Active Pursuits in Canberra

Biking -- With 120km (74 miles) of bike paths, Canberra is made for exploring on two wheels. Rent a bike from Mr. Spoke's Bike Hire, Barrine Drive, near the boat hire on the Acton side of the lake (tel. 02/6257 1188). Bikes for adults cost A$15 for an hour, A$25 for a half-day, and A$35 for a day.

Boating -- Burley Griffin Boat Hire, Barrine Drive, Acton (tel. 02/6249 6861), rents paddle boats for A$30 per hour, kayaks for A$15, and two-person canoes for A$20 per hour. It's open daily from September until May.

Swimming -- Swim in the wake of Ian Thorpe and other famous Australian super-swimmers. The indoor heated pool at the Australian Institute of Sport (tel. 02/6214 1281) is open to the public at certain times during the day (call ahead to check schedules). Adults pay A$5 to swim, children A$3.60.

Tennis -- The National Sports Club, Mouat St, Lyneham (tel. 02/6248 0929), has tennis, squash, and indoor sports facilities. Call for court bookings and prices.