Things to do in Mount Gambier

Mount Gambier – A natural wonderland.

Climb the majestic Blue Lake for a breathtaking view of the city.

Explore the mysterious underground caves at the Umpherston Sinkhole.

Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Valley Lake.

Wander through the enchanting beauty of the Cave Gardens.

Discover the ancient geological formations of the Piccaninnie Ponds.

Hike through the stunning landscape of the Mount Gambier Conservation Park.

Indulge in the flavors of the region at the local farmers’ market.

Embrace the tranquility of the city’s Botanic Gardens.

Experience the thrill of adventure at the Engelbrecht Cave.

Witness the mesmerizing beauty of the sun setting over the city from the Centenary Tower.

Come and discover the beauty of Mount Gambier, a place where nature is at its best.

Cave Garden / Thugi

Explore the Beauty of Cave Garden / Thugi in Mount Gambier

Located in the heart of Mount Gambier at 1 Bay Rd, Cave Garden or Thugi, as it is known by the local Indigenous people, is a unique attraction that is worth exploring.

Cave Garden Cafe and Food

After your exploration, there are several cafes in the area where you can grab a meal and coffee. The Cave Garden Cafe is a great choice, and their black squid spaghetti and pork belly are particularly tasty.

A Perfect Stroll

The Cave Garden is a small sinkhole that is accessible by a short and easy paved walk. The garden is beautifully maintained, and there are plenty of roses blooming throughout the area.

Learn About the Formation

There are also multiple informational displays available to learn about how the sinkhole was formed. Take the time to read and understand the unique geological features of the area.

Family-Friendly

Cave Garden is an excellent attraction for families, with a short and straightforward walk that can be easily managed by all ages. It’s also a peaceful and beautiful spot in the heart of the city.

Light Display

At night, the Cave Garden is transformed into a magical wonderland with a light display, and you can learn about the aboriginal history of the area.

Umpherston Sinkhole / Balumbul

Discover the Beauty of Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul

Located just off the main road, Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul is a must-visit attraction in Mount Gambier. With its lush greenery, charming terraces, and breathtaking views, it’s no surprise that this natural wonder is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Explore the Sinkhole

Start your journey at the viewing platforms at the top of the sinkhole and appreciate its size and depth. Walk down into the sinkhole, along the terraces and behind the hanging vines, and be awed by the natural beauty that surrounds you. The topsoil on the floor of the sinkhole forms the perfect environment for the sunken garden, which is one of the main attractions of Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul.

Enjoy the Facilities

A large undercover shelter with group seating and free barbecue is provided for visitors who want to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the view. The kiosk on site offers coffee, snacks, ice creams and souvenirs, making it a convenient place to grab a snack or gift for loved ones.

Learn About the History

Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul, also known as the sunken garden, was once a cave formed through the dissolution of the limestone. The sinkhole was created when the top of the chamber collapsed downwards. The geological processes that have created the sinkholes in the region inspired the sculpture at Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul.

Visit at Night

For a unique experience, visit the sinkhole at night when it is well lit and looks beautiful in the lights of the night. Watch possums play and feed them with the food provided.

Don’t miss out on the chance to discover the beauty and history of Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul. With free entry, it’s an attraction that’s not to be missed.

Umpherston Cave

Umpherston Cave: Discover the Magic of Nature

Located within the city limits of Mount Gambier, Umpherston Cave is a unique and beautiful destination that promises to enchant visitors with its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

Perfect for a Family Outing

Umpherston Cave offers BBQ facilities, benches and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for families looking to spend some quality time together. The park is dog-friendly, so your furry friends can join in on the fun and enjoy the beautiful views.

A Hidden Gem

As you walk down the steep stairs, you’ll be met with stunning limestone walls and hanging vines that will leave you in awe. The cave is also home to possums, so keep an eye out for these furry creatures as you explore the surroundings.

Well-maintained and Accessible

The gardens surrounding the cave are well-cared for and provide a serene and shaded area for picnicking and relaxing. While there are several stairs leading down to the cave, there are viewing platforms for those who may have difficulty with the stairs.

Experience the Magic of Nature for Free

The best part about Umpherston Cave is that there is no entry fee, making it a perfect budget-friendly activity for families, friends, or solo adventurers. Come and discover the magic of nature and experience the beauty of Umpherston Cave for yourself.

Engelbrecht Cave

Engelbrecht Cave: Discover a Unique Limestone Cave Experience in Mount Gambier

Engelbrecht Cave is a stunning limestone cave located at 26 Chute St, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia. This cave offers a unique experience that you won’t find in other caves in the Limestone Coast.

Guided Tours and Interesting Facts

Although you can’t explore Engelbrecht Cave by yourself, the guided tours provided are well worth the price. Your knowledgeable tour guide will lead you through the dry sections of the cave, pointing out interesting facts about the cave’s history and unique dry cave formations.

Dive and Explore More

If you’re an experienced diver, you can also explore the other sections of the cave with special permission. These sections are not accessible on the guided tour but offer an even more exciting cave exploration experience.

Coffee and Alfresco Dining

After your cave exploration, you can enjoy a cup of top-quality coffee from the little cafe on site. The cafe also offers lovely treats with gluten-free and vegan options. You can enjoy your coffee and treats while basking in the stunning views of the surrounding area in the alfresco dining area.

Reviews

Many visitors have enjoyed their experience at Engelbrecht Cave. The tour guide’s knowledge and interesting facts are much appreciated, and the coffee from the cafe is of top quality. Some visitors have noted that the cave’s interior is not as colorful as other caves, but the lighting helps make up for it.

Overall, Engelbrecht Cave is a must-visit location in Mount Gambier, offering a unique cave experience with stunning views and top-quality coffee and treats.

Vansittart Park

Vansittart Park: A Perfect Picnic Spot and Playground for Kids

Vansittart Park is a beautifully maintained and peaceful memorial park located at Commercial St W, Mount Gambier, Australia. The park boasts a range of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages.

A Family-Friendly Playground and Picnic Area

One of the main attractions of the park is its massive playground, which offers hours of fun for kids. The play equipment is well-maintained and provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children to play.

The park is also an excellent spot for a picnic or barbecue with family and friends. There are plenty of shady areas with tables and chairs to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal. The clean and well-maintained public toilets near the playground area are an added convenience.

Beautiful Flowers and Peaceful Ambience

Vansittart Park is renowned for its stunning flowers and unique rose varieties. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll among the flowers and ornamentals, and take stunning photos.

The park is also a perfect spot for some quiet time or reflection. The Fallen Soldiers Memorial is a beautiful tribute to the brave men and women who served their country.

Convenient Location and Great Accessibility

Vansittart Park is conveniently located in the heart of Mount Gambier, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. The park has ample parking space and offers a safe and secure environment for families.

Mount Gambier Visitor Centre

Welcome to Mount Gambier Visitor Centre

Located at 35 Jubilee Hwy E, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia, the Mount Gambier Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone new to the area or visiting.

Super friendly staff and ample parking

The visitor centre boasts of super friendly staff who are always willing to provide visitors with all the inside information about what to do and where to go in Mount Gambier. They are very knowledgeable and helpful and can save visitors a lot of time with little hints like calling ahead to book many attractions.

The centre also has ample parking, which can accommodate cars, caravans, and trailers. There is also seating available at the bus stop and clean facilities.

Discovery centre and history/information experience

One of the best features of the Mount Gambier Visitor Centre is the discovery centre. Visitors can learn all about the area’s first settlers, volcano, and cave systems. There is even a replica of the Lady Nelson, a ship that played a vital role in the area’s history.

The history/information experience section is another highlight of the centre. Visitors can follow a path with local history, information about volcanoes and fossils. It is a great learning experience for kids and adults alike.

Disc golf and more

The visitor centre has something for everyone. Apart from the discovery centre and history/information experience, visitors can also try their hand at disc golf. The section out the front of the centre is perfect for disc golf, and visitors can enjoy a game if the weather is favorable.

Centenary Tower

Centenary Tower

Location: Elliott Dr, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia

A Rewarding Climb

The climb up may be steep, but the reward is an unforgettable experience. The view from Centenary Tower in Mount Gambier is nothing short of breathtaking. Perched atop a steep hill, the tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, one can see for miles in every direction, taking in the beautiful rolling hills, forests, and distant mountains.

A Scenic Hike

The hike to the tower is about 15 minutes uphill from the car park. It’s a great way to get your heart pumping and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Along the way, one passes through beautiful forests and meadows, each with their own unique charm.

Stunning Views

Once at the top, the view is absolutely worth the effort. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning vistas make it the perfect spot to sit and contemplate life. The 360-degree views from the tower provide an amazing perspective of Mount Gambier, Valley Lake, and the surrounding districts.

Historic Tower

The Centenary Tower, built in 1904, stands 190 meters above sea level. It’s about a 10-minute steep walk that’s guaranteed to get your heart racing and blood pumping from the car park on Elliot Drive. Note that the tower may be closed due to recent fires in the surrounding area, but there are still plenty of great views to enjoy.

Valley Lake Conservation Park

Valley Lake Conservation Park

Location: Davison Dr, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia

A Perfect Picnic Spot

Valley Lake Conservation Park offers lots of room to run around, kick a ball, or simply sit and soak up the area. With a great location and well-maintained grounds, it’s an ideal spot for a family picnic.

A Peaceful Walk

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk in this serene park, often without encountering too many crowds. It’s a perfect place to relax, think, and connect with nature.

Nature and Wildlife

This beautiful and expansive lake is surrounded by a picturesque landscape teeming with greenery and wildlife. The conservation park is home to kangaroos, wallabies, and an array of birds, making it a photographer’s dream.

Inclusive Playground

Valley Lake Conservation Park also features an amazing inclusive playground, catering to families and children of all abilities. It’s a hidden gem in Mount Gambier that everyone can enjoy.

Conservation Efforts

Valley Lake Conservation Park strives to balance visitor comfort with preserving historic and native plants. Fenced-off areas help protect new growth, and the park is well set up to attract visiting birds during summer. The park continues to improve and evolve through ongoing work and maintenance.

Mount Gambier Railway Lands

Mount Gambier Railway Lands

Location: LOT 101 Margaret St, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia

A Perfect Place for a Walk

Mount Gambier Railway Lands offers an awesome place to walk, whether by oneself, with a dog, or with friends. The well-maintained paths invite visitors to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Family-Friendly Space

This great family space features green lawns, a BBQ area, and a kids’ nature play area. With sheltered seating and tables, it’s an ideal spot to spend time with loved ones.

Excellent Amenities

Visitors can take advantage of the clean and well-stocked public toilets available on-site. The excellent condition of these facilities reflects the care and attention given to the entire park.

Recreational Opportunities

The former railway yards now boast expansive grassed areas, bike paths, BBQs, and a huge play area for children. The space has been thoughtfully repurposed to offer diverse activities for visitors.

The Mount Gambier Rail Trail

Located in the heart of the city, the Mount Gambier Railway Lands is an ideal starting point for exploring the 12.4km Rail Trail. Adults and kids alike can enjoy the various sculptures, play areas, and ponds that dot the landscape. Pack a picnic or embark on an adventure by walking or riding a bike.

Blue Lake / Warwar

Blue Lake / Warwar

Location: John Watson Dr, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia

A Scenic Walk

Enjoy a crisp morning walk around the 3.5km Blue Lake trail with the family. The route offers plenty of scenic lookouts and is suitable for people of all ages. It’s not challenging, making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience for everyone.

A Place to Relax

Visitors can’t help but marvel at the scene. The Blue Lake invites people to find a spot, sit, and relax while taking in the stunning natural beauty.

Vibrant Blue in Summer

The Blue Lake is a wonderful place to visit during the summer months, as the blue color becomes most intense. The lake’s vibrant hue is truly a sight to behold.

Multiple Lookouts

There are several lookouts around the lake, each offering a unique perspective. Visit in the morning when the sunlight enhances the lake’s beauty, but be prepared for windy conditions.

Walking or Driving

Visitors can choose to walk or drive around the rim of the lake. The 45-minute walk offers several lookouts along the way. The lake’s blue color is most vivid during summer, especially when the water temperature reaches 20 degrees Celsius. To fully appreciate the lake’s beauty, visit during warm weather.