On the main approach into Canberra from the north, this long-standing motel-style place and its indistinguishable sister, the Canberran Lodge, are reliable budget options in what can be a pricey city. It's a long walk into town, but there's a light-rail stop right out the front. Owners Maria and Michael are adept at meeting the needs of weary travellers.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Canberra attractions

1. Australian Institute of Sport

1.83 MILES

The country's elite and aspiring athletes hone their sporting prowess at the AIS. Visitors can take 90-minute guided tours of the facilities, led by…

2. Mt Ainslie

2.14 MILES

Northeast of the city, 843m-high Mt Ainslie has excellent views day and night. At the top, plaques explain what the Canberra basin looked like before the…

3. Black Mountain

2.15 MILES

On the western side of the city, the forested slopes of Black Mountain (812m) provide some easily accessible bushland perfect for bushwalking and mountain…

4. Drill Hall Gallery

2.21 MILES

The Australian National University's main gallery displays specials exhibitions and items from the ANU's art collection. On permanent display is the…

5. Canberra Museum & Art Gallery

2.43 MILES

This local museum is worth it for the Sidney Nolan paintings alone – 141 works, including canvases from his Ned Kelly series and Burke and Wills…

6. Glebe Park

2.46 MILES

This spacious green park is filled with leafy elm trees that turn a lovely golden yellow in autumn. There's a playground for kids and lots of paved paths…

7. Australian War Memorial

2.55 MILES

Canberra's glorious art-deco war memorial is a highlight in a city filled with interesting architecture. Built to commemorate 'the war to end all wars',…

8. National Film & Sound Archive

2.69 MILES

Set in a delightful art-deco building (look for the stained-glass platypus in the foyer dome), this archive preserves Australian moving-picture and sound…