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

Apartments in Paddys River

Compare and save

Change your mind

Book hotels with free cancellation

Treat yourself

Be picky

Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

In two weeks

In two months

In three months

In four months

Apartments in Paddys River

Central City Apartment, Pool, Sauna, Parking Available | Terrace/patio

"Great location and very good value for money "

AED 393 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

AED 738 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

"Nice apartment and conveniently located. Car parking is a little of a challenge but once you work it out it is OK"

AED 674 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

"The location is fantastic, overlooking Lake George.Next time "bring the bike" looks as if there are some great city rides around.Fantastic that they allow dogs.We will be re booking for sure"

AED 609 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

"Loved my stay here, and look forward to being able to return some time"

AED 1,274 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

Luxury Apartment, 2 Bedrooms | 1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi

"Close to shops and amenities "

"Very nice place, had what was needed. 2 b4 10 is a great cafe "

"One of best properties have stayed at. Had everything we needed and the extras were appreciated "

"Short but sweet"

AED 803 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

"The apartment was comfortable ,cozy ,well- stocked and clean.Our stay at Amanda's place was perfect for spending time with my family."

AED 537 total

includes taxes & fees

7 Oct - 8 Oct

"Some milk would have been a nice addition so as to make a coffee. Bed caused me to suffer a sore back. "

AED 821 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

"The property is perfectly located. Attractions, restaurants etc. Communication about access was great."

AED 583 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

"The apartment in a perfect loaction walking distance to Canberra Centre and restaurants. We had a carpark space. The apartment had plenty of space and room for 2 adults and 2 kids. Well equipped kitchen. The comfiest beds and tvs in each room. It was a relaxing holiday. Will definitely come again"

"Excellent location. Great communication. A most enjoyable stay."

AED 485 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

"While attempting to check in the keys to the property weren't where we were told, after contacting the owner they advised "the cleaner must still have them and be cleaning still" however after looking further there was an open house for the property after our check in time. After waiting for the open house to be completed pushing back our check in time past what was advertised and planned around and getting into the property all the bed sheets were dirty with hair in them aswell as laundry still...

AED 1,024 total

includes taxes & fees

7 Oct - 8 Oct

"Nice, comfortable apartment. Good location."

"Great location!! Well equipped kitchen, comfy beds, good view. "

"It was a lovely stay and we would happily visit again. "

"Close to family, comforts accommodation and great hosts"

"As this is a new building, the owners may need to consult building managers for some repairs.1. The ensuite bathroom toilet and basin were unusable. The toilet leaked heavily, and did not flush sufficiently.The basin drained very slowly. Plumbing and draining issues.2. The kitchen mixer tap is not connected to the bench properly and wobbles all around when trying to use it.These were big inconveniences to us as they are the most used items in the apartment.Location wise, we enjoyed our stay....

View all properties

Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Top Paddys River Hotel Reviews

Hotel Realm

10/10 Excellent

"Its a beautiful hotel. The 1 bedroom suite was spacious. Staff at the front desk were lovely, especially Ash (i meed to mention her). I think breakfast options at Ostani were limited (in particular, snack options). The room was clean on entry. But the cleaning during our stay was a bit careless. The bed was poorly .made and bathroom items carlessly placed. These little things matter "

Avenue Hotel Canberra

10/10 Excellent

"The hotel was well located with many restaurants and cafes near by and walking distance to many tourist attractions. Staff were super friendly and engaging. The one bedroom apartment was spacious and pristine with a lovely view of the mountains. The Avenue was one of the best hotels we have every stayed in and we will be back !"

Unlock instant savings with Member Prices

Apartments in Paddys River

Compare and save

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check prices for these dates

Apartments in Paddys River

City Central Canberra Unit

City Central Canberra Unit

Two-bedroom apartment in Canberra City

Two-bedroom apartment in Canberra City

2B2B1C Apartment with Stunning Lake Views

2B2B1C Apartment with Stunning Lake Views

Charming 1-Bedroom Lake View Apartment

Charming 1-Bedroom Lake View Apartment

Founders Lane Apartments by Urban Rest

Founders Lane Apartments by Urban Rest

CityStyle Executive Apartments Belconnen

CityStyle Executive Apartments Belconnen

Designer Gem! Comfort with Style. Boosts rooftop pool, spa, sauna & park.

Designer Gem! Comfort with Style. Boosts rooftop pool, spa, sauna & park.

Modern 1-Bed Unit with Pool Views and Balcony

Modern 1-Bed Unit with Pool Views and Balcony

2BR Apartment with Pool and Gym

2BR Apartment with Pool and Gym

Home away from home.

Home away from home.

Modern Apartment with Free Parking - 3 minutes to Canberra CBD

Modern Apartment with Free Parking - 3 minutes to Canberra CBD

Modern studio w/t wifi & parking

Modern studio w/t wifi & parking

New to VRBO: Modern 2BR APT in Highgate Executive Apartment

New to VRBO: Modern 2BR APT in Highgate Executive Apartment

Tuggeranong Short Stay #07 - Sleeps 6

Tuggeranong Short Stay #07 - Sleeps 6

Cosy 3 Bedroom apartment !

Cosy 3 Bedroom apartment !

New to VRBO: Contemporary 2BR Apt in Kingston

New to VRBO: Contemporary 2BR Apt in Kingston

Sleek 2-Bed Apartment with Rooftop Garden Access

Sleek 2-Bed Apartment with Rooftop Garden Access

New to VRBO: Comfy 2BA/2BR Kingston Foreshore Apartment

New to VRBO: Comfy 2BA/2BR Kingston Foreshore Apartment

Pet friendly & Tesla charging option’s

Pet friendly & Tesla charging option’s

Modern City Escape Phillip ACT

Modern City Escape Phillip ACT

Top Paddys River Hotel Reviews

Hotel Realm

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Apartments in Paddys River

More Accommodation Types in Paddys River