Each year triple j ships the best Aussie acts out to a different town for a massive free party: that’s the One Night Stand! This year they’re coming to…drum roll please…LUCINDALE! Only a short 1 hour 20 minute drive from beautiful Mount Gambier.
Now if you’re coming from Melbourne, you’ve got a couple options up your sleeve. You can fly to Mount Gambier and drive a hire car to Lucindale…or you can pull off an epic road trip. You can drive the direct 5 and a half hour trip there, but what’s the fun in that? We’ve created the ULTIMATE Melbourne to Lucindale road trip just for you!
Melbourne – 487km to Lucindale
There’s no need to fight over car DJ on this trip, chuck on you TripleJ One Night Stand playlist and you’re all set! It’s time to hit the road. It’s all about uncovering those Aussie towns on this trip, so let’s get out of the city and start the journey.
Lorne – 422km to Lucindale
Before you know it, 2 hours have gone and you’ve found yourself in the seaside town of Lorne. Soak up the sun by the coast and grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes. If you’re looking to stretch the legs, take the one kilometre stroll down long beach.
Looking to linger a little longer? Explore the local art galleries and shops of this popular summer coastal town.
12 Apostles – 372km to Lucindale
A trip along the Great Ocean Road is not complete without a stop at the 12 Apostles. Jump out, stretch the legs and take that Instagrammable selfie you know you want to take. Walk down to the viewing platform to see the glorious limestone pillars riding from the ocean. Carved from the waves and the wind, the pillars were once apart of the mainland. Rain, hail or shine, this coastline sure knows how to put on a show.
Mount Gambier – 126km to Lucindale
You’ve arrived in the region on volcanoes, caves and cenotes…Now there’s lots to explore so you better get a good nights rest here and get ready to for some epic sightseeing.
Being the second largest city in South Australia, Mount Gambier always has something going on, make sure you check out our events page to see what’s happening.
As you’re heading into Mount Gambier, your first stop has to be Umpherston Sinkhole! This sunken garden will have you in awe, it’s as if you’re in an enchanted garden. Coming in at dusk? Perfect timing for possums! Grab some fruit and your camera, this is the perfect sport to get a cute photo. You can also jump on a Meet the Possum Tour, but you have to book ahead!
You can’t come to Mount Gambier and not visit the Blue Lake. Although it won’t be showing off its brightest blue tones, it’s still incredible to see. The entire cluster of volcano craters have some great walks to keep you active on your road trip, and their all located in the heart of town. Including one up to the Centenary Tower were you’ll get some epic panoramic views.
Once you’ve explored the streets of Mount Gambier from above, it’s time to go below at Engelbrecht Cave. Take to tour down into the cave to learn about the cave system that winds it’s way beneath the streets.
Looking for something a little more adventurous? Only 15 minutes from Mount Gambier is the world-renowned Kilsby Sinkhole. A hot spot for cave divers around the world, Kilsby Sinkhole also offer snorkelling experiences that will have you feeling like you’re floating in air. What’s a visit to Kilsby’s without trying their signature Sinkhole Gin. Bookings must be made in advance for this once in a lifetime experience.
There’s so much more to experience in Mount Gambier and it’s surrounds, you really need to take your time. If you don’t have time on this trip, come back in summer and conqueror them then! Check a few out here.
Coonawarra – 81.6km to Lucindale
As you drive through the vines of Australia’s other Red Centre, be sure to pop into some of Coonawarra’s famous cellar doors.Home of some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon, this reputation has been earned over more than 120 years.
Check out their ultimate winery guide here.
Naracoorte Caves – 52km to Lucindale
No trip to the Limestone Coast is complete without a visit to the World Heritage listed Naracoorte Caves. Take a step back in time at one of the world’s most important fossil sites, and head underground on one of their unique tours. There is lots to explore above the ground as well with large parkland full of native animals, including he Western Grey Kangaroo, rosellas, cockatoos, and if you’re lucky wombats and echidnas.
Lucindale – arrived!
You’ve made it, you’re here! This is what you’ve been waiting for…the One Night Stand!
Time to set up camp, kick back and get ready for your favourite Aussie acts!
