Umpherston Sinkhole, South Australia - A Sunken Garden in the Middle of Mount Gambier

Wander * Explore * Discover
Feb 12, 2023
2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Umpherston Sinkhole, South Australia - A Sunken Garden in the Middle of Mount Gambier

The Umpherston Sinkhole, also known as The Sunken Garden, is one of the Limestone Coast’s most enchanting natural attractions. What was once a limestone cave has collapsed over time to form a dramatic sinkhole, which was later transformed into a beautiful garden oasis.

In 1886, local landowner James Umpherston recognised the site’s potential and created the lush, terraced garden you see today. His vision turned a rugged geological feature into a tranquil space that continues to captivate visitors more than a century later.

Viewing the Sinkhole

Visitors can experience Umpherston Sinkhole from both above and below. At the top, a viewing platform provides a stunning perspective looking down into the sinkhole, where cascading greenery, stone terraces and winding paths create a truly unique scene.

From here, you can appreciate the scale of the sinkhole and the careful landscaping that softens its dramatic limestone walls.

Walking Through the Sunken Garden

A set of stairs leads down into the sinkhole, allowing you to wander among the gardens at ground level. At the bottom, paths meander through ferns, vines and flowering plants, creating a peaceful, almost secret-garden atmosphere.

Directly behind the stairs, you’ll find a walking path that passes beneath overhanging vines, offering shade and a sense of seclusion. A small fountain adds to the tranquillity, and additional paths allow you to explore different corners of the garden at your own pace.

Wildlife and Evening Visits

One of the most memorable times to visit Umpherston Sinkhole is at dusk. As daylight fades, possums emerge from the surrounding vegetation and can often be seen climbing among the rocks and trees.

Visitors are welcome to feed the possums with fruit and vegetables, making it a fun and gentle wildlife experience, especially for families. The sinkhole is also lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere as the gardens glow softly against the limestone walls.

Facilities and Visitor Information

Umpherston Sinkhole is open daily from dawn to dusk and is free to visit. Facilities on site include:

Toilets
Picnic tables
Barbecue areas
A small kiosk

The surrounding parklands make it an easy and enjoyable stop, whether you’re visiting briefly or lingering to enjoy the peaceful setting.

Why Umpherston Sinkhole Is Worth Visiting

Umpherston Sinkhole is a rare blend of natural geology, history and garden design. From its dramatic limestone origins to its beautifully maintained terraces and evening wildlife encounters, it offers a truly unique experience on the Limestone Coast.

Just a short drive from Mount Gambier, it’s a must-see attraction that surprises and delights visitors of all ages — and a perfect place to slow down and appreciate one of South Australia’s hidden gems.