As any traveller that has even caught even a glimpse of Australia will tell you, the Land Down Under is one replete with magnificent swathes of ever-changing scenery. Sky-piercing mountains, verdant rainforests, sprawling deserts and modern urban cityscapes combine for a visual feast for the eyes, so much so that Australia’s raft of beautiful lakes can often be forgotten.
We at East Coast Car Rentals (ECCR) think that this is a crying shame, so we’ve surveyed Australia’s landscape in a mammoth effort to bring you a guide to Oz’s best lakes.
What is an ideal way to pay a visit to each, ticking them off your list as you do? Why, by rental vehicle, of course! ECCR has a broad range of transport from which to choose, from a cute compact car all the way through to a 12-seater minibus if you’re bringing the family along. Without further ado, here are ECCR’s top Australian lakes!
Blue Lake, Mount Gambier, South Australia
When you first witness the Blue Lake lying like a huge sapphire eye beneath the greenery of its banks, you may think that the name is apt. For the most part, you’d be absolutely right – throughout the spring and summer, the lake remains a deep, refreshing blue, drawing you into its resplendent beauty.
However, when autumn and winter roll in, the water slowly fades to grey in a phenomenon that isn’t quite yet understood. Found in the midst of several extinct volcanoes, Blue Lake is, in fact, a water-filled volcanic crater, and has been providing fresh H2O to the nearby township for generations.
The walking trail that lays alongside the edges of the Blue Lake is well worth taking – at 3.6 kilometres, it’s not too taxing and will lead to you to numerous vantage points from which to view the beauty of the water. What’s more, you’ll pass craters, tunnels and valleys, and take in the underpass that leads to the nearby Leg of Mutton lake crater.
Sky-piercing mountains, verdant rainforests, sprawling deserts and modern urban cityscapes combine for a visual feast for the eyes, so much so that Australia’s raft of beautiful lakes can often be forgotten.
Lake Eacham, Queensland
Another lake formed from the craters of volcanoes, Lake Eacham is one that’s bound to appeal to nature lovers. Reached by venturing through a dense, green rainforest, Lake Eacham is crystal clear, though a shade of shining green may appear during the summertime.
You could easily spend a day or two at Lake Eacham simply drinking in your surroundings and becoming at one with with the area. Take a swim in the inviting waters, or perhaps stay a little dryer while still enjoying the lake as you glide across on a canoe.
Across the lake’s surface and in the trees above, several endemic bird species make the area home, so bringing a pair of binoculars is also recommended. There are also several walking tracks through the surrounding countryside that also provide great views of the lake, so be sure to pack a pair of stout boots along with your camera!
Lake Canabolas, New South Wales
Lying still and undisturbed in the shadow of Mount Canabolas, the namesake lake at the mountain’s foot offers a peaceful way to unwind after a hike to the summit. Alongside the picnic and barbecue facilities dotted around the fringes of the lake, there is also a brilliant playground, making this an ideal outing for all of the family.
If you’re looking to get you toes a little wet, don’t be shy about going for a swim – the water is pristinely clean. Additionally, sailing boats and canoes can regularly be seen making their way across the gently lapping surface. What’s more, a few monsters lurk under the surface of Lake Canabolas, so bring along your rod and reel – see if you can hook the catch of the day!
