Tranquil, Relaxing Forrest Style Apartment – Braddon CBD

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Tranquil, Relaxing Forrest Style Apartment in Braddon during a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it was one of those spots that just clicks when you’re craving a bit of peace without ditching the city vibe. It’s tucked away on Ipima Street, right in the heart of Braddon – that funky suburb where all the cool cafes and bars spill out onto Lonsdale Street, you know, just a five-minute stroll away. I mean, arriving after a long drive from Sydney, the check-in was a breeze; it’s one of those self-contained apartments with a key code system, so no fussing with a front desk at odd hours. Parking? Well, there’s street spots nearby, but they can get snatched up quick during peak times like Floriade season when the tourists flood in – I lucked out with a spot right out front, though. Stepping inside, the place hits you with this immediate calm; it’s styled like a little forest retreat, all earthy tones, wooden accents, and these big windows letting in dappled light that filters through the gum trees outside. The air had that fresh, eucalyptus-y scent – sort of like being in the Blue Mountains but smack in the middle of the capital.

What really sold me was how it balanced that relaxing vibe with practical touches for someone like me who’s always on the move. The apartment’s got this open-plan layout – kitchenette with a decent stove (I whipped up a quick brekkie using goodies from the nearby Braddon markets on Mort Street), a comfy lounge area with plush cushions that actually feel lived-in, not some sterile hotel fluff, and a bedroom that overlooks a quiet courtyard. You can hear the faint rustle of leaves at night, which drowns out any distant traffic hum from Northbourne Avenue – it’s not dead silent, mind you, especially on weekends when the bars get lively, but earplugs sorted that out for me. I spent a lazy afternoon just chilling on the balcony, sipping coffee and watching locals zip by on bikes; it’s four stars, sure, but the rating’s a solid 8 because, well, the Wi-Fi dipped a bit during evenings (probably everyone streaming), and the bathroom’s compact – fine for one or two, but might feel snug for a family. Still, those little forest-inspired details, like the textured wall art mimicking bark and the soft, moss-green bedding, made it feel more like a hidden cabin than your standard CBD crash pad. Oh, and it’s super close to the light rail stop on Northbourne, so hopping over to Lake Burley Griffin for a walk or the National Gallery was effortless – no need for a car if you’re into that eco-friendly exploring.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra and want somewhere that lets you unwind without isolating you from the action, this place is worth it. It’s not flashy or over-the-top luxurious, but that’s the charm – authentic, tranquil, and right where you can dip into Braddon’s food scene (try the pizza at Italian and Sons down the road; it’s killer). I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in autumn when the leaves turn and the whole area feels even more forest-like. Just book ahead if it’s event season; otherwise, you might miss out on that serene escape.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $108. Apartment with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Stay was enjoyable – Max from Australia – 16 May 2025 (8/10)

  Central position.
  
  What could be improved: Location of keys was very difficult to find.

• Nice little one bedroom – Kev from Australia – 18 February 2025 (7/10)

  The apartment was a small one bedroom and is comfortable. The facilities provided were good and allow you to stay fairly comfortably for those longer stays, when cooking and washing are helpful. The lounge room includes a sofa bed option if you need it. (Not comfortable to sit on, but the room has a second lounge too.)
  
  What could be improved: We were put off by the letting Admin team sending multiple emails including a pre-let contract style document, requesting a large bond hold of $500 and a later check in time of 3 pm.
  The property requests you empty all rubbish (not unreasonable), but asks you to refer to a room manual to locate where to take rubbish. (we couldn't find it) We eventually found the rubbish room on another floor. This makes it difficult to comply.
  The property needs a good clean, with the bathroom showing mould on the ceiling.

• Perfect for our needs as a small family! – Blatch from Australia – 30 December 2024 (9/10)

  Perfect location. Very easy to contact when in need.

• Great value for money in an awesome location. – Sally from Australia – 22 November 2024 (8/10)

  Comfortable. Close to public transport and the city.
  
  What could be improved: Bed mattress and lounge cushions need updating.

• Very good – Matt from Australia – 17 November 2024 (8/10)

  Mostly well equipped. A bonus having a washing machine, dryer and dishwasher. Nice, clean and modern. A short walk to the light rail.

• Great central accommodation to visit son staying at ANU and close to city , shops and restaurants and cafes – Louise from Australia – 23 October 2024 (9/10)

  Very clean, comfortable bed, good location, short walk to city, everything you need
  
  What could be improved: Need to fix the grill cover on the drains of the underground car park as very load noise every time a car went in and out of car park. Just annoying if you want to sleep in. Everything else was perfect

• Beautiful apartment and close to restaurants and clubs and pubs. Would stay again.. – Sal from Australia – 7 October 2024 (9/10)

  Nice and close to the city. Close to restaurants and clubs and pubs. Great location would recommend..

• Good – Jason from Australia – 12 September 2024 (7/10)

  Price & space
  
  What could be improved: Check in process, having to pick up keys from different location, budget cheap furnishing.

• An enjoyable stay in a great location. – Martin from Australia – 8 August 2024 (8/10)

  Great location with secure undercover parking.
  
  What could be improved: Instructions to get the keys from the lock box were vague and the lock box location isn't on the street that the instructions say. Could do with an electric blanket on the bed which it did have last time we stayed.

• Overall, we had a nice stay. The hosts were super friendly and responsive to rectify any issues and answer questions. – Emily from Australia – 7 July 2024 (7/10)

  Excellent location right next to tram stop, made it easy to head into the city. Secure parking was excellent to rely on. Apartment was clean and tidy.
  
  What could be improved: Very noisy in the evenings due to vehicles going in and out of basement car park. Kitchen facilities were somewhat limited for a longer stay – we had to buy a lot of utensils etc to make our meals but would be appropriate for a short stay.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities