Lake Burley Griffin

Named after Canberra's architect, the lake was filled by damming the Molonglo River in 1963 with the 33m-high Scrivener Dam. Around its 35km-long shore are many places of interest.

Built in 1970 to mark the bicentenary of Cook's landfall, the Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet flings a 6-tonne column of water up to 147m into the air, and sometimes gives free showers, despite its automatic switch-off in strong winds. There is a skeleton globe at nearby Regatta Pointon which Cook's three great voyages are traced; also close is the National Capital Exhibition, displaying the city's history. Further east is the stone-and-slab Blundells' Cottage, built in 1860 to house workers on the surrounding estate and now a reminder of the area's early farming history.

On Aspen Island is the 50m-high National Carillon, a gift from Britain on Canberra's 50th anniversary in 1963. The tower has 55 bronze bells, weighing from 7kg to 6 tonnes each, making it one of the world's largest musical instruments. Daily recitals are held – call ahead or check www.nationalcapital.gov.au then hit 'visiting' to download the latest schedule.

On the northern shore fronting Old Parliament House is Reconciliation Place, where artwork represents the nation's commitment to the cause of reconciliation between Indigenous and non- Indigenous Australians.