade is free and gates open from 9.30am – 5.30pm daily. 

Then, as the sun sets, discover Floriade's dark side with the return of NightFest (2-5 October) which illuminates Commonwealth Park in a sea of vibrant colours and an exciting program of after-dark entertainment, market stalls and delicious food and drinks.

Continue exploring the beauty and symbolism of flowers with a visit to the National Portrait Gallery's In Bloom exhibition which features more than 50 portraits of socialites, chefs, musicians, actors, doctors and politicians. This wonderful floral extravaganza highlights how flowers are used to express emotion and convey messages of personal, cultural and religious significance in art.

Wellness reimagined
Spring is a time of renewal and thanks to the recent launch of Australia's first 24/7 private wellness sanctuary, Reverie, Canberra is serving up the ultimate in wellness. Offering 24-hour access to tech-enabled private suites, experience a self-guided wellness journey that includes everything from premium cedar ice baths, infrared sauna and a dry float (like a magnesium float bath but without the water)!

In addition, SiSU Canberra offers the city's first science-led wellness studio with a focus on mind-body practices. And with the option of single sessions, it's the perfect destination for unwinding with infrared saunas, ice baths, sensory reduction pods and next-generation massage chairs.

Sip in style
Canberra's bar scene continues to thrive with the recent addition of not one but two unique bars including Bar Lola, in the iconic Sydney building. A nostalgic nod to the golden age of Italy, savour some 'la dolce vita' with a menu bursting with simple, Italian pasta dishes and small bites complemented by an extensive Italian wine list.

Meanwhile, Old Kingston has welcomed Tintino, a hybrid neighbourhood wine bar and bottle shop that invites you to browse the curated wine shelves, sit down for a snack or settle in for the night. With a menu designed around the wines, expect bold, confident dishes complemented by a wine list blends natural and classic styles, offering by-the-glass pours and plenty of opportunities to explore unexpected regions.                          

Spring is also the ideal time to sip your way through the Canberra District Wine Region aboard the new hop-on/hop-off Wine Hopper. Offering a flexible weekend schedule designed, there's no need for a designated driver, as this the hop-on, hop-off tour stops at some Canberra's most celebrated wineries, allowing guests to linger a little longer and savour the region's exceptional cool-climate wines.

For more information on what's happening in Canberra this spring, please visit https://visitcanberra.com.au/

For media information, please contact:

Christina Atherton
Eight Communications
Tel: +61 418 428 177
christina@eightcommunications.com.au

For international media enquiries, please contact:

Donna Ciaccia
VisitCanberra
Tel: +61 418 691 020
donna.ciaccia@act.gov.au