The Best Mount Gambier Accommodation

Searching for the perfect Mount Gambier accommodation? From old gaols and boutique hotels to upscale homes, there’s something for every kind of traveller.

You’ve got the spectacular sinkholes noted and the lakes circled, but what to do about locking in that perfect Mount Gambier accommodation? With our pick of the bunch, you’ll be buckled in for the holiday of a lifetime.

Prefer a stay at a local caravan park? Don’t worry, we’ve got a separate list for that too.

1. Mount Gambier Hotel

Say hello to the accommodation option that has it: a central location in the middle of Mount Gambier, affordability, and an Art Deco aesthetic thanks to its extensive renovation.

a spacious bedroom at Mount Gambier Hotel — Mount Gambier Hotel offers a spacious and cosy bed to lay your head.

Established in 1862, at Mount Gambier Hotel you’ll find a total of 16 tastefully decorated and incredibly spacious rooms – 15 of them upstairs including two pooch-friendly superior queen rooms, two family suites, while one two-bedroom suite can be found downstairs.

A decent onsite bistro serves some of the best – and most generous – breakfasts around, while the plentiful parking makes a stay super convenient.

a table-top view of generous breakfast plates at Mount Gambier Hotel — Treat yourself to generously plated breakfasts at Mount Gambier Hotel.

Phone number: (08) 8726 7000

Address: 2 Commercial West Street, Mount Gambier

2. The Barn

There’s little doubt you’ll be heading to The Barn – located less than a 10-minute drive from the centre of Mount Gambier – for a steak (it’s the best in the region), but why not settle in and make a night of your visit?

the exterior of The Barn surrounded by manicured English-style gardens — Surrounded by manicured English-style gardens, The Barn oozes countryside charm.

Featuring generously proportioned suites set among five acres of artfully manicured English-style gardens, accommodation options – mostly constructed from Mount Gambier Limestone – are available in a wide variety of configurations to suit every kind of traveller keen on enjoying a quasi-farm experience.

a stack of wine bottles in the storage of The Barn Steakhouse — The Barn Steakhouse features an array of wines from the local wineries of the Limestone Coast. (Image: The Barn)

We love The Farmhouse, a recently rebuilt four-bedroom house with rural views located just 350 metres from The Barn, which also features high-quality amenities including a tennis court, piano bar and 24-hour fitness centre.

the bedroom at The Barn, Mt Gambier — Sleep soundly in the four-bedroom house.

Phone number: (08) 8726 9999

Address: 747 Glenelg River Road, OB Flat

3. Jens Hotel

Falling in love is easy when you’re faced with the romance of a pretty-as-a-picture 19th century facade paying homage to the early days of this, one of Mount Gambier’s oldest hotels.

Upon check-in, you’ll notice that olde-worlde charm is still there, represented by the central staircase (yes, it’s popular with the wedding and school formal set), and the opulent chandelier, but the good news here is that the 15-room Jens Hotel has all the mod-cons a stay in Mount Gambier requires, including a cafe-style dining area, newly established beer garden and a sports bar.

Halfway through a significant renovation (half the rooms have already been refurbished), there are accommodation options across every price point from premium to budget.

Phone number: (08) 8725 0188

Address: 40 Commercial Street East, Mount Gambier

4. The Park Hotel Mount Gambier

What’s that? Another historic, centrally located hotel? The Park Hotel Mount Gambier, established in 1890, differs from its peers by offering a truly boutique experience, with just three hotel rooms of various sizes available for guests.

a look inside the bedroom of The Park Hotel, Mt Gambier — Stay in one of the boutique suites at The Park Hotel.

A favourite with corporate travellers who value the property for its convenience, the rooms – all featuring that all-important Nespresso machine are located on the second floor, but we love the Matthews Suite, a two-bedroom offering featuring an open gas fireplace and a luxurious spa. Downstairs, the friendly bistro below delivers classic pub meals and weekly specials seven days a week. It even has a drive-through bottle shop boasting the largest selection of Coonawarra wines in town.

two glasses of wine at the bistro of The Park Hotel, Mt Gambier — Head downstairs for a glass or two.

Shared laundry facilities and a communal kitchen are also available on site, making this a convenient property for those longer stays.

the dining interior of the bistro at The Park Hotel, Mt Gambier — The bistro below The Park Hotel also serves classic pub meals.

Phone number: (08) 8726 7500

Address: 163 Commercial Street West, Mount Gambier

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

5. Colhurst House

Sometimes one needs a manor to call one’s own, but if you’re fresh out of luck in the property (and dare we say, inheritance) stakes, you can rent that feeling for a night or two at Colhurst house.

a bathtub and robe hanging inside Colhurst Place, Mount Gambier — Colhurst House has a bathtub to warm up in the cooler months. (Image: Tyrone Ormsby)

An elegant property built in the 1800s surrounded by lush, manicured gardens, Colhurst House is all about romance. Whether you book the dramatic Black Room, the soothing White Room or the Tartan Room, a stay here is entry into a world of whirlpool bathtubs, original fireplaces, and high, ornate ceilings with the building still featuring many of its original touches.

What’s more, even though you’ll feel like you’re miles from anywhere, you’re only mere metres from Mount Gambier’s city centre.

the entrance door of Colhurst Place in Mount Gambier — Step into the graceful manor that is Colhurst House. (Image: Tyrone Ormsby)

Address: 3 Colhurst Place, Mount Gambier

Phone number: (08) 8723 1309

6. The Domes at Mountain Path Meadows

Fancy a night (or two) of staring at the stars from your very own bed? Unplug from technology and say yes to romance with a stay at The Domes at Mountain Path Meadows, two geodesic timber glamping domes set within a 12-acre estate.

a glamping dome at Mountain Path Meadows — The Domes at Mountain Path Meadows come with a woodfired sauna. (Image: @2bcheese)

Set at the base of dormant volcano crater Mount Schank just 15 minutes from Mount Gambier, each dome features its own unique aesthetic, with The Traveller Dome sleeping four in a king-size bed, as well as a queen-size sofa bed, and The Birdcage sleeping four in two queen-size sofa bed configurations.

No need to worry about sharing the space with strangers; the domes are hired as a pair.

an aerial view of The Domes at Mountain Path Meadows — The two geodesic timber glamping domes are set at the foot of Mount Schank. (Image:@vadrouilleursdumonde)

Address: 12 Mountain Path Road, Mount Schank

Phone number: 0413 599 160

7. Mount Gambier Apartments MG Delux

For those who prefer something self-contained and featuring all the mod-cons of home, Mount Gambier Apartments offers a wide range of apartments across Mount Gambier specialising in corporate, long-term, short-term and last-minute bookings.

the bedroom interior of Mount Gambier Apartments MG Delux — Indulge in the alluring comforts of an apartment stay at MG Delux.

MG Delux is perfect for families – or groups of friends – travelling the Limestone Coast together, offering four bedrooms sleeping up to seven guests, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and laundry, and for those who are all about enjoying themselves under the sun, an outdoor entertainment area and barbeque.

the kitchen at Mount Gambier Apartments MG Delux — MG Delux comes with a fully equipped kitchen to conveniently prepare meals.

A central location also means everything – including those all-important supermarkets – is right on your very doorstep.

an al fresco seating area at Mount Gambier Apartments MG Delux — The apartment also has an al fresco spot to barbecue.

Phone number: 0409 250 577

Address: Unit 4, 19 Davidson Street, Mount Gambier

8. Comfort Inn The Lakes, Mount Gambier

For those who prefer the rolling hills surrounding the Blue Lake and Valley Lake, the Comfort Inn The Lakes Mount Gambier is the place that has it all.

the scenic view from The Comfort Inn The Lakes Mount Gambier — The Comfort Inn The Lakes is nestled between rolling hills.

Situated on the edge of the Valley Lake Crater and serving up pretty-as-a-picture views across the city, the property offers a range of rooms for different configurations, including a Honeymoon Suite and a Family Room.

The kids will love the indoor heated pool and spa – not to mention the property’s proximity to the city centre – while adults will appreciate the onsite guest laundry facilities (sad, but true).

a spacious bedroom suite with a floor-to-ceiling window at Comfort Inn The Lakes Mount Gambier — Wake up to picturesque views across the city.

Phone number: (08) 8725 5755

Address: 17 Lake Terrace West, Mount Gambier

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9. Abode Accommodations

Introducing the perfect holiday home that has the lot: a gas wood fire and ducted heating (perfect for those cold winter days), a large pergola area with a Weber Q for those sunny days when you want to enjoy the warm Limestone Coast weather, and of course, all the mod cons indoors required for the ultimate getaway.

a living room with a fireplace at Abode Accommodations, Mt Gambier — Cosy up by the fireplace to keep warm on cold winter days.

Located in central Mount Gambier just five minutes from local restaurants, supermarkets, pubs and shops, Abode Accommodations’ newly renovated property features TVs in each bedroom so every member of the family has an opportunity to switch off and relax within their own space.

a modern bathroom with a tub at Abode Accommodations, Mt Gambier — Luxuriate in your private tub.

Phone number: 0411 616 301

Address: 149 Commercial Street West, Mount Gambier

10. Kilsby Sinkhole & Accommodation

For decades Kilsby Sinkhole has been celebrated as THE place to dive and snorkel, but those keen to stay in the serene Moorah area (a 15-minute drive from Mount Gambier) a little longer will be thrilled to learn that the folks behind the famous sinkhole have just thrown open the doors to their all-new accommodation offering.

the Kilsby Sinkhole & Accommodation — Book a stay next to the Kilsby Sinkhole. (Image: Ockert LeRoux)

Situated on private farmland just beside the sinkhole, their range of two-bedroom villas come equipped with every modern amenity possible, including beautifully appointed kitchens and feature a large barbeque area complete with a rustic fire pit in the common area.

the outdoor deck at Kilsby Sinkhole & Accommodation — While away the afternoon on the outdoor deck overlooking the farmland. (Image: Matilda Jones)

Designed to cater for all groups, whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family or a larger group of up to six. For groups of up to 10, you can even book Flexi Villa 1 and Flexi Villa 2 and unlock the dividing common door to share the space under the same roof.

farm animals grazing in the field at Kilsby Sinkhole & Accommodation — See farm animals grazing in the field. (Image: Matilda Jones)

Address: 525 Sisters Road, Moorak

Phone number: 0408 826 355

11. Old Mount Gambier Gaol

If you’re looking for something quirky, this might be it. Built around 1866, most of the rooms at Old Mount Gambier Gaol were once cells, each space sitting at some six metres by four metres. Of course, now that they’re hotel rooms, this means they’re a little smaller than average, but then again, there’s also a sense of, ‘Boy, if these walls could talk’.

two people entering Old Mount Gambier Gaol at night — Come to Old Mount Gambier Gaol for the heritage. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

For those who aren’t so thrilled about staying in a former cell, another option presents itself in the form of a Family Dorm Room, four spaces which were once used as offices, medical rooms and the original kitchen of the gaol, or you can even book one of two onsite cottages.

It’s the ultimate opportunity to delve deep into Mount Gambier’s history.

kids exploring around Old Mount Gambier Gaol — The accommodation can be a great learning experience for your kids as they glimpse into the past. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

Address: 25 Margaret Street, Mount Gambier

Phone number: (08) 8723 0032

12. A Place to Call Home Mount Gambier

It’s the name that grabs you first of all, sure, but once you see A Place to Call Home Mount Gambier, a four-bedroom holiday home nested in a quiet, tree-lined street, you’ll understand exactly why the property was given this title.

the kitchen at A Place to Call Home Mount Gambier — A stay at this humble abode feels like home.

Featuring all the creature comforts you could ever need for your time in Mount Gambier (fully equipped kitchen, gas log heater and an enclosed alfresco area), the quaint property designed with a charming cottage aesthetic can comfortably sleep up to six guests.

A Place to Stay Mount Gambier accommodation — The charming white exterior of the home.

Extra points for the gargantuan backyard which features a fire-pit area, undercover ‘beer garden’ and plenty of space for ball games, making this the perfect property to book with kids.

the seating area at the beer garden of A Place to Call Home Mount Gambier — Breathe in fresh air at the beer garden.

Phone number: 0408 854 662

Address: 33 Lindsay Street, Mount Gambier

Travelling in the area? Check out our list of awe-inspiring things to do in Mount Gambier.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery. Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda, and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines.

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk, one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines, where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala. Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie, right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk, an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park. Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast, a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery, where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal, which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores, between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch. Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong. A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery, which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen. It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

Mount Gambier accommodation: An ultimate guide to the very best stays

Searching for the perfect Mount Gambier accommodation? From old gaols and boutique hotels to upscale homes, there’s something for every kind of traveller.

1. Mount Gambier Hotel

2. The Barn

3. Jens Hotel

4. The Park Hotel Mount Gambier

5. Colhurst House

6. The Domes at Mountain Path Meadows

7. Mount Gambier Apartments MG Delux

8. Comfort Inn The Lakes, Mount Gambier

9. Abode Accommodations

10. Kilsby Sinkhole & Accommodation

11. Old Mount Gambier Gaol

12. A Place to Call Home Mount Gambier

Travelling in the area? Check out our list of awe-inspiring things to do in Mount Gambier.

Your guide to Mount Gambier’s best caravan parks

Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong

Searching for the perfect Mount Gambier accommodation? From old gaols and boutique hotels to upscale homes, there’s something for every kind of traveller.

1. Mount Gambier Hotel

2. The Barn

3. Jens Hotel

4. The Park Hotel Mount Gambier

AI Prompt

5. Colhurst House

6. The Domes at Mountain Path Meadows

7. Mount Gambier Apartments MG Delux

8. Comfort Inn The Lakes, Mount Gambier

9. Abode Accommodations

10. Kilsby Sinkhole & Accommodation

11. Old Mount Gambier Gaol

12. A Place to Call Home Mount Gambier

Travelling in the area? Check out our list of awe-inspiring things to do in Mount Gambier.

Your guide to Mount Gambier’s best caravan parks

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong