Nightcap at Federal Hotel Mt Gambier

The hotel offers a distinctive experience as pub accommodation, providing guests with the convenience of a lively bistro and ample parking right on-site. This unique setup makes it particularly appealing for overnight travelers and those seeking a practical stopover, as well as sightseers exploring the local area due to its central location. Many guests appreciate the generally clean and comfortable rooms, along with the consistently friendly staff. The hotel is well-suited for couples and families looking for a convenient base, though some family rooms might be on the smaller side. To enhance your stay, consider booking directly for potential freebies and discounts, and be aware that while earplugs are provided due to potential noise, requesting a room away from the main road or bar area could further improve your comfort.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests find the hotel's facilities practical and convenient, enhancing their stay. The provision of free Wi-Fi is widely appreciated, ensuring connectivity throughout the property. Thoughtful in-room amenities include earplugs to mitigate potential noise, complimentary bottled water, and a coffee station with tea and snacks. Rooms are generally well-equipped with ample power points for charging devices, and some even feature smart TVs for entertainment. While a minifridge is available, guests note the absence of a freezer section and a microwave in the rooms, which can be a minor inconvenience, especially for those traveling with young children. It is also important to note that the hotel does not have a lift, requiring guests to carry luggage up stairs, which some find challenging.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The majority of guests report that rooms are clean and well-maintained, often noting recent renovations that contribute to a fresh feel. The beds are consistently praised for being exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, with some guests describing them as the best hotel beds they have experienced. Bathrooms are frequently highlighted as modern, clean, and featuring excellent showers with strong water pressure. However, some guests mention that the bathroom sink can be quite small, leading to water splashing. While many rooms are quiet, noise levels can be an issue for some, stemming from street traffic, the pub below, or neighboring rooms, though the provided earplugs are a helpful touch. A few guests noted minor issues such as a stale smell upon entry, dust on ledges, or mold in the shower, and some rooms lack a window that opens, which can affect air circulation.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's integrated pub restaurant is a significant draw, offering guests the convenience of on-site dining, often with a discount for hotel patrons. Many guests praise the food quality and value, highlighting dishes like steak and Barramundi, and appreciating the friendly atmosphere. However, feedback on the meals is mixed, with some guests reporting unsatisfactory experiences, citing issues such as overcooked or bland food, and inconsistent service timing. For breakfast, the hotel typically offers breakfast boxes or vouchers, which include items like cereal, juice, and muesli bars, though a cooked breakfast is not available on-site. The bar is noted for its friendly staff and the provision of complimentary drinks for guests, adding to the overall positive social experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, placing guests within easy walking distance of Mount Gambier's main street, shops, cafes, and many popular attractions, including the Blue Lake. This accessibility is a major advantage for both sightseers and those needing convenient access to town amenities. Parking is widely available on-site, often described as ample and shared with a nearby store, though some guests occasionally found it challenging to secure a spot during peak times. Despite being situated on a main road and above a pub, many guests report surprisingly low noise levels from traffic or the venue, especially after the bar closes, contributing to a peaceful stay. The hotel's position also makes it a practical stopover point for longer journeys.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their exceptional friendliness and helpfulness, significantly contributing to a positive guest experience. Guests frequently highlight the warm welcome upon arrival and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond, such as assisting with luggage or accommodating late check-ins. The check-in process, often conducted at the bar, is generally described as smooth and efficient, despite initial concerns from some guests. Housekeeping service receives mixed feedback; while some appreciate the daily towel changes and thorough cleaning, others note instances where bins were not emptied or beds were not made, even with requests. Overall, the attentive service and approachable demeanor of the team are recurring themes, making guests feel valued and well-cared for during their stay.

Additional Information
Guests frequently benefit from various complimentary perks when booking directly, such as free drinks vouchers for the pub and discounted meals. The hotel also provides thoughtful in-room additions like earplugs and bottled water. While the hotel generally offers a comfortable stay, some guests express concerns about a specific privacy policy requiring a copy of their driver's license during check-in. It's noted that some rooms, particularly the cheapest queen studio rooms, can be quite small, so guests seeking more space should inquire about larger options like the studio with two queen beds or family suites. The hotel does not have a safe in the rooms, and there is no lift access, which is important for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage.