Apartment nestled between Lake Burley Griffin, city and ANU

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon this spot called the Apartment nestled between Lake Burley Griffin, city and ANU during a quick work trip to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those hidden gems that makes you rethink staying in a bland hotel chain. It’s tucked away at 25 Edinburgh Avenue, right in that funky NewActon area – you know, the one with all those cool cafes and street art popping up everywhere. I mean, pulling up in my rental car, I was a bit worried about parking because Edinburgh can get pretty jammed during peak hours, especially with folks heading to the university or the lake for runs. But there’s a secure spot underground that you can snag if you book ahead – saved me from circling the block like an idiot. Check-in was a breeze; it’s more like picking up keys from a friendly local than some formal desk ordeal. The place feels lived-in, with that fresh linen smell hitting you as soon as you walk in, and the wooden floors creaking just enough to remind you it’s not some sterile box.

What really sold me was how perfectly it’s positioned – you’re literally steps from Lake Burley Griffin, so mornings meant grabbing a coffee from that little spot on the foreshore and wandering along the water, watching the rowers glide by while the mist lifts off the surface. It’s super close to ANU too; I had a meeting there and just strolled over in under 10 minutes, dodging the campus bikes and grabbing a quick bite at the union cafe on the way. The apartment itself is spacious for a 4-star setup, with a full kitchen that actually has decent pots and pans – none of that flimsy stuff you find in short-term rentals. I whipped up a simple pasta one night after exploring the city center, which is basically across the road; think easy access to places like the National Gallery or even a sunset picnic at Commonwealth Park. Oh, and the views from the balcony? Not bad at all – you get glimpses of the lake and those iconic Canberra hills, though it’s not floor-to-ceiling glass or anything extravagant. Noise-wise, Edinburgh Avenue hums a bit with traffic during the day, but it quiets down by evening, and the double-glazed windows keep things peaceful inside. Well, except for that one morning when construction started early nearby – minor gripe, but hey, that’s city living for you. The bed was comfy, sort of plush without being too soft, and the bathroom had those nice rain shower heads that make you linger a little longer.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for a mix of work, uni stuff, or just chilling by the lake – especially in the milder months like autumn when the leaves turn and it’s not sweltering – this apartment is a solid choice. It’s not flawless; the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times during my stay, and at a 7.9 rating, it’s clear it’s more about practical comfort than luxury bells and whistles. But for the price and that unbeatable spot bridging the serene lake vibes with the buzz of the city and ANU, I’d totally go back. You feel like you’re part of the neighborhood, not just passing through, and that’s what makes trips memorable, right? If you’re solo or with a partner, pack light and enjoy the walkability – just watch out for those pesky magpies in spring!

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $106. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Superb – Peter from Australia – 27 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great location

• Fully self-contained living space in a great location. – Paul from Australia – 28 September 2024 (8/10)

  Parking your car, getting the keys and checking in to the room is a bit of a process but the instructions given were very clear and concise which made the process quite easy. The room is quite spacious and has everything you need including a full-sized fridge and kitchenette if you didn't want to eat out every night, and washer and dryer to do a load of clothes. The location is great, within walking distance of places to eat and things to see. Bed was very comfortable, shower was great.
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom is located between the sleeping and living areas and the frosted glass didn't provide complete privacy. The lighting could be better in the kitchen area.

• Great value – Richard from Australia – 6 August 2024 (8/10)

  As described
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Very good – Russell from Japan – 2 July 2024 (8/10)

  The location is great for quick and easy access all around Canberra. Lovely views and a short walk into the University or the City. Would consider staying again next time if available. As we had a car the free secure underground parking was a great help.
  
  What could be improved: Would have been nice to have a little more documentation about the apartment and facilities – minor maintenance issues – but nothing serious. When the TV wasn't working within 24 hours the issue was resolved.

• 4 day stay was very enjoyable – Emily from Australia – 11 June 2024 (9/10)

  Very cosy, kitchen excellent with many extras should you want to eat in. Bed very comfortable, the property is located
  15 mins walk from main city centre and bus connections. Owners very obliging and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Unfortunately television reception was bad. Had 15 minute walk to catch buses and supermarkets none within 5 mins of property. This would be less of a problem if you had a car (a parking space was available). We did not have a car and relied on public transport.

• Very good – Rod from Australia – 6 May 2025 (8/10)

  Great location good facilities.
  
  What could be improved: General cleanliness was good but could have been better.
  Ant problem in kitchen.
  Range hood filthy.

• Good – Shelley from Australia – 12 April 2025 (7/10)

  The location was really good. Close to cbd and other places.
  
  The lounge area nice and spacious.
  Excellent shower.
  
  What could be improved: Toilet not functioning properly when we arrived and bathroom basin leaking. Plumber attended but could not fix issues as needed parts he didn't have.
  Apartment a bit stuffy at night.

• Perfect match to our requirements – Clews from Australia – 30 November 2024 (8/10)

  Perfect location. Five minutes walk to the conference at ANU and also to the lakeside for morning constitutionals, 15 minutes or so on foot to downtown area. NIce outlook to Black Mountain. Good coffee and food at the hotel (Ovolo Nishi) shared ground floor. Host was very friendly, easy to conact and helpful when we had a couple of queries.
  
  What could be improved: We found there only being one pass-card/key a bit of a challenge as we were doing different things during the day. We worked out there was an option of leaving the keys in the lock-cylnder but this was 4 levels down in a basement carpark so wasn't a really convenient solution.

• A convenient spot for a short stay in Canberra. – Dave from Australia – 17 November 2024 (8/10)

  The views from the balcony were great and there was plenty of room in the apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Having the bed just inside the front door was not ideal. A lack of air conditioning could be an issue in summer.

• Stylish and comfortable place to stay in Canberra. – Thornton-smith from Australia – 28 October 2024 (8/10)

  Convenient location, very contemporary design, well equipped, excellent hotel restaurant. Very clear instructions about access. Responsive owner.
  
  What could be improved: Problem with Wifi, Some distance from shops.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities