Contemporary 2BR Retreat in the Heart of Civic – Hosted by Canstay

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Contemporary 2BR Retreat in the Heart of Civic while planning a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that just feels right from the moment you walk in. Hosted by Canstay, it’s tucked away on Northbourne Avenue – yeah, that main drag in Civic where everything’s happening, but not so smack in the middle that you’re dodging tourists all day. I mean, arriving around midday after a drive from Sydney, check-in was a breeze; they use this keyless entry system with a code sent via app, which saved me from fumbling with reception desks during peak hours. The building itself has that modern vibe – think sleek lines and big windows – and stepping inside, there’s this fresh, almost citrusy scent from whatever cleaning products they use, which immediately made me relax after the road trip. Parking? Well, it’s underground and secure, but spots can get tight during events like Floriade in September, so I’d book ahead if you’re driving. Oh, and it’s just a short stroll to the Canberra Centre for grabbing coffee or hitting up the shops – I popped over to that little bakery on Bunda Street for fresh croissants every morning, which became my ritual.

What really sets this place apart, though, is how it nails that home-away-from-home feel without skimping on the contemporary touches. It’s a proper two-bedroom setup, perfect for a small group or family – we had four of us crashing there, and there was plenty of space without feeling cramped. The living area opens up to a balcony with views over the city lights, especially magical at dusk when you can hear the faint hum of trams rumbling along Northbourne. The kitchen’s kitted out with everything from a Nespresso machine to a full oven – I whipped up a stir-fry one night using veggies from the nearby markets in Braddon, which is like a five-minute walk if you cut through Glebe Park (pro tip: avoid it after dark if you’re solo, it can feel a bit quiet). Beds are comfy, with those plush linens that don’t wrinkle like hotel ones often do, and the bathrooms? Spotless, with rainfall showers that actually have decent pressure – none of that weak trickle you sometimes get in older spots. Noise-wise, it’s mostly peaceful, but you might catch some street buzz on Friday nights when the pubs in Civic rev up; earplugs helped, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker. And Canstay, the hosts, were super responsive – I messaged about a wonky Wi-Fi signal one afternoon, and they sorted it within the hour.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for work (it’s ridiculously close to Parliament House, like a 10-minute drive) or just to chill by Lake Burley Griffin, this retreat’s a solid pick – rated 9.1 for good reason, and I’d give it a 4-star nod myself. It’s not flashy or over-the-top luxurious, but that’s what makes it authentic; you get that lived-in charm with enough perks to make your stay effortless. Sure, the elevator can be slow during busy mornings, but hey, it gave me time to plan the day. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in autumn when the leaves turn and the area’s less crowded – trust me, it’s worth ditching the big chain hotels for something this genuine.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $130. Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Once I had worked out how to actually get into the car park and the accomodation which had me extremely stressed whilst – Amanda from Australia – 26 June 2025 (10/10)

  The location and cleanliness and well equipped
  
  What could be improved: Figuring out access

• Great – Dandan from Australia – 9 May 2025 (10/10)

  The property is very nice and clean. Great location. Have everything we need. Will definitely come back again.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Superb – Lisa from United States – 23 April 2025 (9/10)

  Location, ease of instructions and responsiveness of the hosts

• Fantastic location and facilities – Sarah from New Zealand – 17 April 2025 (10/10)

  Fantastic facilities with everything you could need. Location is excellent and easy to find with great communication. Would definitely stay here again!

• Very happy! – Nina from Australia – 23 February 2025 (10/10)

  Location was great and so
  Comfortable!

• Exceptional – Yuhan from Australia – 13 February 2025 (10/10)

  Location was fantastic for the Multicultural Festival. The place was very clean and new. Everything worked very well.

• Superb – Ingrid from Australia – 11 August 2024 (9/10)

  It was in a great location and the set up of the apartment was really nice.
  
  What could be improved: We weren't told you had to get the key from a different location,

• Comfortable, clean and a fantastic location – Gay from United Kingdom – 5 May 2025 (8/10)

  Location, brightness and space
  
  What could be improved: Lack of toilet paper and no hand rail in the shower

• Good – Larissa from Australia – 25 February 2025 (7/10)

  Location, parkin, comfortable bathroom.
  
  What could be improved: Not comfortable to take the key from another place, especially when you are coming late in the evening ( very dark to see the numbers on the lock).
  Not comfortable the bed: very soft and the pillows are big.

• Very good – Anonymous from Australia – 3 June 2025 (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities