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.

Thredbo in summer is a nature lover’s dream of show-stopping alpine beauty, cool mountain air and magical moonlit adventure.

For many of us, Thredbo calls to mind shimmering slopes and snow-dusted gums, but come summer, this Alpine resort transforms into a playground of an entirely different kind. A cool mountain retreat despite the season, Thredbo summer hikes are astonishingly beautiful, criss-crossing over dramatic peaks, pristine glacial lakes and abundant flora and fauna.

From approachable tracks for novice walkers to more challenging hikes across the Main Range and even journeys under moonlight, Thredbo puts on an unforgettable show of natural splendour all summer. Lace up your walking boots and take the chairlift from Thredbo village to embark on a self-guided exploration or a tour of the Snowy Mountains’ most compelling landscapes.

These eight unforgettable hiking experiences are only available in summer and offer an alpine adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

1. Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko

There’s something almost mystical about hiking by the light of a full moon. This guided experience begins with a 15-minute chairlift ride, where you’ll admire the Thredbo Valley below, bathed in the fading sun.

Once at the top, you’ll pass rivers, alpine lakes and spot nocturnal wildlife on your way to the Kosciuszko Lookout and Lake Cootapatamba. By the time you reach the summit, sunset is well underway as you watch day give way to night and the alpine landscape magically illuminated by the lunar glow. Enjoy a hot chocolate here before following the path back to Eagles Nest, brightened by the night sky.

This 13-kilometre hike will take place on 3 January, 2 February, and 2 April in 2026.

2. Super Full Moon Hike

Super Full Moon Hike in thredbo — Take in the might of a super full moon.

The only thing that could level up the celestial beauty of a full moon hike would be a super full moon hike . Following the same route, you’ll meet the moon when it is largest and closest to Earth by ascending to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2228 metres. From such a height, it almost feels as though you could reach out and touch its glowing surface.

Given the rarity and splendour of the super full moon, limited spots fill up fast for this awe-inspiring hike, so be sure to book the 5 December in advance.

3. Lunar Eclipse Hike

Thredbo Lunar Eclipse Hike — See dazzling celestial displays.

What could be more extraordinary than witnessing a lunar eclipse from Australia’s highest peak? Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply revel in nature’s beauty, this guided 13-kilometre hike will place you on top of Mount Kosciuszko just as Earth passes between the sun and moon, throwing shade over the lunar surface before transforming it with a deep-red hue.

It’s an epic place to witness one of our galaxy’s most spectacular and rare light shows. Apart from the dazzling celestial display, you’ll also enjoy walking through the moon-bathed landscape, an evening chairlift ride, and a hot chocolate at the summit.

Book now for 3 March.

4. New Moon Hike

New Moon Hike Mt Kosciuszko — Catch the changing skies of a new moon.

A stargazer’s delight, the darkness of a new moon gives the Milky Way full permission to dazzle with its shimmering display. Both astronomers and photographers will relish this opportunity to observe and capture the starry skyscape from the lofty height of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Departing Thredbo Village at dusk and leaving its twinkling lights far below, you’ll arrive at the summit in time to see the sun slip away and the stars appear.

Catch this hike during the new moon lunar phase on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.

5. Thredbo River Track

Embark on a gentle entry into the Snowy Mountain scenery with an amble along the Thredbo River. This self-guided hike hugs the river and wanders along the valley floor, revealing snow gum forests, swimming holes and little waterfalls that make for revitalising cold plunges in the summer heat.

6. Merritts Nature Track

Merritts Nature Track thredbo summer hikes — Stop at swimming holes along the way.

On warm summer days, venturing into the cooler air of Thredbo’s alpine tracks offers relief from the heat. Particularly if you set course for the four-kilometre Merritts Nature Track , where there are opportunities to take a refreshing dip in swimming holes along the way.

The two-to-three-hour self-guided hike meanders through towering ancient trees (dubbed the ‘Pixie Forest’ by locals), takes in stunning mountain vistas and is soundtracked by the melody of birdsong. Stop for a picnic and discover a hidden natural infinity pool, the location of which is given away by the roar of a cascading waterfall.

7. Mt Kosciuszko Summit Tour

Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko's summit. — Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.

While you can easily steer yourself to Australia’s most iconic peak without a guide, following an expert guide to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko will colour your experience with a deeper knowledge of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. The 13-kilometre return trail puts the alpine scenery on display with 360-degree views from the highest spot in the country.

The walk begins at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and takes around four to six hours to complete, but is gentle enough to be embarked upon by all ages.

8. Snowies Alpine Walk Experience

If you’re looking to truly untether from daily life and embark on a real immersion in Thredbo’s stunning alpine scenery, pack your hiking boots for the newest multi-day walk in the mountains. The Snowies Alpine Walk can be tackled over two or three days and includes nightly accommodation in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, daily buffet breakfast, packed lunch and dinner vouchers, plus daily transfers to and from trail heads in a brand-new Defender.

The two-day experience covers 24 kilometres, while the three-day experience almost doubles that at 44 kilometres. Along the way, explore barely trod landscapes, vast high-country plains and uplifting mountain horizons.

Discover the full offering of summer hikes in Thredbo at thredbo.com.au.

Little National: the Canberra hotel with a big personality