Part of the story of the climb -
The ascent was almost unnoticeable for the first kilometre or so as you passed by dried reeds that stood out in the backlight. The climb proper began as you reached the forest. Now it was a true hikers’ trail. Switchback after switchback until you reach a saddle between two mountains. Here there was a round table with bench seats and a sign proclaiming that this was Ngunnawal country. The mount had indeed been significant for them, a place to guide their paths.
There was another sign about orchids. “This section of the track is particularly rich in orchids, especially in spring” and “Tidbinbilla has more orchid species than all of Britain” got me somewhat excited. Now, other than the snakes I’d been keeping an eye out for, I could look for orchids. Way I figured it was that seeing an orchid would give me a special feeling of goodness while sighting a snake is clearly not a pleasant experience and death can result. Bit of no-brainer really. For the next ¾ of an hour though, I saw neither, though you must remember I was really only looking for orchids.
From the saddle the climb became steep in places and they ever had steps here and there. Glimpses of distant views could be garnered through gaps in the branches, hastening my footsteps somewhat. Somehow you most often seemed to be heading away from your destination but then, a few twists and turns later and you could see the summit above.
Scraggy gums left mottled shadows as you moved into the granite proper, large lumps of rocks that you had to divert around, like protective walls around a castle, and you had to find a way through. The rocks became larger and then, just ahead, a properly constructed lookout of hatched steel flooring.
Somehow, while the view was impressive, you just knew it was going to be better further on. The trail swung away and into the large outcrop until, suddenly, you were beside a broad made road, the fire trail that came via a different, and shorter route. Right beside it was a sign, “Welcome to Gibraltar Peak”. Yet you weren’t actually up the top just yet. That was about another 300 metres further on and, when I zig-zagged through the giant boulders, excitement came to the fore yet again.
There was a giant crack in one monolith that you could squeeze through and that led you to what could be fairly labelled the rear view. Impressive though it was, you couldn’t help but feel the main event was on the other side, and so it transpired. Finally clearing all obstacles I clambered on top of one giant slab of rock. “Wow” was the word that immediately came to mind and it didn’t disappear for some time. - continued on next page

Motels in Paddys River

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Compare 23 Motels in Paddys River with updated reviews, rates, and availability.

"The hotel was clean everything was fine for the one night we stayed price was reasonable for what you get "

AED 208 total

includes taxes & fees

18 May - 19 May

Minibar, laptop workspace, iron/ironing board, free cribs/infant beds

"Stayed here before and my request for same room was able to be met."

AED 372 total

includes taxes & fees

27 May - 28 May

"Nice clean and well managed: ideal accommodation for a short stay. "

AED 266 total

includes taxes & fees

27 May - 28 May

"Place and Staff are nice. Only beds are not comfortable."

AED 264 total

includes taxes & fees

16 May - 17 May

"Always stay here clean friendly and close to everything.."

AED 246 total

includes taxes & fees

7 Jun - 8 Jun

Deluxe Queen and Single Room | Premium bedding, desk, soundproofing, iron/ironing board

"I stayed here for a night with my dog and everything was great! Easy self-check-in, comfortable bed, cute property, great rates."

AED 277 total

includes taxes & fees

27 May - 28 May

King + Double | Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets

"I regularly stay at this property as a business traveller. Good location, tidy, comfortable rooms and friendly staff."

AED 270 total

includes taxes & fees

18 May - 19 May

"It’s very good for the price. Check in and out was very convenient. We were actually lucky to have early check in. Thanks."

AED 270 total

includes taxes & fees

27 May - 28 May

"Shes good for the price, getting a bit long in the tooth."

AED 284 total

includes taxes & fees

27 May - 28 May

"Great place to stay comfortable beds , fantastic shower , great heating ,very clean , overall a lovely place. "

AED 290 total

includes taxes & fees

15 May - 16 May

Fridge, coffee/tea maker, electric kettle

"Good motel Clean and safe "

AED 237 total

includes taxes & fees

15 May - 16 May

"Clean, Good Value for money, Comfort Shower Water is hot "

AED 307 total

includes taxes & fees

25 May - 26 May

"Great staff. Villas were nice and quiet. Enjoyed my stay."

AED 316 total

includes taxes & fees

27 May - 28 May

"Nice property. Quiet and convenient "

AED 321 total

includes taxes & fees

15 May - 16 May

"Very nice and accommodating staff. The Margeurita is spotlessly clean! "

AED 292 total

includes taxes & fees

27 May - 28 May

"It is great value for money, very quiet and conveniently located."

Desk, iron/ironing board, bed sheets, wheelchair access

"Location was great. Close to town, walking distance to the bowling club. Rooms are spacious and very clean. Beds are very comfortable. Would have no hesitation in staying there again. "

AED 259 total

includes taxes & fees

15 May - 16 May

"Great location. Rooms were immaculate and the staff were amazing"

AED 411 total

includes taxes & fees

15 May - 16 May

Luxury Triple Room, Mountain View | Desk, laptop workspace, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

"Nice & clean rooms. All facilities provided were in very good condition. Helpful staff. Will recommend it to all who are looking for a nice property to stay at a budget."

AED 310 total

includes taxes & fees

18 May - 19 May

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Recent reviews of Paddys River hotels

5/5 Excellent

"Near to train station , left luggage facility , clean and comfortable"

A verified traveler stayed at Ramada by Wyndham Diplomat Canberra

Posted 1 day ago

5/5 Excellent

"Great to have an old building being used to its fullest potential. Courtyard looks amazing . Room was clean , linen was fresh , room was comfortable and good size . While there is approx 15-20 free parking spots unsecured at the front it's $28 to use their rear secured car park . The $28 extra parking fee would be a reason for me to find a hotel without a parking fee. It was 3 adults and 3 rooms . All 3 rooms were good . The breakfast only concern was when you pick up a plate to use that's been through the dish washer and it still has food remnants on its and juice glasses were similar . "

A verified traveler stayed at Mercure Canberra

Posted 6 days ago

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Motels in Paddys River

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Frequently asked questions

What can I expect from a motel trip to Paddys River?

Because you’ll save on your room price, you can enjoy all that Paddys River has to offer. National Zoo and Aquarium, Parliament House, and National Museum of Australia are some of the popular places you can visit in the larger area.

What are motels like?

Motels often have free parking, and many also feature an outdoor pool. Often one or two stories tall, motel properties usually have outdoor access to guestrooms from the parking lot. Motels began in the 1920s as a convenient place to stay for the tired traveler taking a road trip along America’s major roadways.

What things can I to do in Paddys River?

Favorite places in and around Paddys River include National Zoo and Aquarium, Parliament House, and National Museum of Australia. These are some of the parks and outdoorsy places: Bullen Range Nature Reserve, Kambah Pool Recreation Area, and Pine Island-Point Hut. You’ll find these family-friendly sights in the area: Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex, Questacon (National Science and Technology Centre), and Glebe Park. During your trip, here are some other places to visit: Lanyon Landscape Conservation, Namadgi National Park, and Stony Creek Nature Reserve.

What's the seasonal weather like in Paddys River?

Weather can make or break a roadtrip, so we’ve gathered some data about year-round temperatures in Paddys River to help you plan yours. The hottest months are usually January and February with an average temp of 66°F, while the coldest months are July and June with an average of 45°F. Average annual precipitation for Paddys River is 23 inches.

What are my options for getting around Paddys River when staying in a motel?

We’ve gathered some information about getting around Paddys River to help you navigate your stay: Fly into Canberra, ACT (CBR-Canberra Intl.), which is located 15.8 mi (25.4 km) away from the city center. If you’d like to venture out around the area, consider renting a car to take in more sights.

Motels in Paddys River

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Compare 23 Motels in Paddys River with updated reviews, rates, and availability.

Forrest Hotel and Apartments

ibis Styles Canberra Tall Trees

Canberra Lyneham Motor Inn

Crestview Tourist Park

Golden Age Motor Inn Queanbeyan

Grand Manor Motor Inn - Queanbeyan

Queanbeyan Motel

Canberra Ave Villas

Olympia Motel

Hamilton’s Queanbeyan Motel

Crest Motor Inn

River Motel

Sundown Villas

Country Plaza Queanbeyan

Motel Margeurita

Red Cedars Motel

Parkway Motel

Mid City Motor Inn

Rainbow Motel Queanbeyan

Capital Airport Motel

Recent reviews of Paddys River hotels

Ramada by Wyndham Diplomat Canberra

Crowne Plaza Canberra by IHG

Abode Belconnen

Avenue Hotel Canberra

Meriton Suites Canberra

The Sebel Canberra Civic

Brassey Hotel

Pavilion on Northbourne

Mercure Canberra

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Motels in Paddys River

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Frequently asked questions