Grandpa’s Guide to Driving in Mount Gambier

Alright there, everyone? I hope you’re doing swell, like I am. I’ve just spent a day with my grandkids and boy did they like running around. It’s a good thing I still have a little kick in me so I could keep up with them. Otherwise that would’ve been another ‘Hare and Turtle’ story and guess who the turtle is…

I decided it’s time for another guide! This time it’s on Mount Gambier, the city of craters, lakes, caves and sinkholes! Isn’t that interesting?! Well, tune in and learn some more.

Prior to the Europeans settling in, the Buandig people were the first Aboriginal inhabitants of the area. They named it ‘ereng balam’ which meant ‘home of the eagle hawk’. Mount Gambier got its name from the Mount Gambier, a crater spotted in 1800 by Lieutenant Grant and it was named for Lord Gambier, Admiral of the Fleet.

Before further exploring Mount Gambier unusual geography, let me give you some advice on how to make your trip to Mount Gambier a thousand times more meaningful. First of all, you should get yourself a car rental. Driving around in your own vehicle at your own leisure is the first step to enjoying your vacation. What you need is safety, style and prices that don’t hurt. Now, where are you going to find that? Well, here at Mount Gambier Car Rental, of course! Get going and click on that link so you can choose from the best car rental bargains.

Now, on to the goods! All the best places to visit in Mount Gambier, all in one list!

1. Cave Gardens

Drive into the centre of the city and you’ll find yourself in Cave Gardens. The place features a sinkhole that was the prime source of water for early settlers. While you’re here you can admire the beauty and importance of the place as you scan Cave Gardens from viewing areas above or enter the cave and wander out onto the suspended viewing platforms to catch a majestic view into the cave.

And it comes as quite a surprise, but Cave Gardens is also famous for its roses. They have the loveliest kinds and you can enjoy the sight of them as you have a picnic on the grounds.

2. Dingley Dell Conservation Park

One of you might have a flair for poetry. In that case, I’ve got just the place for you! Your next destination is Dingly Dell Conservation Park, a quaint bushland where you’ll find Adam Lindsay Gordon’s cottage. Now, Mr. Gordon happens to be one of the most famous Aussie poets and he lived in Dingley Dell from 1864 to 1867 where he immersed himself in his two greatest loves, horses and writing.

Take a walk through his cottage (which is now a museum of sorts) to see just how fascinating this man’s life was. Get to see his personal belongings and read his very own works. It’s open for tours 10am to 4pm every day so there’s no reason for you to miss it.

3. Centenary Tower

Here at Centenary Tower, you’ll get to have spectacular views of the lakes, the city and the exquisite countryside, all 190 metres above sea level. The tower was opened in 1904 and it includes a wide range of early photographs of the Lakes area. If you want a god’s-eye-view of the city, Centenary Tower is your ticket.

So it’s that easy to have a spectacular Mount Gambier experience! Be sure to have fun, yeah? Take lots of pictures. You’ll want tons of souvenirs from your trip here. I assure you, it’s going to be a blast!

Cheers, mate!

- Grandpa Benjamin