The Commodore

Reception helped me with a map of Mt Gambier, explained where we were, and marked how to get to some tourist spots. A young cleaner also kindly suggested two places to get my nails done, and I ended up going to the Big W centre. The staff were friendly and very helpful. The hotel’s in a great location, and the restaurant was extremely lovely. I’ll definitely stay here again.

For a work trip, I wasn’t there long and it wasn’t a getaway. The location is central and handy, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The restaurant menu was limited and expensive, for example $12 for sparkling water and $50 for a dozen oysters. The rooms are small with little room to move, and the second double bed feels like a waste. The shower is crammed into a corner with the head opposite the door and above the tap handle. You have to reach in to turn it on, then water blasts into the bathroom and sprays you in the face. The temperature also swung from the set point to boiling hot, then freezing cold, perhaps because other guests were showering at the same time. Wifi kept dropping out, which affected Foxtel on the TV. Streaming services would have been a good option. After a long workday, I wanted a decent shower, a seat, TV, and a chance to scroll. There were mugs but no bowls. The advertised laundry was a coin washer and dryer; having more than one machine and card payment would be better. It was okay, but I wouldn’t recommend the Commodore to anyone wanting a spacious, comfortable place on their travels. Maybe it suits a stay where you don’t plan to spend much time at the accommodation.

The food and drinks were good, and the staff kept the service quality up even though the restaurant was incredibly busy for Valentine’s Day. My fiancé and I went for dinner, and everyone seemed under pressure, but the staff made a real effort and stayed positive. That alone makes me want to come back.

The Commodore was well placed for all our holiday destinations, and it’s easy to recommend. We booked two rooms for four nights, and they were fantastic: clean, roomy, and more than large enough for our family’s needs. The heavy curtains also did a good job of blocking out light at night.