A guide to Narrabundah, a hidden gem within Canberra
Have you ever been on a trip where you ended up in an unexpected place that completely stole the show? It was an unfamiliar place, but you couldn’t deny the charm it possessed at first glance.
It makes you wonder—why isn’t everyone talking about this place?
That’s how I felt the moment I stepped into Narrabundah—a small suburb in Canberra—many years before deciding to move to the city for good. The visit was completely spontaneous, yet it became my favorite part of the trip.
Want to hike up a scenic hill with breathtaking views? Done.
Craving authentic Italian or German food that’ll change your life? It’s here.
Looking for a cozy stay after a day of exploring? Say no more.
Let’s take a closer look at what this small yet beautiful place has to offer: what to do, where to eat, and where to stay!
Where is Narrabundah?
Narrabundah is a small suburb located in Southern Canberra. It’s 6km away from the centre of Canberra, and it’s known for its parks, pathways, and many of its original homes still standing.
How to get to Narrabundah
Via bus: You can take the bus to Narrabundah from Canberra. The bus routes that serve Narrabundah include routes 6, 902, and 56.
Via taxi or ride-sharing service: Find a taxi or book a ride via a ride-sharing app (like Uber). Let your driver know the specific location of your destination within Narrabundah, and they’ll take you there.
Via private car: Use your car’s GPS to get the best directions to Narrabundah. You can park along the Cricket Field upon arrival.
Best times to visit
Narrabundah is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are during spring (September – November) and autumn (March – May). The weather is pleasant, and local events are in full swing, making it an ideal time for exploration.
What to do in Narrabundah
Step back in time at Mugga Mugga Cottage
– Media credit: acthistoricplaces
Address: 129 Narrabundah Lane, Symonston
Phone: +61 2 6237 6500
Operating hours: Every Saturday from 1pm – 4pm
Mugga Mugga Cottage is a historic, beautifully preserved 19th-century farmhouse. It showcases the lives of early settlers and provides a fascinating look into the history of the region, which I’m sure history buffs will get a kick out of.
The small stone cottage has been conserved with the original household items that belonged to the Curley family, who moved into this place in 1913 and made it their home until 1995.
Mugga Mugga also offers a range of learning activities, such as workshops and exhibitions.
Be one with nature at Narrabundah Hill
– Media credit: canberrabushwalkingclub
Address: Duffy ACT 2611
Operating hours: 24 hours
If you’re an outdoorsy type, you’ll love Narrabundah Hill for its stunning views, walking trails, and fresh air.
This 6.1 km trail is popular for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Plus, you don’t have to be a pro to experience its gorgeous paths because it’s perfect for all fitness levels.
However, prepare for an average hike of an hour and a half.
I suggest visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views of Canberra’s landscape.
Oh, and it’s pet- and kid-friendly too!
Have fun at Canberra Public Golf Course
– Media credit: canberrapublisgolfcourse
Address: 46 Jerrabomberra Ave, Narrabundah
Phone: (02) 6232 6669
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
The Canberra Public Golf Course prides itself on being a place to chill and relax. Visitors can play without the pressure of dress codes and formalities.
Plus, people of any age and all skill levels will have a nice time.
When they say it’s for everyone, they really mean it! That includes your canine companions, so you are welcome to bring your dogs along.
They offer interactive courses at affordable rates, and they also have special discounts for weekdays.
To complete the golfing experience, you can purchase their special merch from the physical shop. I mean, who doesn’t like to get in character for a fancy activity like this?
Catch a game at Narrabundah Ballpark
– Media credit: canberracavalry
Address: 3 Narupai Place, Narrabundah
Phone: 0493 519 275
Operating hours: Depending on scheduled events and games
Narrabundah Ballpark is also known as “The Fort”— the home ground for the Canberra Cavalry, the representative baseball team of Canberra.
If you’re into sports, you can visit this stadium where local and national baseball competitions are held. You’ll surely enjoy the high energy from the spectators and competitive matchups.
Of course, what’s a good game without food? Various food concessionaires offer classic stadium fare, cold drinks, and even local specialties.
Where to eat in Narrabundah
Kita Kafe
– Media credit: kita.cbr
Address: 59, Boolimba cres, Narrabundah
Phone: 0400 577 089 / 6295 1898
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday 6:00 pm – 6:00 am
Kita Kafe is a family-owned restaurant in Narrabundah that offers authentic Indonesian cuisine. What’s unique about them is that they are an overnight cafe, so they operate after hours.
With recipes all the way from South Sumatra, they offer tasty dishes such as nasi goreng, pandan waffles, and ikan pepes. They also have the “Curry of the Week” option, so I suggest asking the chef about it when you go there.
Cafe De Sareen
– Media credit: foodpornjournal
Address: Shop 1/16 Iluka St, Narrabundah
Phone: +61 2 6189 8969
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 am – 2:30 pm
This hidden gem serves up freshly baked pastries, excellent coffee, and a selection of light meals that are perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch. The friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot to unwind and catch up with friends.
Cafe de Sareen is also a fully licensed bar, so you can enjoy a wide range of wines, cocktails, mocktails, and tap beers any time of the day.
While they offer a variety of tasty dishes, some of the crowd favorites are their coffees and their all-day brunch offerings such as pancakes, French toast, and smashed avocado labneh.
Harmonie German Club
– Media Credit: harmoniegermanclub
Address: 49 Jerrabomberra Ave, Narrabundah
Phone: +61 2 6295 9853
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:30 am – 12:00 am
- Sunday – 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
For something different, visit the Harmonie German Club for an authentic German dining and entertainment experience. Given that it is a social and cultural club, the communal seating and festive ambiance make it a fantastic spot for a fun night out.
You can enjoy hearty schnitzels, bratwurst, and steins of beer in a lively beer-hall atmosphere with regular live entertainment. And by live entertainment, we mean live music performances, concerts, AND even wrestling matches (yes, wrestling!).
The meals are hearty, and the live entertainment will certainly make your visit worth it.
If you want to experience true German entertainment while staying in Narrabundah, this place is what you’re looking for.
La Cantina
– Media credit: lacantinacanberra
Address: 4 Iluka St, Narrabundah
Phone: +61 2 6239 5556
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 12-2PM, 5:30 – 9PM
- Sunday and Tuesday – 5:30 – 9PM
Now if you want a fine dining experience with a touch of classic Italian flair, we suggest La Cantina.
Set against Italian oil paintings, brick walls and archways, dark timber floors, and chocolate brown leather lounges—this restaurant is all about being intimate.
Their pasta is freshly made in-house daily—rolled, shaped, and cooked al dente. Their wood-fired pizza is another highlight with a range of toppings, both traditional and non-traditional.
The restaurant’s extensive wine list includes Italian and Australian wines that perfectly complement the meals. Friendly service, generous portions, and the fine dining ambiance make La Cantina a great choice.
Take a Sip at Mint Road
– Media credit: bunnyspoonful
Address: 59 Boolimba Cres, Narrabundah
Phone: +61 422 891 024
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 am to 2:30 pm
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Mint Road’s breakfast menu features a mix of classic and modern options, including smoothie bowls, eggs on toast, and unique seasonal specials. Freshly baked pastries are also available for a quick bite—they’re definitely worth trying.
Lunch at Mint Road offers wholesome and flavorful dishes, such as grain bowls, gourmet sandwiches, and healthy salads. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
For coffee lovers, Mint Road serves expertly crafted espresso drinks, as well as specialty beverages like matcha lattes and turmeric lattes.
The café is also a great place to relax or work, with ample seating and a quiet atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Narrabundah
Abode Narrabundah
– Media credit: abodehotels
Address: 61 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah
Phone: (02) 6130 0650(02) 6130 0650
Reception hours: Daily – 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Abode Narrabundah offers modern, comfortable accommodations with self-contained, apartment-like rooms. The hotel is designed for both short and long-term stays, making it a flexible option for travelers.
Rooms are stylishly furnished with contemporary décor, featuring kitchenettes, a washer/dryer, and spacious bathrooms.
The hotel is positioned adjacent to the Capital Public Golf Course and is close to nearby attractions, dining and shopping spots, and the Canberra International Airport.
This means guests can easily explore the best of Narrabundah and Canberra from this central location.
For added convenience, Abode Narrabundah offers free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and pet-friendly accommodation options. The friendly staff ensures a pleasant stay for all visitors.
Garden City Hotel
– Media credit: heres_ralph
Address: 55 Jerrabomberra Ave, Narrabundah
Phone: +61 2 6295 3322
Reception hours: Daily 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Garden City Hotel is a well-appointed accommodation option, offering comfort and convenience with its 72 stylish rooms equipped with modern amenities
Guests gain access to a lagoon-style swimming pool, gym, meeting rooms, restaurant, bar, and lounge. This is in addition to free Wi-Fi, undercover parking, and movies.
Here’s a tip: the popular bar and restaurant located on the ground floor serves delicious breakfast and dinner options, so be sure to try them out.
The hotel is ideally positioned near attractions around Canberra and is one of the closest accommodations to Canberra International Airport.
Ibis Style Canberra
– Media Credit: ibisstylecanberra
Address: 203 Goyder St, Narrabundah
Phone: +61 2 6295 2944
Reception hours: 24 hrs
If you want to stay somewhere quiet and far away from the busy hustle of the city, Ibis Styles Canberra is a budget-friendly hotel that does not compromise on comfort.
The hotel is a 4-star property with various room offerings, ranging from cozy standard rooms to superior options.
Aside from the well-equipped rooms with essential amenities, guests can also enjoy the fitness center, swimming pool, business facilities, restaurant, and bar.
The hotel’s restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring modern Australian cuisine, with a complimentary breakfast buffet for guests each morning.
You can also enjoy local wines from the Canberra region and premium beers and liquors at their bar.
Ibis Styles Canberra is located close to major attractions and public transport, making it easy to explore the city. The affordable pricing and excellent service make it a popular choice for visitors.