Part of the story of the climb -
The ascent was almost unnoticeable for the first kilometre or so as you passed by dried reeds that stood out in the backlight. The climb proper began as you reached the forest. Now it was a true hikers’ trail. Switchback after switchback until you reach a saddle between two mountains. Here there was a round table with bench seats and a sign proclaiming that this was Ngunnawal country. The mount had indeed been significant for them, a place to guide their paths.
There was another sign about orchids. “This section of the track is particularly rich in orchids, especially in spring” and “Tidbinbilla has more orchid species than all of Britain” got me somewhat excited. Now, other than the snakes I’d been keeping an eye out for, I could look for orchids. Way I figured it was that seeing an orchid would give me a special feeling of goodness while sighting a snake is clearly not a pleasant experience and death can result. Bit of no-brainer really. For the next ¾ of an hour though, I saw neither, though you must remember I was really only looking for orchids.
From the saddle the climb became steep in places and they ever had steps here and there. Glimpses of distant views could be garnered through gaps in the branches, hastening my footsteps somewhat. Somehow you most often seemed to be heading away from your destination but then, a few twists and turns later and you could see the summit above.
Scraggy gums left mottled shadows as you moved into the granite proper, large lumps of rocks that you had to divert around, like protective walls around a castle, and you had to find a way through. The rocks became larger and then, just ahead, a properly constructed lookout of hatched steel flooring.
Somehow, while the view was impressive, you just knew it was going to be better further on. The trail swung away and into the large outcrop until, suddenly, you were beside a broad made road, the fire trail that came via a different, and shorter route. Right beside it was a sign, “Welcome to Gibraltar Peak”. Yet you weren’t actually up the top just yet. That was about another 300 metres further on and, when I zig-zagged through the giant boulders, excitement came to the fore yet again.
There was a giant crack in one monolith that you could squeeze through and that led you to what could be fairly labelled the rear view. Impressive though it was, you couldn’t help but feel the main event was on the other side, and so it transpired. Finally clearing all obstacles I clambered on top of one giant slab of rock. “Wow” was the word that immediately came to mind and it didn’t disappear for some time. - continued on next page

Apartments in Paddys River

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Apartments in Paddys River

Central City Apartment, Pool, Sauna, Parking | Terrace/patio

"Great little unit in a secure building. Clean and warm and accommodating. Easy instructions and great building amenities. "

SAR 441 total

includes taxes & fees

31 Jul - 1 Aug

"Booked and paid for one night stay. Noone to check in. No checkin details sent. Host not answering phone, msgs, or email. Left stranded wet and cold after watching a footy game."

SAR 879 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Jul - 28 Jul

2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

"Great Location, great value and communication with host, carpark is extremely confusing, developers error not hosts, needs more signage or colour scheme (huge carpark) but overall experience was great "

SAR 648 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Jul - 28 Jul

"Loved my stay here, and look forward to being able to return some time"

"Apartment is excellent and well equipped. Great location in the CBD close to shops and restaurants. Parking spot was handy. Also great views of Canberra. Highly recommend!! "

"Great apartment, modern and clean. Location is wonderful and was close to restaurants"

SAR 607 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Aug - 27 Aug

"Great location and clean property."

Luxury Apartment, 2 Bedrooms | Iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi, bed sheets

"Close to shops and amenities "

"Great location, good apartment and facilities "

SAR 843 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Jul - 28 Jul

"Clean and tidy in a great location close to city centre and parks. "

SAR 919 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Jul - 28 Jul

"Lovely clean apartment with great facilities so close to shops and foreshore eateries."

"Great location"

SAR 758 total

includes taxes & fees

10 Aug - 11 Aug

"Clean, well maintained, private parking, walking to Dickson...shopping, food etc. Easy access to city. Couldn't ask for more!"

SAR 757 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Aug - 27 Aug

Fridge, microwave, stovetop, coffee/tea maker

"Excellent 1 bedroom unit with views of the lake and local dining precinct. Onsite parking was a bonus. Local dining options were great along with Old Depot Markets and Glassworks. Unit had everything and more that you need for a a week long stay. Would recommend and will stay there again."

"Suited our family of 4 well for 2 nights in Canberra. Would likely stay again. "

SAR 611 total

includes taxes & fees

3 Aug - 4 Aug

"William is a thoughtful host with clear communication and kind little extras like milk, bread, eggs and cereals.The unit is clean and comfortable. So convenient for Canberra's sights."

Iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets, alarm clocks

"Enjoyed the property - would likely stay there again, it suited us well for the short 2 night stay"

"We really enjoyed staying at this apartment. It was well appointed and had all the necessities to make it a very comfortable 5 day visit but we could have easily moved in for a lot longer. So close to everything."

"We had a nice stay, the place was really nice and enjoyable. The only issue we had was that our garage key fob didn’t work which made parking a nightmare."

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Top Paddys River Hotel Reviews

Avenue Hotel Canberra

10/10 Excellent

"Once again a fantastic place to stay. Great staff, smooth checkin, great super clean room! Breakfast is excellent and efficient. "

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Frequently asked questions

What's it like to stay at an apartment in Paddys River?

You might have as many choices within the heart of Paddys River, but Expedia can help you search for accommodations within the larger area similar to apartments. When you search on Expedia, you can use the filters to search for a kitchen— just one of the conveniences you might find in an apartment. Even filter by similar property types like vacation homes, condos, or cabins. Discover top sights in the region such as National Zoo and Aquarium and Parliament House.

How do you know if an apartment is the best choice for you?

An apartment features a kitchen for convenient meals, and usually is more spacious than a traditional hotel room. Apartments are a good option for couples looking to stay away from the tourist areas, but also for families who want the conveniences of home.

What will the weather be like when I travel to Paddys River?

Weather is only one factor, but it can really affect your travel plans, especially if you are planning a longer stay in Paddys River. The hottest months are usually January and February with an average temp of 66°F, while the coldest months are July and June with an average of 45°F. Average annual precipitation for Paddys River is 23 inches.

What should I see and do in Paddys River?

Bullen Range Nature Reserve and Kambah Pool Recreation Area are a couple of lovely local spots to enjoy the outdoors, whereas family-friendly attractions include Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex. While in the area, you can also visit popular places like National Zoo and Aquarium and Parliament House.

What's the best way to get to and around Paddys River?

Knowing a bit about the transportation options can make your trip smoother when you get to your destination. Fly into Canberra, ACT (CBR-Canberra Intl.), which is located 15.8 mi (25.4 km) away from the heart of the city. If you'd like to explore around the area, consider renting a car to take in more sights.

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Apartments in Paddys River

City Central Canberra Unit

City Central Canberra Unit

Capitol executive apartment

Capitol executive apartment

2B2B1C Apartment with Stunning Lake Views

2B2B1C Apartment with Stunning Lake Views

Founders Lane Apartments by Urban Rest

Founders Lane Apartments by Urban Rest

cozy 2BR with free parking & wifi

cozy 2BR with free parking & wifi

Luxury Apartment in Dickson, Canberra

Luxury Apartment in Dickson, Canberra

2BR Apartment with Pool and Gym

2BR Apartment with Pool and Gym

CityStyle Executive Apartments Belconnen

CityStyle Executive Apartments Belconnen

Modern Apartment with Free Parking - 3 minutes to Canberra CBD

Modern Apartment with Free Parking - 3 minutes to Canberra CBD

Duplex 3B2B apt in Braddon close to CITY Free WIFI two Parking spots

Duplex 3B2B apt in Braddon close to CITY Free WIFI two Parking spots

Self-contained one bedroom apartment - Kingston Foreshore on your doorstep

Self-contained one bedroom apartment - Kingston Foreshore on your doorstep

Specious apartment in Kingston, centrally located place.

Specious apartment in Kingston, centrally located place.

Two-bedroom apartment in Canberra City

Two-bedroom apartment in Canberra City

Cozy, self-contained container unit

Cozy, self-contained container unit

Lakefront Views on the foreshore

Lakefront Views on the foreshore

Serenity at Stromlo modern apartment @Wright

Serenity at Stromlo modern apartment @Wright

BRADDON TRANQUILITY AND PRIVACY

BRADDON TRANQUILITY AND PRIVACY

Pet friendly-Leafy Ground Floor Studio -Secure Courtyard, quiet neighbourhood

Pet friendly-Leafy Ground Floor Studio -Secure Courtyard, quiet neighbourhood

New to VRBO: Inviting Urban Stay near City and ANU

New to VRBO: Inviting Urban Stay near City and ANU

Canberra Chic is a Luxurious One-bedroom apartment near Canberra's CBD

Canberra Chic is a Luxurious One-bedroom apartment near Canberra's CBD

Top Paddys River Hotel Reviews

Avenue Hotel Canberra

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Apartments in Paddys River

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