A guide to the magical blue lakes of Mount Gambier

Dilvin YasaBy Dilvin Yasa
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With its vibrant hue, Blue Lake Mount Gambier is celebrated for all the right reasons, but the good news? There’s plenty more where that came from. 

To visit Blue Lake Mount Gambier or Little Blue Lake Mount Gambier? It’s far from the only question you’ll be asking when you descend on this breathtaking patch of South Australia’s Limestone Coast, such as…

What exactly are the Blue Lakes of Mount Gambier?

It’s unusual that so many spectacular lakes should be concentrated so close to one another, but they’re the result of explosive volcanic activity rocking the earth some 5,000 years ago, creating a series of crater lakes.

Little Blue Lake with its stairs and floating pontoon
The dazzling Little Blue Lake is around 47 metres deep. (Image: Lucy Adamopoulos)

While Blue Lake/Warwar , celebrated for the mysterious way it turns a vibrant cobalt (and occasionally, turquoise) from November onwards before making the transition to steel grey come March, has become synonymous with Mount Gambier, it’s actually just one of several lakes that make up the Crater Lakes Precinct which includes Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi , Brownes Lake/Kroweratwari  and Leg of Mutton Lake/Yatton Loo .

the reflection of the Blue Lakes of Mount Gambier
The Blue Lakes of Mount Gambier are nothing short of spectacular. (Image: City of Mount Gambier/Czech Aus Out)

But wait, you forgot Little Blue Lake?

Disregard the ‘lake’ in its title, Little Blue Lake  – again, a dazzling body of water (some 47 metres deep) which turns a brilliant blue between November and March, is actually a sinkhole just 15 minutes from Mount Gambier.

the Little Blue Lake sinkhole in Mt Gambier
Little Blue Lake turns brilliant blue between November and March. (Image: Mitch Toft)

Popular with swimmers and cave divers (the latter only permitted for divers who hold at least the CDAA Deep Cavern grade dive rating, Little Blue Lake with its stairs and floating pontoon is one of Australia’s most accessible sinkholes.

Go swimming or cave diving at Little Blue Lake. (Image: paulpayasalad)

What’s the best way to experience Blue Lake? 

Let’s start with how you won’t be experiencing it; as the lake serves as the city’s water supply, there is no swimming allowed. The good news? You can still enjoy this almost circular, one kilometre lake however by tackling the 3.6-kilometre walking trail that follows its rim, a 45-minute journey best started at the Pioneer Memorial (although you can start the walk from any point).

a man jumping into the Little Blue Lake, Mt Gambier
The turquoise lake beckons for a refreshing dip. (Image: Joanne Rogers)

Scenic lookouts are dotted around the lake, but keep an eye out for Rotary Lookout where you can view the Centenary Tower, the Pumping Station and Mount Schank. As mentioned, if you can time your visit to slot in neatly between November and March, you’ll see the lake at its vibrant best.

diving in the Little Blue Lake, Mt Gambier
See the Little Blue Lake at its vibrant best. (Image: Lucy Adamopoulos)

Which other lakes do you recommend around Mount Gambier? 

Take a short drive to the Crater Lakes where Valley Lake is home to a wildlife-filled conservation park heaving with native flora and fauna. While some choose to make the most of water sport options on the water, this is the ultimate spot for a relaxed picnic, a casual barbeque (there are free barbeque facilities onsite), or if you’re feeling active, a round or two of disc golf at the Crater Lakes Disc Course .

driving along the Crater Lakes, Mt Gambier
Be surrounded by native flora and fauna at the Crater Lakes. (Image: City of Mount Gambier/ Czech Aus Out)

Our recommendation? Set up a spot by Brownes Lake/Kroweratwari, the site of the original Mount Gambier Botanical Gardens and bring the kids: the adventure playground will thrill kids and kidults of all ages.

a woman sightseeing at the Little Blue Lake, Mt Gambier
Admire stunning vistas. (Image: City of Mount Gambier/Czech Aus Out)

Valley Lakes Recreation Area is particularly picturesque in the autumn months when the flame trees put on a spectacular show of vibrant yellow, red and burnt orange hues.

an aerial view of the Valley Lakes, Mt Gambier
Valley Lake is most picturesque come autumn. (Image: City of Mount Gambier/Czech Aus Out)

Be sure to also check out the curiously named Leg of Mutton Lake – for its shape which is, you guessed it, shaped like a lamb leg. Although it’s now dry due to reductions in the water table, the dramatic wooded area is an excellent location for hikes.

an aerial view of two people walking along the Limestone Coast
Tackle the scenic walking trail to the Blue Lake. (Image: City of Mount Gambier/Czech Aus Out)

Choose between the 4.2-kilometre Mountain Trail (begin at Mark’s Lookout and follow the track in an anti-clockwise direction for the best views), the moderate 1.7-kilometre Pepperpot Trail and Blue Lake Circuit, or for those who prefer something shorter, the Oaks, Blue Gum and the The Browns Lake walks.

a man standing on the edge of a cliff at Valley Lake
The Valley Lakes Recreation Area is within the Crater Lakes precinct in Mount Gambier. (Image: City of Mount Gambier/Czech Aus Out)

Is there anything else I should know? 

Sure, you can either hire a car and make your way to each of the lakes to explore at your own pace, or you can book an Aquifer Tour  at Blue Lake, if you prefer a guided experience with a side of history.

a man climbing up the stairs at Little Blue Lake, Mt Gambier
Cool off at the Little Blue Lake. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)
Head here for more tried and tested tips on visiting Mount Gambier.
Dilvin Yasa
Dilvin Yasa is a freelance journalist, author and TV presenter whose travels have taken her from the iceberg graveyards of Antarctica to the roaring rapids of Uganda. Always on the lookout for that next unforgettable meal, wildlife moment or 80s-themed nightclub, she is inexplicably drawn to polar destinations despite detesting the cold.
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7 features of a quintessential Aussie road trip

    Kassia ByrnesBy Kassia Byrnes
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    No one does road trips like Australians. Make your journey perfect.

    The humble road trip is a way of life in Australia, and it’s not the same here as it is anywhere else. Sure, you could fly, but then you’re missing out on the bonding time and priceless memories that get made along the way (good or bad, you’ll be sharing them for years to come). Not to mention, some of Australia’s most worthwhile and untouched places can only be accessed by road .

    But how to ensure your road trip is quintessentially perfect? Why use this checklist, of course.

    1. Start with the perfect vehicle

    A woman sitting while reading inside Star RV Motorhomes spacious Polaris 6.
    Relax with stunning views in a spacious motorhome. (Image: Demi Gavin)

    I can tell you from experience, nothing will push even the most tight-knit group to devolve into chaos and fighting faster than a vehicle that isn’t up to the task of a proper road trip. Enter the premium options of Star RV Motorhomes.

    They have a range of sizes to suit any group, from solo travellers and couples to families. And they’re designed to be easy to drive.

    Take the Polaris 6 , for example. This light-filled sanctuary of comfort has plenty of space for bigger groups. Three double beds, a shower and toilet, and an extendable awning (with room to move between them all) make it perfect for exploring Australia.

    Couples might prefer the Polaris 2 with a fully self-contained bathroom, kitchen and a bed for two that transforms into comfortable seating during the day. Both models are pet-friendly.

    2. Pack the tastiest snacks

    A couple having a picnic beside Star RV Motorhomes.
    Make use of the spacious storage in your Star RV.

    Road trip snacks are an Australian art. Some, you’ll need to pick up along the way. We’re talking the iconic Chico Roll, choccie milk and maybe a sneaky potato scallop (or several).

    Others, you can pack ahead of time to save on time and, usually, money. Thankfully, Star RV Motorhomes all come with plenty of storage space, so your snacks can last as long as your road trip. Think fresh fruit and other supplies to cook lunch and dinner along the way. Plenty of lollies and maybe even some soft drinks and Red Bulls for the road.

    Not to mention, many Star RV motorhomes have a kitchen onboard, complete with a full-size kitchen, so you won’t need to lug an esky around.

    3. Bring your pet for the ride

    A child and its pet inside Star RV Motorhomes.
    Travel Australia with your four-legged co-pilot. (Image: Erin Bacchi)

    Man’s best friend is essential for a truly Aussie road trip. Pet-friendly Star RV Motorhomes not only mean your dog (or cat, if they enjoy the open road more than mine do) can experience Australia with you, but that you save a small fortune on pet sitters or dog hotels.

    4. Prepare the perfect soundtrack

    Two people having coffee with a view.
    Chase the journey and the destination.

    No ifs, ands or buts, the perfect soundtrack can make or break a road trip. It’s really up to you, but we recommend plenty of Australian classics. Cold Chisel never hits quite the same as when you’re listening to it with only gumtrees and kangaroos for company.

    Of course, this means you’ll also need a good sound system to listen to your carefully curated tunes on. Star RV motorhome sound systems allow you to connect your device and play your own music. Goodbye, spotty radio reception.

    5. A spacious tent and camping gear

    A woman sitting inside Star RV Motorhomes with a view of the lake in the background.
    Enjoy soft linens and space to stretch. (Image: Cariund Hannes)

    If there’s one thing that a road trip can guarantee, it’s a campsite or several. So you’d better source a good sturdy tent, sleeping back, and a camping mattress that probably won’t help much – but it’s better than the ground.

    Or, just hire a motorhome so your vehicle is also your bed, and comfort is a priority (goodbye foam camp mattresses) with linens provided. And you’ll have room to unpack and move around. Heaven.

    6. Plan your toilet breaks

    Typically, an Aussie road trip means pulling over at a good bushy area or finding a horrific pit toilet on the side of the road – the smell of which will stay with you forevermore. If you’re planning to camp, better pack that handy shovel and find a good, bug-free place to dig your own loo hole.

    To avoid that hassle (and smell), forgo the shovel and hire a motorhome with an onboard toilet. When the toilet comes with you, there are no emergency roadside stops. Plus, it’s a whole lot fresher.

    7. Pick the ultimate destination

    Aerial view of the Polaris 6 cruising along a coastal road with sweeping beach views.
    Hit the road, Aussie-style. (Image: Matt Finch)

    Of course, the journey is half the fun. But the other half is an incredible destination. With accommodation and transportation sorted out with one motorhome, you have the flexibility to choose a gorgeous view for the night (or several).

    There are endless views to choose from, like the rugged cliff faces of Queensland’s Carnarvon Gorge National Park. Carnarvon Gorge camping area (near the visitor area) and the Big Bend walkers’ camp both have bushy surrounds and a trail to the gorge itself.

    Or Lake Argyle, Western Australia‘s largest man-made freshwater reservoir. Find the only dedicated camping and caravan park at Lake Argyle Resort.

    Meanwhile, Mount Buffalo National Park in Victoria is prolific for its wildlife. Wander through snow gum forests and keep an eye out for wombats, Australian kestrels and more. There are several camp options here.

    Start planning your Australian road trip adventure (and get 15 per cent off on any Star RV motorhome rental in Australia) at starrv.com/au .