HG travel
the seat of the nation is an inspiring destination packed
withboutique hotels, wonderful eateries and fun things
to do for the whole family, writesAnna Johnson.CAPITAL IDEAS
D
riving into Canberra is like entering
an architect’s drawing. everything is
placed as designed. Happily,this
blueprint is changing and hotels have been
leading the way to make the aCt warmer
andmore tempting.
From the minute you enter the Modernist
lobby ofEast Hotel(easthotel.com.au)
in Kingston, you feel relaxed. Snippets
ofRomanHolidayandLa Dolce Vitaare
projected onto a big screen, recycled timberlines the high ceilings and complimentary
bicycles are lined up for leisurely rides
around the city. Our double family suite
is laid out like a well-organised apartment
withheart. Photography by local artists
adorns the walls and the adjoining kids’
‘cubby room’ thrills them with bean chairs,
bunk beds and an Xbox. We have booked
a Weekend In Canberra package, which
includestickets to the Monet exhibition at
theNational Gallery of Australia (NGA)The National Gallery of Australia (NGA).
OPPOSITEClockwise from top leftThe National
Portrait Gallery. Alfresco terrace at East Hotel.
A luxe bedroom at East, tastefully decorated and
supremely comfortable. The award-winning Pod
Playground at the National Arboretum, designed
by Taylor Cullity Lethlean. Brunch at Muse
bookshop and cafe at East. One of the precious
artworks in the Monet exhibition at the NGA.