Blue Lake & Beyond

Craters to Coast Day Tour - Start in Mount Gambier and head towards the coast, climb a volcano, peer into a giant sinkhole , wander through the coastal scrub to where a freshwater creek meets the sea.

Craters to Coast Day Tour

The Limestone Coast of South Australia is a one-of-a-kind region where ancient volcanic craters, sapphire-blue lakes, dramatic sinkholes, and pristine beaches converge in a landscape unlike anywhere else in Australia.

Only a one-hour flight from Melbourne or Adelaide, Mount Gambier is located on the slopes of a dormant volcano, known for its stunning Blue lake and lush landscape punctuated with sinkholes. Beyond Mount Gambier the natural features and hidden wonders continue to the all the way to the coast.

On this active day tour, you will view geological marvels via three short walks from craters to coast, enjoy a delicious lunch and visit a regenerative cool-climate winery.

Pick up from your accommodation in Mount Gambier.

First stop a climb up Mount Schank/Parreen, Australia’s youngest volcano! It is a rare example of volcanic activity in recent geological time. A short steep ascent then a stroll around the crater rim will present incredible views of Mount Gambier and surrounds on this awesome 2km walk.

Nibble some tasty morning tea and a short drive onto the sunken wonder of Hells Hole, a cenote/sinkhole hidden amongst a forest. A 750m wander through native scrub reveals the viewing platform to this gem, you may catch your breath as you walk out onto the viewing platform and peer into its depths.

Then it’s off to the coast and Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park, a wetland of international importance, with water having slowly filtered through the surrounding limestone over thousands of years. Here you will meander along a 1.4km trail through coastal scrub to a unique freshwater ecosystem, follow crystal-clear spring water as it flows into the sea, and frolic on the beach breathing in the fresh, salty air.

With a hankering for lunch, we will head to the coastal town of Port MacDonnell rich with maritime history and home to South Australia’s largest lobster fishing fleet.

Tour with us between October and May and opt to have an ultimate seafood experience of delicious *lobster for lunch fresh from the ocean.

*If you would like to order lobster for lunch there will be an extra charge, please enquire upon booking between mid-October and May.

With bellies full and satiated we head back towards Mount Gambier via Caroline Hills Winery a cool climate specialist with a reputation for excellent Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris.

The Mount Gambier Wine Region is recognized as Australia’s newest wine region producing cool climate wines. Caroline Hills has a low intervention approach to winemaking including open fermentation, hand plunging and pumping, this peaceful cellar door is nestled in a stunning country garden.

The day is not yet done with a swing past the aptly named and intriguing Blue Lake/Warwar, from November to March, its wintery steel-grey waters magically shift into brilliant cobalt blue. Here’s a great photo opportunity prior to being dropped off at your accommodation, refreshed and fulfilled.

Please note: This tour is not a private charter unless a maximum of 6 passengers is reached by numbers in your group.
This means you may be sharing the ride with others. Private charters are available on request, and the full capacity fare may be charged accordingly.