Top Attractions & Things to Do in Mount Gambier, South Australia

Things to See and Do in Mount Gambier

Mount Gambier, South Australia, is a treasure trove of attractions and exciting things to do for all types of travelers. Explore the stunning Blue Lake, which turns an intense blue each summer, or take a walk through the lush Umpherston Sinkhole, a unique sunken garden. Adventure seekers can explore the underground wonders of Engelbrecht Cave, while nature lovers can hike through the picturesque Crater Lakes region.

The town also offers vibrant cultural experiences, from art galleries to heritage buildings and local markets. Whether you're seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, or a taste of local culture, Mount Gambier provides endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Explore Mount Gambier

Mount Gambier, often referred to as the "Blue Lake City," is a gem in South Australia's Limestone Coast, offering an abundance of natural beauty, unique attractions, and vibrant cultural experiences. Its scenic landscapes, fascinating geological wonders, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring South Australia.

Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to relax and unwind, Mount Gambier provides a wide array of attractions and activities that promise to make your trip memorable.

The Blue Lake: A Natural Marvel

The most iconic attraction in Mount Gambier is undoubtedly the Blue Lake. This stunning volcanic crater lake is famous for its remarkable color change, turning a vibrant cobalt blue during the summer months and a deep gray during the winter. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the 3.6-kilometer walking trail surrounding the lake, offering panoramic views and multiple lookout points that provide breathtaking photo opportunities. There's also the option of guided tours, where you can learn about the lake's volcanic history, local legends, and its significance as a water source for the region.

The Umpherston Sinkhole: A Sunken Garden Paradise

Another must-see attraction is the Umpherston Sinkhole, a beautifully landscaped sunken garden that is a sight to behold. Once a cave formed by the collapse of limestone, the sinkhole was transformed into a garden oasis by James Umpherston in the late 19th century. Today, it is filled with hanging vines, flowering plants, and terraced gardens, offering a peaceful and enchanting escape from the bustle of the town. In the evenings, the sinkhole becomes even more magical as it lights up, and visitors can often spot friendly possums that come out to feed.

Discover the Limestone Caves

Mount Gambier is known for its underground cave systems, and one of the best places to explore this subterranean world is the Engelbrecht Cave. This cave system lies beneath the city and offers guided tours, where you can learn about its history, formation, and significance to local divers. If you're feeling adventurous, take a tour through the cave chambers and learn about the underwater caverns that have made it a popular spot for cave diving.

The Tantanoola Cave, located just a short drive from Mount Gambier, is another limestone marvel worth visiting. Known for its magnificent pink and white formations, this cave offers guided tours that allow you to explore its stunning chambers and learn about the fascinating geological processes that created the formations over millions of years.

The Crater Lakes Region: A Nature Lover's Haven

The Crater Lakes region is a series of volcanic craters that offer spectacular natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Apart from the famous Blue Lake, this area also includes Valley Lake, which is perfect for picnics, bird watching, and family activities, as it features playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and a nature walk. There's also the Leg of Mutton Lake, which is another volcanic crater offering scenic views and opportunities for walking and wildlife spotting. The region is also known for its picturesque lookouts, such as Centenary Tower, which provides panoramic views of the entire Mount Gambier region from one of the highest points in the area.

Mount Schank: A Volcanic Adventure

For those interested in geology and adventure, Mount Schank is a dormant volcanic cone located just outside Mount Gambier. Visitors can hike up to the rim of the crater and, for the more adventurous, descend into the crater itself. The hike is relatively short but offers rewarding views of the surrounding landscape and the chance to stand at the top of one of the region's most significant volcanic formations. The hike around the rim provides a unique perspective of the crater's interior and the surrounding countryside, making it a popular activity for nature lovers and photographers.

Discover Mount Gambier's Cultural Heritage

Mount Gambier is rich in culture and history, which is reflected in its historic buildings, local galleries, and heritage sites. Take a stroll down the town center and explore Old Mount Gambier Gaol, which once served as a prison but has since been converted into a unique accommodation and event venue. You can take a self-guided tour to learn about the history of the gaol, its former inmates, and its architecture.

For art lovers, the Riddoch Arts & Cultural Centre is the town's leading gallery and museum, offering exhibitions on local art, history, and the cultural heritage of the region. The center also hosts regular events, workshops, and film screenings, making it a hub of cultural activity in Mount Gambier.

Wander Through the Cave Gardens

The Cave Gardens are located right in the heart of Mount Gambier and provide an opportunity to explore one of the town's original sinkholes. This beautiful garden offers walking paths, viewing platforms, and stunning landscaping, allowing visitors to take in the lush greenery and floral displays. The gardens are also illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere as you explore this natural landmark. During the rainy season, visitors are treated to the sight of cascading waterfalls, adding to the cave's natural beauty.

Wine Tasting in Coonawarra

The Coonawarra wine region is located just north of Mount Gambier and is renowned for its world-class red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. Wine enthusiasts can explore the area's many vineyards and cellar doors, enjoying wine tastings, vineyard tours, and farm-to-table dining experiences. The rich terra rossa soil of the Coonawarra makes it one of the best wine-growing regions in Australia, and its proximity to Mount Gambier makes it an excellent day-trip destination for those looking to indulge in South Australian wine culture.

Main Pages

Featured Pages

Top Cities

Top Regions

Top Districts

Top Countries

booking

accommodation

travel

attractions

entertainment

restaurants

viator

hotel