ROAD TRIPS

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Spend the first day exploring the boutique cellar doors of Murrumbateman, then the second day soaking up all that Lake George has to offer. Throw in a decadent stay in Canberra’s stylish Braddon, this 2-day getaway will be one you’ll want to do again and again.

STAGE 1: MURRUMBATEMAN

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Start your day with a hot brew and crunchy granola from The Cupping Room in Canberra’s city. Then drive half an hour to Brindabella Hills Winery for stunning views of this renowned cool climate wine region. There is a steep drop to the Murrumbidgee River 100 metres below, which is what provides this vineyard with drainage and frost protection. Sit down for a spicy Sangiovese or crisp citrus notes of the Marsanne.

A few minutes’ drive towards Murrumbateman, take the turn off for Four Winds Vineyard. This is a beautiful place to relax and soak in the rays. The ultimate combination of wood-fired pizzas and wine tasting, or if pizza isn’t your thing, build a fancy platter from their handy deli fridge. Chill in the undercover outdoor seating area, or bring your hat and picnic blanket to sit right next to the vines. Try their cool 2019 Sangiovese Rosé (a perfect companion to a pizza). For a continuation of the vino theme, drop into The Vintner’s Daughter for a wine tasting of their small-batch drops, including Pinot Noir and Riesling. Say hi to the goats.

Drive about 15 minutes to Poachers Pantry. Poachers Pantry is a family business built around the love of good food and wine and the sharing of it with family and friends. Located on a rural property, its artisan smokehouse and cool climate vineyard are showcased in its contemporary restaurant, cellar door and farm shop. In summer the terrace is a lovely spot to enjoy a Poachers charcuterie board and a glass of wine. In winter the log fire is the place to enjoy a slow-cooked dish with a glass of Shiraz. A perfect picturesque location to enjoy the sunset.

Exclusive to Avida Members, receive a complimentary Poachers Pantry cooler bag with every purchase of Poachers Smoked meats.

How to take up offer: Simply print out the voucher below and present to the cellar door upon entry. *Offer valid until 30/12/2021

Wrap up the evening with local, decadent handcrafted chocolates from Robyn Rowe Chocolates. Head 15 minutes’ drive back into Canberra to stay within the melting pot of design, culture, food and fashion. It’s now only a stroll to the hustle of Braddon.

STAGE 2: CANBERRA & LAKE GEORGE

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The Braddon Merchant is a sunny and sophisticated place to relish a hearty breakfast. Then wander into Braddon for a recharging coffee from the Lonsdale St Cafe. Browse the boutiques and pop-up stores for an hour or so.

Head around the corner to BentSpoke Brew Pub where you will find 18 varieties of beer and cider, all brewed on site. You can watch the brew team at work – and if it’s not too early for you, sample a selection of brews by the pint.

Drive out of Canberra along the Federal Highway to Lake George Winery, where you can taste their fine wines and enjoy a long lunch or share a Charcuterie board in the welcoming Westering Restaurant.

Now head up the road to the modest town of Collector – with its fresh produce, art gallery and pub. A visit to Collector Wines is advised, where you can enjoy emerging varieties by the fire in winter or outside in the garden in summer. Be sure to pop next door for a coffee from Some Café.

This article was written in conjunction with Visit Canberra.

For more information about road trips in Canberra, go to visitcanberra.com.au