South East/Limestone Coast

South Australia 's south east corner has volcanic origins which form many of the area's natural attractions. Once craters, and now a series of lakes, Mount Gambier is a major centre of this region. The city sprawls on the slope of the extinct volcano, set in a large pine plantation area. In the crater of Mount Gambier, the 70ha Blue Lake changes from grey to sparkling blue overnight every November, and changes back to grey each autumn. There is no scientific explanation for this event which gives the lake its name.

The Coorong is a unique area curving along the south coast of South Australia, extending from Lake Alexandrina in the north to the small town of Kingston SE in the south. The Coorong is a national park made up of a shallow lagoon and a complex of low lying salt and clay pans. This is one of the last natural bird sanctuaries in Australia. The coastal scenery is magnificent with unspoilt stretches of beach with rolling surf.

Well-known for its red wines, red soils and red rock lobster, the Limestone Coast is located in the middle of the Adelaide to Melbourne touring route. Lush pastures dotted with gum trees, immaculate vineyards, sweeping expanses of coast and parallel pine plantations line the way as you drive among the region's beautiful country towns.

Drink the world-beating wines of Coonawarra during the Cellar Dwellers event held throughout July. Throughout the region you will find a warm welcome at cellar doors, where locals are eager to share their vintages and some of the fine dining.

Visit the amazing Naracoorte Caves, where huge fossils have proven the existence of massive prehistoric mammals. Take a hike around Mount Gambier's Blue Lake, renowned for mysteriously turning turquoise every summer. See migratory birds that have flown from as far away as Siberia to rest in the internationally renowned Coorong National Park. You can experience the best of the region by following the Limestone Coast Wine and Food Trail, available from visitor information centres across the region.

For attractions and sightseeing, visit Attractions Australia.