Red Cedars Motel

Hotel Description

You know, when I pulled up to the Red Cedars Motel on the corner of Stirling and Aspinal in Curtin – that’s that leafy suburb just south of Canberra’s city center, about a 10-minute drive from Parliament House if traffic’s behaving – I wasn’t expecting much from a 3-star spot with a 7.4 rating. But honestly, it surprised me in that understated, no-frills way that makes you appreciate a good budget stay. The place has this classic motel vibe, with rooms opening right onto the parking lot, which is a godsend if you’re lugging bags or have a car full of road trip junk like I did. Check-in was a breeze; the front desk lady – think friendly Aussie aunt type – handed over the key with a quick chat about the best local coffee spot (it’s that little cafe on Yamba Drive, by the way, does a mean flat white). The rooms aren’t flashy, sort of dated with those heavy curtains and carpet that smells faintly of fresh vacuuming, but they’re spotless and bigger than you’d think. I crashed on a queen bed that was actually comfy, not the rock-hard ones you sometimes get in these places, and the air con hummed quietly enough that I slept through the night – well, except for the occasional car whizzing by on Stirling, but it’s not a highway, so it’s more white noise than disturbance.

What really won me over, though, was how it feels tucked into real Canberra life, away from the touristy bustle around Lake Burley Griffin. You’re literally steps from Aspinal Street’s quiet residential vibe, with gum trees rustling overhead and that crisp, eucalyptus-scented air that hits you in the mornings – perfect for a stroll if you’re into that. I mean, if you’re here for work or exploring, it’s super practical: hop on the bus to Woden Town Centre for shopping or eateries (try the Ethiopian place there, it’s a hidden gem), or drive 15 minutes to the National Gallery. Parking’s free and plentiful, which is huge in a city where spots can be a nightmare during peak season like Floriade in spring – things get packed then, but this spot stays pretty chill. The motel’s got a small pool that’s more for dipping your toes than laps, and the Wi-Fi held up for streaming without too many glitches, though it did buffer once or twice during a late-night binge. Breakfast isn’t included, but there’s a basic kitchenette in the room with a microwave and fridge, so I just grabbed stuff from the nearby Coles supermarket. Oh, and fair warning: the walls are a bit thin, so if your neighbors are chatty, you might hear ’em, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker for me.

All in all, if you’re not chasing luxury and just want a solid base for dipping into Canberra’s sights – think war memorials, arboretums, or even a day trip to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – Red Cedars is a smart pick. It’s got that authentic, unpretentious charm that reminds you why motels like this are still around, and at the price, you’re getting way more value than some overpriced chain downtown. I’d go back in a heartbeat for a quick getaway, especially in the quieter winter months when the rates drop even lower. Just pack earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, you know?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $112. Family Room with 2 single beds, 1 double bed and 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $116. Family Room with One Queen Bed and Bunk Beds with 1 double bed and 2 bunk beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $116. Queen Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $118. Twin Room with 2 double beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Value for money for a family of 5 members – Khong from Malaysia – 5 July 2025 (7/10)

  Value for money for family of 5 members. We were given a double bed and three single beds. The water pressure for the shower was very strong and hot.
  
  What could be improved: The heater does not heat up the room well. More lights in the room would be better.

• Good – Leanne from Australia – 22 June 2025 (7/10)

  Good budget accom.
  
  What could be improved: Extremely cold. And aircon took forever to work and heat up

• Good – Iwan from Australia – 8 June 2025 (7/10)

  clean and comfortable place to stay, pleasant balcony view from second floor.
  
  What could be improved: one of the light switches did not work properly

• Very good – Steven from Australia – 25 May 2025 (8/10)

  Nice room, good value for money.

• Very good – Deborah from Australia – 23 May 2025 (8/10)

  Comfortable, warm bed, microwave, etc always a need when travelling! Very easy face to face check in.
  
  What could be improved: The hand wash had leaked all over bathroom hand basin. Much prefer individual bathroom products although we carry our own . Not a big disappointed comfort outweighed the rest thanks

• The motel has been there a long time but it was good value for money and having the dog nearby made it very convenient. – Margaret from Australia – 17 May 2025 (8/10)

  Clean, location.
  
  What could be improved: Bed too soft, I chose single bed and should have used double so I could stretch out more. The covers on the mattress caused it to bunch up and uncomfortable.

• Great budget stay – Cathy from Australia – 17 May 2025 (8/10)

  Great location, easy to navigate from, kind staff.

• It was spot on – Graeme from Australia – 16 May 2025 (8/10)

  Easy to get the room staff helpful and the position was ideal for my work
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Clean and convienient – Antoine from Australia – 27 February 2025 (8/10)

  Very accomodating on last minute request (late evening)

• Quiet, comfortable place to stay. Liked the location. – Rawles from Australia – 6 February 2025 (8/10)

  The room was very clean, bed very comfortable.
  Basic tea, coffee ,kettle, toaster. Great bar fridge new and clean.
  Value for money .
  Quiet , guests very quiet.
  
  Will stay there again.
  
  What could be improved: I woukd have liked a security door on the balcony and the front , couldn't leave doors open for fresh air.. woukd have liked hand towels .
  No safety chain on the doors.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities