Dana-Central Apartment with Mount Ainslie Views

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Dana-Central Apartment with Mount Ainslie Views during a quick trip to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be a solid pick for someone who wants that homey feel without breaking the bank. It’s tucked right on City Walk, at 222 City Walk in the 2601 postcode – you can’t miss it if you’re wandering from the Canberra Centre shops or grabbing a coffee at those little cafes along the strip. I mean, arriving there after a long drive from Sydney, the check-in was a breeze; it’s one of those self-service setups with a key code texted to you, which is great if you’re rolling in late at night like I did. No fuss with a front desk, but fair warning, if you’re not tech-savvy, it might feel a tad impersonal – I had to fiddle with the app for a minute before the door buzzed open. The building itself is pretty unassuming, sort of mid-century vibes with clean lines, and parking? Well, there’s street spots nearby, but they fill up quick during peak hours, especially when everyone’s heading to events at the nearby Civic Square. I lucked out with a spot just around the corner on London Circuit, but yeah, plan ahead if you’re driving.

Stepping inside the apartment, though – that’s where it shines. It’s a 3-star spot with a 7.4 rating that feels about right; nothing flashy, but comfortable enough for a few nights. The place has this open-plan layout with a kitchenette that’s actually stocked decently – think basic pots, a microwave that doesn’t sound like it’s about to launch into space, and even a little balcony overlooking Mount Ainslie. Oh man, those views! Waking up to the sun rising over the hills, with the city sprawl below, it’s one of those quiet Canberra moments that make you appreciate how green and planned-out this town is. I spent an evening out there with a glass of local wine from the Clonakilla vineyard (picked it up from a shop on Bunda Street, highly recommend), just watching the kangaroos – wait, no, that’s a stretch, but you do spot wildlife up on the mount if you hike it the next day. The bed was comfy, sheets fresh with that faint laundry scent, though the bathroom’s on the smaller side and the water pressure? Sort of hit-or-miss, like it couldn’t decide if it wanted to be a drizzle or a power wash. Noise-wise, City Walk can get buzzy in the evenings with folks heading to bars on Garema Place, but it quiets down after 10 PM, which was perfect for me – I’m not one for all-night parties anyway. And let’s be real, for the price, it’s got the essentials: free Wi-Fi that didn’t lag during my Zoom calls, air con that hummed softly without blasting you out, and it’s walking distance to Lake Burley Griffin if you fancy a morning stroll.

All in all, if you’re visiting Canberra for the museums or parliament stuff – the Australian War Memorial is just a 20-minute walk or quick bus ride away – this apartment’s a no-brainer for budget travelers who prefer self-catering over hotel bells and whistles. It’s not luxurious, sure, and maybe skip it if you’re after spa vibes or room service, but for that authentic slice of central Canberra life, with those killer Mount Ainslie vistas thrown in? I’d book it again in a heartbeat. Just time your stay for autumn when the leaves turn – the colors from your balcony are unreal, and the crowds are thinner than summer’s tourist rush. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that grows on you.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $114. Apartment with Balcony with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Comfortable and centrally located appartment. – Jennifer from Australia – 5 September 2024 (8/10)

  Location and had everything I needed
  
  What could be improved: The city below is noisy

• Enjoyable. Excellent location and premises. Dana was helpful and prompt with questions. Only setback was worrying about – Michael from Australia – 7 June 2024 (8/10)

  Most of it.
  
  What could be improved: Free car parking availability. Need some teaspoons. 😃

• Very good – Elizabeth from Australia – 2 May 2024 (8/10)

  What could be improved: A tiny bit cleaner, lovely view but windows need cleaning

• Excellent location with comfy accommodation – Daria from Australia – 11 March 2024 (8/10)

  Excellent location and getting access to the keys was effortless. Apartment had a great floor plan and the extras like shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, laundry detergent, coffee and tea all greatly appreciated and a lovely touch.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing we could comment on. Only very minor thing would be the lock box containing key was a little tricky to lock again. Nothing else though.

• Great! – Bek from Australia – 30 September 2022 (8/10)

  Facilities were great, everything we could ask for, great location too.

• A great place to stay to enjoy Canberra’s attractions – William from Australia – 30 September 2022 (8/10)

  Spacious, very clean and comfortable in the centre of Canberra, close to the major shopping centres, museums, War Memorial and Parliament House.
  
  What could be improved: nil

• Very good – Jennifer from Australia – 25 June 2025 (8/10)

  Central location . Excellent value for money
  
  What could be improved: The step over into the spa / shower was very high

• A good stay in an apartment which is in the heart of the city. Some issues in house, can be fixed. – Vkesarwani from Australia – 19 June 2025 (6/10)

  Location is central Canberra.
  
  What could be improved: The house has some problems. The Kitchen exhaust was not working. The Shower is in a Spa which is too high to climb in. Ideally a 2 steps needed.

• Pleasant stay in a good location – Philippa from Australia – 6 June 2025 (6/10)

  The location
  
  What could be improved: Parking not included

• Value for money – Heather from Australia – 27 April 2025 (7/10)

  The security of the building. CBD location. The value for money. Having a washing machine, dishwasher even though we didn't use it. The kitchen was well stocked with pots, cutlery and crockery.
  
  What could be improved: The spa bath/shower was very hard to get in and out of. Some hand towels would of been appreciated. The laundry and bathroom could use a deep clean.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities