Hotel Kurrajong Canberra

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Hotel Kurrajong in Canberra last autumn when I was down there for a quick work trip – honestly, it was one of those places that just feels like a hidden gem amid all the bureaucratic buzz of the capital. Tucked away on National Circuit in Barton, it’s practically a stone’s throw from Parliament House (I mean, you could walk there in under 10 minutes if you’re not lugging a suitcase), and right around the corner from those quiet paths along Lake Burley Griffin where locals jog at dawn. Pulling up, the building has this charming old-school vibe – it’s heritage-listed, built back in the 1920s with that art deco flair, all curved lines and polished brass that makes you think of politicians scheming over whiskey in the lobby. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were super friendly, not that stiff corporate nonsense you get at some spots – one guy even chatted about the best coffee joint nearby on Marcus Clarke Street, which saved my morning. Oh, and parking? There’s a secure lot out back, but it fills up quick during sitting weeks when the pollies are in town, so book ahead if you’re driving.

What really won me over, though, was how the place blends that historic charm with just enough modern comforts without feeling gimmicky. My room was on the second floor, overlooking a little courtyard garden that smelled faintly of eucalyptus in the evenings – you know, that fresh Aussie bush scent that hits you after a rainy day. The bed was plush, with those crisp white sheets that actually feel like they’ve been ironed (a rarity in mid-range hotels, let me tell you), and the bathroom had this deep tub perfect for soaking off the jet lag. I grabbed breakfast at their on-site restaurant, Chifley’s Bar & Grill – named after some old PM, apparently – and it was solid: think hearty eggs benedict with locally sourced bacon, and coffee that’s way better than the instant stuff you’d get at a chain. The whole hotel has this cozy, understated elegance; evenings in the lounge area, you hear the low hum of conversations, maybe a piano tinkling softly, and it’s quiet enough that street noise from National Circuit doesn’t intrude much, even during rush hour. That said, it’s not perfect – the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the older wings, and if you’re a light sleeper, request a room away from the elevator, as it dings a bit more than you’d like early mornings. But overall, it sort of transports you back to Canberra’s early days, with black-and-white photos on the walls telling stories of past guests like Ben Chifley himself.

Look, if you’re heading to Canberra – whether for a conference at the convention center or just to wander the National Gallery (which is only a 15-minute drive away) – I’d totally recommend Hotel Kurrajong. It’s got that 4.5-star polish with an 8.6 rating that feels earned, not inflated, and prices are reasonable for what you get, especially off-peak when the city’s less hectic. You won’t feel like just another tourist; it’s more like staying in a piece of living history, with staff who treat you like a regular. Honestly, next time I’m in town, I’m booking it again – beats those soulless high-rises near Civic any day.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $156. Classic Queen Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $156. Classic Double or Twin Room with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $156. Classic King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $176. Heritage Double or Twin Room with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $176. Heritage King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $196. Terrace King Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $196. Heritage Balcony King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $226. Executive Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $250. Classic Family Room – Interconnecting with 2 single beds, 1 extra-large double bed and 2 extra-large double beds for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $285. Heritage Family Room – Interconnecting with 2 extra-large double beds, 2 single beds and 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Perfect location for a friend reunion. Everyone was so happy with the rooms, location and wonderful bar, restaurant – Julie from Australia – 13 July 2025 (10/10)

  Cosy bar area and great restaurant. Proximity to National Gallery and other major attractions. Professional, friendly, helpful staff. Relaxed atmosphere in historical building. Covered entry. Easy to use air con in room and comfy bed with fluffy towels in bathroom
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Excellent rooms with comfortable beds and cozy rest areas in hotel.Good food in restaurant – Russell from Australia – 11 July 2025 (9/10)

  Comfortable. Clean with excellent service.
  Good food at the restaurant and cosy relaxation areas

• Exceptional – Jane from Australia – 10 July 2025 (10/10)

  Great heritage ambience in a quiet setting. Olde Canberra. The open fire and lounge seating/decor in the reception area, adjacent to restaurant and bar are lovely. Reception team are excellent – friendly & courteous. I've stayed at Kurrajong before and I'll stay again!
  
  What could be improved: Zero complaints!

• Friendly, warm, and convenient. – Fahey from Australia – 9 July 2025 (9/10)

  room was excellent, staff were very friendly and helpful
  
  What could be improved: I had no soap in my bathroom but it was quickly delivered when I asked for some.

• Pleasantly surprised And over all great – Wayne from Australia – 8 July 2025 (10/10)

  Didn’t do breakfast but I walked past people having breakfast and it looked plentiful and they looked like they were really enjoying it
  
  What could be improved: The bed could have been slightly softer a pillow top mattress would have been nice it would of took my rating to 5 star

• Exceptional – Pam from Australia – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  A charming comfortable hotel. We enjoyed our evening meal in the restaurant.

• Solid, old fashioned quality. – Mary-anne from Australia – 7 July 2025 (8/10)

  Loved the old world quality and style of the hotel, more like someone’s home. Warm and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Didn’t eat there as food options looked a bit bland/boring and expensive.

• I will be back. – Lachlan from Australia – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Outstanding.

• We had a very nice stay at the hotel Kurrajong, staff were extremely helpful and went beyond to help us – Christine from Australia – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Such a beautiful heritage property
  Our room was lovely
  
  What could be improved: Bathroom was way too small and restaurant was too expensive and limited menu

• We have stayed here a number of times and would not ever think of staying snywhrtr else. – Jill from Australia – 5 July 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent helpful staff
  
  What could be improved: All was good

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities