2-Storey Lumiere Townhouse with Private Courtyard – Hosted by Canstay

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the 2-Storey Lumiere Townhouse while planning a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those hidden gems that doesn’t scream “tourist trap” but feels like you’re crashing at a mate’s place. It’s tucked away in the 2612 postcode, right in that quiet pocket near Aranda – you know, close enough to the Belconnen side where you can zip over to the Jamison Centre for a decent flat white or some groceries without dealing with the city chaos. Pulling up, the place looks unassuming from the street, like any other suburban townhouse, but step inside and it’s got this cozy, lived-in vibe with that private courtyard out back that’s a total lifesaver. I mean, after a day traipsing around Lake Burley Griffin, nothing beats kicking back there with a cold one, listening to the magpies chatter – though fair warning, those birds can get a bit rowdy at dawn if you’re a light sleeper. Check-in was a breeze since it’s hosted by Canstay; they left the keys in a lockbox and sent clear instructions via app, no awkward small talk required, which suited my introverted self just fine.

What really sold me was the layout – it’s a proper two-storey setup, so you’ve got space to spread out without feeling crammed. Upstairs, the bedrooms are simple but comfy, with those thick curtains that actually block out the morning light (a godsend if you’ve got jet lag from flying in from Sydney). Downstairs, the living area opens right onto the courtyard, and there’s a little kitchenette that’s stocked enough for whipping up brekkie – think basic pots, a microwave that doesn’t hum like a jet engine, and even a washing machine for those inevitable travel spills. I appreciated the free parking spot out front; Canberra’s not huge, but finding a spot near places like the National Gallery can be a nightmare, especially during Floriade season when everything’s blooming and packed. It’s rated about 7.8, which feels spot on – nothing fancy like a 5-star spa, but clean and functional with that homely touch. Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Surprisingly solid for streaming, though it dipped a bit in the evenings when the neighborhood’s online. Minor gripe: the bathroom’s on the smaller side, so if you’re traveling with a group, you might have to coordinate showers, but hey, it’s a 3-star spot, not the Ritz.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for a low-key trip – maybe to hit up Parliament House or just wander the arboretum – this townhouse is a smart pick without breaking the bank. It’s got that authentic Aussie suburban feel, quiet at night except for the occasional possum rustling in the trees, and you’re only a 15-minute drive from the city center, avoiding the peak-hour snarl on Northbourne Avenue. I’d go back in a heartbeat for a weekend escape; it’s not perfect, but it nails that balance of comfort and convenience that makes you feel like you’ve got your own little slice of the capital. Just pack some earplugs if you’re sensitive to nature’s soundtrack – trust me, it’ll make all the difference.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $206. Three-Bedroom House with 1 large double bed and 2 × 1 double bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Comfortable living areas and kitchen. Warm. Bedrooms and bathrooms quite small. – Patricia from Australia – 23 September 2024 (7/10)

  Location was very good.
  Kitchen was good, well set up and clean. Not enough tea or coffee cups though.
  Breakfast was not provided at all. No tea bags or coffee pods for the machine.
  No muesli/cereal. There was long life milk in the fridge and some sugar and that was it!
  
  What could be improved: There were no hair dryers ( included on the list of inclusions)
  Only one bed side reading lamp in each room
  Bathrooms very small .
  The floor rugs in the living areas were stained and looked quite dirty.

• Good – Margi from Australia – 16 August 2024 (7/10)

  Location was great. Facilities suitable. Layout and colour scheme easy on the eye. Roomy courtyard.
  
  What could be improved: Ensuite toilets and towel rails very awkwardly positioned in bed 2&3, far too cramped for use by people who are 6ft plus. Main bedroom ensuite upstairs was fine.
  Combined wash/dryer didn't dry clothes (damp at end of cycle). Unable to select only dry. Rainy days not great for drying clothes naturally.
  No tea or coffee pods. Floor wasn't mopped.

• Superb – Julie from Australia – 30 May 2025 (9/10)

• Very good – Benjamin from Australia – 19 September 2024 (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities