From sparkling volcanic lakes to opulent garden sinkholes, dazzling cave gardens to mysterious underwater caverns - no matter where you turn at Mount Gambier, there’s an epic adventure waiting to be uncovered. Grab the keys to your Hertz rental car, start your engine and let’s go!
Explore Mount Gambier’s Seasoned Lands and Volcanic Past
One of South Australia’s undeniable hidden gems, Mount Gambier is a breath of fresh air. An archaic masterpiece still bearing the scars of its volcanic past, it’s a destination where mother nature reigns supreme.
A prime example is the Umpherston Sinkhole, Mount Gambier’s modern-day Garden of Eden. This beautifully sculpted sprawling garden lies deep in the remnants of an old limestone cave and was formed through the dissolution of limestone, with the cave’s ceiling slowly perishing exposing a giant sinkhole. Today, the sinkhole is one of Mount Gambier’s most revered landmarks, a mosaic of pink and greens intertwined to form this enchanting sunken oasis. Perfect for a picnic by day, come nightfall, the garden transforms and is best enjoyed with a board of canapes as the evening unfolds in one of the most majestic gardens in the world.
Mount Gambier’s natural beauty is palpable the second you arrive, but nothing can prepare you for the resplendent cobalt-blue waters of the city’s most famous attraction – Blue Lake. Steel grey for most of the year, the volcanic lake springs to life as summer rolls in, drastically shifting colour to an intense vibrant blue. One of mother nature’s most intriguing mysteries, experts continue to speculate about the lake’s stunning transformation. Best viewed in the summer months, lust in luxury at the grandeur of this magical marvel on the 3.6-kilometre Blue Lake Loop hike enveloping the lake – only a short drive from town in your Hertz rental car.
Ever wondered what lurks below the streets at night? Find the answers at Engelbrecht Cave, one of over 800 caves residing in the Mount Gambier region. Positioned right in the heart of town, this mysterious cave system currently traverses under 11 suburban streets with further small apertures offering cave divers a small window into the abyss. Explore one of South Australia’s most visually unique dry caverns on a 45-minute guided tour or descend into the depths of the unknown through the labyrinth of underwater tunnels as a qualified cave diver.
Delve into the Stories Surrounding Mount Gambier’s Unique Colonial History
Forever immortalised for its stunning array of natural wonders, Mount Gambier’s unique colonial history often takes a back seat. A walk-through history – explore the storied streets of the city’s colourful past traversing century-old heritage buildings from a time bygone.
Park up your Hertz rental car and kick start your self-guided tour at Mount Gambier’s Former Bank Premises on Commercial Street. There are 32 historic buildings to uncover, each with its own enthralling story to tell. Popular landmarks include – The Commercial Bank of South Australia, Mount Gambier Hotel, Christ Church Anglican, Old Railway Station, Her Majesty’s Gaol, Jens Hotel, Old Town Hall, St. Paul’s Catholic Church, and Caledonian Hall.
Yet a defining piece of Mount Gambier’s rich history lies high in the sky, perched atop the summit of Mt Gambier. The century-old Centenary Tower offers unrivalled views of the wonderful cityscape and encompassing countryside below. Sitting 190 metres above sea level, this monumental tower was built to commemorate Mount Gambier’s European discovery in 1800. These days, the popular attraction has become a tourist hotspot for those seeking a picture-perfect photo of Mount Gambier and its surroundings. Unfortunately, the tower is not always open, so check to see if the flag is flying before making the steep climb to the foot of the stairs.
Home to some of Australia’s great natural wonders and spellbinding scenery, Mount Gambier is just the beginning. The starting point of the famous Limestone Coast, jet set out of town in your Hertz rental car for more of South Australia’s gorgeous views and unique attractions.
