South Australia is home to some amazing sinkholes, each offering its own unique experience. In Mount Gambier, the Umpherston Sinkhole is a stunning sunken garden, while Kilsby Sinkhole’s crystal-clear waters make it a diver’s paradise. Little Blue Lake invites swimmers, and Hell’s Hole offers a serene lookout. For divers, The Shaft is a thrilling challenge. Ewens Ponds and Piccaninnie Ponds are perfect for snorkelers, while Cave Gardens is a picturesque sinkhole right in the city. Don’t miss the scenic Tantanoola Caves and Victoria Fossil Cave, both offering natural beauty and ancient wonders hidden beneath the surface.
Umpherston Sinkhole (Mount Gambier)
Umpherston Sinkhole, also known as the Sunken Garden, is a stunning natural attraction located in Mount Gambier. Once a large limestone cave, the sinkhole was created when the cave’s roof collapsed, forming an open-air garden. Over time, the sinkhole has been transformed into a lush, terraced garden with hanging vines, ferns, and vibrant flowers. Visitors can wander through the pathways, descend into the garden via a staircase, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. At night, it’s illuminated, making it a magical spot to visit. This serene escape in the heart of Mount Gambier is perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Little Blue Lake (Mount Schank)
The Little Blue Lake is a small but beautiful water-filled sinkhole near Mount Schank, not far from Mount Gambier. It’s a popular spot for swimming and offers a refreshing dip on warm days. The lake’s water appears blue due to the depth and clarity, adding to its appeal. Local divers and thrill-seekers often enjoy exploring its depths, though casual visitors can simply take in the scenic views from above or take a swim. Surrounded by rural landscape, Little Blue Lake is a peaceful and picturesque location for anyone looking to escape and enjoy South Australia’s natural beauty.
Kilsby Sinkhole (Mount Gambier)
Kilsby Sinkhole is one of South Australia’s most famous diving destinations. Located near Mount Gambier, this sinkhole is known for its incredibly clear, blue water, providing excellent visibility for divers. Originally used as a water source and for military training, Kilsby Sinkhole is now open to the public for diving tours and experiences. With limestone walls and natural beauty all around, it’s an otherworldly place to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-timer, Kilsby offers a unique underwater adventure. The clarity of the water and the peaceful surroundings make it one of the region’s most unforgettable spots.
The Shaft (Mount Gambier)
For the thrill-seeking diver, The Shaft is a hidden gem located near Mount Gambier. This vertical sinkhole, accessible only via a narrow entrance, opens up into a massive underground chamber. It’s a true adventure for experienced cave divers, offering a deep, challenging dive into one of South Australia’s most dramatic underwater caverns. The walls of The Shaft are adorned with limestone formations, and the water’s clarity allows for incredible visibility. Although it’s a bit of a secret spot, those who venture here are rewarded with a unique, adrenaline-pumping experience that’s unlike any other sinkhole in the region.
Hell’s Hole (Near Mount Schank)
Hell’s Hole, located within the Lower Glenelg National Park near Mount Schank, is a deep, water-filled sinkhole surrounded by natural bushland. Unlike some of the more accessible sinkholes, Hell’s Hole has a mysterious, almost eerie quality due to its remote location and the dark, still water that fills its depths. A viewing platform allows visitors to safely peer into the sinkhole, and its sheer size is awe-inspiring. While diving here is restricted, Hell’s Hole offers a fascinating glimpse into the geological wonders of the region, and it’s a peaceful stop for those exploring the surrounding nature trails.
Ewens Ponds (Eight Mile Creek)
Ewens Ponds is a unique and beautiful spot near Eight Mile Creek. These interconnected ponds are part of a collapsed limestone system, though they don’t look like typical sinkholes. The water is incredibly clear, and visitors often come here to snorkel or scuba dive. What makes Ewens Ponds special is the diverse aquatic life and plant life that thrive in these crystal-clear waters. The gentle flow of water between the ponds makes it a serene experience, and the chance to explore underwater flora and fauna in such clarity is a rare opportunity. It’s perfect for a calm, nature-filled adventure.
Tantanoola Caves (Tantanoola)
The Tantanoola Caves are an impressive example of South Australia’s geological diversity. Formed through the collapse of limestone, these caves, while not a sinkhole in the traditional sense, are a must-visit. The caves are filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, and guided tours give insight into how this fascinating underground landscape was formed. The caves are easy to access and suitable for visitors of all ages. With stunning formations and a rich history, the Tantanoola Caves provide a captivating look into the underground world, and the surrounding area is perfect for a day trip full of natural beauty.
Naracoorte Caves
The Victoria Fossil Cave is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves and offers a glimpse into both geological and paleontological history. This sinkhole-like cave system is not only stunning with its limestone formations, but it’s also packed with fossils of ancient animals. Guided tours take visitors through the cave, showcasing fossil beds and explaining how these creatures came to be preserved over thousands of years. It’s a fantastic spot for history and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a combination of beauty and educational insight. This cave is a must-see for those interested in both natural wonders and prehistoric life.
Piccaninnie Ponds (Nelson, near Mount Gambier)
Piccaninnie Ponds is a pristine aquatic sinkhole system located near Nelson, just across the border from Mount Gambier. Known for its crystal-clear waters and incredible visibility, Piccaninnie Ponds is a popular destination for both snorkelers and divers. The ponds are part of a karst system, with deep sinkholes and underwater caverns to explore. The highlight for divers is the “Cathedral,” a majestic underwater chamber. Surrounded by wetlands and native vegetation, Piccaninnie Ponds offers a peaceful and breathtaking environment for water lovers and adventurers. It’s one of the best spots in the region to witness South Australia’s unique underwater landscapes.
Cave Gardens Sinkhole (Mount Gambier)
Located in the heart of Mount Gambier, Cave Gardens Sinkhole is a picturesque parkland feature with a fascinating history. Originally a natural cave, the roof collapsed to create the sinkhole, which was used as a water source by early settlers. Today, it’s a beautifully landscaped garden, with terraces of greenery cascading into the sinkhole. A walking path surrounds the site, offering views from various angles, and at night, it’s lit up to create a magical scene. The Cave Gardens are not only a peaceful retreat but also an important part of Mount Gambier’s cultural heritage, making it a must-see spot.