The Limestone Coast is the perfect halfway escape.
Right between Adelaide and Melbourne, this diverse region is the ideal destination for holidaying with friends and family or a scenic interstate stopover. With its stunning landscapes, world-class food and wine, and unique natural wonders, the region is packed with unforgettable experiences. There’s nothing better than a ‘choose your own adventure’ style road trip, so here are some idea starters to help when you’re passing through. Happy travels!
Mount Gambier and surrounds
STAY
• Delgattie Estate — A grand, perfectly styled country manor.
• Aloha Accommodation — Premium self-contained properties in the heart of town.
• Customs House Port MacDonnell — A heritage-listed oceanfront mansion with guest houses.
DO
• Blue Lake/Warwar — This volcanic crater lake is a must-see.
• Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul — Wander through this sunken garden.
• Mount Schank — Hike up this dormant volcano or take the scenic two-kilometre trail.
• Kilsby Sinkhole — Sheep farm meets sinkhole, diving and distilling.
- Image Credit :: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission
EAT AND DRINK
• Elementary by Soul Co — Celebrating regional, foraged ingredients.
• The Barn Steakhouse — A haven for steak and wine lovers.
• Mayura Station — Home to Australia’s only full-blood Wagyu beef.
Coonawarra and Penola
STAY
• Bellwether Wines Glamping — Sleep under the stars at a working winery.
• Warrawindi Escapes — Stay and experience a working family farm.
DO
• Coonawarra Rail Trail — Book an e-bike and cycle through scenic vineyards.
• Mary MacKillop Penola Centre — Explore the legacy of Australia’s first saint.
EAT AND DRINK
• Coonawarra Wine Region — Renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon and home to over 20 cellar doors. Don’t miss Brands Laira, Wynns Estate and Raidis Estate.
• Ottelia — A perfect pairing of food and wine.
• Pipers of Penola — A refined regional dining experience.
Robe, Beachport and Kingston SE
STAY
• Stony Rise Lodge — Laid-back luxury in a hosted lodge.
• Orbe Properties — Unique, curated short-stay accommodation.
• Saint Nicholas Church Beachport — A lovingly restored 1923 seaside retreat.
DO
• Limestone Coast Boat Tours — Spot sea lions, seals and dolphins.
• The Big Lobster — One for the checklist of Aussie ‘big things’, right on the roadside.
• Bowman Scenic Drive — A breathtaking coastal drive.
• The Pool of Siloam — Enjoy a floatfriendly swim in this natural salt lake.
EAT AND DRINK
• Coastal Wineries — Visit Cape Jaffa Wines (and Loophole Brewing on the same site), Norfolk Rise and Wangolina.
- Naracoorte Caves Image Credit :: South Australian Tourism Commission
Naracoorte and surrounds
DO
• Naracoorte Caves — A World Heritage fossil site.
• Bordertown and the Bob Hawke Gallery — Art meets history at a PM’s birthplace.
• Mount Monster Conservation Park — Hike to panoramic views.
EAT AND DRINK
• Padthaway Wine Region — Enjoy a glass at historic Padthaway Estate.
You can pass through the region time and time again and always have something new to discover and experience.
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