Jamieson – Lakeview Apt

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Jamieson – Lakeview Apt during a quick trip to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that just clicks for a low-key stay. It’s tucked right on Constitution Avenue – yeah, that bustling stretch in Reid, just a stone’s throw from Lake Burley Griffin. I mean, if you’re into those early morning jogs around the water or catching the hot air balloons at dawn during Floriade season, this place is basically your front door to it all. Pulling up, the building looks pretty unassuming – sort of modern with a dash of that Canberra sleekness – but parking was a breeze; there’s underground spots that aren’t too cramped, unlike some of the nightmare lots near Parliament House. Check-in was straightforward, though – well, it’s more of an apartment setup, so they emailed me a code for the door, which saved me from dealing with a front desk at odd hours. I arrived after a long drive from Sydney, and stepping into the lobby (if you can call it that – it’s more like a foyer with some pot plants), there was this faint, welcoming smell of fresh linen that cut through the chill of the evening air.

What really sold me was the view from my room – oh man, those floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake? Pure gold, especially at sunset when the water turns all fiery orange and you can hear the distant hum of cyclists on the paths below. It’s a 4-star joint, but it feels more like a comfy home base than a fancy hotel; my apartment had a full kitchenette with a decent stove and fridge – perfect for whipping up brekkie without shelling out for overpriced cafes on nearby London Circuit. The bed was firm but cozy, with those thick duvets that make you want to burrow in during Canberra’s nippy nights, and the bathroom had this rainfall shower that actually worked without sputtering (a rarity in some places, you know?). Sure, it’s not flawless – the decor’s a bit dated in spots, like the carpet showing some wear from foot traffic, and if you’re a light sleeper, the occasional traffic noise from Constitution Avenue might bug you, especially on weekday mornings when everyone’s commuting to the city center. But hey, pop in some earplugs, and you’re golden. I spent one afternoon just chilling on the balcony, sipping coffee and watching rowers glide by – it’s that kind of peaceful vibe that makes you forget you’re in the capital.

All in all, if you’re visiting Canberra for work or a weekend escape – maybe to hit up the National Gallery or wander through the arboretum – I’d say Jamieson is worth it for the price. It’s got that solid 7.5 rating for a reason: practical, with those killer views that make up for any minor gripes. Families or solo travelers would dig it, especially off-peak when it’s quieter and you can snag a deal. Just book ahead during summer events; it fills up fast with all the tourists flocking to the lake. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that leaves you thinking, “Yeah, I’d come back.”

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $283. Apartment with Mountain View with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Very good – Ivan from Australia – 18 February 2024 (8/10)

  Well equipped 8th floor apartment with spacious rooms and great views. Ideally located for visiting all attractions in Canberra, with good access to public transport and bus stop outside front door.

• Had a memorable time and overall the accomodation was comfortable and quiet – Cathee from Australia – 7 October 2023 (7/10)

  Clean, very modern, good view, quiet
  
  What could be improved: No restaurants/cafes nearby. The balcony had not been cleaned so a lot of dust on table and floor. Picking up and dropping off of keys at different locations to the property., over the other side of town from the accomodation.

• Thoroughly enjoyed the stay. – Peter from Australia – 2 December 2022 (9/10)

  Location was great. Close to activities and where we needed to get to.
  
  What could be improved: Happy with what we got

• Reasonable size apartment. Good location. Very clean. Good facilities. – Rodger from Australia – 23 March 2024 (8/10)

  No breakfast. Excellent location.
  
  What could be improved: Signage for Accommodate Canberra. Hard to find. No sign for reception.

• Good – Aurora from Australia – 13 December 2022 (7/10)

  View, location, washing machine and cooking facilities. Good having the extra space with a loungeroom so you are not stuck in just one room like a hotel, If you had kids then the study would have been handy.
  
  What could be improved: Only a cheap double bed, should be replaced with a king size plush bed.
  Bed sheets didn't fit and we had to ask for new ones that did fit the bed.
  No hair dryer provided and had to request hairdyer to be dropped off.
  Would be handy if you could collect and leave keys at the apartment, not have to catch a cab to Kingston and back.
  Reverse cycle air conditioner was locked to cold, in Canberra we need heat option too.
  Smart TV would be useful for those devices that don't have HDML port.
  Bedside tables all wobbly, please replace with quality side tables that are stable.

• Bad – Richard from Australia – 24 May 2024 (1/10)

  What could be improved: Key pick up was 5.8 km away

• Exceptional – Garnette from United States – 1 October 2023 (10/10)

  Well decorated and equipped. Had a little difficulty with entrance instructions. On the third page of packet rather than first so had to do a bit of digging to get to them.
  
  What could be improved: Good value so no dislikes. I would have preferred a softer pillow.

• Superb – Edward from Australia – 17 November 2022 (9/10)

• Exceptional – Neeraj from Australia – 29 January 2024 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Cath from Australia – 7 January 2024 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities