Starting from Paddys River Road, Paddys River, this walk takes you to the historic Nil Desperandum and back via Tidbinbilla Lane, Gilmores Road and Nil’s Trail tracks. A rustic European house that was built in the late 1890s, Nil Desperandum sits beautifully amidst the eucalypt trees of Tidbinbilla, near Hurdle Creek. Not really popular amongst Canberrans, this cosy, well-maintained homestead was renovated after it was mostly burnt down in the 2003 bushfires. Equipped with a kitchen, 8 stretcher beds, a fireplace and a toilet, the building also has amenities around it. And the best thing is, you can spend the night here if you want to. You have to book it beforehand and it’s not relatively cheap, but there’s a good chance that this tranquil stay will be worth it. Expect to run into kangaroos and emus throughout the journey. The Red-bellied Black Snake can also make an appearance. Although it’s an eye-catching creature, it is venomous, so try to keep your distance. Keep in mind that you’re not allowed to collect firewood in the area. The walk is pretty exposed so cover your head well if you’re going to do this walk in summer. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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