Famed for its red wines, red soils & red rock lobster, the Limestone Coast is located in the middle of the Adelaide to Melbourne touring route. Lush pastures dotted with gum trees, pristine vineyards, sweeping expanses of coast and parallel pine plantations line the way through the region's country towns. Unearth the classic and the cutting edge at cellar doors throughout the Coonawarra Wine Region, where unique terra rossa soils have helped to create some of Australia's best red wines. You'll find a warm welcome by locals eager to share their vintages and some fine food. Other great areas include Padthaway, Mount Benson, Wrattonbully, and Mount Gambier - home to the Blue Lake, which turns from grey to a brilliant turquoise every November. For something a little different venture into a subterranean world of stalactites, stalagmites & ancient fossils at the Naracoorte Caves, explore the wetlands of Coorong National Park, or hike the 130 km beach linking the park & the Southern Ocean.
When to Visit Coonawarra and the Limestone Coast
The Limestone Coast has a temperate Mediterranean climate: Summers are warm to hot with mainly dry conditions. The average temperature is about 29 degrees Celsius in Bordertown and 21 degrees Celsius in Cape Northumberland (South Australia's southernmost tip). The autumn months bring mild to cold days with chilly evenings, however the autumn colours make it a beautiful time of year to visit. During the winter, days are typically chilly, the nights cold, and it is generally a good idea to bring an umbrella. Spring brings an abundance of wildflowers and a great time for nature walks.
Getting Around Coonawarra and the Limestone Coast
There are daily flights between Adelaide & Mount Gambier, and Melbourne & Mount Gambier. The Mount Gambier domestic airport is located just north of the town. By road, the Princess Highway is the main route that links the Limestone Coast to both Melbourne and Adelaide, however there are alternative routes that allow you to take some exciting side trips. Quality highways and roads link all major towns and leisure spots. There are daily Coaches departing Adelaide and Melbourne that stop at many of the towns throughout the region. A number of tour operators run tours through the Limestone Coast region. Taxis are available in many of the larger towns including Mount Gambier, Naracoorte, Millicent, Penola and Bordertown.