Eight places to soak up the last of the autumn sunshine

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Canberra is always gorgeous in autumn, and with the weather feeling particularly warm for May, there’s never been a better time to soak in our city.
Let’s just hope that we don’t jinx it. But while the heaters have barely turned on (a shocking statement this far past ANZAC Day), winter is on the horizon and with it, plenty of chilly days and nights lie ahead. So, let’s make the most of it, shall we?
From lakeside cafés to outdoor garden bars, here are eight places to soak up the last of the autumn sunshine in Canberra before winter truly sets in.
Kiln at Belco Arts (Belconnen)
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Culinary and artistic indulgence with an outstanding view? Don’t mind if we do. This lakeside café is serving more than just delicious coffee.
Open daily for breakfast and lunch and serving dinner Thursday through to Sunday, you can grab yourself a table overlooking the shores of Lake Ginninderra and while sipping on either a coffee or fine local wine.
118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au/kiln
Margot Espresso Vin and Fromage (Parkes)
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This small espresso and wine bar offers the best of both worlds, along with stunning views of the lake. Completely al fresco, here you can channel the European experience of sitting on the sidewalk with a glass of wine in hand while enjoying gourmet toasties, pasties or some delicious, curated cheeses.
West Kiosk, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | margot.bar
Rosa’s (Parkes)
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This outdoor garden bar is the perfect place to go if you’re seeking summertime vibes. Serving assorted baked goods, coffee and matcha for breakfast as well as small plates, pizzas and wines from 11.30 am, who doesn’t love the idea of a autumnal picnic amongst the rose gardens?
7 King George Terrace, Parkes | rosascbr.au
Carlotta (City)
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Why not drop by for drinks on the terrace at Carlotta and soak up the sun with a cocktail in hand? Conveniently located in the Canberra Centre, you’ll be transported out of the CBD and into a trattoria or taverna somewhere along the European coastline. Currently hosting an Aperitivo Hour from 5 pm until 6 pm Sunday to Thursday and from 4 pm until 6 pm Friday and Saturday, snack and sip away.
20 Scotts Crossing, Canberra Centre | carlotta.com.au
Pollen Café (Australian Botanic Gardens)
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Surrounded by gorgeous greenery, this is the ideal café for an al fresco meal. Soak up the peaceful environment as you enjoy a meal from their all-day breakfast and lunch menu and use the visit as the perfect excuse to spend a few hours exploring the Australian Botanic Gardens.
Clunies Ross Street, Australian Botanic Gardens | pollencafe.com.au
Rodney’s Garden Café (Pialligo)
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With a quaint breakfast and lunch menu, and an array of mouth-watering scones, cakes, and all-things sweet to choose from, Rodney’s Garden Café is great for families looking for an al fresco outing. And with an old-fashioned pond, Roman pillars, and lush greenery, while dining here, it’s hard to imagine you’re still in Canberra.
24a Beltana Road, Pialligo | kitchengardenrodneys.com.au
Louis Terrace (Barton)
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Open in Barton’s fine dining darling Louis, the outdoor Terrace is a beautiful location that’s suitable for all occasions. Fully enclosed and set amongst the lush greenery of the area, here you’ll find an elevated dining experience. Soak in an autumn evening with a glass of Eden Road Riesling and enjoy the ambience.
Ground Floor, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit | louisdining.com.au
Snapper & Co. (Yarralumla)
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Fish and chips by the water always go down a treat. Head along to enjoy lakeside views at Snapper & Co. while nibbling on some of the best fish and chips in Canberra. You can either book a table at The Deck or Courtyard areas or – if you’re after something more relaxed – simply take a rug and settle in on the lawns for a leisurely day.
Mariner Place, Yarralumla | snapperandco.com.au
Feature image via: @rosascbr