Enchanting in Red – 1bd 1bth 1csp

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Enchanting in Red while planning a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those hidden gems that make you feel like you’ve scored big time. It’s tucked away on Cooyong Street in Reid – that’s that leafy suburb right on the edge of the city center, you know, just a stone’s throw from the bustle of Civic without all the noise. I drove up after a long day exploring the National Gallery (which is like a 10-minute walk away, if you’re into that), and pulling into the dedicated car space felt like a relief – parking in Canberra can be a nightmare during peak hours, especially with all the government types zooming around. The place is this cozy one-bedroom apartment in a modern block, nothing flashy, but it has this warm, inviting vibe with red accents everywhere – think plush crimson throw pillows and artwork that pops against the neutral walls. I mean, it’s called “Enchanting in Red” for a reason, right? Check-in was a breeze; it’s self-service with a key code, so no awkward lobby waits, though I did fumble with the app a bit at first.

What really sold me was how it felt like a proper home base rather than some sterile hotel room. The bedroom’s got this super comfy queen bed – I slept like a log after hiking around Lake Burley Griffin, which is basically your backyard here, maybe a 15-minute stroll down to the water. The bathroom’s spotless, with those fluffy towels that actually absorb water (you’d be surprised how many places skimp on that), and the little kitchenette smelled faintly of fresh coffee from the machine they provide – I whipped up breakfast there most mornings, saving a ton compared to eating out in Braddon, where the cafes are amazing but pricey. Oh, and speaking of Braddon, it’s right across the way on Lonsdale Street; I wandered over for dinner at this quirky spot called Grease Monkey – killer burgers, if you’re into that. The apartment’s quiet, too – well, mostly; you might hear the occasional tram ding from Northbourne Avenue in the evenings, but it’s not intrusive, especially if you’re here in the off-season like autumn when things wind down. One minor gripe? The Wi-Fi was solid for streaming, but it dipped a couple times during a rainstorm – Canberra weather, am I right? Still, for a 4-star spot with an 8.8 rating, it punches above its weight; it’s got that lived-in charm without feeling worn out.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for a weekend – say, to catch the Floriade festival in September or just to chill by the lake – this place is perfect for couples or solo travelers who want more than a basic room. It’s not over-the-top luxurious, but it’s enchanting in that understated way, you know? I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially since it’s so walkable to spots like the War Memorial or even Glebe Park for a picnic. Just pack light; the one-bedroom setup is snug but spot-on for unwinding after a day out. Trust me, you’ll leave feeling like you actually experienced the city, not just passed through.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $108. Apartment with Balcony with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Exceptional – Adam from Australia – 5 May 2025 (10/10)

  Instructions shared form the host where quite clear.

• Very enjoyable short stay – Tanya from Australia – 1 December 2024 (9/10)

  Great location, very close to shops , cafes
  
  What could be improved: Couch could of been more comfortable

• Lovely comfortable apartment. Close to everything. Could do with a manual of how everything works. – Dorte from Australia – 13 November 2024 (9/10)

  The apartment was very comfortable and had everything I needed. The mattress especially comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Only problem was on leaving when the power went off as well as all lights to the floor and the car park. It was very scary trying to find my car in the pitch dark. However turned out to be a problem with the building and not the apartment. But delayed my departure by almost an hour.

• Very good – Rob from Australia – 8 November 2024 (8/10)

  Location and facilities.
  
  What could be improved: Instructions for key collection, finding the entry for parking, and locating the parking space was a problem. The instructions are ambiguous and confusing and need to be rewritten.

• Great option in Central Canberra – Paul from Australia – 6 November 2024 (8/10)

  Great location.
  
  What could be improved: Keys were not in lockbox, which is in a different location to Apartment where parking is a challenge. Manager needed to arrange for cleaners to meet us at the apartment.

• Great value compared to staying in a hotel. – Sophie from Australia – 6 November 2024 (9/10)

  Location was perfect across the road from big park, 5 min walk to convention centre, casino & CBD
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• It was great, high recommendations. – Palma from Australia – 18 October 2024 (9/10)

  Location and clean.
  
  What could be improved: A bit noisy.

• Good, would go again – Bonnie from Australia – 11 October 2024 (10/10)

  Location was ideal, could walk/scooter anywhere I needed to go
  
  What could be improved: Next door is the same style of building and I got a little lost in the connecting underground car park, but if entering from the front door it is easily distinguishable

• Great! – Natalie from Australia – 26 August 2024 (9/10)

  Central but quiet

• Loved it – Ian from Australia – 31 July 2024 (10/10)

  Fabulous location
  Clean

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities