An Elegant Classic: Hyatt Hotel Canberra

Guests arrive to a heritage-listed exterior that strikes a balance between stately and welcoming, though the Hyatt Hotel Canberra's low profile does little to hint at what awaits inside: four expansive levels and numerous wings in grand Art Deco style. A wander around these halls is like a crash course in our political history – spot the portraits of former prime ministers and pavilions bearing names like Curtin, Barton and Hughes. It was also the place PMs James Scullin and Kevin Rudd used to call home. There’s no shortage of meeting spots – from Speaker’s Corner Bar, which buzzes at night, to Griffin’s lounge, the pick in winter, thanks to its cosy lounges and crackling fire. The lavender and rose gardens are the place to be in the warmer months.

Location

A quintessentially Canberra suburb in that it’s highly populated by government officials as well as diplomats and foreign embassies, the borders of Yarralumla stretch right into the parliamentary zone and include the heritage Park Hyatt Hotel. From its leafy streets and quaint but resource-laden shopping village, you’ve got a clear drive in three directions to the CBD, Manuka or Kingston; or head south to Woden and Tuggeranong.

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