| Murray Bridge - Mount Gambier | South - East Tour
 The state’s south-east is full of surprises! In this remarkably varied region you can discover heritage, a superb coastal national park, and unique caves; go fishing, swimming and surfing, and enjoy fine wines.
Travel east from Adelaide via the Adelaide Hills to Murray Bridge on the lower Murray River, where there’s a winery and a free-range zoo. At nearby Tailem Bend, be sure to visit to the excellent Old Tailem Bend Pioneer Village. The Princes Highway then leads you past Lake Alexandrina to Meningie, the gateway to the magnificent Coorong National Park. This 145 km-long reserve - a paradise for birdwatching, fishing and boating - encompasses wetlands, lagoons and a chain of sand dunes.
To the south, the port town of Kingston SE is the home of the Big Lobster and this area offers beaches and scenic drives, including the trip to Cape Jaffa Lighthouse. You can then continue on the highway, but the coastal route is a better option - this takes you to Robe, a sheltered lobster fishing port on Guichen Bay. The 17 km-long beach here is ideal for surfing and swimming, and a visit to the Narraburra Woolshed is a must.
You’ll then pass through the crayfishing centre of Beachport and the forestry town of Millicent, where you rejoin the highway and continue to Mount Gambier. This agricultural centre is at the heart of an old volcanic region that is famous for its caves and crater lakes: particularly Blue Lake, which mysteriously changes colour from grey to turquoise.
From Mount Gambier, there’s a delightful excursion north to Penola and Coonawarra, the home of twenty-five wineries, and World Heritage listed Naracoorte Caves. You can also continue into Victoria and the town of Portland.
Where to Stay
Time required: 3-4 days are suggested, especially if you visit the Coonawarra area. | | |
|
