Head out for the day.
Sights.
Blue Lake
Located in Mount Gambier, the Blue Lake occupies the crater of the extinct volcano. Each November the lake transitions from a deep blue to a bright turquoise. This unexplainable annual event lasts until February, when it returns to blue. There is a 3.6 kilometre walking tracks around the lake that hosts several lake viewing points.
Cape Northumberland Lighthouse
The Cape Northumberland Lighthouse Ruins are located in Port McDonnell and are a feature of the regions rich maritime history. Built in 1882 as a replacement for its degrading predeccesor, this beacon was erected in prime location for viewing the rugged coastline, rocks and ocean. The scenic attraction provides visitors with breathtaking views.
Coonawarra Wine Region
The Coonawarra wine region captures a beautiful stretch of land within the Limestone Coast. Centred on the town of Coonawarra this region has been producing world class wines from its famous ‘Terra Rossa’ soil for 120 years. Enjoy a variety of quality wines and restaurant dining at one of the many cellar doors.
Engelbrecht Cave
Located in Mount Gambier, Engelbrecht Cave is one of several cave sites across the Limestone Coasts. Popular with divers, there are many access points for cave diving and a viewing platform for visitors. Divers can swim through the water filled passage that runs below the city streets.
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean road is a 243 kilometre stretch of road along the coast between Torquay and Allansford. The Australian National Heritage listed route was built by returned soldiers as the worlds largest war memorial dedicated to those who fell during World War I. The scenic drive passes several prominent landmarks including The Twelve Apostles.
Kilsby Sinkhole
Located on a quaint farm, the Kilsby sinkhole is a unique geological attraction. You can snorkel or dive in the sinkhole to explore the layers of rock left by geological changes over millions of years. You can also experience the serene waters from the pontoon or for those who want something extra, abseil into the sinkhole.
Piccaninnie Ponds (World Heritage Site)
Another popular dive site, the World Heritage Site, Picanninnie Ponds, is an underwater marvel. Formed by rising freshwater, the ponds are know for The Chasm and The Cathedral limestone formations. If you're not there to dive there are many walking tracks and picnic sites nearby.
Umpherston Sinkhole
The Umpherston sinkhole is something out of a fairytale. View the sunken garden from the viewing platform or walk down the terraces behind hanging vines. At dusk and dawn, the resident possums come out to investigate and forage the gardens. There is a large undercover area and barbecue, perfect for a group lunch.
Places.
Cape Bridgewater
65 kilometres / 43 minutes
Once a farming settlement, the present day Cape Bridgewater is a lovely, quiet seaside down offering 4 kilometres of sandy beaches that are patrolled during peak seasons.
Casterton
88 kilometres / 1 hour 2 minutes
Located along the Glenelg River, Casterton is a rural service town with a rich pastoral history. It is regarded as the ‘birthplace of the Kelpie’ and is known for its annual Australian Kelpie Muster held over the Queens Birthday long weekend.
Dartmoor
42 kilometres / 33 minutes
Dartmoor is a peaceful country town that sits along the Glenelg River. It is known for large carved works including The Story Book Tree and WWI Avenue of Honour Memorial carved from Atlantic Cedar Trees planted in 1918.
Mount Gambier
37 kilometres / 28 minutes
Mount Gambier is situated on a limestone, volcanic landscape and is a regional hub. Its unique landscape is home to the well known Blue Lake with its mysterious annual colour change. Umpherston Sinkhole takes you below ground with a sunken garden, while the Centenary Tower offers panoramic views of the area. The Lady Nelson Visitor Centre is also nearby and has a full-size replica of an 18th-century ship.
Naracoorte
139 kilometres / 1 hour 31 minutes
Head inland for a country fix at the Sheep’s Back Wool Museum situated in Naracoorte township. If you’re looking to venture out head to the Naracoorte caves or stop by the Bool Lagoon.
Penola
88 kilometres / 1 hour 2 minutes
Known as the gateway to the Coonawarra Wine Region, Penola is an idyllic town worth visiting. Step back in time with a walk through Petticoat Lane and its old stone cottages or try some world class wines at one of the nearby wineries.
Portland
70 kilometres / 46 minutes
Portland is still a bustling fishing and transport hub, but is also the site of Victoria's first permanent European settlement. Situated along the seas edge, many go the 19th-century buildings are still part of the foreshore. The town has Botanic Gardens that opened in 1857 as well as a Maritime Museum, shops and restaurants.
Port Fairy
130 kilometres / 1 hour 23 minutes
Once a quiet fishing village, Port Fairy is a ton brimming with cafes, shops and sights. Enjoy some time by the sea without giving up lines little luxuries. While the attitude might be fresh, the towns history still shines through with many of the Bluestone buildings still in use.
Parks.
Lower Glenelg National Park
The Lower Glenelg National Park is holds the spectacular limestone cliffs carved by the Glenelg River. The tranquil and expansive landscape is the perfect backdrop for riverside camping, fishing and other water activities. Kayak the Glenelg River Canoe Trail, hike the Great South West Walk or explore the Princess Margaret Rose Caves. The choices are endless.
Cobboboonee National Park
Stop off in Cobboboonee National park for a relaxing day in nature or as part of the Great South West Walk. The park features large eucalypts and an abundance of native wildlife. There are many fantastic picnic spots and campsites along the walking tracks.
Discovery Bay Conservation Park
Discovery Bay is a scenic marvel boasting stunning views of the coastline. Walk along the many tracks to view long beaches, rugged cliffs, dunes, natural wetlands and woodland forests. At the eastern end of Discovery Bay you can view some of Victorias highest coastal cliffs or visit the Cape Nelson Lighthouse. The park is also home to Cape Bridgewater fur seal colony.
Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park
Piccaninnie Ponds is recognised as a wetland of international importance. Rising freshwater has eroded the limestone to form large underwater caves such as The Chasm and The Cathedral. Above ground explore the freshwater springs bubbling up onto the sand or take a walk through native bushland to the ponds outlet.
Ewens Ponds Conservation Park
Ewens Ponds Conservation Park is knows for its spring-fed freshwater ponds. The three large ponds are interconnected by 10m deep channels and have water so clear that plants can grow underwater. Some of these plant species are not found underwater anywhere else in the world. This park is perfect for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts as well as nature lovers.
Great South West Walk
The Great South West Walk is for casual and regular bush walkers alike. It is a 250km loop that passes through many of the most beautiful parts of the region. Explore vast sand dunes, sandy bays, eye-catching beaches, rugged cliffs and freshwater lakes surrounded by native flora and fauna.