Braddon Abode – Canberra

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Braddon Abode during a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that just clicks – like, you arrive feeling a bit frazzled from the drive down from Sydney, and suddenly you’re in this sleek little haven right on Northbourne Avenue. It’s smack in the middle of Braddon, which, if you’ve been to Canberra, you know is that funky suburb that’s exploded with cool cafes and street art over the last few years. The building itself isn’t some massive tower; it’s more of a boutique setup with that modern apartment-hotel vibe, all clean lines and big windows that let in heaps of natural light. Checking in was a breeze – the staff were these laid-back locals who chatted about the best coffee spots nearby (pro tip: hit up Mocan & Green Grout just a short walk away on Marcus Clarke Street; their flat whites are killer). Parking, though? Well, it’s on-street or in the underground garage, but Northbourne can get busy during rush hour, so if you’re driving in around 5 pm, brace for a bit of traffic hum – nothing ear-splitting, but you feel the city’s pulse, you know?

What really won me over were the rooms – I mean, they’re not your standard hotel boxes; these are proper apartments with full kitchens, which was a godsend for whipping up breakfast without shelling out for overpriced room service. Mine had this comfy king bed with those crisp, high-thread-count sheets that smell faintly of fresh laundry (none of that musty hotel scent here), and the bathroom was all marble and rainfall showers – luxurious without trying too hard. I spent a couple of evenings just chilling on the balcony, sipping a local wine from the nearby Capital Wines shop, watching the sun dip behind Mount Ainslie. It’s quiet inside, surprisingly, even with the avenue right there; the double-glazing keeps out most of the noise, though you might hear the occasional tram rumbling by if you’re on a lower floor. And get this – they have these little touches like complimentary bikes to borrow, which I used to zip over to Lake Burley Griffin for a morning jog. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi dipped a tad during peak times, but nothing that ruined the stay. Oh, and if you’re traveling in winter, book ahead – Canberra’s parliamentary sessions pack the place out, but shoulder seasons like autumn are blissfully chill.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for work or just to explore – maybe hit up the National Gallery or wander through the arboretum – Braddon Abode is the kind of place that makes you feel like a savvy local rather than a tourist. It’s got that 4-star polish with a genuine neighborhood feel, and at a 9 rating, it’s no wonder folks rave about it. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for those lazy weekends when you want to stroll to Lonsdale Street for brunch without the hassle of cabs. Trust me, it’s worth ditching the big chain hotels for something this authentic.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $197. Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Mrdarren from Australia – 24 June 2025 (10/10)

  Ducted A/C was fantastic. The location and building was first class.
  The apartment manager was a delight to deal with
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Lovely apartment and great location. – Colleen from Australia – 14 May 2025 (10/10)

  Very nice apartment and clean. Close to shops/cafes. We enjoyed our stay there and would stay there again.

• Very pleasant. Great location. – Shane from Australia – 1 April 2025 (10/10)

  We’ll appointed with everything you need. Little homely extras really made it feel welcoming and comfortable.

• Ok except for above comments. – Alison from Australia – 30 March 2025 (8/10)

  Good
  
  What could be improved: The complicated access and parking.
  Should be “flagged” on website when considering booking the accommodation. Difficult when arriving late and it is dark. Also big hassle to get information about access. The provided # did not answer for some hours as no access information was provided.

• The stay at Braddon Abode put us very close to town and all the sights we wished to see. – Yolande from Australia – 28 March 2025 (9/10)

  A very well presented apartment, very clean. There were lovely views from the deck anda beautiful sunset.
  Beds were comfortable. Second bedroom a little small.

• I like this property. It worth the money. – Qingqing from Australia – 22 December 2024 (9/10)

  Good place. Tissue and toilet paper are in very good quality. They also have kitchen paper towel! Beds are comfortable.
  There was a whole bottle of fresh milk in the fridge.
  Lights are very bright. Feels like home.
  Wifi was quick.
  
  What could be improved: The microwave was not working properly. It kept making a very loud metal noise when it was on.
  Chocolate powder provided expired.
  One of the room is very small.

• Enjoyable – Jacqueline from Australia – 12 October 2024 (10/10)

  Location
  Facilities
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Perfect place for a couple to stay for a short break. – Karen from Australia – 29 July 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful unit, exactly as pictured, spotlessly clean and lovely views out to Black Mountain. Easy checkin and good communication from hosts. We loved how close we were to all the cafes and restaurants right in the heart of Braddon and an easy walk to Civic too. Canberra turned on the cold while we were there but we found the unit warm and cosy and bathed in the afternoon sun.

• Perfect for our weekend break in Canberra – Kath from Australia – 13 July 2024 (9/10)

  This was a central, very comfortable unit. It was warm and very tidy, well appointed and with good facilities. Just around the corner from the Haigh park sunday markets. It was wonderful that we could bring our dog with us.
  
  What could be improved: We should have planned for 2 big children who wouldn't share a bed! So that's our mistake, not the units.

• Great sty – Ryan from Australia – 4 June 2024 (9/10)

  Loved stay so much stayed a little longer. In a great area near restaurants. Central to where I wanted to go and close to transport. Everything there that was needed for our trip. Clean and quiet.
  
  What could be improved: Liked everything

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities