8 unforgettable experiences on the Limestone Coast

By Ellen Morgan
Published: Friday, December 4, 2020

Sparkling white stone and crystal-blue waters are just some of the striking signs you’ve entered the Limestone Coast.

One of the stunning jewels in South Australia’s crown, the Limestone Coast is not only home to an abundance of wine regions, but also boasts lesser-known natural wonders and unforgettable experiences.

We uncover some of the untouched beauty, hidden gems and bucket list experiences this South-Eastern region has to offer. No matter which adventure you choose, you’ll be left with memories that are sure to last a lifetime.

Sparkling blue waters of the Kilsby sinkhole. Image: Dougal McFuzzlebutt

The sparkling blue waters of Kilsby Sinkhole. Image: Dougal McFuzzlebutt

1. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Kilsby Sinkhole

Just 14km south of Mount Gambier lies one of the most peculiar natural marvels of the Limestone Coast – Kilsby Sinkhole.

Filled with crystal-clear water that appears an iridescent blue-green, the sinkhole is an unexpected 60m deep.

With a fascinating history (secret weapons were tested here in the ‘70s), the sinkhole is currently frequented by both recreational and professional divers, tour groups and also the police for annual dive training.

Nestled on the sheep property of the Kilsby family (4th generation), the sinkhole can be experienced in several ways − from a simple tour to learn about the geology and history of the site, to snorkelling and even scuba diving for the extra-adventurous explorer.

The Kilsby family have even released their own gin from Limestone-filtered water from the aquifer that feeds the sinkhole. Crafted using local Limestone Coast botanicals, it’s a uniquely tasty treat to take home with you post-tour or dive. You can purchase it from the site.

Gin not your fancy? There’s limoncello too (these guys have thought of everything). Scuba diving and a limoncello to take away? Why not, we say!

Award-winning Mayura Station wagyu. Image: Ellen Morgan

2. Sample some of the world’s best steak at Mayura Station

Known the world-over by steak lovers and beef aficionados, Mayura Station offers an experience your tastebuds will not forget.

A farming property and restaurant, Mayura Station is home to award-winning Wagyu beef. Known for its exceptional quality, Mayura meat is in high demand, much of it sent overseas to Asia where it’s treated as a prized possession.

Much of the full-blood Wagyu is still kept at the station or sold to Australian restaurants and you can taste it for yourself at the Tasting Room.

Their unique 4-course dining experience showcases different cuts of meat and cooking methods. It can also be matched with wines for an all-round impressive journey for your taste buds.

You’ll be taken through your dishes in detail, learning about the cattle, the property, the cuts and more. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – these guys are experts in Wagyu (and you can impress all your future fellow diners when you’re next out for dinner).

The chef's table. Image: Dougal McFuzzlebutt

Perch at either the chef’s table and watch the action happen right in front of you, or sit in the dining area and be served the moorishly tasty delicacies at your own table, all the while enjoying views across the expansive property.

While many dine here for a special occasion, there are some Mayura-lovers who keep coming back for more. You can even get your own personally engraved steak knife that the crew will keep here for you to use each time you dine.

Raidis Estate. Image: supplied

3. Wine and dine under the stars at Raidis Estate

Located in the quaint town of Penola, Raidis Estate is a much-loved winery by both locals and visitors alike.

Established more than 40 years ago, the family business is now run by the second generation – Steve and Emma Raidis. Their love for the region, their family, wines and goats is second-to-none, and it’s this infectious passion that keeps people coming back for more.

While a visit to the cosy cellar door, outdoor barn and lawn space is a treat in itself, their ‘wine and dine under the stars’ offering is an extra-special experience to remember if you’re travelling with a group.

The cosy cellar door space. Image: Ellen Morgan

Not only will you dine amongst the vines, enjoying a 4-course meal, but you’ll also be treated to the company of Steve and Emma, who’ll run you through their wines.

Sip along as they guide you through the wines and watch as nightfall settles on the glossy green vines surrounding you. You can even request a glamping experience for the night if you’d like to lay your head just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the table.

You might even be lucky enough to be greeted by one of the property’s beloved goats – farmland pets of the family – used to naturally prune the weeds and give back nutrients to the soil. If not, you can take a memento home with you with a few bottles of vino (the goats take pride of place on the label).

Image: Ockert le Roux/SATC

4. Witness the natural wonder that is the Blue Lake

One of the state’s most popular road-trip destinations, Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake is a 72m-deep body of water housed in a dormant volcano. The water shines an aqua-blue from November through to March, when it begins to change to a deep grey blue again. Rest assured, it’s a beauty to behold any time of year.

While many choose to see the lake from the viewing platform or take a walk around the edge (only 3.6km), you can take a more up-close-and-personal look at all her beauty, thanks to Aquifer Tours.

Their 45-minute tour takes you in a glass-panelled lift down the original dolomite well-shaft so you can see the lake up-close. You’ll also learn about the history of the aquifer and the role of the lake in the township, as well as some stories of Indigenous history and European settlement.

Wine tastings in the limestone cellar at Cape Jaffa. Image: Ellen Morgan

5. Taste wine from the barrel at Cape Jaffa Wines

While you might’ve heard of the iconic Coonawarra wine region, many don’t know the Limestone Coast is home to a number of other wine regions, including Mount Benson, Mount Gambier, Padthaway, Wrattonbully and Robe.

One of Mount Benson’s most famous wineries is Cape Jaffa Wines, who pride themselves on elegant wines with unique flavour profiles. A visit to the region isn’t complete without a stop-off here on your way out of Robe.

Our travel tip? Make sure you book ahead for a tasting with a difference in the original barrel hall, dug out of the limestone hill-face (recommended for groups).

Here, you can sip wines poured straight from the barrels. Taste some of the region’s top wines, surrounded by the original limestone walls of the winery – it doesn’t get much more authentic than that.

A brett-nat by Cape Jaffa paired with one of their platters. Image: Ellen Morgan

If you happen to be passing through and want more of a casual experience, you can also enjoy a platter of local produce (these platters are a sight to behold in themselves) and taste your choice of wines at the cellar door, overlooking the views of the rugged region that lays ahead.

Some wines to look out for are their skin contact varieties and biodynamic wines, some of which combine beer and wine-making practices. There are even hybrid varieties that blur the line between red and rosé which are well worth a try, too.

There’s even top-notch beer crafted on the premises here, too, which is much-loved in these parts. The label is called Loophole Brewing Co. and can be purchased on-site, too.

Ancient fossils, skeletons and natural wonders at the Naracoorte Caves. Image: Adam Bruzzone/SATC

6. Explore historic underground caves at Naracoorte Caves National Park

There’s something so intriguing about the history and geology in this region – the sinkholes, Blue Lake, limestone soils and of course, the famous Naracoorte Caves.

Now forming part of Naracoorte Caves National Park, the caves are carefully managed, researched and maintained thanks to National Parks and Wildlife.

Four of the 28 caves are available to explore through tours runs by the knowledgeable staff here. At approximately 800,000 years old, they provide a unique look back in time.

Little do many South Aussies know, but these caves are World Heritage-listed and are also vital sites for fossil research.

There are a number of tours to choose from, suitable for a range of ages. Book online or visit the Visitor Information Centre on-site for more info and booking details.

While you’re there, you can also peruse the Wonambi Fossil Centre’s moving display of weird and wonderful prehistoric Australian wildlife (little humans will love this one). Don’t forget to look out for the giant wombat!

Luxe Glamping at Southern Ocean Tourist Park. Image: Ellen Morgan

7. Rest your head in a luxe bell tent

Unforgettable experiences don’t stop when the sun goes down on the Limestone Coast, with a host of accommodation options that’ll keep you coming back to the region to simply rest your head.

After your days of wine tasting, fine dining and nature exploration, why not stay the night in a bell tent?

The quirky accommodation offering is perfect for the region due to its vast amount of wide-open space, unique farm properties, vineyards and even coastal caravan parks.

Whether you want your tent pitched by the beach with amenities close-by, or you’d prefer to share the paddocks with the sheep at the eclectic Bellwether Wines properties, there are plenty of options to choose from.

If you’d prefer to choose the location yourself, Luxe Glamping offers a range of bell tent hire packages. They’ll put up and pack down the bell tent of your choice, including lush styling and furnishings. All you need to do is book your campsite.

One of their top sites is Southern Ocean Tourist Park in Beachport with plenty of sheltered grassy spots for your canvas castle.

Bell tents dotted about the stunning Bellwether farm property. Image: Dougal McFuzzlebutt

Bellwether Wines in Coonawarra also offers glamping in bell tents on their lush farm and winery. Greeted by beautiful property pooch Mabel and their flock of sheep, you’ll fall in love with Bellwether the moment you step foot on the soil.

The colourful gardens and eclectic winery and cellar door feel like a magical Disney film set. The space comes complete with camp kitchen, laundry, communal shared dining spaces, toilets, showers and plenty of their own wine to taste, purchase and enjoy, of course.

Luxe furnishings in the suites at Delgattie. Image: Ellen Morgan

8. Soak up history at Delgattie Estate

The newest accommodation offering from the Kosch family (owners of Mount Gambier’s popular Commodore on the Park and the Henty), Delgattie Estate is like stepping back in time – very luxuriously.

The historic estate was established in 1902 and has seen an interesting array of custodians in its time. In fact, King Edward VIII is rumoured to have played a game of billiards here. The billiard table is a story itself, having been lifted into the second floor before the roof was laid due to its impressive size.

Historic furnishings collected for years have been lovingly restored and housed here, adding to the heritage ambience of the boutique accommodation. Detailing and amenities are luxe, making it the perfect splash-out accommodation option for your Limestone Coast stay.

There are 3 suites to choose from, both suitable for 2 people. They each come with their own sitting room (complete with in-room cocktails), ensuites and views out over Mount Gambier. Not a detail is spared in these stunning spaces – they’re the kind of places you never want to leave.

On the fancier side for accommodation, this is great for special occasions or a holiday treat. It’s also an excellent way to soak up the history of the region and the grandiose homes common in magnificent Mount Gambier.

Top tip – why not take a tour?

One of the best ways to see the Limestone Coast is with a tour, particularly if you want to experience some unforgettable highlights, but you’d rather not drive.

This can be particularly important if you’re heading to the region’s wineries and are planning on a few tastings. Be safe, and take a tour instead of driving.

Coonawarra Experiences can take the hassle out for you, offering a range of tours to suit your needs and preferences. They can recommend tour stop-offs for you, or you can chat to Simon and Kerry about where you’d like to go and what you’d like to see.

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