Welcome to ‘The Mount’! If you’ve never been (like me), you’re missing out! Mount Gambier is absolutely gorgeous, with its bustling cafes and eateries, lovable boutiques and outstanding views of the world famous Blue Lake, it puts the Limestone Coast on the map.
My tail is firmy between my legs with guilt, that I haven’t visited this wondrous region, until now. What an idiot — it’s fabulous and only 4.5 hours drive from Adelaide.
In usual Adelady fashion, we got neck deep in nature rather quickly and before we knew it, we were at the Kilsby Sinkhole.
So, let me tell you all about it and feel free to steal our Mount Gambier to-do list!
* Sadly, Coronavirus has impacted some businesses since writing this article — and the places we showcase may now have restrictions around bookings, or may have closed as they’ve had to modify numbers and introduce social distancing protocols — and this is changing daily. Please also remember these businesses need us to support them more now than ever, and they are doing everything they can to adapt so you can enjoy their amazing produce and services.
Kilsby Sinkhole
The Limestone Coast is riddled with amazing sinkholes that people from all over the world come to visit. The Kilsby Sinkhole is like no other, with breathtaking visibility and super clear water at the bottom. You can snorkel like we did, scuba dive or do a sight tour where you can taste their amazing Sinkhole Gin. The Gin is made from the crystal clear water of the sinkhole as well as 19 local botanicals — it’s best served with fresh berries and tonic. Also, no need to bring anything from home (other than bathers) as they provide all equipment, wetsuits and your own industry certified guide. This is an absolute must next time you’re in the region.
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Umpherston Sinkhole
Welcome to the most instagrammable location in SA! People often say it’s where the fairies live because it really is that magical. James Umpherston beautified the sinkhole in 1886, and it’s now bustling with tourists all year round. There are 40 possums that live there and you can even book a twilight Possum Experience… they love to pop out at night and grab some of that limelight.
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Blue Lake Holiday Park
Located right opposite the Blue Lake, this gorgeous looking, super functional holiday park has everything from powered sites right through to modern lakeside luxury Villas, where we stayed. Let’s be honest though, kids couldn’t care less where they sleep, they’re all about the playground. And yes, they have every child’s favourite… an infaltable jumping pillow, as well as a pool, tennis court, games’ room and a playground featuring 4 slides!
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Presto Eatery
Created by two besties Josslyn and Lucy, Presto Eatery is sen-bloody-sational! I mean, I’m not kidding when I say they served up some of the best coffee I’ve ever tried. No wonder this funky cafe has made its mark in the food biz, winning two awards in 2019 for best regional breakfast restaurant, and best cafe and dining. “We eat with our eyes so we make food that looks amazing but is also packed full of flavour”, says owner Josslyn. The girls insist they make food that they want to eat — healthy breakfasts, brunches and lunches.
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Lima & Co
Trust us to sniff out the coolest fashion and flower boutique in Mount Gambier. Full of fab Australian and South Australian brands, Lima & Co has everything from great fashion, homewares and even flowers. Fresh flowers are delivered every day (except Sundays) but if you’re into the artificial blooms, they have plenty of them too.
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Metro Bakery and Cafe
According to the French, Metro serves up the best croissants outside of France. Toni is the Queen of Tarts behind this well renowned bakery and you can tell she adores her staff and her loyal customers. As well as bakery treats, Metro serves up breakfast, great coffee and their bar is open whenever they are, so you can get an espresso martini at any time of day. The beer garden out the back is ridiculously colourful and ultra funky… and a great place to smash plates! After the sun goes down, you’ll often find the staff and their customers smashing plates, Greek style!
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Federal Hotel
A classic, no frills country pub, with a difference. These guys are known for their Schnittys — all 31 of them! You can chow down on beef, chicken, eggplant or mushroom schnitzels in a range of sizes. Yiros, Hawaiian, Mexican, King Avocado, even one called The God Father Part 2. If you love a good food challenge, this is the place to get a PB…and your name on the wall! Also, if you enjoy a tipple, try their Blue Lake bowl… and share it with your bestie!
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