Driving in the Limestone Coast

Adelaide - Melbourne

Driving between Adelaide and Melbourne?

Take the Adelaide Melbourne Touring Route. Whether you follow the coast or venture inland, great food, world-renowned wines, breathtaking scenery, and unique experiences await. Don't worry, you get to see the other on the way home.

The Coastal Explorer's Way will take you from Melbourne along the world famous Great Ocean Road on to Mt Gambier, part of the Limestone Coast. Explore the caves, craters, sinkholes and volcanic lakes and learn the secret behind the Blue Lakes mysterious colour change.

From Mt Gambier take the Coastal Ports Highway and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of the historic seaside ports of Robe, Beachport and Kingston SE. Stop for a spot of fishing, sample the local catch fresh from the sea, or take a 4WD trek through the surrounding coastal parks.

On the way home take the Country Lover's Way. Journey from Melbourne through Ballarat and The Grampians in Victoria to Penola. Explore the many boutique galleries and museums, taste your way through the world renowned Coonawarra wine region and discover Australia's past at the Naracoorte World Heritage Fossil Site before making your way to Adelaide via the Murraylands and Adelaide Hills.

Extend your scenic touring experience and explore the "Brilliant Blend" that is the Limestone Coast.

Volcanic Trail

The Volcanoes Discovery Trail takes you on a surprising journey through the landscape of Australia's youngest volcanoes, albeit dormant ones.

Beach Driving

When driving on the beach it is best to check the tide times and drive at low tide. You should deflate your tyres to around 105kPa or 15psi before entering the beach. Remember to reinflate your tyres when leaving the beach.

When beach driving, stay on the marked tracks. Some parts of the beaches are closed for your safety, to allow vegetation regrowth and to protect native flora and fauna.

Many beaches are steep and soft and may be hazardous, especially during winter months. 4WD tracks running parallel with some beaches provide a safer alternative. You can ask a local about beach conditions.

The most important thing you need to remember when beach driving is to leave the area in the same condition you found it. Without this commitment from all users, access to these areas will be under threat with restrictions made.

Coastal Drive - Bowman Scenic Drive

Starting at the roundabout at the end of the main street in Beachport, the Bowman Scenic Drive follows the spectacular rugged coastline of the Southern Ocean taking you through the surrounding sand dunes to Woolley Rock. There are plenty of places to stop and take in the view, marvel at the many natural rock formations, take a stroll along the beach or stop for a spot of surf fishing. The Bowman Scenic Drive takes in a number of attractions including the light house, Blowhole Rock and the Pool of Siloam.

Off-Road

Head off-road on one of the countless four-wheel drive tracks. They offer a range of experiences from coast to desert, featuring amazing geological formation, stunning natural environments and prolific bird life. Many of the regions landscapes are best explored in a four-wheel drive, as it gives you an opportunity to appreciate the beautiful, rugged environment up-close. Take some time to enjoy these truly unique experiences.

Our coastal parks are among the most weathered in Australia. Here you will find eroded cliffs, sand dunes, birdlife of international significance, and outstanding surf fishing. Take your 4WD through the sand dunes, along the beach and past some breathtaking scenery. Explore:

• Beachport Conservation Park
• Coorong National Park
• Canunda National Park
• Little Dip Conservation Park
• Long Beach

Head inland and explore the Mallee region. Being relatively inaccessible, it offers outstanding wildlife opportunities with frequent sightings of emus, kangaroos and birdlife. Base yourself in Bordertown, Keith or Tintinara for easy access to a wide range of experiences. Explore:

• Ngarkat Conservation Park
• Mount Rescue
• Mount Shaugh

For up to date track information contact the Lameroo National Parks Office on 08 8576 3690.

With a bit of planning, an understanding of the local requirements, and a well-equipped 4WD vehicle you are ready to go. Please ensure that you follow a few simple safety tips:

• Plan your trip - make sure that you have an accurate up-to-date map and an understanding of the level of difficulty of the track. Know what facilities are available and pack ample supplies of food and water. If you are unsure about any details please check information with the local parks office.
• Ensure that your vehicle is registered
• Stay on the marked tracks - use the latest maps and look for the marker posts. Trails are marked and should be followed at all times. Not only are they the safest route, but sticking to them will lessen the impact on the environment.
• Think before you act - ensure the track ahead is safe and when unsure do not proceed.

For those who do not have a four-wheel drive, tourist drives are easily accessible and take you past some breath taking scenery.

Driving Safely

Stop, revive, survive. Driving long periods of time without rest breaks can cause driver fatigue, a common cause of accidents. Please take some time prior to traveling to plan your driving journey. Take regular stops at local towns which offer a great range of facilities and change drivers every two hours.

Transport SA have a complete guide to road safety laws in South Australia.

In case of an emergency please dial 000 for police, ambulance or fire assistance.