Forged over 26 million years by the primal forces of the ocean and the movement of tectonic plates, the Limestone Coast has been perfectly sculpted into a natural playground. Rugged, wave beaten coastlines, clear blue waters and secluded beaches blend brilliantly with lush farming country, volcanic craters, caves, vistas of vineyards and never-ending pine forests. This region, which can be easily explored on a drive from Adelaide to Melbourne, offers a brilliant blend of adventure and variety, stretching along the Southern Ocean toward the world-famous Coorong, which is home to a stunning array of birdlife and Aboriginal culture.

Naracoorte Caves World Heritage Fossil Site

One of only four in the world proclaimed for its fossil deposits, the Naracoorte World Heritage fossil site provides the only uninterrupted fossil history of the past 500,000 years. Discover Australia's giant mega fauna at the Wonambi Fossil Centre, where fossils have proven the existence of massive prehistoric mammals, marvel at the amazing spaces of Cathedral Cave and watch colonies of bent-wing bats. Thrill seekers can also squeeze their way through the remote parts of the cave systems on an adventure caving tour. 

The Coonawarra

The Coonawarra is known by wine lovers for its luscious reds and for the rare terra rossa soil in which its vines grow. With a climate similar to Bordeaux in France, Coonawarra produces most of Australia’s great Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as outstanding Shiraz, Riesling, Chardonnay, Merlot and Pinot Noir. Visit the many cellar doors of the region to sample its world class wines.

Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake 

The Blue Lake in Mount Gambier occupies one of the craters of the extinct volcano after which this city was named. Each November, the lake's steel grey mysteriously changes to an intense deep turquoise blue, almost overnight. The colouring remains until late February-March, and a 3.6 kilometre road and walking track around the circumference provides access to many viewing points.  

Historic Ports

The Southern Ports Highway links the historic ports of Kingston SE, Cape Jaffa, Robe, Beachport and Southend. Steeped in maritime history, each of the ports has its own story to tell which is evident in their charming streets and museums. They also provide a haven for many water based activities and arguably some of the best fishing in South Australia. Experience the buzz during rock lobster season (October-May) and take time to enjoy the rugged coastlines, mountainous sand dunes, aqua marine waters and beautiful beaches.  

Coorong National Park

One of Australia's most extraordinary and important nature reserves. The Coorong's line of surf-swept coastal dunes seems to go on forever while the inner lagoon throngs with birdlife. This long and narrow park is also of deep Aboriginal significance, and provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, camping, picnics and four-wheel drive adventures.

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