Cosy contemporary 1BR plus sofa bed – Hosted by CanStay

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon this little gem called Cosy Contemporary 1BR plus Sofa Bed – hosted by CanStay – during a quick trip to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it was one of those spots that just feels right from the moment you walk in. It’s tucked away in the 2602 postcode, right in the heart of North Canberra, like around the Dickson area where you’ve got those funky Asian eateries on Woolley Street popping up everywhere. I mean, if you’re flying into Canberra Airport, it’s maybe a 10-15 minute drive – super straightforward, especially if you avoid the rush hour chaos on Northbourne Avenue when all the public servants are heading home. Check-in was a breeze; it’s one of those self-hosted setups with a key code, but the hosts from CanStay sent over detailed instructions ahead of time, including where to park – there’s street parking that’s usually free after 5 PM, though it can get tight on weekends when everyone’s hitting the markets at EPIC nearby. First thing that hit me was how surprisingly quiet it was for being so central; no blaring traffic noise, just the occasional hum of birds from the nearby Mount Ainslie reserve in the mornings. Oh, and the air had that crisp, eucalyptus-tinged freshness you only get in Canberra – none of that heavy humidity like in Sydney.

Stepping inside, it’s exactly as advertised: a cosy one-bedroom setup with a sofa bed that actually folds out comfortably (I’ve slept on worse, trust me), all done up in this modern, minimalist vibe with clean lines and those soft, neutral tones that make it feel bigger than it is. The kitchenette’s got everything you need – a proper coffee machine that brews a decent flat white, which was a lifesaver after those early starts exploring the National Gallery. The bed? Super plush, with those high-thread-count sheets that feel like wrapping yourself in a cloud, and there’s even a little balcony where you can sip your morning tea while watching the fog lift over the Brindabellas in the distance. I appreciated the thoughtful touches, like extra blankets for those chilly Canberra nights (it dips below 10°C even in shoulder season), and the bathroom’s stocked with decent toiletries – nothing fancy, but way better than the generic stuff you find in chain hotels. It’s rated a solid 9 out of 10, and I’d say that’s spot on; four stars feel about right for the value, especially since you’re steps from Braddon’s hip cafes like Rye or Sweet Bones for vegan brekkie. One minor gripe? The sofa bed’s a bit squeaky if you’ve got restless sleepers, and it’s more suited for couples or solo travelers than a big family – but hey, that’s what keeps it feeling intimate, not crammed.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for a weekend of museums or maybe catching a game at GIO Stadium (it’s only a short Uber away), this place is a no-brainer. It’s got that authentic, lived-in charm without trying too hard, and you save a bundle compared to the overpriced spots downtown near Parliament House, especially during busy times like Floriade in September when everything books up fast. I left feeling refreshed, you know? Like I’d actually recharged in a home away from home, rather than just crashing in some sterile room. Definitely bookmark it for your next trip – just pack layers for the weather, as Canberra’s got that four-seasons-in-one-day thing going on.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $121. Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Great accomodation…close to shops and driving to Civic – John from Australia – 14 February 2025 (9/10)

  What could be improved: Problems with the front door lock.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities