An amazing variety of landscapes and activities can be found on the Limestone Coast! Named for the ancient limestone bedrock found along this part of the coastline, this sensational region features electric-blue lakes, limestone caves, fossils, wetlands and peaceful beaches. In addition, you will come across top-class wineries and the former home of the person who will one day become Australia’s first saint, Mary MacKillop
Mount Gambier is the regional centre of the south-east and is a well-known focal point for tourists. The town is situated at the base of Mt Gambier, which is the highest point of an extinct volcanic crater that has, at its heart, a number of lakes including Valley Lake, set in another extinct volcano, and the deepest of the lakes near the city. It turns a deep cobalt blue in November before changing back to grey in late summer.
Most of the surrounding area is limestones, which features in much of the town’s architecture. The Cave Gardens in the centre of the town are a very pleasant attraction. Umpherston Sinkhole has been planted with terraced gardens and is floodlit at night. Engelbrecht Cave is regularly explored by divers.
Closer to the coast, Piccaninnie Ponds and Ewen Ponds both have crystal-clear water bubbling up from deep underground, and provide an excellent site for snorkelling or diving.
If you have time, you might like to spend a day exploring the coastal towns of Robe and Kingston SE.
Robe is a charming, old-fashioned seaside village 130 km north-west of Mount Gambier on the shores of Guichen Bay. Fishing at the jetty or breakwater could hook you garfish, mullet and trevally.
A further 45 km north, Kingston SE is situated on Lacepede Bay. The town is an important fishing port, especially for crayfish or lobster. You will realise this when you come across the Big Larry the Lobster on the Princes Highway just outside of town. Make sure you try the local seafood at one of the restaurants in town. Lacepede Bay is considered by the locals to be the safest area of water in the state and is ideal for windsurfing, swimming and sailing.
Discover more travel destinations across the Mount Gambier Region today!