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.

Spend a few days visiting the real-life Central Australian locations that inspired the new film everyone is talking about, and discover why Alice Springs is such an important part of Australian culture.

In the credits of the new Australian film Kangaroo , the first name under ‘cast’ should read ‘The Northern Territory ’. Not only is Alice Springs (and the surrounding landscape) integral to the movie itself, but the spiritual heart of Australia and its local Indigenous owners also inform the look and feel of every frame, explains Producer Trisha Morton-Thomas of Brindle Films, who also plays Charlie’s grandmother Gwennie.

“By setting Kangaroo in Alice Springs (Mparntwe), the film embraces how visible Aboriginal people are here, and the living Aboriginal culture that is woven through this community,” she explains.

still from kangarro film — See *Kangaroo*, then visit the real-life filming locations.

And while shooting in such a sacred part of the Northern Territory required extra planning, it was something the cast and crew were highly invested in.

“There are incredibly significant sacred sites and places of deep cultural stories in the area, that at times are very gender-specific, which we’ve kept out of the production,” she explains. “Even if overhead drone footage captures a sacred site that isn’t meant to be seen by other people outside of that clan, we’ve made sure to omit it from the film.”

If Kangaroo piqued your interest in a Central Australian holiday, we don’t blame you. Read on to discover eight places featured in the movie that you can visit in real life – and get planning. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat.

1. Alice Springs/ Mparntwe

artist at Many Hands Art Centre — Visit the galleries of Alice Springs, like Many Hands Art Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr/ Many Hands Art Centre)

The red and dusty streets of the film’s fictional town of Silvergum were filmed on the outskirts of Alice Springs. And, while the art gallery featured in the film is fictional, Alice Springs is a hub of creativity. See the work of local artists at the Araluen Art Centre , Yubu Napa Art Gallery , Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre and the famous Tjanpi Desert Weavers .

2. The Kangaroo Sanctuary & Kangaroo Rescue Centre

The Kangaroo Sanctuary Alice Springs, the inspiration for the Kangaroo move — Visit the movie’s inspiration at Kangaroo Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/ Kangaroo Sanctuary)

Kangaroo was inspired by the journey of Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, who founded the now world-renowned Kangaroo Sanctuary based in Alice Springs. For lead actor, Aussie Ryan Corr, the animals were central to the movie, alongside the landscapes.

“The animals in this story were a real calling point for me,” he explains. “What this story tries to tell us about the connection between humans and animals is beautiful.”

To gain a real insight into the fauna and flora of the Red Centre, you can visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary on a sunset tour, where you might even get the chance to hold a baby kangaroo.

3. Ormiston Gorge

woman walking along the edge of Ormiston Gorge near alice springs — Take a dip in Ormiston Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/ @domandjesso)

The film captures the raw beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, known in the Arrernte language as Tjoritja. This national park is rich in Indigenous culture and stark geological wonders.

Only a 15-minute drive from Alice Springs, Tjoritja offers visitors the chance to camp, hike and swim among ancient landscapes (most attractions are less than a three-hour drive away).

Ormiston Gorge , a cooling oasis in among the red desert sands, is one of the most popular destinations, no doubt because of the permanent swimming hole and towering red cliffs. From here, visitors can also embark on the beautiful Ormiston Pound Walk and the shorter – more accessible – Ghost Gum Walk. Bring your bathers – it’s safe for swimming.

4. Standley Chasm

woman walking through Standley Chasm near alice springs — Wander through Standley Chasm. (Image: Tourism NT)

The 1.2-kilometre walk to nearby Standley Chasm will be a highlight for any visitor as the imposing 40 metre-high chasm walls project strength and ancient wisdom.

Visit at midday to experience the path illumined by the midday sun. Not only will you fill your camera roll with vibrant red images of the gorge and its intoxicating shadows, but you can also camp nearby in a powered or unpowered site so you can watch the brilliance of the desert stars fill the night sky after dusk.

5. Simpsons Gap

three people walking on path through simpsons gap near alice springs — Walk the trails of Simpson’s Gap. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr)

Closer to Alice Springs, the photogenic Simpsons Gap is the perfect place to spot the endangered Black-footed Rock wallaby near the permanent watering hole. While swimming isn’t permitted, soaking up the sun and views certainly is.

Explore the area’s numerous walking trails, appreciate the soaring cliffs on either side of the ‘gap’ and pick out the shooting locations of Kangaroo in the area.

6. Ellery Creek Big Hole

aerial of Ellery Creek Big Hole near alice springs — Dive into Ellery Creek Big Hole. (Image: Tourism NT/ Tourism Australia)

When it comes to classic Northern Territory landscapes, you can’t go past Ellery Creek Big Hole/ Udepata : tall gum trees sidling up to a refreshing watering hole (fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges and surrounded by rugged red cliffs.

Swim in the cooling waters, hike the cliff tops, watch for birds and even stargaze as you camp here overnight. It’s locations like this that attracted the film’s director Kate Woods to the project.

“It humbles you to be in this environment: it’s so beautiful, so old and so vast,” she explains. “I was thrilled to get a chance to … shoot such a beautiful story in the incredible landscape of the Northern Territory.”

7. Larapinta Drive

aerial of Larapinta Drive into alice springs — Drive along Larapinta Drive. (Image: Tourism NT)

There is no better way to get a feel for how the characters arrived at the fictional Central Australian town of Silvergum than to travel along the iconic state road, Larapinta Drive.

Connecting Alice Springs to the mighty King’s Canyon in the west, via the historic community of Hermannsburg, this road takes in the West MacDonnell National Park, Alice Springs Desert Park and artist Albert Namatjira’s house, among other attractions. Take your time, bring a camera and prepare for numerous stops along the way.

8. Todd River

competitors in Henley on Todd Regatta, alice springs — Join in the fun of the quirky Henley on Todd Regatta. (Image: Tourism NT/ TImparja Creative)

Meandering through Alice Springs like a lazy Western Brown snake, the Todd River is a central part of Alice Springs culture. Known as an ‘intermittent river’, the Todd can go from a dry dusty riverbed to a flowing waterscape in less than 15 minutes after heavy rainfall.

When it’s dry, the famous Henley on Todd Regatta fills the sandy riverbed with handmade ‘boats’ carried by sailors. This is the world’s only dry river boating event, and it’s referenced in the ‘Silvergum Boat Race’ in the movie. Inspired by the real-life event, the characters built quirky “Flintstones-style boats” and competed in teams.

See Kangaroo in cinemas now, and start planning your NT getaway at northernterritory.com.

Little National: the Canberra hotel with a big personality