Prestige Waterfront Apartment in Kingston, ACT

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Prestige Waterfront Apartment in Kingston while planning a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that just clicks for a relaxed stay. It’s tucked away on the second level at 11/8 Trevillian Quay, right along the Kingston Foreshore – that buzzing little strip where the lake meets the cafes and bars. Pulling up, I remember thinking, “Okay, this is prime real estate,” with Lake Burley Griffin literally at your doorstep, sparkling under that crisp ACT sun. Check-in was a breeze; it’s more like an apartment rental than a stuffy hotel, so you get a code for the door and boom, you’re in. No fussing with a front desk at odd hours, which was perfect since I arrived after dark from a long drive up from Sydney. The place has this lived-in vibe – not overly polished, but comfortable, like crashing at a friend’s waterfront pad. And the views? From the balcony, you can watch the rowers gliding by in the morning, with that fresh, watery scent mixing with coffee from the nearby spots like Local Press or the little bakery on Eyre Street. It’s rated a solid 7.7, which feels about right; it’s got charm without pretending to be five-star fancy.

What really sold me was how it feels embedded in Kingston’s scene – you step out and you’re smack in the middle of things, but not overwhelmed. The apartment itself is spacious for a 4-star setup, with a full kitchen (stocked with basics, thank goodness, because who wants to eat out every meal?), a comfy queen bed that didn’t leave me with a sore back, and even a washer-dryer combo – a lifesaver after hiking in nearby Namadgi National Park. I mean, parking can be a bit of a juggle down there on weekends when the Old Bus Depot Markets are hopping (pro tip: snag a spot early or use the underground one nearby), but during the week, it’s quiet enough that you hear more birds than traffic. There’s some minor wear – the couch cushions are a tad lumpy, and the Wi-Fi dipped out once during a rainstorm – but nothing that ruined the stay. Actually, the best part was evenings on the balcony with a glass of local wine, listening to the gentle lap of the water and chatting away as the city lights flickered on across the lake. It’s sort of that sweet spot between urban buzz and chill retreat, especially if you’re into exploring Canberra’s parliamentary triangle – Parliament House is just a 10-minute drive or a scenic walk along the foreshore path.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra and want something authentic rather than a chain hotel vibe, I’d say give Prestige a go – especially for couples or small families who appreciate self-catering and those killer views. It’s not flawless (noise from weekend crowds can filter up if you’re a light sleeper), but the location makes up for it, putting you steps from great eats like the Ottoman Cuisine or casual brews at Capital Brewing. Well, I left feeling like I’d uncovered a little gem in Kingston, and yeah, I’d book it again in a heartbeat for that easy access to the lake trails and the way it just lets you sink into the local rhythm without trying too hard.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $160. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Very good – Love from Australia – 10 July 2025 (8/10)

  The location was great.

• Great apartment in a fabulous location. Nicely appointed and with easy access. Booking process worked extremely well a – Natalie from Australia – 27 May 2025 (7/10)

  Fantastic location, nice layout and easy access. Very modern and nicely decorated. A really nice ambience and felt very cozy and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Bed cover a little too small for the bed and mattress was a little on soft side. When plugging in charger in bedroom noticed quite a bit of dust build up behind bed head and cobwebs. LED light under mirror in bathroom faulty and flickering. Dining table very nice but a smaller one probably would suit considering it is a one bedroom apartment. Banged my head on shaving mirror which would have been better if recessed.

• Very good – Boxsell from Australia – 17 June 2025 (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities