![Dr Mathew Trinca, Director of the National Museum of Australia, in Canberra.](http://web.archive.org./web/20171027190058im_/http://www.traveller.com.au/content/dam/images/g/z/7/y/c/f/image.related.articleLeadwide.620x349.gz7x9w.png/1509061493161.jpg)
National Museum of Australia director, Mathew Trinca shares his favourite getaway spot.
What's your go-to ACT weekend away?
What's happened in Canberra in recent years is frankly amazing. Where else can you go to see a wealth of cultural offerings, dine in great restaurants and visit cellar doors with world class cool climate wines, stay in design-led boutique hotels, breathe in the fresh mountain air and fly across the Monaro in a hot-air balloon, all within 15 minutes of everything else? An ideal weekend would include, if you'll forgive me, a visit to our Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters exhibition at the National Museum of Australia.
Where do you stay?
I'm a big fan of the New Acton precinct for its proximity to the city, Lake Burley Griffin and nearby bars and restaurants. There are a number of excellent hotels, but QT stands out.
Why do you love it?
QT Hotel has a fun retro-political vibe – very Canberra – not to mention a great bar and bistro.
A favourite memory?
There are some great small country towns near Canberra. I really enjoy the drive out towards Braidwood and Araluen – it's stunning.
What's your go-to eatery?
I love the fusion food at the Lanterne Rooms in Campbell.
And for the best coffee?
I recommend Ona in Manuka.
Your favourite local secret?
Find a great bend in the mighty Murrumbidgee River and watch the sun go down with beer in hand.
What does a quick getaway mean to you?
I'm lucky enough to get weekend downtime with my family on acreage outside Canberra.
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