THE LIMESTONE COAST

Words: Gretel Sneath

THE LIMESTONE Coast is enjoying its moment in the sun as the bid to get out and explore more of Australia’s backyard builds momentum. Located mid-way between Melbourne and Adelaide, the picturesque South Australian region’s enticing mix of natural wonders offers bucket-list experiences enhanced by fabulous food and wine en route.

From secluded swimming holes to spectacular underground caves, pristine beaches and irresistible produce, an enchanting selection of places to eat, drink, stay and explore awaits keen adventurers fuelled by wanderlust.

WHERE TO EAT

The rocky underwater ledges beyond the region’s rugged coastline are a breeding ground for prized southern rock lobster, while fertile soils and reliable rainfall leave farmers spoilt for choice when it comes to growing produce. Sample it all at a mouthwatering array of quaint cafes, traditional pubs, up-market restaurants and local dining institutions.

THE TASTING ROOM, MAYURA STATION

This boutique cellar door for steak just outside Millicent may be off the beaten track, but it’s well worth the drive to cattle country. Here, you can indulge in 100 per cent fullblood Wagyu beef in the ultimate paddock-to-plate experience. Book a seat at the Chef’s Table and watch how different cuts of the highly marbled Japanese delicacy are prepared during a three or fourcourse interactive meal. mayurastation.com

PIPERS OF PENOLA

Located on Coonawarra’s doorstep, this fine dining à la carte restaurant inside an old weatherboard church serves fruits from the sea and land with spectacular finesse. Head chef Simon Bowen is the son of a local winemaker and has been raised on regional flavours, while his Californian wife Erika brings exemplary service and polish to the restaurant floor. pipersofpenola.com.au

THE BARN STEAKHOUSE

This multi award-winning regional dining institution has a reputation for serving some of the best steak money can buy, and is a must-visit for travellers to Mount Gambier. Barn steak is aged for at least eight weeks before it’s grilled. The restaurant’s 820-selection wine list is almost as famous as the signature dish. With accommodation available on-site, you’re guaranteed a relaxing night. barn.com.au

SAILS RESTAURANT

When in Robe, seafood is the only option. The southern rock lobster, hauled from the chilly ocean depths by the local fishing fleet, is as fresh as it gets. Order it natural, chargrilled with garlic butter, or as a French-style creamy thermidor. SA King prawns, Pacific oysters, Yellowfin tuna, Cape Jaffa King George whiting and pickled Robe octopus also star on the seasonal menu. sailsatrobe.com.au 

CELLAR DOOR EXPERIENCES

The Limestone Coast has more than 50 cellar doors across six different wine regions, and each offers a memorable visitor experience.

CAPE JAFFA WINES

There’s a strong coastal influence at this windswept Mount Benson cellar door, pouring biodynamic wines popping with personality and a strong sense of place. Enjoy a cheese platter on the deck overlooking the vines as attentive staff talk you through the various vintages and wine styles. Chilled ‘Loophole & Co’ ale from the on-site brewery is also available on tap – don’t be surprised if you find yourself settling in for the afternoon. capejaffawines.com.au

DIGIORGIO FAMILY WINES

A pasta-making lesson and sit-down lunch with the DiGiorgio family are among the unique experiences on offer at Coonawarra’s second oldest winery. Visitors can also enjoy guided tours through century-old vines or soak up the scenery beneath market umbrellas with a ‘Pick Your Own Produce Platter’ and a glass of wine. There’s even snack packs and cordial tasting flights for younger guests. digiorgio.com.au

PATRICK OF COONAWARRA

Coonawarra is world-renowned for its Cabernet, and while Patrick of Coonawarra makes a fantastic red, the Riesling produced by this familyowned institution also has an exceptional reputation. Sample with a shared produce platter or chocolate pairing, book an exclusive tasting with the chief winemaker, or host your own private dinner party amidst the vines. patrickofcoonawarra.com

WOODSOAK WINES

Who knew that wine and samosas were the perfect pairing? Try it for yourself at the Woodsoak Wines Cellar Door on Robe’s main street, where an Aussie farmer and his Indian wife have blended their heritage to produce wines with intense vibrancy. The delicate blush-coloured Zaahira Sparkling NV with its striking peacock Bollywood label is one of Woodsoak’s best-sellers. woodsoakwines.com.au

WHERE TO STAY

One of the great things about the Limestone Coast is that you can select your base and explore the entire region from there. But where’s the fun in that when there is so much great accommodation on offer?

DELGATTIE ESTATE

This grand country manor in the heart of Mount Gambier has been luxuriously restored as a boutique hotel with three individually designed guest suites. Book a group celebration and have the run of the house with your own private dining hall, billiard lounge and cocktail deck. You can even hire your own chef and butler for an unforgettable dinner party. delgattie.com.au

BELLWETHER WINES

If glamping amongst ancient Coonawarra gums silhouetted by a starry sky isn’t blissful enough, the winery – located a short stroll across the paddock – will seal the deal for even the staunchest anti-camper. Bellwether is great for a weekend away with a bunch of friends. Tie it in with a Table of 12 dinner experience inside the rustic woolshed, or time your visit to coincide with vintage and lend a hand. bellwetherwines.com.au

ALOHA BEACHFRONT

Offering the best ocean views in the coastal resort town of Robe, Aloha’s self-contained waterfront properties sleep up to 10 people, with adjacent apartments offering additional accommodation for even larger groups. Cafes, boutique shops, Lake Butler marina and the beautiful sandy beach are all a short stroll away – you can’t go wrong. alohaaccommodation.com.au 

TRADER JACKS

Industrial chic blends with modern comforts in this truly cool couples’ escape in Robe’s historic old town area. Set in a private coastal garden, the cleverly designed open-plan space promises ambience in spades. The rustic free-standing bath and real wood fire will be difficult to farewell. robelifestyle.com.au

WHAT TO DO

Choose your own adventure; the Limestone Coast’s unique natural landscape of volcanic craters, sinkholes, caves and forests is waiting to be explored.

THE LITTLE BLUE LAKE

You can walk or jog the 3.6-kilometre circuit around the rim of Mount Gambier’s famous Blue Lake, or you can dive into its smaller namesake, the Little Blue Lake. Located a 15-minute drive from the edge of town, this remarkable natural sinkhole is a swimmer’s paradise for those brave enough to take the icy plunge from the floating pontoon. One of many sinkholes in the area, it’s not uncommon to have this unique spot all to yourself. dcgrant.sa.gov.au

COONAWARRA WINERIES WALKING TRAIL

Gain a behind-the-scenes glimpse of viticulture and winemaking during this easy walk through the vineyards of six Coonawarra wineries. The trail is just under five kilometres, and each stop along the way offers a tailored experience. Download the Coonawarra Walking Trail App and follow the signposted green feet. coonawarrawalkingtrail.com.au

NARACOORTE CAVES NATIONAL PARK

Fossilised remains of the animals that once roamed the local landscape offer a precious window into our ancient past at South Australia’s only World Heritage site. See them up close during solo or guided tours, or dig a little deeper and try adventure caving. You may feel out of your comfort zone crawling through confined spaces, but it’s worth the effort to discover a whole new underground world. naracoortecaves.sa.gov.au

TRACX MOUNTAIN BIKE TOURS

Take the track less travelled on guided mountain bike tours of Robe’s rugged coastline. Soak up the scenery on bitumen and off-road trails tailored to varying fitness levels. From photo opportunities at the iconic Robe obelisk to afternoon tea stops, Tracx tours are the perfect way to experience this popular resort town at your own pace. tracx.com.au TB