Destination - Robe, South Australia

For some considerable time, Robe was one of Australia's best kept secret holiday destinations, loved for its unspoilt scenery, endless beaches, old-world charm, laidback lifestyle and plentiful fresh local seafood - especially crayfish and other regional delights. Today it is one of South Australia's most popular destinations, and the secret is well and truly out!

For those not familiar with Robe, the historic seaside resort lies at the southern end of Guichen Bay, situated on SA's Limestone Coast. Home to some of the most spectacular stunning beaches and rugged cliffs, tranquil lakes and mountainous dunes.

There are some 80 historic buildings, site walks and coastal pathways that relive Robe's remarkable history which begun in 1845, including the Old Gaol and Chinese Gold Trail Monument. In the 1850s Robe was SA's largest port and the main access point for Chinese entering Australia and heading to the Victorian Goldfields. The Robe Historic Walk and the Scenic Drive are two trips that provide visitors with an appreciation of rugged coastline and the maritime history of the town.

This year-round holiday destination has many features but none more scenic than Long Beach, a 10km, long white sand beach, that is renowned as one of the best drive-on beaches in Australia. The beach is home to the Robe Easter Surfing Classic, a 3-day event that has been running for over 50 years.

Just south of the town is the Little Dip Conservation Park, a hidden gem for 4WD and mountain bike enthusiasts. Sand dunes, vehicle tracks and off-road conditions see many set off in search of some of the more remote beaches and dunes along the Limestone Coast.

Amongst anglers Robe is well known and very popular because of the quality and choice of fishing locations, from rock fishing, surf fishing, pier or open water fishing – there is something for everyone.

The Obelisk on Cape Dombey is the most prominent landmark in Robe and was used to navigate entrance into Guichen Bay and to store rocket lifesaving equipment. This was the firing of rockets that carried baskets to distressed ships to bring passengers ashore and saved many lives. The original building was completed in 1855 and can be seen 15 km off the coast.

Today Robe is a pleasant mix of old and new, historic and trendsetting, scenic and serene, with a small permanent population that swells during peak holiday seasons. There is a variety of accommodation, including three caravan parks. Take the opportunity and discover the great attractions of Robe and the Limestone Coast. Just remember to book well ahead for the peak holiday seasons.

Image credits: Jayme Chapman, Mark Fitzpatrick, Josh Geelen, Elliot Grafton