The Limestone Coast runs along the very south east of South Australia. Sharing a border with Victoria and residing near the Fleurieu Peninsula and the Murraylands regions, this diverse area is home to an abundance of coastal and inland, picturesque towns. Discovering the Limestone Coast is an amazing driving experience, which takes you through ever-changing scenery, spectacular landscapes and mountainous terrain.

The Limestone Coast is one of Australia’s naturally formed wonders. Carved over time by the strength and vigour of the ocean and the movement of tectonic plates, the result is an impressive coastline with magnificent cliffs that stretches from the banks of the Glenelg River to Port MacDonnell and Bordertown. The wonders continue inland, from Bordertown through to Tailem Bend, with volcanic craters, mountain lakes and historic caves capturing the essence of this magnificent area.

The area is rich in culture, heritage and tradition with the Indigenous people displaying strong connections with the land. This is evident in the traditional sites that articulate the creation of their customary lands where visitors to the area can gain an easy understanding of the history and culture through in-depth exploration.

Begin your driving journey on the coast, following the Princes Highway. The route will take you all the way through to Tailmen Bend, allowing you to stop and holiday at some or all of the coastal towns of this glorious region. Travelling from Victoria, the first major town you will come across is Mt Gambier. Although not directly on the coast, it still makes for an ideal holiday destination as it is known as the city of ‘craters, lakes and caves’. Built on the slopes of an extinct volcano, this historical town is home to an abundance of heritage buildings, magnificent crater lakes and open caves. Enjoyable for the whole family and ideal for an exploration of nature, there is never a dull moment in Mt Gambier!

Just a short drive up the highway from Mt Gambier rests the coastal town of Beachport. Surrounded by ocean and home to Lake George, Beachport is the perfect destination for safe swimming, great surfing, fishing and windsurfing. It is also home to the Bowen Scenic Drive which allows you to explore the coastal dunes in the comfort of your own car.

Travel through the Coorong National Park and you will eventually come to Kingston S.E., a small fishing village which is an ideal seaside resort for visitors. This quaint seaside village is also home to Mana Creek Reserve which is a great picnic hot spot for the whole family to enjoy.

Following the Princes Highway directly from Kingston takes you right along the edge of the coastline. Experience the wonder and beauty of the Limestone coast, getting a bird’s eye view as you drive the smooth and even roads. Marvel at the naturally sculpted cliffs while breathing in the fresh sea breeze. The beauty of this route is that it allows you to travel at your own pace which is made easy by the multitudes of towns around every twist and bend.

End your coastal venture as you reach the tiny town of Meningie, which is nestled on the banks of Lake Albert. Traditionally a farming area, the Indigenous culture of this town is eminent through the local museum and cultural centre which is open for the public at convenient times, year round. Following the Highway a little further will bring you to the slightly larger town, Tailem Bend. This town serves as a junction for three major Australian Highways and boasts excellent views of the Murray River. Although only a small town, this is a great place to base yourself for the night and prepare to explore the heartland of the Limestone Coast.

Venturing onto the Dukes Highway will take you into the hidden heartland of the Limestone Coast. The wonderful secrets of this inland oasis are unlocked in the native vegetation, crop fields and endless rows of vineyards that abound on this scenic drive. Pass through the historical towns that are speckled throughout your drive and enjoy the welcoming, friendly atmosphere that greets you. Be sure to stop in the farming town of Keith, which is home to Mt Monster Conservation Park. Encompassing scenic views and a diverse range of Australian wildlife, there is something here to please the entire family.

Endeavouring further along the highway will bring you to Bordertown. Here you can visit the white kangaroos or get a sense of the local history and explore the Historic Clayton Farm or the National Trust Museum. For some, the journey of the Limestone Coast will end here as this is, as the name suggests, the bordering town to Victoria (near where your journey began). However, to get a greater sense of what the heartland has to offer, venture south for just over an hour and you will come to the very heart of the coast, Naracoorte. Here you will find a world heritage listed fossil site, Bool Lagoon and an abundance of wetlands. The town is also surrounded by three premium wine growing regions, which makes it the ideal place for you to sit back, relax with a glass of wine and reflect on your exploration of this spectacular area.

The Limestone Coast region truly is the destination for an ideal driving holiday. The vibrant contrasts between the coast and the heartland offer a truly magnificent experience that you could simply spend weeks exploring. The Limestone Coast is beyond doubt, the coastal highlight of South Australia!

Christine Barton is a Content Writer for Discovery Car Rental Adelaide, Australia’s travel focused online car rental company. She frequently writes information about Car Rental Adelaide and travel information relating to Australia.