2025 Mount Gambier Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Australia is a country full of sunshine and vitality, but do you only know Sydney and Melbourne? Today, I want to take you to South Australia, a hidden treasure. 🚀Transportation: Fly directly from Guangzhou to Melbourne, the air ticket only costs more than 2,000, and you can easily reach South Australia. 🏞️Must-visit places: 1️⃣ Kangaroo Island: a paradise of natural beauty and wildlife, Flinders Chase National Park, Remarkable Rocks, Seal Bay, close contact with kangaroos and koalas. 2️⃣Adelaide: The capital of South Australia, Adelaide Zoo, Botanical Gardens, Art Gallery, feel the cultural atmosphere. 3️⃣Barossa Valley: a wine producing region, taste fine wine and enjoy the vineyard scenery. 4️⃣Victoria Desert: the wonders of nature and the unique style of the desert. 5️⃣Eyre Peninsula: Australia's best fishing area, fresh seafood and seaside scenery. 🔍Hidden tourist attractions: 1️⃣Umpherston Sinkhole: A limestone cave in Mount Gambier, transformed into a secret garden. 2️⃣Lake Bumbunga: The lake that changes with the weather is connected to the sky. 3️⃣Buda Cliffs: The longest sea cliff in the world, whale watching. 4️⃣The Breakaways: The arid, ochre-colored landscape feels like being on Mars. 5️⃣Mount Gambier Blue Lake: the remains of an active volcano, the lake water is clear and transparent. 6️⃣Whispering Wall: At both ends of the dam in the Barossa area, you can hear each other by whispering. 7️⃣Maslin Beach: white sand, towering cliffs and clear water. 8️⃣Magnetic Hill: The visual illusion of a car automatically going up a slope.

#australiatrip Mount Gambier, located in southeastern South Australia, is renowned for its volcanic landscapes and limestone caves. The city’s standout feature is the Blue Lake, a volcanic crater lake that changes color seasonally. Other notable attractions include the Umpherston Sinkhole, transformed into a lush garden, and the Engelbrecht Cave, offering guided tours of its limestone formations. The Cave Gardens in the city center and Centenary Tower, with its panoramic views, are also popular. Mount Gambier is a gateway to the Limestone Coast, famous for its wineries and coastal beauty.

#schoolholidays One of the top spots when visiting South Australia during the holidays is Mount Gambier. These are the top 3 attractions in Mount Gambier not to be missed: 1) Little Blue Lake 2) The Blue Lake 3) The Sinkholes Mount Gambier is worth a visit as it will leave you in awe! Highly recommended for nature lovers and kids to explore nature during the school holidays! My rating: 4 ⭐️ out of 5! #australia #naturelovers

A must rest stop when you are doing a roadtrip from adelaide to Melbourne VV. This is located a 6 hours drive away from melbourne or an approx 3/4 hrs drove from Melbourne. This depends where you are coming from. - Umpherston Sinkhole - Mt Gambier Blue Lake Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul, also known, as the sunken garden was once a cave formed through dissolution of the limestone. The sinkhole is open at all times and from dusk each evening the area comes alive with possums as they venture into the floodlit gardens to feed. This place isn't wheelchair friendly as there will be steps all the way down to the Sinkhole, also do be careful as it gets slippery due to the water droplets from the plants and soil. Mt Gambier Blue Lake is a large, monomictic, crater lake located in a dormant volcanic maar associated with the Mount Gambier maar complex. The lake is situated near Mount Gambier in the Limestone Coast region of South Australia. This is one of the top most visited attractions in Mt Gambier. The Blue Lake offers a walking trail that is 3.6 kilometres long which will direct visitors to each of the viewing platforms dotted around the Lake. The trail also leads to the underpass between the Leg of Mutton Lake crater and the Blue Lake. #southaustralia #melbourne #australia #hiking #trails #vacation #scenicspot #scenic #view #reststop #pitstone #instaphoto #instapic #volcano #adventure

Blue mountain!

Go and visit the beautiful cave, which is a limestone sinkhole with two main passages (east and west), some dry and others underwater. You will see inside of Engelbrecht Cave an underground lake that forms part of Mount Gambier's natural water table. Part of the cave is open to the public as a show cave, while the underwater sections are popular with certified cave divers. 🏊🏼♂️ It's a perfect place to visit and then relax with a coffee ☕️ in the seating area above the cave. The site includes a gift shop, parking, and picnic areas. 🧺 🕰️Business Hours:Regular Hours • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM (some sources round to 3:30 PM; book tours no later than 2 PM)    • Wednesday: Closed  🚶 Tour Times • Guided tours start at 10:00 AM and run on the hour, typically every hour. The last tour begins at 2:00 PM  . • Tours usually last 30–40 minutes #travel #couplestrip #thingstodo #naturalwonders #familytravel

#summervacay You can book tickets on the official website with options for guided or self-guided tours. The caves are well-developed with excellent facilities, making it a great day trip from Mount Gambier—just about 1 hour away. I got tickets for $14.5. Nearby, you’ll also find the Wonambi Fossil Centre and Tantanoola Cave as alternatives. Tantanoola Cave is smaller and cheaper but still worth a visit. Blue Lake Nicknamed the “Jiuzhaigou of South Australia,” Blue Lake turns stunningly vibrant in December! There are several lookout spots perfect for photos. If the weather’s good, take some time to walk around the lake—it truly feels like stepping into a Studio Ghibli painting 🌸🌊. Umpherston Sinkhole / Balumbul Cave Garden This sunken garden is filled with beautiful hydrangeas—perfect for photos, especially if you wear a pretty dress 🌺. It’s not very large, so you can explore and take photos in about half an hour. It’s right on the edge of Mount Gambier city, just a few minutes’ drive. #MountGambier #RoadTrip #SouthAustralia #BlueLake #NaracoorteCaves

South Australia’s boarder sign

#springitinerary Mount Gambier is a dream for nature lovers, filled with hidden wonders beneath the surface. The stunning Blue Lake steals the show, its vivid cobalt waters shifting hues with the seasons. But the real magic lies underground—sinkholes like Umpherston are lush green oases tucked inside limestone cavities, creating an ethereal escape. The town offers a charming mix of cozy cafes, friendly locals, and fascinating volcanic history. Whether exploring mysterious caves or enjoying a coastal adventure nearby, Mount Gambier surprises at every turn. If you crave beauty beyond the ordinary, this South Australian gem deserves a spot on your travel list! Let me know if you’d like another perspective!

#springitinerary Mount Gambier, in South Australia, is a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and geological intrigue. The Blue Lake’s seasonal color shifts feel almost magical, while the sinkholes, like Umpherston, create unexpected lush escapes. Every corner has a story—from ancient caves to the charming local coffee spots. The fresh coastal breeze from nearby Port MacDonnell adds another layer of adventure. Whether you love nature, history, or just a peaceful retreat, this hidden gem has a way of stealing your heart.

#springitinerary Mount Gambier, a South Australian treasure, is a playground of breathtaking landscapes. The Blue Lake’s vivid hues shift with the seasons, creating an ever-changing spectacle. Sinkholes like Umpherston and Engelbrecht reveal lush sanctuaries within limestone depths, offering a surreal contrast to the rugged surroundings. The town itself is welcoming, with cozy cafés and a rich volcanic history adding to its charm. Whether you're chasing adventure or serenity, Mount Gambier surprises at every turn, proving that the most extraordinary places are often hidden in plain sight.

#springitinerary Cave Garden / Thugi is a serene escape tucked in the heart of Mount Gambier. This sunken garden, surrounded by limestone cliffs, offers a peaceful retreat with cascading greenery and a deep historical significance tied to the Boandik people. The viewing platforms provide stunning perspectives, especially after rain when waterfalls emerge, adding to the enchantment. Whether you're here to soak in nature’s beauty or learn about its cultural roots, this hidden haven is a must-visit for those who appreciate quiet wonders.

#springitinerary In the heart of Mount Gambier, Cave Garden / Thugi is a stunning natural retreat rich in cultural significance. This deep limestone sinkhole transforms into a mesmerizing oasis, where cascading greenery thrives along the rugged cliffs. After rain, delicate waterfalls add to its enchanting beauty. A place of history and tranquility, it offers a quiet escape and an opportunity to reflect on the stories of the Boandik people. If you love hidden gems, this peaceful haven is well worth exploring.

Umpherston Sinkhole and Blue Lake are located in Mount Gambier. - External Transportation: You can first arrive in cities like Adelaide before heading to Mount Gambier. If departing from Melbourne, the one-way drive takes about 4.5 hours; driving from Adelaide is also an option with a moderate distance. - Local Transportation: Upon reaching Mount Gambier, Umpherston Sinkhole is near the city center, accessible by a short walk or drive (about 10 minutes). Blue Lake is not far from the sinkhole, just a 5-10 minute drive away. You can choose to rent a car for flexible travel between attractions; taxis are available but may be relatively expensive; some local tour operators may offer shuttle services, especially for organized tours. Accommodation - Blue Lake Motel: Approximately 1.1 km from Umpherston Sinkhole and about 2.68 km from Blue Lake, with a prime location just 10 km from Mount Gambier Airport, offering good value for money. - Other Options: Mount Gambier city center offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and B&Bs. Staying near the city center provides easy access to Umpherston Sinkhole and the opportunity to explore the historic architecture and other sights. Dining - Local Restaurants: For example, The Barn Steakhouse, not far from Umpherston Sinkhole and Blue Lake, offers steaks and other delicacies, with an average cost of AUD 130+ per person. - City Dining: Mount Gambier city center has a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving various cuisines, including traditional Australian and international dishes, catering to different tastes. - Picnic Options: Umpherston Sinkhole features pavilions and BBQ facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy a picnic amidst the garden's beauty.

Reference Itinerary: . 🌟Day 1: Melbourne to Port Campbell 🚗 Depart from Melbourne, pass through the West Gate Bridge, cross the volcanic plains to Geelong, and then arrive at Bells Beach. Continue along the Great Ocean Road to visit attractions such as Kennett River and observe Australian native wildlife. Arrive at Great Otway National Park, cross the temperate rainforest, and admire the special landscape. In the afternoon, visit the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. . 🌟Day 2: Port Campbell to Port Fairy 🌅 Return to the Twelve Apostles in the morning to enjoy the beautiful rock formations in the morning light, and visit Loch Ard Gorge. Go to Warrnambool for lunch and visit Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve to learn about local history and culture. Spend the night in Port Fairy. . 🌟Day 3: Port Fairy to Naracoorte 🌲 Stop in Portland, visit Cape Nelson Lighthouse, and cross the pine plantation to Nelson. Stay overnight in Naracoorte and admire the Blue Lake and Umpherston Sinkhole. . 🌟Day 4: Naracoorte to Adelaide 🏞 Visit Naracoorte Caves, cross the Coonawarra vineyards, and taste famous wines. Go to Mount Lofty to admire the city view and arrive in the central district of Adelaide. . About us: 🏡Customization Specialist: Has lived in Australia for many years, familiar with various ways to play, to provide you with the most authentic travel plan . 💼 Qualification: Senior quality merchant on major platforms, strength guarantee - - 👉How to book 1. Follow me and click on the avatar to enter the homepage for online consultation/telephone consultation/customize for me 2. Click the product link below to consult online customer support ✔Tell us your needs, and a professional customization specialist will provide you with one-on-one service - Leave a message for more travel tips | chartered car | customization | private tours about Japan & USA & North America ✔ Mongolia ✔ Russia ✔ Maldives ✔ Tahiti ✔ Indonesia ✔ Thailand ✔ Singapore ✔ Malaysia ✔ Middle East and Africa, etc.

Located in the heart of Mount Gambier, South Australia, Engelbrecht Cave is an astonishing cave system that winds its way beneath the town's streets and residential areas. Open to the public, this site offers fully guided walking tours and is a popular destination for cave divers. The unique guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, during which you'll explore two separate caves. First, you'll marvel at the sinkhole, and then you'll witness the stunning underground lake with its crystal-clear, vibrant blue waters, home to some of the oldest living organisms on Earth! Whether you're a seasoned cave explorer or a newcomer to the wonders of the underground, this is a must-see attraction. I found this experience truly special. After your tour, you can enjoy outdoor dining near the sinkhole entrance of Engelbrecht Cave, savoring coffee, cakes, and cold drinks. 💰 Cost per person: Tour prices: Adults - $14.50 Children (ages 4-17, free for under 4) - $8.50 Family (2 adults and 2 children) - $40.00 (additional children: $6.50) 💞 Recommended reason: Explore the caves of South Australia

|A complete guide to the dream trip to Ruixue Valley. ❄️【Why is the whole network shouting "Rui Xue Valley YYDS"? 】 ✅ Australia's largest ski resort! 17 snow-capped mountains + 200+ ski trails, novices can become ski masters in seconds! ✅ Winter only! 20℃ glacier lake + hot sauna, the combination of hot and cold is so refreshing! ✅ Check in at the filming location of "House of Cards"! Every shot you take gives you the feeling of a Hollywood blockbuster! Recommended attractions 👍 [Sunset] Ski Tube Perisher Station at Perisher Valley Winery Group Perisher Valley is home to many high-quality wineries. Walking in the winery, you will be surrounded by vast green vineyards, and the air is filled with the sweet aroma of grapes and the mellow scent of oak barrels. You can visit the winemaking process, from picking and juicing to fermentation and aging, and learn about the wonderful journey of the birth of a bottle of fine wine. You can also taste the most authentic and delicious local wines. Professional winemakers will explain to you the unique flavor and tasting points of each wine. [Scenic] Perisher Valley National Park Perisher Valley New South Wales Blue Lake National Park This is a paradise for nature lovers. The park has rich and diverse vegetation, including ancient eucalyptus trees, rare ferns, etc. Walking along the hiking trail, you will see various wild animals unique to Australia, such as cute kangaroos jumping on the grass and adorable koalas napping in the trees. There are also spectacular waterfalls in the park. The water cascades down from great heights, forming gorgeous rainbows under the sunlight, making people feel as if they are in a fairyland. [Drops] Blue Lagoon Blue Lagoon As the name suggests, the lake water is as clear as a mirror, reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests, which is breathtakingly beautiful. In the early morning, the lake is covered with a thin layer of mist, like a dream; in the evening, the afterglow of the setting sun shines on the lake, and the entire lake is dyed orange-red, like an oil painting. Here, you can choose to row a boat, quietly travel across the lake, and feel the tranquility and beauty; you can also find a comfortable spot by the lake, sit down and appreciate this masterpiece of nature. 🗺️【3 bomb routes to choose from! Lazy people and enthusiasts are ecstatic] Route 1: One-day extreme skiing party 🚀7:30 Arrive at Perisher Valley (1.5h direct from Sydney/Melbourne) W Hotel Melbourne ✅ Morning: Beginner → Intermediate crash course (including coach + equipment) ✅ Afternoon: Black Diamond Advanced Trail Challenge (super exciting hill climbing!) ✅ In the evening: Take the mountaintop cable car to overlook the snow-capped mountains and check in at the popular "God's Perspective" viewing platform 🎫Ticket reference: Adult single-day ticket 149 Australian dollars (Ctrip limited time purchase 119! Including basic equipment) Route 2: 2-day parent-child healing tour Day 1: 🌨️Children's ski park (3 years old and above) + snow treasure hunt game 🌞Afternoon: Take a retro steam train through the snowy mountains and forests Day 2: ♨️Soak in a century-old hot spring hotel (private hot spring pool!) + picnic barbecue by the lake 🎫Package price: $499 AUD/double (including accommodation + meals + skiing) Route 3: Private route for photographers ⏰Sunrise: Climb to the top of Mount Kosciuszko (Australia’s highest peak) and take photos of the golden mountain in the sun ☁️Morning: Hike to the Three Sisters Peak (the same sea of ​​clouds as in The Lord of the Rings!) 🌄Afternoon: Blue Lake (Lake St Clair) Glacier Blue Ice Blue Lake + Drone Aerial Photography Teaching Class 📸Photography TIP: Bring a polarizing filter! The reflection on the lake is amazing! 🍴【Foodie radar fully on! Locals' Secret List】 🔥Top1: The Village Idiot (inside the ski resort) ✔️Must order: Australian Tomahawk steak (380g! Sizzling with blood and oil) ✔️Hidden menu: Secret Chocolate Lava Cake (sweet party crazy!) 💰Per capita: $50-70 Australian dollars 🍤Top2: Seafood Market Night Market (next to Valley Railway Station) 🌙 Late-night special: Freshly caught rock oyster sashimi + bluefin tuna sushi platter 🔥Tips: Friday/Saturday nights are the most crowded! Remember to reserve a seat 30 minutes in advance! 🍷Top 3: Top-notch internet-famous bars 🍷Special: Snowy Mountain Sour (Cider + Vodka + Popping Candy, one sip to your heart's content!) 🎁Bonus: Get a free cable car ticket when you spend $100 or more! 💡【Guide to avoiding pitfalls! What the locals won’t tell you ⚠️Fake snow warning: Some cheap ski resorts use artificial snow! 90% of the snow in Ruixue Valley is natural! Look for the logo! 👗Dressing rules: three-layer dressing method! The middle layer must be fleece! Goggles must be anti-fog! 🚗The truth about traffic: It is most convenient to drive from Sydney! It’s terrible if you miss the last bus on public transportation! 📌【Tips for your trip】 📅Best season: June-September (night skiing from December-February!) 🧳Packing list: waterproof phone case, high-calorie snacks, hot packs, ski socks! 🌍Visa reminder: Chinese citizens need an ETA electronic visa ($25 Australian dollars, issued in 3 minutes!)

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Presidential Motel 💡 Tips

Grand King Suite at the Commodore in Mount Gambier. Great central location to all the sites in Mount Gambier. I stopped over here on my way to Adelaide from Melbourne and highly recommend if you’re driving across. Room was so clean and the King Bed was very comfortable and supportive. Food in the in house restaurant was fantastic for both Dinner and Breakfast. Blue Lake is a must to check out, also the little blue lake if you want to have a swim.

#australiatrip Embarking on a historic building tour in Mount Gambier is a delightful journey through time, showcasing the city’s rich architectural heritage. The self-guided walking tour takes you past 32 of the oldest and most significant buildings, each marked with informative bollards that narrate their unique stories. From the grand dolomite structures to charming Victorian-era cottages, the tour highlights the craftsmanship and history that define Mount Gambier’s streetscape. This immersive experience is perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. The tour starts at the Mount Gambier Visitor Centre, located at 35 Jubilee Highway East, Mount Gambier, South Australia.

#australiatrip Exploring the Sunken Gardens in Mount Gambier is like stepping into a hidden oasis of tranquility and beauty. Known as the Umpherston Sinkhole, this garden was transformed from a collapsed limestone cave into a lush, green sanctuary by James Umpherston in 1886. Visitors can wander through the vibrant flora, enjoy the cool shade provided by the towering trees, and marvel at the intricate rock formations. The garden is especially magical at dusk when possums emerge, adding a touch of wildlife to the serene environment. The Sunken Gardens are located on Jubilee Highway East, Mount Gambier, South Australia.

#australiatrip A trip to Blue Lake in Mount Gambier, South Australia, is a mesmerizing experience that combines geological wonder with natural splendor. This stunning monomictic crater lake, formed within an extinct volcanic maar, is renowned for its vibrant cobalt blue color that captivates visitors, especially from December to March. The surrounding landscape, with its lush greenery and scenic walking trails, offers a serene escape perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The lake’s rich volcanic history and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination. Blue Lake is located on John Watson Drive, Mount Gambier, South Australia 5290.

#australiatrip A visit to Blue Lake in Mount Gambier, South Australia, is a captivating journey into one of nature’s most stunning spectacles. This monomictic crater lake, nestled in an extinct volcanic maar, is renowned for its vibrant cobalt blue color that dazzles visitors from December to March. The surrounding landscape offers picturesque views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for leisurely walks along the 3.6-kilometer trail that encircles the lake. With its rich geological history and breathtaking beauty, Blue Lake is a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Blue Lake is located on John Watson Drive, Mount Gambier, South Australia 5290.

|||. No one told me that Point Ormond Lookout is so windy! I took my parents to visit the Great Ocean Road for the second time. It was a three-day and two-night trip🗺️with plenty of time to start and stop, so I wasn’t tired at all👍 [Day 1] Geelong Waterfront-Little Red Riding Hood Lighthouse Split Point Lookout-The starting point of the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch at Eastern View-Teddy's Lootout-Overnight at Apollo Bay [Day 2] Officially enter the main attractions of the Great Ocean Road, and you can get a viewing spot in five or six minutes! The wind is super strong! ! Be sure to wear more clothes~ Gibson Steps-Twelve Apostles Twelve Apostles-Loch Ard Gorge-London Bridge-Grove-Bay of Islands-Overnight Mt. Gambier [Day 3] Entering South Australia! Umpherston Sinkhole Cave Garden (the hydrangeas are still in buds at the beginning of November, and they are expected to be super beautiful now) - Blue Lake Blue Lake is super beautiful! -Little blue lake-Tantanoola Cave-Hahndorf German town dinner-go home🏠 Travel by car in Australia and make travel plans ~ Give your sisters a treasure app - Wanderlog! Pictures 8-10 not only include introductions to attractions, but also restaurant business hours. You can also make notes yourself and the distances between attractions will be clearly marked. It’s so convenient!

Accommodation: The Barn, 747 Glenelg River Rd, Mount Gambier SA 5290 Like a garden estate, the sunset and flowers are very photogenic, and the accommodation is good. The steak at the hotel restaurant is also highly praised. I personally think the barn prime eye fillet is good. Cave Garden: Umpherston Sinkhole / Balumbul: Free attraction, vines and hydrangeas complement each other, better for taking photos of the scenery than people. Blue Lake: Beautiful like a painting. Before I went, I thought there are blue lakes everywhere, right? But I was really amazed when I went there. The sapphire-like lake sparkles in the sun, which is really special. Little Blue Lake: This lake is not as blue as Blue Lake, maybe because it was cloudy, it is more like blue-green. You can swim in this lake, and it is said that you can also dive and take pictures. Cape Northumberland Lighthouse Ruins: The southernmost tip of South Australia, overlooking the distance from the lighthouse cliff, I feel that the South Pole on the road sign is not far away. Port Macdonnell: Lobster town, very suitable for choosing a seaside restaurant to enjoy the sea breeze and eat lobster.

Very nice town and alot to explore.