Limestone Coast

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.

On your pilgrimage between Adelaide and Melbourne via the spectacular Great Ocean Road, slow down and take some time to explore this year-round vacation destination. Whether you travel along the coast or inland through the heart of the region there is always plenty to see and do.

It may have taken 26 million years to create the Limestone Coast. But good things are worth the wait.

Must See, Must Do

Naracoorte 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. For the more adventurous, squeeze your way through the remote parts of the cave systems on an adventure caving tour.

Wine Tasting & Coonawarra
The Limestone Coast is home to six of Australia's leading wine regions, a combination of boutique labels and some of the world's biggest brands. Coonawarra, Padthaway, Mount Benson and Wrattonbully - just to name a few. The jewel in the crown, Coonawarra is famous worldwide for its cabernet sauvignon and the terra rossa soil from which the vines flourish. Cellar-dooring is a great way to sample these world class wines. Each cellar door contains its own captivating stories, stunning architecture, and irresistible flavours. Visit one of the local restaurants and match regional fare with wines for an indulgent experience.

Walk Around Ancient Volcanoes
In Mount Gambier, the Valley Lakes area shows off its crater lakes, lovely parks and the rim of the mysterious Blue Lake on a 3.5-kilometre (2 mile) walking trail. You can also hike to the Centenary Tower for good views, or take a tour down to the surface of the Blue Lake.

Coorong National Park
Be amazed by one of Australia's most extraordinary and important nature reserves Coorong National Park. The Coorong's line of surf-swept coastal dunes seems to go on forever while the inner lagoon teems with birds. This long and narrow park is also of archaeological significance, with Aboriginal middens and burial sites dotted throughout. Secluded beaches with their rocky limestone outcrops provide plenty of opportunities for fishing, camping, picnics and four-wheel drive adventures.