Hotel Review: Little National Hotel Canberra

The sophisticated Little National in the country’s capital is perfect for your next quiet getaway.

From a distance, the Little National Hotel in Canberra resembles a rather brutal black box. But get up close to the architecturally designed building and you will see it presents as the ultimate 21st-century escape. The hotel is wrapped in perforated panels of dark metal that enable ventilation and provide partial views of the interior. Then, when day turns to night, strips of bright orange LED lights give the facade a futuristic glow-up.

The Australian capital really is starting to feel cutting edge, partly thanks to a raft of new design-led hotels, architecturally considered on the outside and carefully curated within. The Little National Hotel has, in part, helped change the city’s fortunes. Let’s take a look inside.

Location

The Little National Hotel is a little like Canberra: small but perfectly formed, and with an eye on things to come. It’s located within the city’s Realm precinct, home to some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes.

While the lobby occupies the entire ground floor, all 120 rooms are arranged around the top fifth and sixth floors. The rest of the building takes the form of a carpark, so discreetly hidden you’d never know it was there.

a look inside the living room interior at Little National Hotel, Canberra — Little National Hotel exudes simplicity and charm.

Style and character

Mathieson Architects have been ingenious with their use of space. The light-filled lobby immediately sets the tone and echoes that of the National Gallery down the road. It has polished concrete floors and is all minimalist chic with travertine walls and translucent glass.

A friendly staff member from guest services efficiently processes my arrival from behind an oversized trestle table. The low-key design of the lobby is deliberate and aims to reinforce the brand’s commitment to ‘affordable luxury’. The hotel is also conveniently located near some of the major Canberra attractions.

the lobby inside Little National Hotel, Canberra — The lobby looks spacious and luxurious.

My room, like the building, is a masterclass in space management and simplicity. Wide, dark-timber floorboards provide a welcome natural texture underfoot and earthy tones complement a contemporary scheme of muted greys.

Two blinds are activated by bedside switches; one brings down a cream canvas that evokes a traditional Japanese rice paper wall, while the other blocks the light completely. An oriental tea set greets you by the bed. And what a bed it is: a king that fills the space from wall to wall.

Facilities

It may be suggested by the name, but Little National is far from small. The remarkable hotel includes two wonderful shared spaces perfect for guests to rest and recharge in: the lounge and the library. Both offer complimentary T2 tea, coffee facilities and water for guests.

a co-working space at Little National Hotel — You can set up your meetings here.

Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass, both offer views of Capital Hill and are perfect spots to read in one of the comfy armchairs. Most of the hotel’s weekday guests are visiting Canberra for parliament, so the space has been designed as an extremely luxe co-working space that can accommodate meetings.

Paper sculptures by artist Benja Harney, inspired by the life cycle of the golden sun moth, adorn the adjoining corridors. The library is decked out with black-stained joinery and a black granite dual fireplace that divides the lower lounge area from the upper velvet-clad lounges.

scenic mountain views from the lounge area at Little National Hotel — With views of the city, the lounge is the perfect reading spot.

Little National Hotel guests also have access to classes at Hale Gym, home to a state-of-the-art wellness centre featuring Technogym equipment, pilates and PT training. You’ll also have access to Hale Spa, where you can undergo a relaxing treatment or unwind in the sauna after a big day.

Rooms

The rooms inside Little National feel somewhat futuristic, like a Far Eastern utopia. In my suite, a window takes over one whole end of the room, affording views of a bamboo garden, yet somehow the space remains completely private.

a black sofa set inside Little National Hotel, Canberra — Sit back and relax on the couch.

The bed was so comfortable I found it hard to avoid napping when I should have been strolling around the sculpture garden at the National Gallery of Australia or exploring the city’s myriad hip and happening bars. It turns out that the Arms of Orpheus bed is custom-made by A.H. Beard for and the plush mattress is so popular it’s available to purchase.

There are also free movies to watch on a TV from bed that invite me to extend my sleep-in. A sleek bathroom with a rainfall shower and Apelles products completes a very stylish pad indeed.

a bed with a view at Little National Hotel, Canberra — Sleep with a view at Little National Hotel.

Food and drink

Ritual Café is located on the ground floor of the Little National. It’s a top spot if you want to talk politics over a power breakfast or lunch. The cute cafe is known for its toasted sandwiches and consistently good coffee. The all-day breakfast menu will appeal to those who like a lie-in.

the dining interior at Ritual Café — Pop in Ritual Café for breakfast.

Guests of the Little National Hotel will have to head outside to the hotel’s sister properties to find further food and beverage offerings. Try the Burbury Hotel’s rooftop Leyla Bar , or go for beer and bites at Ostani , in Realm Hotel.

rooftop space at Leyla's Canberra — The bright and stylish rooftop space at Leyla’s. (Image: Pew Pew Studio)

Does Little National have access for guests with disabilities?

Both the Little National’s lobby and common areas are accessible for those with mobility needs. The hotel’s website also provides floor plans for each room so guests can determine the best option for them.

Is Little National family-friendly?

While the hotel offers family-friendly rooms, it does not specifically cater for families and children. Little National is tailored more towards couples, solo travelers and professionals seeking a quiet stay in the city.

Details

Best for: Guests looking for a quiet, sophisticated stay that’ll leave them feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Address: 21 National Circuit, Barton ACT

Phone: (02) 6185 1988

Cost: Prices range per night; check the website for details.

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.

Little National: the Canberra hotel with a big personality