Guests flock to gaol for one-of-a-kind stay
The incredibly unique South Australian accommodation provider Old Mount Gambier Gaol is marketed as: “The only gaol you will be sad to leave once your stay is over”.
This very special property provides independently operated accommodation for travellers in rooms that were originally ex-prison cells, warden’s offices or residences. The unusual accommodation attracts a constant stream of (non-law-breaking) grey nomads, families, individual travellers, internationals and corporates all seeking a comfy bed in a setting like no other.
The property can accommodate up to 73 guests and school camps are happily facilitated here. The gaol is an excellent home base for the students and teachers: located within a five-minute walk from the middle of town, where there are fantastic dining facilities, courtyards and grassed areas for students to run around and most appealing of all, according to owners James and Melissa Caine, is that the facilities are encased by a 4.6m high stone wall.
The gaol wardens (James, Melissa and their children) began their journey with a “vision to turn an old debilitated building into a vibrant community asset”. Their goal was to create a new atmosphere that was warm, inviting and both community and family-focused.
As for the old English prison building, its history speaks for itself and the Limestone Coast region where it resides is spectacular and well worth a visit.
This is a young business with plans for many fun ideas and improvements yet to unveil.
The Caines have spent the last five years creating and establishing this business and James also started his own blog, on their website, documenting their interesting journey.
They also offer guided tours of the building for those who don’t quite fancy being admitted as an inmate.
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