Keith Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Keith, Limestone Coast, South Australia, including natural attractions, museums, hiking and biking routes, food and drinks, where to stay, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Keith

Keith, located in the Limestone Coast of South Australia, is a charming small town that is often a stopover for visitors travelling between Melbourne and Adelaide. Known for its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and historic buildings, Keith offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Keith

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Keith Museum: A local history museum that showcases the town’s rich heritage and the lifestyle of early pioneers.
  • Keith Railway Heritage Walk: A self-guided tour that takes visitors through the railway’s history in Keith.
  • Keith Courthouse and Cell Complex: A former courthouse that has been converted into a museum with displays of the town’s legal system and police force.

Natural Attractions of Keith: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Naracoorte Caves National Park: Home to a network of limestone caves that are rich in fossils and astounding formations.
  • Keith and Tintinara Heritage Trails: A self-guided drive/walk exploring the area’s natural features and history, including scenic drives through Mount Monster Conservation Park.
  • Walking/biking trails: Experience the picturesque Limestone Coast from a different angle, starting from Mosquito Hill lookout or the Keith Heritage Trail.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Keith

  • Mosquito Hill Walking and Mount Taurus Trail: This challenging trail takes visitors through native bushlands, and is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.
  • The Keith to Bordertown Trail: A cycling trail that captures the beauty of the countryside, starting from Keith and passing through the towns of Willalooka, Mundulla and Bordertown.
  • Mount Monster Conservation Park Loop Trail: A moderate 6km hike that explores the park’s different landscapes, including an old water tower ruin and a spectacular view from the lookout tower.

Best Things to Do in Keith: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the local wineries: There are several local wineries within easy reach of Keith that offer tastings and tours.
  • The Mount Monster Conservation Park: Explore the different trails and see kangaroos, emus, and other wildlife.
  • Fossick for opals: Opal mining is a popular activity in the region, and visitors can try their luck at searching for opals and other gems.
  • Dinner at the Bush Tucker Night: Experience traditional Australian cuisine, including kangaroo, crocodile, and emu cooked in a native style way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Keith

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Keith Museum and Heritage Walk
Day 2 Hike or bike the Mount Taurus Trail
Day 3 Explore the Naracoorte Caves National Park and Willalooka
Day 4 Visit local wineries and enjoy a wine tasting
Day 5 Experience opal mining on the Heritage Trail and the Bordertown Trail
Day 6 Bush Tucker Dinner Experience and Sightseeing at King Island
Day 7 Relax and soak up the beauty of Keith before your departure

Food and Drink Scene of Keith

Must-Try Dishes

  • Meat pies: Made from locally sourced ingredients, Keith is known for producing some of the best meat pies in Australia.
  • Terroir coffee: Keith is home to a coffee roaster that sources beans from around the world to create unique blends of coffee.
  • Fish and Chips: Fresh from the coast, seafood is a must try dish in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Wine tasting: The Limestone Coast has earned a reputation for producing high-quality wines, and there are several wineries in the region open for tastings.
  • Terroir Coffee: Enjoy a cup of ethically sourced locally roasted coffee.

Where to Stay in Keith: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Keith Motor Inn: A comfortable and convenient motel in the heart of Keith.
  • Keith Hotel: A historic pub and hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
  • Eat, Sleep, and Play: A motel located in nearby Bordertown that offers family-friendly accommodations and free sports and entertainment facilities.

What to Buy in Keith: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Opals and other gems: Keith is known for opal mining, and visitors can buy locally mined gems and other souvenirs.
  • Handmade goods: Several local artisans sell their handmade crafts, including pottery, glassware and leather products.
  • Limestone Coast Wines: Purchase bottles of wine from the region’s wineries to bring home and savor.

Local Culture and Customs of Keith

The people of Keith and the Limestone Coast are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Visitors often comment on the town’s friendly community spirit and laid-back lifestyle.

Best Time to Visit Keith

The best time to visit Keith is in the spring (September to November) or autumn season (March to May) when the weather is mild and the natural landscape is in full bloom. Summer (December to February) can be extremely hot and dry, while winter (June to August) can be quite cold and has fewer available activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Keith

Do:

  • Take time to explore the natural and cultural attractions of the region.
  • Try local cuisine and products.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture.
  • Put your health and safety at risk.

Safety and Health

Safety in Keith

Keith is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still take basic precautions, such as locking their doors and not leaving valuables unattended. Be prepared while driving on rural roads and wildlife can be unpredictable.

Health in Keith

Health facilities are available in Keith and nearby Bordertown and Naracoorte. Visitors should be careful when undertaking outdoor activities and should take standard precautions, such as applying sunscreen and carrying sufficient water supplies for the chosen activities.

Getting to Keith: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Keith

The nearest airport to Keith is the Mount Gambier Airport, located 90 minutes’ drive away. Adelaide International Airport and Melbourne International Airport are other options that are a 4-hour-drive away.

Bus Stations Near Keith

The Keith Bus and Coach Service offers transport from Adelaide to Keith, and other regional towns, while Intercity Coachlines provides regular service from Melbourne to Adelaide, which stops in Keith.

Other Options

Driving to Keith is an excellent option and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside and towns. Car rental is available from Mount Gambier, Adelaide, and Melbourne cities.

How to Get Around in Keith

The town is relatively compact, and walking or cycling is one of the best ways to explore the region. A vehicle is recommended for exploring the surrounding area and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Keith: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Naracoorte Caves National Park: A short 30-minute drive from Keith and known for its limestone caves and World Heritage-listed fossil finds.
  • Mount Gambier: A 90-minute drive from Keith, Mount Gambier is home to the Blue Lake and the Umpherston Sinkhole, both natural wonders that are worth a visit.
  • Adelaide and Melbourne: Both major metropolitan cities are about four hours’ drive from Keith and offer a wide range of attractions, from shopping to cultural experiences.

Conclusion

Keith is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality from the friendly locals. Experience the charm of a small Australian town and explore the region’s natural attractions, wineries, and local delicacies on your next visit to Keith.