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. Within the sinkhole is a garden 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.
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
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.
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.
For more things to see and do in the Limestone Coast, click here.
Featured image: The Blue Lake © Jaxon Foale
