Head out for the day.
Nelson is the perfect base to explore the region, with plenty of things to do within a short drive in both South Australia and Victoria.
Natural wonders and attractions.
Piccaninnie Ponds (World Heritage Site)
A popular dive and snorkelling site, the World Heritage Site, Picanninnie Ponds, is an underwater marvel.
Formed by rising freshwater, the ponds are known for The Chasm and The Cathedral limestone formations with their majestic white walls of sculpted and scalloped limestone.
If you're not there to dive, there are many walking tracks and picnic sites nearby.
Learn more and book a diving/snorkeling permit on the Parks SA website.
10 minute drive from Nelson.
Ewens Ponds Conservation Park
Ewens Ponds Conservation Park is knows for its spring-fed freshwater ponds. The three large ponds are interconnected by 10m deep channels and have water so clear that plants can grow underwater. Some of these plant species are not found underwater anywhere else in the world.
This park is perfect for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts as well as nature lovers. With a permit, groups of 2-6 snorkellers can explore Ewens Ponds for up to an hour. Divers must be part of a guided and accredited tour to access the Ponds.
More information about booking a permit can be found on the Parks SA website.
20 minute drive from Nelson.
Umpherston Sinkhole
The Umpherston sinkhole is something out of a fairytale. A sinkhole filled with magical gardens and walking trails, visitors can view the sunken garden from the viewing platform or walk down the terraces behind hanging vines.
At dusk and dawn, the resident possums come out to investigate and forage in the gardens. There is a large undercover area and barbecue, perfect for a group lunch.
Visit the South Australia website to learn more.
25 minute drive from Nelson.
Kilsby Sinkhole
Located on a quaint farm, the Kilsby sinkhole is a unique geological attraction. You can snorkel or dive in the sinkhole to explore the layers of rock left by geological changes over millions of years.
For those not wanting to take a dip, guided tours of the sinkhole are also offered or you can book a tasting of the farm’s award-winning “Sinkhole” brand gin.
Find out about tours and tastins on the Kilsby Sinkhole website.
30 minute drive from Nelson.
Engelbrecht Cave
Located in Mount Gambier, Engelbrecht Cave is one of several cave sites across the Limestone Coast.
Take a tour-guided experience down into the eastern and western caves for a journey through the history, the geology, and the underground magic of Engelbrecht Cave, with views of the crystal clear waters that accredited divers enter to further explore the water-filled passages underneath the city.
Find out more on the South Australia website.
30 minute drive from Nelson.
Cape Northumberland Lighthouse
The Cape Northumberland Lighthouse Ruins are located in Port McDonnell and are a feature of the region’s rich maritime history.
Built in 1882 as a replacement for its degrading predecessor, this beacon was erected in prime location for viewing the rugged coastline, rocks and ocean. The scenic attraction provides visitors with breathtaking views.
Visit the Lighthouses of Australia website to read more about its history.
30 minute drive from Nelson.
Lake Mombeong
Lake Monibeong is a shallow freshwater lake known for trout fishing. Backed by coastal vegetation and dunes, the flat grassed area is home to some of Australia's rare orchids. Perfect for a picnic or some light hiking.
20 minute drive from Nelson.
The Inkpot
This natural depression is filled with freshwater and, up to 10 metres deep, it is almost black in appearance. A 20 minute drive from Nelson, you can find the Inkpot on Google maps, or journey just past the Moleside Picnic Area with access via Winnap Road.
20 minute drive from Nelson.
Blue Lake
Located in Mount Gambier, the Blue Lake occupies the crater of the extinct volcano. Each November the lake transitions from a deep blue to a bright turquoise.
When the weather warms, tiny microcrystals within the upper layers of the lake reflect the blue light from the sun, turning the lake an otherworldly shade of turquoise. This annual event lasts until February, when it returns to a darker shade of blue.
There is a 3.6 kilometre walking track around the lake with several viewing points.
Find out more on the South Australia website.
25 minute drive from Nelson.
Little Blue Lake
The Little Blue Lake is a unique volcanic water-filled sinkhole, a popular venue for visitors and locals to enjoy a naturally cool swim.
Visitors can access the sinkhole for swimming via stairs and a floating pontoon. Located in the middle of a paddock, there are no camping or toilet facilities at the Little Blue Lake.
It’s a great spot for a dip in the cool waters or to read a book in the sun overlooking the sinkhole. At 47 metres deep in places, it’s recommended for experienced swimmers only.
Find more information on the Limestone Coast website.
25 minute drive from Nelson.
Cape Northumberland Lighthouse
The Cape Northumberland Lighthouse Ruins are located in Port McDonnell and are a feature of the region’s rich maritime history.
Built in 1882 as a replacement for its degrading predecessor, this beacon was erected in prime location for viewing the rugged coastline, rocks and ocean. The scenic attraction provides visitors with breathtaking views.
Visit the Lighthouses of Australia website to read more about its history.
30 minute drive from Nelson.
Discovery Bay Coastal Park
Discovery Bay is a scenic marvel boasting stunning views of the coastline. Walk along the many tracks to view long beaches, rugged cliffs, dunes, natural wetlands and woodland forests. At the eastern end of Discovery Bay you can view some of Victorias highest coastal cliffs or visit the Cape Nelson Lighthouse. The park is also home to Cape Bridgewater fur seal colony.
Find out more on the Parks Victoria website.
10-40 minute drive from Nelson (end-to-end).
Coonawarra Wine Region
The Coonawarra wine region captures a beautiful stretch of land within the Limestone Coast.
Centred on the town of Coonawarra, this region has been producing world class wines from its famous ‘Terra Rossa’ soil for 120 years. Enjoy a variety of quality wines and restaurant dining experiences at one of the many cellar doors.
Explore the 20 wineries that make up the region on the Coonawarra website.
1 hour, 10 minute drive from Nelson.
Cobboboonee National Park
Stop off in Cobboboonee National park for a relaxing day in nature or as part of the Great South West Walk. The park features large eucalypts and an abundance of native wildlife. There are many fantastic picnic spots and campsites along the walking tracks.
Find out more on the Parks Victoria website.
50 minute drive from Nelson.
Nobles Rocks
Lake Monibeong is a shallow freshwater lake known for trout fishing. Backed by coastal vegetation and dunes, the flat grassed area is home to some of Australia's rare orchids. Perfect for a picnic or some light hiking.
20 minute drive from Nelson.
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean road is a 243 kilometre stretch of road along the coast between Torquay and Allansford. One of the world’s most famous roads, it’s popular with travellers completing a lap of Australia or touring between Adelaide and Melbourne.
Nelson is a great place to stop along the way while building the Great Ocean Road into a trip. Many travellers use Nelson as a base to explore some of the country’s rare freshwater snorkelling sites and scenic limestone landscapes.
The Great Ocean Road is an Australian National Heritage listed route, built by returned soldiers as the world’s largest war memorial dedicated to those who fell during World War I. T
he scenic drive passes several prominent landmarks including The Twelve Apostles. Find out more on the Great Ocean Road website.
2 hour drive from Nelson.
Places.
Cape Bridgewater
65 kilometres / 43 minutes
Once a farming settlement, the present day Cape Bridgewater is a lovely, quiet seaside down offering 4 kilometres of sandy beaches that are patrolled during peak seasons.
Casterton
88 kilometres / 1 hour 2 minutes
Located along the Glenelg River, Casterton is a rural service town with a rich pastoral history. It is regarded as the ‘birthplace of the Kelpie’ and is known for its annual Australian Kelpie Muster held over the Queens Birthday long weekend.
Dartmoor
42 kilometres / 33 minutes
Dartmoor is a peaceful country town that sits along the Glenelg River. It is known for large carved works including The Story Book Tree and WWI Avenue of Honour Memorial carved from Atlantic Cedar Trees planted in 1918.
Mount Gambier
37 kilometres / 28 minutes
Mount Gambier is situated on a limestone, volcanic landscape and is a regional hub. Its unique landscape is home to the well known Blue Lake with its mysterious annual colour change. Umpherston Sinkhole takes you below ground with a sunken garden, while the Centenary Tower offers panoramic views of the area. The Lady Nelson Visitor Centre is also nearby and has a full-size replica of an 18th-century ship.
Naracoorte
139 kilometres / 1 hour 31 minutes
Head inland for a country fix at the Sheep’s Back Wool Museum situated in Naracoorte township. If you’re looking to venture out head to the Naracoorte caves or stop by the Bool Lagoon.
Penola
88 kilometres / 1 hour 2 minutes
Known as the gateway to the Coonawarra Wine Region, Penola is an idyllic town worth visiting. Step back in time with a walk through Petticoat Lane and its old stone cottages or try some world class wines at one of the nearby wineries.
Portland
70 kilometres / 46 minutes
Portland is still a bustling fishing and transport hub, but is also the site of Victoria's first permanent European settlement. Situated along the seas edge, many go the 19th-century buildings are still part of the foreshore. The town has Botanic Gardens that opened in 1857 as well as a Maritime Museum, shops and restaurants.
Port Fairy
130 kilometres / 1 hour 23 minutes
Once a quiet fishing village, Port Fairy is a ton brimming with cafes, shops and sights. Enjoy some time by the sea without giving up lines little luxuries. While the attitude might be fresh, the towns history still shines through with many of the Bluestone buildings still in use.