Hotel Review: Abode Hotel Canberra - Australian Traveller

Abode Hotels is one of the brand’s apartment-style stays shining a spotlight on Canberra’s suburban spirit.

Abode means a place of residence, a house or home – and this is embodied at each of Abode Hotels’ self-contained stays across the nation’s capital.

Stay in one of the brand’s stylish iterations and you will learn a lot about Canberrans and how they like to roll, from laid-back brunch spots to happening bars and everything in between. And after exploring the delights of Canberra all day, it’s only natural that you’ll want somewhere comfortable to rest your head. This is where Abode steps in.

Location

Abode Hotels’ eight properties are located in regional and residential areas, including Canberra suburbs such as Phillip, Belconnen, Malua Bay, Kingston, Gungahlin, Woden, Tuggeranong, Murrumbatemen and Narrabundah. And while all the Abode offerings in Canberra are different, they are all designed for those who enjoy creature comforts.

an aerial view of Abode Malua Bay near the beach — The beach is just a few steps away from Abode Malua Bay. (Image: PewPew Studios)

In-room digital guide Your Abode further encourages self-exploration and local immersion, serving as a modern-day guidebook of each hotel and its surrounding area. The hotel brand is bucking the trend of city-centric stays, inviting travellers to instead engage with regional communities across Canberra. So, while I booked into the 63-room Abode Kingston , I’d be happy at any of the brand’s locations.

the property exterior of Abode Murrumbateman — Abode Hotel’s Murrumbateman location is undeniably homely.

For my stay, I was just a five-minute drive to the Parliamentary Triangle, which is one of the most popular places to visit in Canberra.

Want to check out some of the city’s best boutiques? It’s a 10-minute drive to the CBD. Fancy a paddle around Lake Burley Griffin? Love Boats is just over a one-kilometre walk away. Make sure you factor in time to see some of the world-class museums and galleries, too.

Style and character

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself feeling right at home within minutes of checking in to an Abode Hotel. This is not your standard, cut-and-paste hotel experience. In fact, the brand’s focus is built around providing a sense of homely comfort.

Abode Hotels Canberra — Expect all the creature comforts plus a ton of local flavour.

The staff remember my name and instantly make me feel welcome from the moment I check in at the marble reception desk with terracotta-toned pendant lighting.

Although each hotel has unique design touches that nod to its individual surrounds, they all have a similar look and feel. Abode Kingston guests can expect a lot of wood, rattan and eucalypt greys and greens; my room reflects the colours of Canberra’s countryside.

Abode Hotels Canberra in Kingston — Guests at Abode Kingston can expect colours inspired by the countryside.

Facilities

Each Abode location varies when it comes to facilities. If you’re not tied to a specific location, use the website to filter through the hotels based on what you’d like to have access to. If a pool is a non-negotiable, book Abode Belconnen. Want an onsite restaurant? Abode Woden, with No.10 Restaurant + Bar on its ground floor, is the one for you. All locations feature Your Abode.

Abode Belconnen in Canberra — With amenities like a 25-metre outdoor pool, Abode Belconnen is perfect for a summer stay.

Where I’m stationed at Abode Kingston, guests have access to complimentary Wi-fi and room service.

The hotel also has bikes that you can borrow to do a hot lap of nearby Lake Burley Griffin. It’s nothing out of the ordinary to see a fellow hotel guest cycling into the horizon, map of the region in hand. They’re likely bound for a tour of the local markets or one of the many cute local coffee nooks.

bikes parked inside the lobby at Abode Hotel Canberra — Borrow a bike at the hotel’s lobby to cycle around the city.

What’s more, you can forget about organising a pet sitter. Most Abode Hotels offer a Pet Package which includes animal-friendly rooms so the whole clan can come on holiday.

two dogs sitting outside a unit at Abode Hotel Canberra — Stay with your furry friends at Abode Narrabundah.

Rooms

A stay at the Abode Kingston is the antithesis of staying in a big city hotel, and the only challenge presented is finding the motivation to leave. The serviced apartment-style rooms offer everything you’ll need, like unlimited free wi-fi, air conditioning, a rainfall shower, Google STAYCAST streaming, bar fridge and plenty of space to spread out.

You can book a regular hotel room, king studio, courtyard studio, balcony studio or executive studio. Guests should note that the hotel room and king studio do not offer kitchenette or washer/dryer facilities.

The rooms are clean and quite minimal, and the hotel itself feels like the kind of apartment living we all long for. There’s much to be thankful when ensconced in these rooms, where it feels like Marie Kondo has had a say in the clean lines and minimalist approach.

Food and drink

Abode Kingston is located just a short stroll away from Kingston Foreshore, one of Canberra’s dining hotspots. Guests are encouraged to wander down to the string of acclaimed restaurants, bars and cafes to experience fresh local flavours.

If you’d rather stay in, use the hotel’s handy Abode Pantry. Located in the lobby, it is stocked with a variety of food and beverage items (plus other travel essentials) that you can take back up to your room. From healthy frozen meals to midnight snack treats, the Abode Pantry has something for every guest. Or, treat yourself and order take-out via Your Abode.

the dining at Abode Murrumbateman — Adobe Pantry is a great option for guests who want to stay in.

Do Abode Hotels have access for guests with disabilities?

Abode Hotels have rooms at each location designed for the mobility impaired. At Abode Kingston, guests with accessibility needs can book the wheelchair-friendly acccessible room, which features an ultra-spacious layout, one queen-sized bed, an ensuite with walk-in shower and multiple accessible fixtures.

Are Abode Hotels family-friendly?

All Abode Hotels are family friendly, with children four anmd under staying for free (using existing bedding). Portable cots are available in select room types at an additional charge of $20 per night. Interconnecting rooms can also be arranged for larger families.

Details:

Best for: Those looking for a stay that will connect them with the local Canberra community.

Address: 14 Kennedy St, Kingston ACT

Phone: (02) 6108 4760

Cost: From $198 per night.

The Mornington Peninsula blends vineyards, galleries, golf and delicious finds for an unforgettable getaway that indulges all penchants.

Just over an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula blends coast and country in a way that feels effortlessly indulgent. It’s a region where vineyard views meet acclaimed dining, art and culture is never far from the sea, and where hot springs bubble alongside rolling fairways. Whether your escape is a long lunch, an immersive art trail or a round of golf, the Mornington Peninsula has an itinerary to match. And there’s always a glass of good local pinot waiting for you at the end of the day.

A creative trail through the Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a haven for artists and creatives. Its coastal views and rolling landscapes have long been a source of inspiration. Stay at the historical InterContinental Sorrento , a grand hotel established in 1875, recently renovated to blend heritage charm with contemporary elegance. With curated art lining the hotel’s corridors and rooms, you could spend hours simply wandering the halls, studying the walls.

Pt Leo Estate outdoor gallery — Wander around Pt. Leo Estate’s outdoor gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria/Jesse Hisco)

If looking for an outdoor gallery with sea views, head to Pt. Leo Estate , a landscaped vineyard home to a sculpture park featuring more than 70 large-scale works by both local and international artists, all easily accessible by connecting paths. After strolling through the vineyards, there are three dining options: fine dining at Laura, a relaxed meal at Pt. Leo Restaurant or a vino at the Wine Terrace. For something more hands-on, sign up for the Sip & Sketch experience. And if you book directly into the elegant Lancemore at Lindenderry Red Hill , you’ll enjoy free access to the sculpture park.

food at Pt Estate — Pt Leo Estate boasts three elegant dining venues. (Image: Visit Victoria/Two Palms/Arianna Harry)

For those who like their art framed by rolling hills, vines and wetlands, Montalto is the place. More than 30 sculptures are dotted throughout the property. The vineyard offers a formal restaurant and casual tables among the seasonal produce in a setting that feels like Mr. McGregor’s Garden from Peter Rabbit. And there’s always the option to picnic on the lawn.

Montalto Vineyard is an idyllic setting for afternoon wining and dining. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robyn Lea)

The Sorrento-Portsea Artists Trail offers a self-guided walk along bush paths and sea cliffs to see the same landscapes that once inspired brushstrokes of some of Australia’s most famous artists. Along the way, interpretive signs share insights into the area’s artistic past. And, if the peninsula’s weather turns a little wild, the region is brimming with galleries, particularly around Flinders, Sorrento and Red Hill. Artisan studios are open by appointment.

A feast for food and wine lovers

With more than 200 vineyards, around 60 wineries and cellar doors, plus an abundance of breweries, distilleries, orchards and family-run farms spanning generations, the Mornington Peninsula is a playground for food and wine enthusiasts.

The perfect base for a culinary inclined trip is Cassis Red Hill , where luxury accommodation is tucked between grape vines and olive trees. A quiet nod to the fishing village of Cassis in the south of France, this retreat is all about contemporary elegance – crisp linen, sunlit interiors and a private mineral plunge pool.

Then, for a stand-out lunch, Green Olive at Red Hill offers a delicious way to enjoy the region. Graze on generous tasting plates with house-made relishes, lamb sausages, local cheese and just-picked garden produce. Pair it with a wine flight or order a picnic hamper to enjoy among the olive grove; there’s a picnic option for your dog, too. And for a playful twist, Green Olive is home to what is believed to be Australia’s only pickleball court set within a vineyard or orchard.

Amid the many wineries with open cellar doors, Main Ridge Dairy offers a delicious detour – a goat dairy where you can sample handcrafted cheeses and even meet the resident goats. For a more refined experience, Paringa Estate is one of the peninsula’s most awarded wineries, offering fine dining with sweeping vineyard views and a menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

If you’re looking to step outdoors before a lingering lunch, during winter Flinders Truffles offer the chance to join their clever dogs and search for the black gold under oak trees. For an authentic taste of the region, time your visit with one of the Peninsula’s vibrant farmers’ markets.

From golf days to spa stays

Kingswood CountryGolf Club — Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its champion courses, the Peninsula is a dream destination not only for those who love to tee off but for those who enjoy the post-golf wind down. Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club draws keen golfers from around the world, while Peppers Moonah Links Resort is a course that has hosted both a PGA tournament and two Australian Opens. For a true test of skill, The Dunes Golf Links is one of Australia’s top public courses. Each golf course offers accommodation, and staying onsite means maximum convenience, especially at The Dunes, where premium rooms have you sleeping right next to the fairway. Off-course indulgence is close at hand, too.

Alba Thermal Springs& Spa — Soaking at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs are just next door, where thermal waters drawn from geothermal mineral springs deep underground provide the ultimate recovery after a day of perfecting your swing. These award-winning wellness sanctuaries offer everything from bathing pools to private plunges and spa treatments.

After sinking the last ball, and the 19th hole beckons, the Peninsula serves up just as many dining options as it does golf courses. Just minutes away and right on the beach, Jetty Road Brewery  is a laid-back spot perfect for a round of beers and typical pub fare. For something a little elevated, book a table at Epicurean . Here, a glass of local red pairs beautifully with handmade pastas and woodfired pizza, all served in a historical coolstore and packing shed dating back more than a century.

Abode Hotels Canberra: a stay for every type of traveller