Known for its volcanic landscape and beautiful lakes, Mount Gambier is tucked into the heart of the stunning Limestone Coast.
The Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul is one of the town’s main attractions. It was once a cave formed through dissolution of the limestone, and over time, the top of the chamber collapsed, resulting in the sinkhole there today. Nowadays, fertile soil on the bottom of the sinkhole has created the perfect environment for a sunken garden, with viewing platforms, terraces and a kiosk to enjoy. The garden is straight out of a fairytale, complete with enormous drapes of thick vines, flower patches, and possums who have made home in the sinkhole’s walls.
For another otherworldly destination, make a beeline for the famous Blue Lake in the crater of the Maar Volcano. Throughout the year, the lake shifts through different shades of incredible blues, and as the water becomes warmer in summer months, it turns a stunning deep turquoise. Around the edge of the lake, a walking track provides ample room to wander or cycle, with different vantage points to take in the jaw-dropping view.
About 17-kilometres south of Mount Gambier, Little Blue Lake is a volcanic sinkhole found in the middle of a paddock. Unlike it’s bigger sister, you can swim in the inviting blue waters here. Walk down the stairs to the floating pontoon and plunge into the lake, which reaches a depth of 47 metres.
Scuba divers can explore the secret tunnels of Engelbrecht Cave, weaving their way through a dazzling maze beneath Mount Gambier’s streets. Local company Dive Experience offers a guided scuba dive in the privately-operated Kilsby Sinkhole located 15 kilometres out of the city. The 70-metre-deep chasm situated in the middle of a paddock on a working sheep farm is rated among the world’s best dive sites. It’s a perfect spot for novice snorkelers, with supervised sessions in the spectacular open lake section available for groups of up to eight
To immerse yourself even further in the natural wonders of the region, join a tour with Walk the Limestone Coast. The company hosts several different tours, including Taste the Aussie Camino, which follows the trail taken by Australia’s only saint, Saint Mary of the Cross Mackillop. This four-day walking, food and wine journey takes attendants past sinkholes, volcanoes, wetlands and forests as they discover everything this region has to offer.
For the best views of Mount Gambier and surrounds, walk up the hill to Centenary Tower. Here, you can enjoy 360 degree views of Valley Lake and other volcanic craters, or even distant sand dunes on clear days. The tower first opened in 1904, and stands an impressive 190 metres above sea level.
If you’re travelling with kids, check out Eco Farm, owned and operated by a local family. After a short introductory talk, visitors can meet and feed the farm animals, and then enjoy a self-guided farm trail. From peacocks to donkeys and sheep, there are so many friendly animals to meet here.
When visiting the town centre, make sure to pick up a City Heritage Walk map to discover the town’s fascinating past. Spot buildings constructed from local limestone and pink dolomite, stroll the Old Town Hall precinct, and visit a flour mill from 1885. In front of each building, bollards provide useful information and images to contextualise your walk.
For more things to see and do in the Limestone Coast, click here.
