SOUTH AUSTRALIA VACAT IO N P L A N N E R & G U I D E
S o u t h A u s t r a l i a Va c a t i o n P l a n n e r & G u i d e
SOUTHAUSTRALIA.COM | REWARDS WONDER
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CONTENTS
WELCOME TO ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Page 04
ADELAIDE, THE BOUTIQUE CITY
Page 05
V I N E YA R D C I T Y
Page 06
LO CA L F L AVO U R S
Page 08
N AT U R E & W I L D L I F E E X P E R I E N C E S
Page 12
W I D E O P E N S PAC E S : T H E M U R R AY R I V E R
Page 14
WIDE OPEN SPACES: EYRE PENINSULA
Page 16
WIDE OPEN SPACES: KANGAROO ISLAND
Page 20
KANGAROO ISLAND ITINERARY
Page 24
ADELAIDE TO MELBOURNE DRIVING ROUTE
Page 28
LUXURY EXPERIENCES
Page 30
A R T S & C U LT U R E
Page 34
TO ALICE SPRINGS
Lake Eyre
Coober Pedy
ARKAROOLA
Lake Frome Lake Torrens
TO P ER TH
wilpena
Lake Gairdner
Head of Blight
Ceduna
TO SYDNEY
Port Augusta
Whyalla
AUSTRALIA Wallaroo Port Wakefield
Clare Murray River
Renmark
Tanunda
COFFIN BAY
Port Lincoln Mannum
ADELAIDE
Hahndorf Marion Bay
McLaren Vale Kingscote Cape Jervis
Victor Penneshaw Harbor
DRIVE SAFELY IN AUSTRALIA Remember to always drive on the left-hand side of the road. Wear a seatbelt and be familiar with Australian road rules. MYLICENCESA.GOV.AU./ROAD-RULES
TRAVEL FROM ADELAIDE TO KEY REGIONAL CENTRES TOWN
REGION
Hahndorf
Adelaide Hills
20 mins
NARACOORTE
BY CAR
BY PLANE
Tanunda
Barossa
1 hr
ROAD TRIP KEY
Clare
Clare Valley
2 hrs
EPICUREAN WAY
Port Lincoln
Eyre Peninsula
7 hrs
40 mins
Food & drink
Ceduna
Eyre Peninsula
8 hrs
1.5 hrs
EXPLORERS WAY
Whyalla
Eyre Peninsula
4.5 hrs
50 mins
McLaren Vale
Fleurieu Peninsula
45 mins
Victor Harbor
Fleurieu Peninsula
1.3 hrs
Coober Pedy
Flingers Ranges & Outback
8.5 hrs
Wilpena Pound
Flingers Ranges & Outback
5 hrs
Kingscote
Kangaroo Island
2 hrs +
Penneshaw
Kangaroo Island
1.5 hrs +
Mount Gambier
Limestone Coast
4.5 hrs
Mannum
Murray River, Lakes & Coorong
1.5 hrs
Renmark
Murray River, Lakes & Coorong
3 hrs
Marion Bay
Yorke Peninsula
3 hrs
The heart of Australia’s Outback
MIGHTY MURRAY WAY Australia’s longest river
SEAFOOD FRONTIER The ultimate seafood safari
SOUTHERN OCEAN DRIVE A diverse journey of natural wonders
COASTAL WAY Yorke Peninsula’s sandy playground SOUTHAUSTRALIA.COM/ROADTRIPS
ROBE
Mount Gambier
TO MELBOURNE
2 hrs 45 mins ferry
30 mins
45 mins ferry 1 hr
N S o u t h A u s t r a l i a Va c a t i o n P l a n n e r & G u i d e
250km
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WELCOME TO ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
We can probably all agree that the world has changed. Everything is different, and nothing will ever be as it once was. Nothing, that is, except the desire, the privilege, the eye-opening wonder of travel. As a society, we’re a resilient bunch. We continue to dream and to inspire one another, to share the beauty of the world around us. In this changed world, authentic travel experiences with purpose are now more important than ever. It’s time for us all to get back to nature, to really feel our place in the world and to appreciate all those things that we perhaps once took for granted. Introducing Adelaide, South Australia. South Australia is the complete Australian experience. From the gateway capital city of Adelaide, you can easily access world-class wine, artisan produce, enviable dining options, the vast outback, ancient landscapes, and true wildlife in the wild experiences. The sheer expanse of the state means that while you may share your experience with others, you’ll still feel like you have it all to yourself.
Adelaide has a 30km-long stretch of white sandy beach that can be accessed from the city with ease and is surrounded on the other three sides by wine regions. Along the south coast is the eponymously named Kangaroo Island, alive with wildlife encounters, hidden beaches, lagoons teeming with birdlife and delicious island produce. Aquatic experiences in the state far transcend merely swimming in the ocean. Frolic with a wild pod of dolphins or Australian sea lions, dive with leafy sea dragons, witness the colourful courtship dance of the giant cuttlefish, or get your adrenaline fix on a cage dive with great white sharks. Eat your way through the ever-changing regional menu of delicious restaurants and artisanal produce, paired with world-class wines and gins infused with native botanicals, while taking in the big skies, green earth, and ever-changing vistas. South Australia offers the full experience – easy access, stunning landscapes, plenty of wildlife, friendly locals, and a foodie’s paradise. For travel with purpose, start your Australian vacation in Adelaide, South Australia.
MAP OF AUSTRALIA
DA RWI N
B RI S BA NE
PE RTH
SY D NE Y ADELAIDE
CA NB E RRA M E L B OURNE
HOBA RT
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South Australia Holiday Planner & Guide
ADELAIDE, THE BOUTIQUE CITY Immerse yourself in the city
Adelaide is a friendly city, and it’s easy to see why the locals are so relaxed. Fringed by 30-odd kilometres of unbroken sandy beach to the west, the Adelaide Hills to the east, and world-renowned wine regions to the north and south, the finer things in life are right on our doorstep. The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the airport. Laid out in a symmetrical grid for easy navigation, the city is surrounded by a green belt of parklands. It is flat and very walkable, but there are also free public transport options throughout. Restaurants, cafés, bars and pubs to surprise and delight your culinary senses are dotted among major cultural landmarks, easily accessible on foot, bike or electric scooter. Adelaide is the central hub for all the artisanal food available across the state. The best way to experience this in a nutshell is to visit the Adelaide Central Market, the largest undercover fresh produce market in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in the geographical heart of the city, the market is a must-do for all visitors, for coffee, a meal, or just to soak in the buzzing atmosphere and flavours of the state. For a bit of South Australian flair, wander down Rundle Street in the city’s east end and explore boutique retailers and local designers. Throughout the year, partake in street parties, craft markets and festivals galore. Immerse yourself in the cultural precinct of North Terrace, home to galleries and museums, wine centre and the Adelaide
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Adelaide Riverbank Precinct, Adelaide
Botanic Gardens, a green oasis in an already green city. Explore the history of the Kaurna people, the original Aboriginal custodians of the land, through walking tours, interpretive centres and art galleries. With Adelaide as your jumping-off point, it’s so easy to explore beaches, wine regions, outback, the Murray River, and so much more at any time of year.
MUST-DO ADELAIDE EXPERIENCES
• Adelaide Central Market
• RoofClimb at Adelaide Oval
• Swim with dolphins, Glenelg Beach
• Penfolds Magill Estate Tour
• Art Gallery of South Australia
V I N E YA R D CITY
Four days in Adelaide’s wine regions
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The Lane Vineyard, Adelaide Hills
Adelaide is known as the Vineyard City, and with good reason.
DAY 1
Within the city square mile, a working vineyard in the National Wine Centre of Australia educates and inspires visitors and winemakers alike. Famed wine label Penfolds has its spiritual home and cellar door just 8km from the city centre, conducting tours and private tastings across the property. In addition, South Australia has 18 distinct wine regions dotted throughout the state, producing 60% of all of Australia’s wine. The world’s oldest vines can be found in South Australia, still producing fruit some 170 years on, thanks to a viticulture environment that is phylloxera-free, a pest that has crippled other wine regions across the globe.
Drive south 45 minutes from Adelaide to the McLaren Vale wine region. Visit some of the 70-odd stellar wineries such as Gemtree, Coriole, Wirra Wirra and Alpha Box & Dice. Have lunch at the iconic d’Arenberg Cube. After lunch, join a tour and do a tasting or blend your own wine experience. Drive an hour to the Adelaide Hills and continue your wine-hopping at places such as The Lane, Shaw + Smith, Bird in Hand and Golding Wines. Check in to your accommodation at Sequoia with stunning, uninterrupted views over the Piccadilly Valley. Dine inhouse at the acclaimed Hardy’s Verandah restaurant.
The varied environments in South Australia gives rise to many styles, varietals and subtleties of wine: the Mediterranean climate of McLaren Vale 45 minutes south of the city; the crisp, cool-climate whites of the Adelaide Hills; the Southern Ocean breezes and microclimates of Kangaroo Island, and
DAY 2
warm terra rosa soils of the Coonawarra in the State’s south. Then there’s the fruity acidity of Rieslings from the Clare Valley two hours’ north of Adelaide, and of course, iconic big, bold shiraz from the Barossa. For those partial to a tipple or two, you’re never far from an excellent glass of South Australian wine. The best way to take it all in is to hire a guide or join a local tour with those in the know. Behind the scenes access, museum wine tastings, and meet the winemaker experiences are just the start of your wine adventure.
TOP WINERY EXPERIENCES
Drive an hour north to the Barossa and stop in at Jacob’s Creek and St Hugo for tours and tastings. For lunch, try Fino at Seppeltsfield, then taste your birth year tawny in the Centennial Cellar, wander around the JamFactory art gallery and head to Yalumba for a tour of their cooperage. You’ll be spoilt for choice with dinner – make the difficult decision between FermentAsian or Appellation, and overnight at The Louise, one of the Luxury Lodges of Australia. DAY 3 If you’re staying at The Louise, then Breakfast with the Kangaroos is a must. After, drive an hour north to the Clare Valley and visit Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest winery in the region, established in 1851. Have lunch at Slate at Pikes Winery and indulge in tastings of their wine and beer. In the afternoon, visit Skillogalee and Jim Barry Wines. Overnight at the Clare Country Club.
• d’Arenberg Cube, Fleurieu Peninsula
DAY 4 • Taste your birth year at Seppeltsfield, Barossa
• Lot 100, Adelaide Hills
Hire a bike from your accommodation and ride along the Riesling and Rattler Trail, stopping in at Tim Adams and Mr Mick Wines. Have a light lunch of tapas at Mr Mick Wines and head back to Adelaide for dinner in the city. Overnight at one of the many excellent options in Adelaide.
• Cycle the Riesling Trail, Clare Valley
• Penfolds Grange tasting, Adelaide
For a more detailed itinerary visit southaustralia.com/roadtrips
• Panorama Experience at The Lane, Adelaide Hills
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LOCAL F L AVO U R S
Home-grown and world-famous
No matter where in South Australia you are, a culinary extravaganza is probably not far away. It may come in the form of some freshly picked or homemade delights for a picnic from a farmers market; a winery restaurant where the produce is home-grown or sourced nearby; gin distilled using native botanicals; honey from the world’s only pure-strain Ligurian bees; or world-famous seafood from South Australian waters, fed by the nutrient-rich Southern Ocean. Internationally renowned chefs agree that South Australia has some of the best produce on offer anywhere in the world. In South Australia, they can easily cultivate personal relationships with farmers, take a hands-on approach with winemakers, and access fresh, local ingredients at their peak. When you visit, you can meet the makers, pick your own, indulge in one of the many world-class restaurants, join a cooking masterclass, or take a tour at the Adelaide Central Market and try ingredients you’ve never encountered before. Out in region, follow one of the many produce or wine trails and discover the flavours that make South Australia one of the most sought-after foodie destinations in the world.
MUST-DO FOOD & DRINK EXPERIENCES • Ultimate Penfolds Experience
• Taste oysters plucked straight from the sea
• Taste your Birth Year tour at Seppeltsfield
• Adelaide Central Market tour
• Blend your own wine
• Wagyu beef tasting
• d’Arenberg Cube
• Tasting Australia festival
• Gin making masterclass at Kangaroo Island Spirits
• ‘Monet’ cheese from Woodside Cheese Wrights
Above
K I S p i r i t s , Ka n g a ro o Is la n d
Above
Mayura Station, Limestone Coast
South Australia Holiday Planner & Guide
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Above
St Hugo, Barossa
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N AT U R E & W I L D L I F E EXPERIENCES
Authentic experiences in every direction
Above
Blyth Island, Eyre Peninsula
South Australia is renowned for our readily accessible nature and wildlife experiences all around the state. For authentic, wildlife in the wild experiences, you can’t go past the wonders of Kangaroo Island – the clue is in the name! Venture inland to the Flinders Ranges or Gawler Ranges for kangaroos, emus, lizards, echidnas, wombats, wedge-tailed eagles, yellow-footed rock wallabies and hundreds of bird species. Aquatic experiences are second to none. Cage diving with great white sharks is unique to South Australia in the country; leafy sea dragons can only reliably be seen here, and the cuttlefish migration happens nowhere else in the world. The water clarity is ideal for swimming with sea lions and dolphins, at various locations and regions across the state, and the Limestone Coast with its freshwater sinkholes are a haven for scuba diving and snorkelling. The coastline itself tends to be either sandy white beaches, or dramatic red cliffs – much of which faces west which makes them perfect for sundowners and a stunning sunset.
MUST-DO N AT U R E & W I L D L I F E E X P E R I E N C E S • Swim with sea lions, Eyre Peninsula
• Birds of Prey in-flight display, Kangaroo Island
• Whale watching from June to October, Eyre Peninsula
• Yellow-footed rock wallabies, Flinders Ranges
• Bird migration during flood, Lake Eyre
• Southern Ocean Walk, Fleurieu Peninsula
The varied landscapes in the state are as surprising as they are beautiful. Lush, green vegetation in a national park might give way suddenly to a secluded beach; rocky arid lands may hide waterfalls in unexpected places, and huge sand dunes appear in areas far from the coast. Be awed and amazed at the scope of the state – explore bushland, forest, desert and coast, and get closer to nature at every turn.
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KANGAROO ISLAND
Three days on South Australia’s island oasis
Above
C a p e W i l lo u g h b y , Ka n g a ro o Is la n d
Kangaroo Island is a microcosm of what really epitomises an Australian vacation. Beautiful scenery, stunning coastline, delicious gourmet food, and a wildlife haven, all wrapped up in one (fairly large) island. The third largest, aptly-named island of Australia also has its own endemic sub-species of kangaroo – darker, smaller and furrier than its Western grey kangaroo cousin, both of which are easily spotted on a typical day on the island. Wildlife experiences are easily accessible here – walk among a colony of Australian sea lions on a protected cove, swim with wild dolphins, see kangaroos and koalas in their thousands. If you’re lucky, you’ll even spot the little-seen echidna, and if you’re really lucky, the endangered dunnart. Though Kangaroo Island was hit hard by the January 2020 bushfires, more than half the island was untouched. The affected bushland is regenerating quickly, with green buds of epicormic growth pushing through tree trunks, and grass trees bursting into flower. This landscape is fire-adapted and well on the way to recovery. The resilience of nature is mirrored by that of the locals – still smiling in the face of adversity and waiting to re-welcome visitors back to the island.
MUST-DO KANGAROO ISLAND EXPERIENCES • Seal Bay Conservation Park
• Flinders Chase National Park
• Swim with dolphins
DAY 1 Catch a morning flight from Adelaide Airport to Kangaroo Island or do the 2.5-hour drive and ferry, (coach and tour operators offer packages from Adelaide). Explore the local beaches, check out Clifford’s Honey Farm and Emu Ridge Distillery and have a delicious seafood lunch at the Oyster Farm Shop in American River. Head east to sample the wines at Dudley Winery and False Cape Wines before overnighting at Sea Dragon Lodge. DAY 2 We highly recommend joining a guided tour for at least one day on Kangaroo Island. Exceptional Kangaroo Island and Kangaroo Island Odysseys tours are led by locals who know the island inside and out. They can give you the hot tips on the best places to see wildlife, and special access to experiences and private bushland properties. Spend the day visiting Flinders Chase National Park and marvel at its swift recovery from the bushfires, enjoy a bush barbecue lunch, visit Seal Bay and go wildlife spotting at secret locations. Stay overnight at Ecopia Retreat or Oceanview Eco Villas, with chef-prepared hampers or hosted dinners. DAY 3 Swim with dolphins with Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures in the crystal-clear waters. Grab a bite to eat at Cactus in Kingscote, then head to Kangaroo Island Spirits for a gin making class using native botanicals. Stop at the Islander Estate, Kangaroo Island Brewery and Bay of Shoals Wines. Pick up some excellent drops to take with you when you leave. Fly back to Adelaide or ferry from Penneshaw.
• Gin making class at Kangaroo Island Spirits
• Sand boarding at Little Sahara
For a more detailed itinerary visit southaustralia.com/roadtrips
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WIDE OPEN SPACES IN THE OUTBACK
Six day itinerary in the heart of South Australia
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Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, Flinders Ranges & Outback
Big skies and space to breathe doesn’t get much bigger and more spacious than the outback. Australia’s most accessible outback is a five-hour drive north of Adelaide. There in the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, sits Ikara (Wilpena Pound) – ‘meeting place’ in the traditional Adnyamathanha (‘hills or rock’) language – a great rocky amphitheatre spanning nearly 80km2 and dating back more than 650 million years. The first multicellular life on earth was found here, the rocks telling their own ancient story of a land that was once part of the sea. Aboriginal rock paintings and engravings can be found from the Adnyamathanha people in the park, dating back 40,000 years.
MUST-DO OUTBACK EXPERIENCES • Scenic flight over Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre
• Wilpena Pound, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park
• Mine Tour and opal noodling in Coober Pedy
• Feral Platter at the Prairie Hotel
• Ridgetop Tour at Arkaroola
The region teems with wildlife – kangaroos, emus, wedge-tailed eagles, and the elusive yellow-footed rock wallaby. When the vast inland Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre floods, the changing colours and renewed waters burst into life and welcome bird flocks numbering in the thousands. You can explore it all by car, by air, on bike or on foot. Join a guided tour or discover it at your own pace with hundreds of kilometres of walking and mountain bike tracks. Digital connectivity is significantly limited here, but that’s not a bad thing – far from it. Experience this wondrous, almost meditative place as it was meant to be experienced – with all your senses.
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S I X DAY I T I N E R A R Y FLINDERS RANGES & OUTBACK
DAY 1
DAY 4
Drive two hours from Adelaide to Clare Valley. Stop in at favourites like Jim Barry Wines, Pikes Wines, Shut the Gate and the oldest vineyard in the region, Sevenhill Cellars. Have lunch at Skillogalee - try to get a seat under the gnarled old pepper tree if you can. After lunch, walk or cycle the Riesling and Rattler trail, which links cellar doors between the townships of Auburn and Clare. Bicycles can be hired in the main townships. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Umbria Rustic Italian and overnight at Neagles Retreats or Bungaree Station.
Today’s drive is a long one – five and a half hours along the Stuart Highway. Stop off for breaks at Island Lagoon, the Woomera Heritage Centre and Interactive Rocket Range Museum for something different. Finish your drive in Coober Pedy, the underground town that’s home to the opal rush. Have dinner and overnight in an underground room at the Desert Cave Hotel.
DAY 5 DAY 2 Continue north to the Flinders Ranges. Stop in the charming Southern Flinders town of Melrose, the oldest town in the region and have lunch at the North Star Hotel. Head to Alligator Gorge and go for a hike (moderate level). Watch your step in the rainy season as the water levels can be unexpectedly high. Continue on to the Flinders Ranges for dinner at the Woolshed Restaurant at Rawnsley Park Station. Stay overnight at the Rawnsley Park Eco Villas for views of Wilpena Pound.
Spend the day uncovering the quirks of this unique town. Go noodling for opals, visit underground churches, mines and shops. In the afternoon head to the Breakaways and watch the colours change as the sun goes down. Overnight in Coober Pedy.
DAY 6 Continue north along the Stuart Highway towards Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the Northern Territory. Finish your trip in Alice Springs or continue your journey north to Darwin.
DAY 3 Choose between a hike in and around Wilpena Pound (fitness dependent) or join a 4WD tour through Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorges, showcasing the breathtaking scenery, history and wildlife. Try the ‘Feral Feast’ (goat, camel and kangaroo) at the Prairie Hotel in Parachilna. Continue on to Port Augusta. Check out the Wadlata Outback Centre and the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens. Overnight at Majestic Oasis in Port Augusta.
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P a u l e t t W i n e s , C l a r e Va l l e y
For a more detailed itinerary visit explorers-way.com
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Ka n k u - Bre a ka w a y s C o n s e r vat i o n Pa r k , F l i n de rs Ra n g e s & O u t b a c k
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Above
Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions, Eyre Peninsula
WIDE OPEN SPACES EYRE PENINSULA
West of Adelaide is the Eyre Peninsula, where one-of-a-kind experiences await. This is a largely undiscovered gold mine of seafood and breathtaking landscapes. A quick 50-minute flight gets you from Adelaide to Port Lincoln, home to the largest fishing fleet in the southern hemisphere. Here, fishermen ply their trade, catching Southern rock lobster, King George whiting, green-lip abalone, blue swimmer crabs, prawns, blue fin tuna and a roaring trade in oysters plucked from the pristine waters of the Southern Ocean. Further along the peninsula are secluded beaches, towering cliffs, and hollowed out caverns of wonder and majesty. Swim with wild colonies of friendly Australian sea lions and dolphins or test your nerve on a cage dive with great white sharks. Wander inland to discover a different environment altogether. The Gawler Ranges National Park is a stunning remnant of the great inland sea, with unexpected landscapes. Drive over sand dunes 120km from the nearest coastline, clamber over rock formations formed more than 1500 million years ago and discover native wildlife thronging in huge numbers.
MUST-DO OUTBACK EXPERIENCES • Swim with Australian sea lions • Sample fresh oysters straight out of the water in Coffin Bay • Snorkel or dive with giant cuttlefish
• Whale watching at Head of Bight
• Cage dive with great white sharks
• Tour Gawler Ranges and Organ Pipes
Head further west along the coast towards Head of Bight. From June to October every year, Southern right whales can be seen socialising and nursing their young in these protected waters, sometimes up to 70 animals at a time! The views from Head of Bight are especially spectacular, providing the ideal vantage point to see these majestic creatures. For ease of travel, we recommend flying to Port Lincoln and picking up a hire car (or join a tour) but if you want to drive, add an extra travel day at the beginning of this itinerary.
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F I V E DAY I T I N E R A R Y EYRE PENINSULA
DAY 1
DAY 3
Take a 50-minute flight to Port Lincoln from Adelaide. On arrival, pick up a car or join a tour operator to see the sights. Grab a bite to eat at Rogue and Rascal then drive to Mikkira Station, home to a colony of wild koalas that can be easily spotted in the stunted manna gum trees. It’s also a great place to see emus, kangaroos and a huge variety of birds. From there check out Lincoln National Park for a bit of beach time – be sure to stop at the unforgettable Memory Cove and do some light bushwalking with trails crisscrossing the park. Return to Port Lincoln for a degustation dinner at Line & Label and overnight at Deco Beach Luxury Apartments.
Half an hour’s drive north west is Coffin Bay, home to the famous Coffin Bay oyster. Head out to an oyster lease with Experience Coffin Bay or don your waders and harvest your own with Oyster Farm Tours. You’ve never had fresh oysters until you’ve had Coffin Bay oysters! Keep going north and take up a second chance to swim with sea lions at Baird Bay. Check out Murphy’s Haystacks, an unusual outcrop of granite boulders for a great pit stop and photo opportunity. Pick up some seafood in Streaky Bay, and slurp some more oysters at Smoky Bay before overnighting in Ceduna.
DAY 4 DAY 2 Partake in some of the country’s most unique aquatic wildlife experiences. Swim with friendly sea lions and dolphins on a half day tour, or for an adrenaline rush, go cage diving with great white sharks, the only place in Australia where you can see these awesome predators up close. Shark cage diving is a full day tour, though a multi-day dive option is also available with Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at local favourite Cafe Del Giorno’s. Overnight Port Lincoln.
Drive three hours to Head of Bight for spectacular views of the Nullarbor cliffs. A short boardwalk and viewing platforms reward you with uninterrupted views of the dramatic Bunda Cliffs. Between June and October, southern right whales frequent the waters, socialising and nursing their calves. Get even closer on a tour on the water with EP Cruises or take a scenic flight of this magnificent area with Chinta Air.
DAY 5 Return to Adelaide or continue on along the Nullabor Plain to Western Australia.
For a more detailed itinerary visit southaustralia.com/roadtrips
Above
Experience Coffin Bay, Eyre Peninsula
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WIDE OPEN SPACES T H E M U R R AY R I V E R
Four day Mighty Murray Way itinerary
The great Murray River is the lifeblood of the state. The longest river in the country, it is also responsible for the great food bowl of South Australia, with its rich landscapes supporting all manner of crops including citrus, stone fruit, almonds, olives, grapes, vegetables and more. The stretch of the Murray River in South Australia is also home to charming historic pubs which dot the riverbanks, serving up the incredible local produce of the region. Discover the pioneering history of the region dating back to the 1800s and surround yourself with the native flora and fauna endemic to the area. Take in the views on a stately paddle steamer, a throwback to the region’s pioneering history, or captain your own houseboat and wake to the sound of birdsong. Canoe, swim, jet ski and fish through the day. At night, sit back and watch the stars. Designated as a Dark Sky Reserve in 2019, this is one of the best places in the world to discover the night sky. South Australia’s Murray River is broad and beautiful – a haven for wildlife, a playground for people and a rewarding destination for those who want to unwind and go with the flow. Follow the journey of Australia’s largest river and explore its people, its wildlife and its magic.
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Yo u n g h u s b a n d , M u r r a y R i v e r , L a k e s & C o o r o n g
MUST-DO M U R R AY R I V E R E X P E R I E N C E S • Extended cruises on the Murray Princess & Proud Mary
• Aboriginal Site at Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park
• 4-day Murray River Walk
• Birdwatching at Gluepot Reserve
• Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre
• Captain your own houseboat along the river
DAY 1
DAY 3
Drive 80 minutes south of Adelaide to Goolwa, an old river port where the Murray River meets the sea. Join a tour with Spirit Australia Cruises to learn about the ecosystem and Aboriginal significance of this area, known as the Coorong. Enjoy a relaxed lunch on the riverfront and sample the award-winning whisky at Fleurieu Distillery. Overnight at the charming Beach Huts Middleton.
After waking to the sounds of galahs and corellas, start the day with a relaxing walk on the riverbank, then check out Australia’s largest rose garden, Ruston’s Roses. In the afternoon, hire equipment for water skiing, canoeing and jetskiing. Consider extending this itinerary with a Murray River Trails experience. Starting at 3-days, 2-nights in duration, these guided walks include all food and beverages, houseboat accommodation, activities and a knowledgeable local guide.
DAY 2 A 70 minute drive north gets you to the historic town of Mannum to stretch your legs, but if you have it in you, keep going until you get to Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre, another 2 hours’ drive. Good food, great wine and extensive native wetland and woodland environs will get you closer to nature. From there, head to Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery followed by a guided tour of the nearby Twenty Third Street Distillery in Renmark. Rent a kayak and partake in some gentle water sports on the river, and stay overnight at the luxury villas The Frames.
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The Frames, Riverland
DAY 4 Return to Adelaide at your leisure.
For a more detailed itinerary visit southaustralia.com/roadtrips
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O n e Ka n g a ro o Is la n d , Ka n g a ro o Is la n d
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Above
Kilsby Sinkhole, Limestone Coast
ADELAIDE TO MELBOURNE DRIVING ROUTE
Five days on the Great Ocean Road
One of the most popular self-drive itineraries links Victoria and South Australia along the Great Ocean Road. The lesser-known South Australian side is no less spectacular. This itinerary can obviously be done in reverse, depending on whether you choose to start or finish in South Australia. Alternatively, you can also join operators Great Ocean Road & Beyond for a hosted touring experience along this route. DAY 1 Drive south of Adelaide for 45 minutes to the McLaren Vale in the Fleurieu Peninsula. Try some delicious wines from this Mediterranean-climate wine region and enjoy lunch at Star of Greece overlooking the ocean. Head to Victor Harbor and take a Big Duck Boat Tour to see sea lions and dolphins or jump into the water and swim with super-fast blue fin tuna at Oceanic Victor. Grab a bite at Thunderbird or the Flying Fish Café, and overnight at the cute Beach Huts Middleton. DAY 2 From here you could consider extending this itinerary to include Kangaroo Island – the ferry departs from Cape Jervis an hour’s drive away. Otherwise, visit Goolwa and join a cruise with Spirit Australia Cruises and explore the Murray River mouth. Have a bite to eat on the riverfront and continue on to the coastal town of Robe. Explore its rugged coastline and wander the main street before dining at Sails for dinner. Overnight at Caledonian Cottages.
DAY 3 Head inland to Naracoorte to see the World Heritage Listed Naracoorte Caves, limestone caverns home to 350,000-year-old fossils. In the afternoon visit the Coonawarra wine region – a visit to Wynns Coonawarra Estate is a must, as is a visit to the historic Coonawarra siding. Head to Penola, a charming town steeped in Catholic history. Have dinner at Pipers of Penola and overnight at Merlot Verdelho Residences. If you are keen for some of the best mayura steak in the world, head to Mayura Station (45 minute drive from Penola) for dinner (bookings are essential, Thursday – Saturday). DAY 4 Drive half an hour to Mount Gambier and explore this town of craters, lakes and caves. Twelve kilometres south of Mount Gambier is Mount Schank, a dormant volcano with a 2km walk around the crater’s rim providing sensational views. Head to Kilsby Sinkhole for a snorkel or scuba dive in this geological freshwater marvel (and try their gin!). Back in Mount Gambier, visit the Blue Lake and the beautiful sunken garden at the Umpherston Sinkhole. Overnight at the Barn and enjoy a hearty dinner at the adjoining restaurant, the Steakhouse. DAY 5 It’s barely a half hour drive to the Victorian border from here, but before you leave South Australia, stop by the stunning freshwater Piccaninnie Ponds or Ewen Ponds and go for a dive. The spectacular water clarity reveals a beautiful underwater world. If you don’t want to get your feet wet, check out the walking trails instead.
For a more detailed itinerary visit southaustralia.com/roadtrips
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LUXURY EXPERIENCES
Indulge in the best of South Australia
If you’re looking for indulgence, South Australia has plenty of experiences to offer, ranging from beautiful secluded coastal lodges to outback station stays, with mouth-watering food, wine and unique experiences in between.
AC C O M M O DAT I O N Six-star hotels, bathtubs with million-dollar views, secluded luxury escapes with chef-prepared meals are all part and parcel when you stay in South Australia. Choose from opulently appointed hotel rooms in the city at the likes of Eos by Sky City, Sofitel, Mayfair Hotel or Oval Hotel. Outside of the city, a personal touch with stunning views is the key, and you won’t want to miss Sequoia at Mount Lofty House in the Adelaide Hills; or The Louise, Stay Cambourne, or Hutton Vale Farm in the Barossa. In the outback, sleep in style at Rawnsley Eco Villas, Arkaba Homestead and Kangaluna Camp in the Gawler Ranges. On the Fleurieu, the stunning Naiko Retreat is a must, as is Hotel California Road and Cadole Avalon. On Kangaroo Island, Sea Dragon Lodge, Hamilton & Dune or One Kangaroo Island. On the Murray River, gently float along in a luxury Unforgettable Houseboat or stay at The Frames with views over the water.
TOURING Small group touring is what South Australia does best. Local guides are just that – local – and have intimate knowledge of the regions, characters and experiences on offer. Joining a tour operator gives you the insider knowledge and access that might otherwise be difficult or impossible to obtain on your own. Their licencing arrangements means they often have special access to tracts of land, and a responsibility to sustainable tourism methods. Regional specialists include Australian Coastal Safaris and Untamed Escapes on the Eyre Peninsula; Coast & Co on the Fleurieu Peninsula; Exceptional Kangaroo Island and Kangaroo Island Odysseys on Kangaroo Island; Rawnsley Park and Chinta Air in the Flinders Ranges; and Barossa Taste Sensations, Small Batch Wine Tours and A Taste of South Australia when combining wine regions.
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Sequoia, Adelaide Hills
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FINE DINING
M U LT I - D AY W A L K S
High-end culinary experiences in South Australia are exceptional, whether it comes in the form of amazing food, delicious wines, stunning views or frequently, all these things combined.
If walking is your passion, then South Australia has every kind of walk covered. From rugged outback to river systems, wild coastline and protected bushland, South Australia’s multi-day walks showcase the very best of the wild landscapes and native flora and fauna.
Top restaurants around the state include Penfolds Magill Estate Restaurant; Maxwell Wines and Star of Greece in the Fleurieu Peninsula; Line & Label on the Eyre Peninsula; closer to the city in the Adelaide Hills, you’re spoilt for choice with Hardy’s Verandah at Mount Lofty House, Pike & Joyce Wines, The Lane and Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard to name a few. In the Barossa, try Hentley Farm or Appellation at The Louise. In the south of the state, Mayura Station is a must – an unmissable tasting of mayura beef sourced from cows hand-reared onsite. As the vineyard city, our winery experiences are also luxurious. Try the Iconic Penfolds Experience which includes a private tasting of Grange on the outskirts of Adelaide; the Hill of Grace Experience at Henschke in the Barossa with exclusive access to the vineyards, and the Signature Tour at Yalumba in the Barossa, which includes a tour through the family’s private museum cellar and chef-prepared lunch. This is just a tiny snapshot of the experiences on offer, and most can be personalised to your specific taste.
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M u r ra y R i ve r Wa l k , R i ve r l a n d
Explore the rugged Southern Ocean coastline with Southern Ocean Walk, with cosy homestead accommodation and homemade meals; indulge in the vast skies of the Flinders Ranges on the Arkaba Walk, staying in luxury swags and chef-prepared meals at campsites dotted around the private property with millions of stars overhead; or choose between three different touring options along the Murray River with luxurious houseboat accommodation.
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ARTS & C U LT U R E
There’s a reason we’re known as the Festival State
Adelaide is renowned for its creative culture. From performance arts to cultural experiences, culinary pursuits and a love of sports, this city has it all. The cultural precinct of North Terrace (unsurprisingly, to the north of the city) is home to the Art Gallery of South Australia, which has one of Australia’s finest collections of Australian and international art. Next door is the South Australian Museum, custodian to the world’s largest collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material. Some 3000 artefacts are on public display (roughly a tenth of the whole collection) telling the rich history and stories of the traditional owners of the land. The Migration Museum located behind the larger museums is an in-depth look at the migration history of South Australia, and well worth a visit. Further along North Terrace is the National Wine Centre of Australia, where you can taste 120 different wines from around the country. Nestled behind the Adelaide Botanic Gardens is the Adelaide Zoo, home to the only giant pandas in Australasia. Wang Wang and Fu Ni arrived from China in 2009 as part of a conservation program to protect endangered wildlife. Across the River Torrens on the northern edge of the city is Adelaide Oval, widely renowned in cricketing circles as one of the best grounds in the world. For a more hands-on experience, visitors can do a tour of the historic grounds, or climb across the top of the roofline for a different perspective on the city.
The Adelaide Fringe Festival – the largest in the world after Edinburgh Fringe – is held concurrently with the Adelaide Festival, celebrating the full gamut of performance arts in a convivial and family-friendly environment. The city teems with small, independent art galleries, ranging from paintings to ceramics and glassworks. Every August, the South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival showcases the talents of local artists in all manner of galleries – including cafés, restaurants, bars, libraries and retail stores across the state. All through the year, Adelaide plays host to a stellar line up of theatre, music, dance, food and handicrafts. It’s a city that is rich in its storytelling and cultural impact.
MUST-DO A B O R I G I N A L C U LT U R A L E X P E R I E N C E S • Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute, Adelaide • South Australian Museum’s Aboriginal Cultures Gallery, Adelaide
• Aboriginal Art Tour with Tourabout Adelaide.
• Ngarrindjeri Kurangk Culture Experience Tour with Spirit of the Coorong, Fleurieu Peninsula. • Sacred Canyon Yura Mulka Cultural Walk at Wilpena Pound, Flinders Ranges.
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Yu r a M u l k a C u l t u r a l W a l k , W i l p e n a P o u n d R e s o r t , F l i n d e r s R a n g e s & O u t b a c k
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CONTACT US WEBSITES southaustralia.com trade.southaustralia.com
