Five top things to do in Canberra

It's our nation's capital full of political drama and intrigue but there's much more to Canberra that doesn't take much to find.

Glass blowing

Did you know Australia's glass artisans have the world talking? According to Ann Jakle, Chief Executive Officer of Canberra Glassworks, glass art from Australia finds its way into exhibitions around the world. The Canberra Glassworks is charged with nurturing and expanding glass works throughout the country. Visit the centre located in the historic Old Kingston Powerhouse electric station and see local artists at work on the hot shop floor. There’s even the chance to have a go yourself and create a glass paperweight or tile to take home.

Find out more at Canberra Glassworks

National Gallery

Whether you are visiting the latest block buster exhibition or revisiting classic works in the collection, the National Gallery of Australia is a must do on a capital visit. Their collection includes many of Australia's iconic images including Sidney Nolan's Ned Kelly series.

Currently showing until September 15 is 'Turner from the Take: the Making of a Master exhibition'. This draws from the Tate's extensive collection of JMW Turner's work with 45 oil paintings and further 70 works on paper including sketches and watercolours. Known for his mastery of light, this exhibition includes some stunning examples of Turners work which are a joy to behold.

Browse the gallery shop for quirky take home gifts. I couldn't resist a charcoal pencil and some beautiful thick paper plus a Turner print bag for my Mum. (Love you Mum x)

Find out more at National Gallery of Australia

Dine out

There's no shortage of great places to eat in Canberra.

For breakfast try Lonsdale Street's Elk & Pea and don't miss the chance to have a breakfast martini with your quinoa hash browns topped with a steaming poached egg. This buzzing cafe is perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner and don't forget to browse the market type stalls close by.

Awarded one hat by The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2013, Italian & Sons also in Lonsdale Street, Braddon is a perfect lunch stop. If you can move past the charcuterie there's tempting pizzas and pastas.. Try a warm panettone, chestnut, date and almond budino for pud.

Dinner at Pod Food nestled in the lovely gardens of Pialligo Plant Farm in a restored 1930s cottage will be a memorable affair.

Truffle hunt

From late June until August you can join the American spaniel snuffles on the daily hunt to find at French Black Truffles just half an hour out of Canberra. With owner Sherry in tow, Snuffles races through the grove sniffing out her quarry. There's plenty of excitement when she finds her quarry. Sherry also shares her story of establishing the farm and the process of washing and weighing truffles. If you are lucky, you'll get to touch and smell these delicious treats and maybe even dig one from the ground.

Find it at 23 Mt Majura Road, Majura. Call 0419 950 207.

Cooking class

Now that you’ve found your truffles, how are you going to cook with them? Don't worry, chef Andrew at Three Seeds Cooking School above the Fyshwick Markets has all the tips and tricks you will need in his cooking with truffles class. Andrew will show you how to get the most out of your truffle investment with suggestions for truffle oil, cream and butter and recipes for scrambled eggs with truffles, chicken breasts stuffed with truffles and truffle infused fish.

Three Seeds Cooking School