After being lulled to sleep by the sound of rain on Friday evening we were preparing to be housebound this weekend just past, however on awakening (admittedly quite late) we were surprised by the sun beaming into our room (affectionately known by the dogs as 'the Den').
Filled with weather induced happiness the three of us got into the car and headed out for a surprise adventure to... the National Arboretum Canberra!! The Arboretum is one of my absolute favourite places to take the dogs for a hike/walk as every time we go we explore a different path and whichever way we look it is always breathtaking. The dogs also appreciate the opportunity to meet and greet with kangaroos, cows (yes cows) and an incredible variety of birds.
The Arboretum was opened only recently, in February 2013, and is aiming to become the next wonder of the world. The majority of trees will take at least 15 years to reach maturity but it is quite wonderful to be able to take part in the journey from the very beginning.
Perhaps the greatest drawcard for the Arboretum, bar it's captivating beauty, is that it allows dogs! Most (almost all) National Parks in Australia are not dog friendly which means finding different hiking/walking routes a real chore, but the Arboretum welcomes us with open arms and is right in our own backyard!
On Saturday's journey we parked at the Cork Oak Forrest and took a hike down past the Acorn playground and central Village Centre; a real mecca for parents and their children (the playground is state of the art and rather unique).
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| Belle & Occa enjoying the view - you can see the Village Centre in the background. |
Once past the Village Centre we took one of the red paths (i.e. the 'less beaten') and before we knew it we felt like we'd left civilisation and were at one with nature (bliss). The only 'problem' with taking the path less beaten post rain meant the paths had turned to soft, slushy mud.. It made for fun photos and the dogs LOVE the feeling of mud under their paws, but it was decidedly not fun for my trainers!
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| The Blue Dog leaving his mark on the Red Land. |
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| The Dingo Dog |
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| At one with the land.. |
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| Very easy to forget we are only a ten minute drive from the City Centre. |
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| Australia; the 'wide brown land', home of the Blue Dog. |
Eventually we made our way back to civilisation and enjoyed the artistic side of the Arboretum; which includes sculptures like the above. The Arboretum, a celebration of Australia's nature, culture and history, is the perfect place for two Australian Cattle Dogs to list among their favourite places to visit.
For all the Canberran readers, dog owner or not, definitely get yourself to the Arboretum. There is something for everyone; playground, picnic locations, hiking trails and is open to all. For the future visitors out there - if you are ever in Canberra you know where to go.
Forever love your dogs,
Emma
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