Ideal 2BR Apt in the Heart of Braddon – Hosted by Canstay

Hotel Description

You know, when I first rolled into Braddon – that’s this buzzing little pocket of Canberra, right on the edge of the city center – I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Ideal 2BR Apt hosted by Canstay. It’s tucked away on a side street off Lonsdale, which is basically the heart of the action with all those hip cafes and street art popping up everywhere. I mean, parking was a bit of a hassle – you might have to circle the block a few times, especially on weekends when everyone’s out for brunch at places like Mocan & Green Grout – but once I got in, it felt like a solid home base. The check-in was super straightforward; the host from Canstay sent over a code for the lockbox, no fussing around with front desks or anything. Walking in, there’s this fresh, clean smell – not overpowering like hotel lobbies, just sort of lived-in and welcoming, with wooden floors that creak a tiny bit underfoot. It’s a two-bedroom setup, nothing fancy, but honestly, for a 4-star spot with a 7.5 rating, it punches above its weight if you’re not chasing luxury vibes.

What really sold me was how it just slots right into the Braddon scene. The apartment’s got these big windows overlooking the street – you can hear the faint hum of chatter from the bars below in the evenings, which is lively without being overwhelming (though earplugs might help if you’re a light sleeper during peak season, like when Floriade rolls around and the city’s packed). The kitchen’s kitted out decently – full fridge, microwave, even a coffee machine that actually works – so I whipped up breakfast a couple of mornings instead of blowing cash at the nearby spots. And location-wise, you’re steps from everything: a quick stroll to the Civic light rail stop gets you to Lake Burley Griffin in no time for those sunset walks, or you can hit up the Australian War Memorial if you’re into history (pro tip: go early to beat the tour groups). It’s not perfect – the Wi-Fi dipped out once or twice, and the bathroom’s a tad compact for two people sharing – but there’s a washer-dryer in-unit, which saved me on laundry after a dusty day exploring Mount Ainslie. Oh, and the beds? Surprisingly comfy, with that crisp linen feel that makes you sleep like a log after a long drive from Sydney.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for a weekend getaway or even a work trip – parliament’s just a hop away, so it’s handy for that crowd – this place is a smart pick without breaking the bank. It’s got that authentic apartment feel, like crashing at a friend’s pad, rather than some sterile hotel room. Sure, it might not wow you with spa-level amenities, but for families or couples wanting space (those two bedrooms are a godsend), and easy access to Braddon’s food scene – think wood-fired pizzas at Italian and Sons – it’s ideal. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in autumn when the leaves turn and the area’s less crowded. Just pack light; the stairs up to the unit aren’t elevator-friendly if you’ve got heavy bags.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $182. Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Short trip to Canberra for family – Fiona from Australia – 12 May 2025 (9/10)

  The location
  
  What could be improved: One key only supplied

• Underwhelming – Lisa from Australia – 18 December 2024 (6/10)

  Location was good
  Kitchen was well stocked and good appliances
  
  What could be improved: Access to the property is exceptionally complex and the worst experience I’ve ever had.
  
  I booked an apartment on the basis that it had a bath in one of the bathrooms. There was not. When I raised this with the booking agent they completely misunderstood and told me there were 2 bathrooms and sent a photo of 2 showers.
  
  There was only one set of keys, which meant we were completely restricted as you can’t move around the building without the key and key fob.
  
  The drier did not work. The carpet wasn’t cleaned properly under the dining table with food scraps left.
  Poor quality bedroom furniture. The bed in the main room was unstable and the mattress fell through the slats. Bedside drawers were poorly constructed and didn’t function – falling out

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities