Your Guide to Mount Gambier Pubs | Australian Traveller

Kick back with a cocktail and enjoy the golden glow of the setting sun, in the best Mount Gambier pubs.

Mount Gambier is the second-largest city in South Australia and is a natural wonderland rich with history. But when you’re not exploring the sights like the Blue Lake or lava caves, Mount Gambier is also home to some great, historic country-style pubs that’ll make you feel right at home.

All Aussie travellers know there’s no better way to unwind than hitting up a country pub, ordering a schnitty, getting an RSL-style wine pour or indulging in a ridiculously cheap schooner.

So, when you’ve finished the day taking in the natural wonders of Mount Gambier, we’ve compiled a list of the best Mount Gambier pubs to unwind in.

1. Macs Hotel

Macs Hotel Cider Garden and interior in Mount Gambier — Unwind with a bev in the Cider Garden.

For friendly service and simple but generously sized meals, Macs Hotel is a good place to settle in. Whether you’re unwinding with a bev in the Cider Garden or hitting up their bistro lunch specials, Mac’s vibey atmosphere and selection of craft beers and cocktails won’t disappoint.

Make sure to check out the weekly ‘What’s On’ at this local favourite when you’re visiting: from Taco Tuesdays and Steak & Shiraz night to themed ‘00s parties and Saturday DJs, Mac’s Hotel has a range of events to keep every punter happy, every day of the week.

Address: 21 Bay Rd, Mount Gambier

2. Federal Hotel

the building exterior of Federal Hotel, Mount Gambier — Settle into Federal Hotel for a cold one.

Located right on the main road, the Federal plates up the kind of classic pub grub that has visitors coming back for multiple bistro sessions.

From the roast of the day to a huge range of sauces and toppings for your chicken schnitzel, there’s a reason why this Mount Gambier pub is a firm favourite for locals and visitors alike. Don’t forget to check out the cocktail list too, for a range of affordable cocktails, with some as cheap as $10!

Address: 112 Commercial St East, Mount Gambier

3. Jens Town Hall Hotel

Jens Town Hall Hotel in Mount Gambier — The historical facade of Jens Town Hall Hotel. (Image: Getty Images/ lkonya)

Indulging in a beverage in Jens Hotel’s stunning 19th-century building feels like dining in a little bit of history. Jens is one of Mount Gambier’s oldest pubs and hotels, and the grand staircase and chandeliers will transport you right back in time. Decked out with a sports bar adjacent to the dining area, Jens is the ideal place to kick back with an arvo drink and catch up on a game. Plus, the fresh salad bar is the perfect accompaniment to any pub steak, schnitzel, or burger.

Address: 40 Commercial St East, Mount Gambier

4. South Australian Hotel

South Australian Hotel Food — Enjoy locally sourced fare at the South Australian Hotel.

Another pub boasting a salad bar, the South Australian Hotel is a big believer in supporting local businesses, sourcing fresh meat and veggies from the area. With huge portion sizes and a happy hour that runs every night of the week from 3 pm to 6 pm, there’s never been a better time to sink a $4 schooner or kick back with a $6 glass of Champagne.

For travellers visiting Mount Gambier earlier in the week, make sure to head along for Monday’s ‘kids eat free’ night or Tuesday’s two-for-one chicken schnitzels. If you’re popping up later in the week, Saturdays are reserved for live entertainment, so kick back and enjoy the tunes.

Address: 78 Commercial St East, Mount Gambier

5. The Western Tavern

For service with a smile, the Western Tavern is a local gem for a reason. Whether it’s deals like kids eating for free all school holidays or for themed events like drag bingo shows and local gigs, there’s something for everyone at the Western Tav. And if you’re looking for another Mount Gambier pub option with a fresh salad bar, you’re in luck again – The Western Tavern is fully stocked, with fresh roast veggies at the self-serve salad bar adding to the delicious dining experience.

Address: 178 Jubilee Hwy East, Mount Gambier

6. Park Hotel

a table-top view of a mixed grill dish at The Park Hotel — Don’t miss out on their signature mixed grill. (Image: Jon Wah)

Get drawn in by the retro aesthetic and stay for a drink as you relax in the golden glow of the afternoon sun. The Park Hotel is great for a relaxed, chill vibe and a fantastic option for those looking for a family-friendly establishment.

The menu is your traditional pub fare with a modern twist, especially for seafood lovers – the squid schnitzel is a must-try, as is the herb-crusted barramundi with steamed vegetables.

Address: 163 Commercial St West, Mount Gambier

7. Foodie Bar

Foodie Bar is less of a traditional pub and more of a modern bar experience, but the delicious menu and selective beer, wine, and whisky list will have you wanting to spend more than one night here. You can get your burger, steak, and schnitty fix of course, but for those wanting to tantalise their tastebuds even more, try their Sri Lankan-inspired menu: you won’t regret it.

Address: 93 Commercial St West, Mount Gambier

8. Mount Gambier Hotel

Established in 1862, Mount Gambier Hotel , known by locals as ‘The G’, is an icon of the area. Choose from indoor or alfresco seating and enjoy an extensive menu of pub classics and elevated bistro takes such as crispy skin duck breast, Josper roasted whole crayfish with garlic butter and truffle oil, and espresso martini pana cotta. Too full to head home? Book a stay in one of the tastefully modernised rooms that boost old-world charm.

Address: 2 Commercial St West, Mount Gambier

9. South Eastern Hotel

The South Eastern Hotel is a family-friendly venue offering a spacious bistro, an inviting beer garden and a lively front bar. The bistro features a classic Aussie self-serve salad bar and an enclosed indoor play area for children, making it a popular choice for families.

The menu boasts a variety of pub classics, including chicken schnitzel, fish and chips, garlic prawns and a selection of pizzas. Patrons can also enjoy a range of burgers, steaks and vegetarian options. In warmer months, guests can relax in the alfresco beer garden.

Address: 235 Commercial Street East, Mount Gambier

For more insider tips on where to eat around Mount Gambier, check out these excellent cafes in Mount Gambier.

Originally written by Tahlia Pritchard with updates by Rachael Thompson

There’s no better place to unwind than the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – a leafy and idyllic region shrouded in mist, fern-filled gullies and a peaceful atmosphere.

Wrapped in the crisp mountain air, ancient ferns and ethereally verdant landscapes of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges , you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in another world (or at least another part of the planet).

But this gorgeous pocket is under an hour from Melbourne, a mix of top-notch food and wine, boutique stays and forested scenery that make for an easy weekend away or even a midweek escape. In fact, visiting during the week can offer a deeply relaxing experience, with fewer crowds and more space to linger.

If you’re keen to unwind, here’s how to spend your time in this idyllic neck of the woods.

Where to eat

From farm gates to cosy eateries, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges house a plethora of places to feast. Start your day with a leisurely brunch and coffee at Ripe . This local hangout combines warm hospitality and hearty cafe fare against a backdrop of the hills’ iconic tree-fern canopies. It’s also nestled in the heart of Sassafras, the quaint village that best captures the Dandenong Ranges’ old-world charm.

Next, take yourself on a gastronomic adventure. Visit Yarra Valley Dairy , a regional favourite doing handmade cheeses, or Cherry Hill Orchards , where in summer you can pick your own cherries and enjoy them in the farm’s picturesque grounds. Treat yourself to a tasting at one of the Yarra Valley’s renowned wineries to finish – Rochford , Re’em and De Bortoli are standout picks for a sample of the region’s signature drops.

By night, book a table at either Citrine in the mountain town of Olinda or restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley. Both do elevated seasonal fare paired with excellent drinks.

And if you’re simply in the mood for a tipple, you’re spoiled for choice. The Alpine Hotel in riverside Warburton is a historic and character-filled spot pouring pints and locally made drinks, while Four Pillars is a must for gin lovers. The distillery’s award-winning spirits are famed nationwide, but here you can try them right from the source.

Things to do outdoors

two people walking through Dandenong Ranges National Park — Wander the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

A motley patchwork of misty rainforest, rugged bushscapes and beautifully tended gardens, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are some of Melbourne’s most scenic pockets. No visit to the region would be complete without a wander through its lush surrounds, either by bike or on foot.

The Ngurrak Barring trail stretches 39 kilometres through the Dandenong Ranges, connecting the towns and fern-filled forests that make the hills so unique. Along the way, be immersed in thought-provoking art installations and cultural stories, sharing a different perspective of this ancient landscape.

While in the area, wander through Cloudehill Garden & Nursery and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens , situated in Olinda. The cooler climate, rich volcanic soil and consistent rainfall offer both gardens ideal conditions for vivid and vibrant flora.

Over in the Yarra Valley, the 40-kilometre Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a flat and family-friendly path perfect for leisurely bike rides and longer walks. It takes you through vine-lined scenery and towns like Seville and Wandin. Biking enthusiasts should head to the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, a network of 160 kilometres of trails that traverse through untamed terrain.

For a more laidback outing, Alowyn Gardens encompasses seven acres of themed gardens perfect for a meandering stroll. The nearly 100-metre-long wisteria archway that connects different garden zones is a highlight – especially in October, when the lilac blossoms are in spectacular bloom.

The arts and culture scene

Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges are havens for arts and culture thanks to their inspiring landscapes and thriving creative community. Naturally, a slower escape should include a visit to some of the region’s best studios and galleries.

The TarraWarra Museum of Art in Healesville showcases modern and contemporary Australian art, with both a permanent collection and a rotating display of thoughtful exhibitions. The building and grounds are well worth exploring: a striking architectural landmark amid landscaped lawns and open-air sculptures overlooking the Yarra Valley.

Delve into the area’s rich history at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum , a treasure trove of more than 13,000 unique pieces. See everything from Indigenous artefacts to archival photographs and historical objects that tell the region’s story.

On your way back to the city, stop by the leafy enclave of Eltham to discover Montsalvat . This five-acre artistic playground is Australia’s oldest continuous art community, combining galleries, Gothic-style buildings and expansive heritage gardens.

Stay at a local retreat

Re’em yarra valley accommodation — Re’em is an ideal pick for an indulgent stay.

No matter your style, and no matter your budget, you’ll find a suitable spot in the region to rest your head. If the weather is warm and the sky is clear, set up a tent at BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park or Pine Hill Cabin & Caravan Park. The former has secluded camping spots surrounded by tranquil bushland and local wildlife, along with glamping pods and cabins. The latter has powered and unpowered sites suitable for all kinds of campers, and is pet-friendly if you’re travelling with your four-legged friend.

Or, book yourself into the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort – a sprawling retreat complete with stylish rooms and luxe amenities that invite you to unwind. Relax at the day spa, tee off at the 18-hole golf course, or recharge with a round of tennis or a few laps in the pool.

And if you’re after something truly indulgent, Re’em is an ideal pick. A boutique collection of just 16, the luxuriously appointed rooms feature plush linens, high-end amenities and oversized baths with panoramic views across the estate. A gourmet breakfast showcasing gorgeous local produce is also included.

Start planning your reset getaway at visityarravalley.com.au.

9 of the best Mount Gambier pubs with local charm