Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the hotel’s Capitol Bar and Grill, served from 7am.
This morning, visit Parliament House and discover there’s more than politics at play! This once-in-a-lifetime private tour provides you with behind-the-scenes access to rarely seen private, official and ceremonial spaces in one of Australia’s most significant buildings. Visit off-limit spaces that support parliament every day including private courtyards, the corridors of power and the Press Gallery. Gain an insight into architect Romaldo Giurgola’s unique vision – from its European origins to the Australian materials and interpretation that caps Walter Burley-Griffin’s Canberra plan. Don your hard hat for an exclusive visit to the Parliamentary Art and Furniture collections.
Afterwards, enjoy a dining experience usually reserved for visiting dignitaries as in-house chefs prepare a traditional High Tea with a contemporary twist.
This afternoon, head to the Australian War Memorial and join an expert guide for an engaging private tour of the Australian War Memorial’s Commemorative Courtyard. You’ll hear some of the stories of courage, sacrifice, devotion, and mateship behind the over 102,000 names on the Australian Roll of Honour. Enter the breathtaking Hall of Memory and gaze upon one of the largest and most captivating mosaics in the world. Pay your respects and place a poppy of remembrance on the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier. Following the galleries tour, join one of the Memorial’s curators for a private exploration of the unique collection of memorabilia, rare and beautiful letters, photographs, and diaries – many over a century old. Iconic and rarely displayed artworks by some of Australia’s most important artists of the last century are also available for viewing.
At 4.45pm, gather in the Commemorative Courtyard for the poignant Last Post Ceremony. The ceremony begins with the Australian national anthem, followed by the haunting sounds of the piper’s lament. Listen to the moving story behind one of the names on the Roll of Honour and the recital of the Ode by a member of the Australian Defence Force. The ceremony concludes with the sounding of the Last Post.
Tonight, get a taste of modern Canberra dining with slight Italian accents, with a three-course feasting menu at Capitol Bar and Grill. Sourcing the finest local produce from as close as the rooftop garden, Head Chef Josh Smith-Thirkell brings you the ultimate in farm to table dining. You can say grazie later!
Overnight: QT Canberra
Meals: Breakfast, High Tea and Dinner