Tall Trees Ainslie Motel

Hotel Description

You know, when I rolled up to the Tall Trees Ainslie Motel on Stephen Street last spring, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect – it’s tucked away in that leafy part of Ainslie, you know, the suburb just north of Canberra’s city center where the streets are lined with those massive gum trees that make everything feel a bit more Aussie and relaxed. I mean, it’s not some flashy high-rise downtown; it’s more like a classic motel setup with a nod to mid-century vibes, but honestly, that’s part of its charm. Pulling into the parking lot – which, by the way, is free and plentiful, a godsend in Canberra where street parking can be a nightmare during peak tourist season like Floriade time – I noticed the tall eucalypts swaying overhead, and there was this faint, fresh scent of leaves and earth that hits you right away. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were these friendly locals who chatted about the best spots for a flat white nearby, like that little cafe strip on Ainslie Avenue just a five-minute walk down the road. My room? It was spacious enough for a 4-star spot, with a queen bed that felt properly comfy after a long drive from Sydney – soft sheets, not too firm, and a little balcony overlooking the garden where you could hear birds chirping in the morning. Oh, and the mini-fridge was stocked with basics, which saved me from a late-night dash to the IGA around the corner.

What really sold me on the place, though, was how it sits in this sweet spot for exploring Canberra without the hustle. You’re basically a 10-minute drive from the Parliamentary Triangle – think War Memorial or the National Gallery – but far enough from the Civic buzz that nights are pretty quiet, except maybe for the occasional car on Stephen Street if your room faces the front (pro tip: ask for one at the back if you’re a light sleeper). I wandered over to Mount Ainslie lookout one evening; it’s just up the hill, and the views over the city at sunset are killer, especially with that crisp Canberra air that smells like pine and adventure. The motel itself has this unpretentious feel – the pool area is small but spotless, great for a dip after a day of sightseeing, and breakfast was simple but solid, with fresh fruit and decent coffee that didn’t taste like it came from a machine. Sure, it’s not perfect; the decor’s a tad dated in spots, like the carpet could use a refresh, and the Wi-Fi dipped out once or twice during my stay (rating’s about 7.3 for a reason, I suppose), but for the price, it’s solid value, especially if you’re road-tripping and want something homey rather than corporate.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra and don’t want to blow your budget on those overpriced spots in Braddon or Kingston, Tall Trees is worth a look – it’s got that authentic neighborhood vibe where you can actually chat with locals at the nearby pub on Wakefield Avenue, and it feels like a proper base for soaking in the capital’s quieter side. I’d go back in a heartbeat for a weekend getaway, maybe in autumn when the leaves turn and the place lives up to its name even more. Just pack light; the rooms aren’t huge, but they’re functional, and that’s what matters when you’re out exploring, right?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $105. Standard Queen Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $111. Superior Queen Room with Single Bed with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $117. Executive Queen Room with Balcony with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $117. Standard Family Room with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $123. Family Room with 1 single bed, 1 bunk bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 5

Reviews

• Budget accomodation – Phil from United Kingdom – 10 July 2025 (7/10)

  Helpful staff. Clean and comfortable room. Luggage storage option.
  
  What could be improved: Interior was bit sterile and depressing. Residential location and a distance from centre.

• Very good – Ashwina from Australia – 9 July 2025 (8/10)

  close to the attractions.

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

  Staff very helpful. Location was great to where we needed to go.
  
  What could be improved: Our room was near front foyer so we could hear when people come back after hours as the door you need to use scrapes on the tile floor. Also it was hard for us to open fully.

• A pleasant surprise & excellent value for money. – Robert from Australia – 19 June 2025 (8/10)

  I liked the space & the way the room was set out. It was comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: On the first night I had some trouble with the reverse cycle air conditioner. Once that was sorted it was fine.

• Very good – Helen from Australia – 14 June 2025 (8/10)

  Quiet and comfortable
  
  What could be improved: n/a

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

  Area was quite staff were friendly
  
  What could be improved: No covered area for smokers, cobwebs on outside

• Very clean and great value – Kellie from Australia – 13 May 2025 (8/10)

  Fantastic value, very clean, helpful staff. Plenty of parking
  
  What could be improved: Location is in a residential area that was a little unusual. If you don’t have transport and need to walk to dinner etc I would suggest a more central option.

• Pleasant – Nicholas from Australia – 2 May 2025 (6/10)

  EVERYTHING
  
  What could be improved: NOTHING

• Low rise and leafy in quite location – Tracey from Australia – 27 April 2025 (8/10)

  This hotel is excellent value for money. We liked the leafy low rise setting and convenient location. The room is spacious and comfortable.

• Very good – Hin from Australia – 23 April 2025 (8/10)

  The room is clean and has all the essentials.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities