Homely Modern Apt by Lake between City and Russell – Hosted by CanStay

Hotel Description

Oh man, if you’re heading to Canberra and want something that feels like a proper home base without the stiff hotel vibe, you should check out the Homely Modern Apt by Lake – it’s hosted by CanStay, and honestly, it’s one of those spots that just clicks. I stayed there last spring, right when the jacarandas were blooming all over the place, turning the streets into this purple haze – you know, that classic Canberra thing that makes the city feel almost magical in October. The address is in the 2612 postcode, tucked away in that sweet spot between the bustling city center and Russell, which is super handy if you’re into defense history or just need quick access to the lake paths. I drove in from Sydney, and parking was a breeze – there’s secure underground spots, no fussing around with meters like you get near Parliament House. Check-in was smooth too; it’s self-service with a code they email you, but the host popped a message with tips on where to grab coffee nearby, which saved me from wandering aimlessly that first morning.

What really sold me was how it balances that modern edge with a cozy, lived-in feel – think sleek kitchen with a Nespresso machine (pods included, thank goodness, because who wants to hunt for caffeine at 7am?), and big windows overlooking glimpses of Lake Burley Griffin. The place smells faintly of eucalyptus from the nearby trees, and it’s dead quiet at night, even though you’re only a 10-minute drive from the action in Civic or a quick stroll to the Russell offices if that’s your jam. I mean, it’s not huge – sort of a one-bedroom setup with a pull-out in the living room – but it’s spotless, with fluffy towels that actually feel fresh and a balcony where I sat with my morning tea listening to the magpies chattering away. Well, okay, minor gripe: the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times during peak evening hours, probably because everyone’s streaming after work, but it bounced back quick enough for my Zoom calls. And location-wise, you’re right by those lakeside walking tracks – I jogged to the National Gallery one morning, dodging the occasional kangaroo (yeah, they pop up even here), and grabbed brekkie at that little cafe on Aspinall Street, which does killer smashed avo without the tourist prices.

Look, with a 9.5 rating and four stars, it’s not some over-the-top luxury pad, but that’s what makes it great – it’s authentic, practical, and way more affordable than those chain hotels in the city. If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, especially in the quieter shoulder seasons like autumn when the leaves turn fiery red, this apt lets you really sink into Canberra life without feeling like a visitor. I’d go back in a heartbeat; just pack light because the stairs to the entrance can be a bit of a haul with heavy bags. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that turns a trip into something memorable, you know?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $127. Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Very good – Anqi from Australia – 22 April 2025 (8/10)

  Easy checkin, good location

• Great apartment, great location, but poor booking experience. – Anonymous from Australia – 26 May 2025 (10/10)

  No breakfast supplied. Only tea and coffee.
  
  What could be improved: Contacting someone in Australia was difficult.
  Why was information in French, when on booking platform.
  We were not allowed to extend our stay after arriving at the apartment.

• Exceptional – Kamil from Australia – 14 May 2025 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Ken from Australia – 4 May 2025 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities