Limestone Coast
South Australia’s Limestone Coast is more than just a geological wonder; it’s a breathtaking coastline of captivating attractions that links the Victorian state border to the Coorong National Park. Delve into World Heritage-listed caves, treat yourself to sumptuous Coonawarra wines and dine in a region so abundant with fresh seafood you’ll find lobster on the fish-and-chip shop menu.
A great way to explore the Limestone Coast is to embark on a self-guided road trip between the wineries, villages, beaches and nature reserves. Check out the farmland and vineyard estates around Bordertown and Keith. Visit the elegant Padthaway Homestead, which dates back to 1882. Naracoorte is home to numerous lagoons and wetlands, as well as the renowned Naracoorte Caves and Fossil Site. Go on a tour of this phenomenal cave system to see amazing fossils of Australia’s mega fauna, including giant kangaroos.
Nearby Coonawarra is home to some of Australia’s finest cabernet sauvignon wines, with more than 20 wineries and cellar doors for you to explore. In Penola you can find out about Australia’s first saint, St. Mary McKillop. Be sure to stop by Beachport and Robe to indulge in the seaside towns’ fantastic fresh seafood. The trip wouldn’t be complete without getting your photo taken with The Big Lobster in Kingston SE.
Don’t miss exploring the stunning topography of Mount Gambier, a town surrounded by sinkholes, caves and volcanic craters. Picnic on the banks of the Blue Lake or Lake McIntyre and see some of the region’s stunning birdlife. The Cave Garden and the Tantanoola Caves are a short drive away.
Visit South Australia’s most southerly point at Cape Northumberland and its neighboring town, Port MacDonnell. From here, continue onward on Victoria’s spectacular Great Ocean Road.
The Limestone Coast can be reached by car from Adelaide or Mount Gambier, which both have airports. Adelaide is a 2-hour drive from the Coorong region, which marks the Limestone Coast’s northerly border. Take a couple of days or a couple of weeks exploring the townships, farmsteads, beaches and natural wonders of the Limestone Coast.