Unique Mount Gambier accommodation

From glamping stays to sojourns at former jails, and romantic weekends away at restored country manors, these six Mount Gambier accommodation options promise something for everyone.

Known for its plethora of natural attractions and awe-inspiring things to do, this city on the Limestone Coast is more than worthy of an extended stay. And thankfully, Mount Gambier has a rather decent number of accommodation options for visitors to choose from, whether you’re after a cheap and cheerful camping retreat, or a group getaway in a gorgeous little cottage.

For romantics:

Delgattie Estate

This boutique, adults-only hotel in the centre of Mount Gambier is among the plushest, and most serene you’ll find in the city. Built in 1902, the grand country manor has been restored to its former glory and opened its doors to guests in 2020.

This boutique hotel is among the plushest, and most serene you’ll find in the city. (Image: Zoe Wighton)

There are just three suites to choose from, each one individually designed and very much with its own character, but all feature an ensuite, a sitting room and private access, as well as Bose in-room speakers, Appelles Apothecary Lab amenities, a smattering of antique furnishings, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a mini bar featuring a selection of fine wines from the Limestone Coast region, plus spirits, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. Our pick? The Frew Suite, with its open fireplace, clawfoot bathtub and elegant navy and white colour scheme.

Address: 60 Penola Road, Mount Gambier, Limestone Coast, SA, 5290

Each suite is individually designed and very much with its own character. (Image: Zoe Wighton)

For those with pets:

Pine Country Caravan Park

It would be hard to find a spot that better caters to those travelling with dogs than Pine Country Caravan Park. This pet-friendly Mount Gambier accommodation option has a dedicated dog-friendly cabin that sleeps up to four, plus two dogs. Aside from all the typical holiday park mod cons (TV, kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, AC and heating etc.) the cabin also boasts its own fenced yard with outdoor seating, an outdoor dog kennel, and a dog’s water bowl.

Those that prefer to get a little closer to nature can instead bring their furballs along to the park’s campsite. The team at Pine Country is in fact so committed to welcoming pooches that there’s an off-lead dog paddock on-site, and a collection of local dog-friendly businesses listed on their website, from groomers and dog parks to vets, pet stores and cafes.

This pet-friendly Mount Gambier accommodation option has a dedicated dog-friendly cabin that sleeps up to four, plus two dogs. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

For families and groups:

Accommodation on Bertha (Airbnb)

It doesn’t get much more gorgeous than this three-bedroom cottage, which sleeps up to seven. Immaculately styled, this whitewashed Mount Gambier Airbnb has preserved a lot of its original features, but showcases a thoroughly contemporary yet casual and homely touch with rattan furnishings, rain shower heads, some glorious tilework and lashings of natural light. Basically, it deserves an entire spread in Vogue Living magazine. It’s also conveniently situated just a few paces from Mount Gambier’s lakes, as well as the city’s cafes and restaurants.

This whitewashed Mount Gambier Airbnb is immaculately styled. (Image: Airbnb)

For those seeking something a little bit different:

Glamping at Pine Country Caravan Park

If you’d like to gingerly dip your toes into the experience of camping yet slumming it just an inch above the grass in a damp and poky tent doesn’t appeal, then consider going glamping at Pine Country Caravan Park.

Located just on the outskirts of town, not far from the Blue Lake, this park has three adults-only canvas bell tents that overlook neighbouring farmland, fitted out with all the trimmings: a queen size mattress, a Nespresso coffee machine, an electric blanket for cool winter nights, a small fridge, a microwave, a kettle, and even your own private outdoor fire pit (timber and kindling supplied) along with a couple of Adirondack chairs. Plus, you get access to all the park’s facilities (think camp kitchen, communal barbecue area, and a communal herb garden).

Address: 2-16 Kilsby Road, Moorak, Pmb 6, Mount Gambier, SA, 5290

Consider going glamping at Pine Country Caravan Park. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Old Mount Gambier Gaol

Proudly anti-cookie cutter, this central accommodation option is perfect for those searching for something a little different – just don’t book expecting all the bells and whistles of a five-star property.

A former prison, built circa 1866, most of the rooms at Old Mount Gambier Gaol were once cells, which means they are smaller than your average hotel room at some six metres long and four metres wide. Yet with their arched roof and neutral colour scheme, these small dorms and doubles are somehow rather inviting. And if you’re curious about the experience, but not feeling quite courageous enough to sleep in a former cell then you can book one of the four ‘Family Dorm Rooms’, which were once used as offices, medical rooms and the original kitchen, or one of two onsite cottages that formerly housed wardens and gaol staff.

Address: 25 Margaret St, Mount Gambier SA, 5290

This central accommodation option is perfect for those searching for something a little different. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission; Adam Bruzzone)

For campers and caravanners:

Blue Lake Holiday Park

One of Australia’s BIG4 holiday parks, Blue Lake is located just on the cusp of the city, set on 27 acres of landscaped gardens. And it’s perfect for families: there’s an outdoor pool with a sectioned off shallow end for toddlers, plus a playground, a jumping pillow, two tennis courts, and a games room.

Keen golfers will be thrilled to discover that there’s an 18-hole PGA championship golf course next door, at the Blue Lake Golf Club. And those who like to travel with their four-legged friends will be pleased to know that the park is dog-friendly.

Campers and caravanners can choose from an ensuite powered site, a powered site, or an unpowered site.

Address: Lot 100 Bay Rd, Mount Gambier, SA, 5290

Blue Lake is located just on the cusp of the city, set on 27 acres of landscaped gardens. (Image: Ockert le Roux)