Cosy getaway in the Heart of Braddon – Hosted by Canstay

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon this little gem called Cosy Getaway in the Heart of Braddon while planning a quick trip 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 in the 2612 postcode – right in Braddon, which, if you’ve been to Canberra, you know is that funky inner-north suburb that’s exploded with cafes and street art over the last few years. I arrived around midday after driving up from Sydney, and parking was a bit of a juggle – Mort Street gets packed with locals grabbing coffee from places like The Cupping Room, but there’s usually a spot if you circle once or twice (or just Uber in from the airport, which is only about 10 minutes away). The check-in was super smooth; the host left a key in a lockbox and sent clear instructions via the app – no fuss, no waiting around in a lobby like some bigger hotels. Stepping inside, it hit me how aptly named it is: cozy as heck, with soft wool throws on the couch that smell faintly of fresh laundry, and big windows letting in that crisp Canberra light. Oh, and the kitchenette? Stocked with decent coffee pods – a lifesaver for early mornings when you’re not quite ready to face the world.

What really sets this place apart, though, is how it balances that homey vibe with being smack in the middle of Braddon’s buzz. It’s a 4-star setup, but it punches above with a 9.5 rating that feels earned – the bed was plush, like sinking into a cloud after a day wandering around, and the bathroom had those rain showerheads that make you linger a bit too long. I mean, it’s not massive, more like a stylish one-bedroom apartment, but that’s part of the charm; perfect for a couple or solo traveler who wants space without the sterility of a chain hotel. Mornings were my favorite – you’d hear the faint hum of Lonsdale Street waking up below, with bakeries wafting smells of sourdough and cinnamon that practically pull you out the door. It’s just a short stroll to Civic for shopping or the National Gallery (I caught a great exhibit there), and if you’re into nature, Lake Burley Griffin is an easy 15-minute walk for a jog or picnic. That said, if you’re a light sleeper, the street noise can creep in during peak hours – especially on weekends when the bars on Elouera get lively – but the double-glazed windows do a solid job of muffling it. And in winter? Canberra’s chill hits hard, but the heating here is top-notch, keeping things toasty without that dry air you get in some places.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra and want something that feels authentic rather than cookie-cutter – you know, like actually living in the neighborhood for a bit – this cosy getaway is a no-brainer. It’s not the flashiest spot, but that’s what makes it special; it’s got that understated warmth that lingers with you. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially during the quieter shoulder seasons like autumn when the leaves turn and the crowds thin out. Trust me, book it for a weekend escape, and you’ll be thanking me over a flat white from one of those nearby spots.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $125. Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Deslyn from Australia – 21 April 2025 (10/10)

  I loved how homley it was . Very clean .great location. Would definitely stay there again
  
  What could be improved: Getting the keys to get in .we have never been there before. We are used to going to a reception area.

• Superb – Peter from Australia – 23 June 2025 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities