Motel Mount Gambier

Motel Mount Gambier sits on Penola Road on the main route into town from the north, a practical, no-frills stopover where dogs are allowed in designated rooms. For road-trippers crossing the Limestone Coast with a dog in the back seat, that combination of highway-side location, free parking and pet-friendly rooms makes it an easy overnight choice without any fuss about breed or size.

Dogs at the Motel Mount Gambier

Dogs of any size can stay, usually in specific pet-designated rooms such as the standard queen rooms. The motel often asks for a refundable bond of around $50 per stay, returned at checkout provided the room comes back clean and undamaged, so bring your own bedding and keep the wet paws off the beds. Pet rooms are subject to availability, and the motel's own FAQ asks guests to ring ahead on (08) 8725 5800 to flag the dog and lock in the right room before booking. Cats may also be permitted on request.

Pepsi: Straightforward room, a lawn out front for last calls, and nobody batted an eyelid at a very large travelling dog.

The vibe

This is a working traveller's motel rather than a boutique stay: comfortable beds and spacious rooms are the consistent strengths, the bathrooms and carpets show their age in places, and the pool, Wi-Fi and free on-site parking cover the basics. Guests regularly mention the friendly, easygoing reception, which tends to extend to four-legged arrivals. If you want character, book elsewhere; if you want a clean bed, a simple booking and a dog-friendly room at a fair rate, it does the job.

Getting there and parking

The motel sits at 115 Penola Road, Mount Gambier, minutes from the city centre and handy for the airport. Parking is free and on site, right outside your door, which makes unloading crates and lead bags painless.

Make a day of it

The Blue Lake Loop is a short drive away for an on-lead walk with the crater views, and Hastings Cunningham Reserve Fenced Dog Park gives the dog an off-lead run after a long drive. In town, Presto Eatery is a solid breakfast stop. If the motel is booked out, Pine Country Caravan Park at Moorak also takes pets.

More options at pet friendly stays in SA or around Mount Gambier.