In the South
Adelaide/Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Fleurieu Peninsula, Kangaroo Island & Limestone Coast
Adelaide, the vibrant capital of South Australia, is a city that beautifully blends culture, nature, and adventure. Known for its festivals, fine wine, and rich heritage, Adelaide offers something for every type of traveller. Adelaide is famously home to world-class festivals, including the Adelaide Fringe, and the Adelaide Festival of Arts. Whether you're into theatre, music, dance, or food, there's always something happening throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an artsy, lively atmosphere. Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Peninsula are just a short drive away, making Adelaide the gateway to some of Australia's finest wine regions. Visit the National Wine Centre of Australia, indulge in a tasting, or try one of the city’s many restaurants offering gourmet dishes made from fresh local produce. The Adelaide Central Market is a must-see for food lovers, featuring diverse stalls and specialty products. Take a tram to Glenelg for its buzzing beachside vibe or visit Port Adelaide, famous for its maritime history, markets, and Port River Dolphins.
The Adelaide Hills, offer a captivating escape into lush landscapes, charming towns, and a world of gourmet delights. Nestled in the picturesque Mount Lofty Ranges, the region is renowned for its rolling vineyards, cool-climate wines, and panoramic views. You can explore the vibrant town of Hahndorf, Australia's oldest German settlement, where you’ll wander through cobbled streets, indulge in local delicacies, and shop for handcrafted wares. For a slice of nature, hike up to the iconic Mount Lofty Summit for breathtaking views of the city and coastline. The Hills make a perfect peaceful base centrally located to stay and explore Adelaide CBD and surrounding regions. There are many fantastic accommodation options available.
The Murraylands in South Australia is an exciting and diverse region located along the mighty Murray River, the area is rich in natural beauty, wildlife, and has a fascinating history. It is an outdoor paradise, offering a plethora of activities. The river itself is perfect for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those who love a more active adventure, cycling along the riverbanks or taking a scenic hike through the lush landscapes will bring you closer to nature. You can even spot unique wildlife like kangaroos, koalas, and an array of birdlife, including the rare white-bellied sea eagle. Explore historic towns like Murray Bridge, Mannum and Waikerie, hop aboard a paddle steamer or hire a houseboat and explore at your leisure. There is an abundance of local produce and wineries to enjoy. Monarto Safari Park, formerly known as Monarto Zoo, is located near Murray Bridge and is a major attraction as it is the largest safari experience to exist outside of Africa.
The Fleurieu Peninsula is a stunning coastal paradise offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Located just a short drive from Adelaide, this scenic region is famous for its breathtaking beaches, charming villages, and lush landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or an adrenaline seeker you will find it all here. The Heysen Trail offers 1,200 kilometres of walking paths through diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to coastal cliffs. For thrill-seekers, there’s kayaking, mountain biking, and even skydiving over spectacular views. Head to the McLaren Vale Wine Region to sample world-class wines paired with delicious local produce. The vibrant farmers' markets and charming cafes in towns like Victor Harbor, Port Elliot, Willunga, Normanville, Goolwa, Yankalilla and Rapid Bay make it easy to indulge in fresh, regional flavours. Cape Jervis is the gateway to famous Kangaroo Island, just a short ferry ride away and home to unique wildlife and spectacular views.
Kangaroo Island (or ‘KI’ as the locals call it) is a pristine wilderness and home to large populations of native Australian animals. Approximately 155km in length you will find soaring cliffs, extraordinary rock formations, towering sand dunes, forest, wetlands and massive stretches of pure white beaches. Expect to see paddling penguins, koalas dozing in eucalyptus trees, sea-lions lazing on the beach, kangaroos crossing the roads and a huge assortment of birdlife from parrots to pelicans. Kangaroo Island also produces some of Australia’s finest gourmet foods so prepare to indulge yourself by trying freshly caught King George Whiting, sheep’s cheese, marron, an exciting range of wines and the famous Ligurian honey. Some 4,400 folk live on KI and many of them are primary producers. No visit to KI is complete without experiencing Raptor Domain Birds of Prey and Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park. Getting to KI is easy, there are daily flights from Adelaide Airport or take your car on the ferry that departs from Cape Jervis (only 2 hours’ drive south of Adelaide).
The Limestone Coast in the south east is a rich agricultural area and is wetter and cooler than Adelaide. Historic fishing villages and stunning beaches flow along the coastline and on into Victoria. Natural attractions like the World Heritage listed Naracoorte Caves and the Blue Lake at Mount Gambier (440km south east of Adelaide) are unique attractions. Try a crayfish at Kingston, admire the stone cottages in Robe (one of the state’s oldest and best-preserved towns), or fish off the long jetty at Beachport. The Coonawarra is a noted wine growing area covering a strip some 16km long and 2km wide. There are approximately 18 wineries most offering cellar door sales. The ‘Terra Rossa’ soil of the Coonawarra consistently produces wine of the highest quality. The region’s cabernet sauvignon is some of the best in the world, making The Coonawarra known as Australia’s other ‘Red Centre’. Port MacDonnell is the is the southernmost town in South Australia and close to the famous Ewens Ponds – a series of three water-filled limestone sinkholes that bring people from around the globe to dive the crystal-clear waters and caves.
Start planning your ‘Down South’ adventure today!
Heading North
Barossa & Clare Valley, Riverland, Mid North & Southern Flinders, Finders Ranges, Outback & Corner Country
The Barossa Valley is a breathtaking blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and world-renowned wine culture. Located just an hour’s drive north-east of Adelaide, this iconic wine region is home to some of the best wineries in the world, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of fine wine, gourmet food, and stunning landscapes. Known for its rich, full-bodied Shiraz and long winemaking heritage dating back to the early 1800s, visitors can tour vineyards and cellars, sample award-winning wines, and even chat with the winemakers. Beyond the wine, the region boasts picturesque rolling hills, charming country villages like Tanunda and Angaston, and rich Germanic influences, particularly in the architecture and local festivals. For food lovers, savour artisan products like cheese, gourmet chocolates, and fresh produce. The region also features exceptional dining experiences, from casual cafes to Michelin-star-worthy restaurants that perfectly complement the local wines. Whether you're enjoying the vineyards, local arts and crafts, or the vibrant markets, the Barossa Valley delivers a perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and indulgence for all travellers.
The Riverland region is a vibrant, sun-drenched paradise where nature, adventure, and local culture come together along the majestic Murray River. Known for its lush vineyards, towering red gums, and picturesque riverbanks, this scenic area offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Perfect for cruising, waterskiing, kayaking, or fishing. Relax on a houseboat, explore hidden inlets, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere from one of the many riverside campgrounds. Discover charming towns like Renmark, Berri and Loxton, sample some of the delicious local wines and produce. Whether you're hiking through the vast national parks like the Murray River National Park or birdwatching in the wetlands, the Riverland is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus, and a wide variety of native birds. Stay and unwind by the river, indulge in wine tasting, or explore the region’s natural beauty, the Riverland is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway with a touch of adventure and rich local flavour.
The Clare Valley in the Mid North is located just two hours north of Adelaide and is one of Australia’s oldest and most celebrated wine regions. Known for its cool climate, it produces world-class Riesling and other exceptional varieties. Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours, tastings, and indulge in local gourmet experiences at cellar doors surrounded by scenic rolling hills. For those who enjoy a more active experience, the Riesling Trail offers a picturesque cycling path that winds its way through the valley’s vineyards, making for a perfect day out. The Mid North is dotted with charming towns, each with its own unique character. Clare is the region's heart, offering vibrant markets, local shops, and great cafés. Just a short drive away, Burra is a historic mining town filled with heritage-listed buildings and fascinating museums. The Burra Heritage Passport will guide you through the town’s 19th-century mining past. Explore the agricultural heartland of Crystal Brook and Peterborough. Walk the Pekina Creek Trail at Orroroo, visit the Giant Gum Tree and Early Settlers Cottage. The Mid North is also known as the gateway to the Flinders Ranges. Melrose, nestled next to Mt Remarkable National Park is a perfect base for hiking, wildlife spotting and enjoying panoramic views.
The Southern Flinders and Flinders Ranges are a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Picture yourself surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges, ancient landscapes, and abundant wildlife. The perfect escape for anyone seeking an awe-inspiring experience and a chance to connect with the soul of the Australian landscape. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for tranquillity, this region is a must-visit for adventurous travellers. Melrose, the oldest town in the Flinders Ranges, has historic buildings and landmarks like the Goyder's Line Marker, Courthouse Heritage Museum, and Cathedral Rock. Located between Melrose and Wilmington is spectacular Alligator Gorge, accessed by a scenic drive it features a unique landscape and walking trails. Quorn, known as the "gateway to the Flinders Ranges," is rich in heritage, with its historic railway station and beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. The Flinders Gin Distillery is a popular stop but, the ‘Award Winning’ Pichi Richi Railway (a heritage steam railway based at Quorn) is definitely the main attraction. Take a trip back in time viewing stunning scenery on a full-day or half-day trip from Quorn to Port Augusta. Scenery features deep rock cuttings, superb dry-stone wall embankments and spectacular SA Heritage Registered bridges. Hawker, once a thriving railway town still retains much of its 1880’s charm. Follow the Town Heritage Walk, taking in the Hawker Hotel, railway station and stone goods shed. Hawker is also a great base to explore the area having close proximity to Wilpena Pound, an enormous natural amphitheatre surrounded by towering peaks. It is known as one of this region's most famous attractions, you can take in the stunning views from a scenic flight (Wrightsair), hike one of the many trails, or go on a guided 4WD tour. The Flinders Ranges are home to some of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, formed over 600 million years ago. It’s time to see them for yourself!
The Outback - The South Australian Outback covers the entire north of the state, that's why it is also referred to as the Far North. If you are heading north from Hawker, you can visit Brachina Gorge, take the self-guided trail as it passes through 130 million years of earth history. The historic town of Blinman has a fascinating mine tour then take in the sights of Parachilna Gorge as you head to the famous Prairie Hotel. The Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is a sprawling property made up of towering red mountains, creeks and gorges. It is a remote hideaway for nature lovers and stargazers it offers a wide range of accommodation options. Call into Leigh Creek and Copley as you head north to Lyndhurst. This is where the bitumen ends and you really hit the Outback dust! Marree is famous for its role in early Australian exploration, particularly as a key point for the iconic Afghan camel caravans. Its proximity is close to the awe-inspiring Lake Eyre, Australia's largest saltwater lake and The Marree Man, a colossal geoglyph etched into the earth. From Marree you have the choice to travel along two famous tracks. The Oodnadatta Track to Marla via William Creek or The Birdsville Track heading into the far south west of Outback Queensland, and its stunning Channel Country. Coober Pedy known as the "Opal Capital of the World", offers a surreal experience with its underground homes, where residents escape the scorching desert heat. Visitors can explore underground churches, hotels, and even opal mines, all while learning about the town's rich mining history. Don't miss the stunning landscapes of the Breakaways, where dramatic, colourful hills meet wide open spaces—a perfect spot for photography and stargazing. Wrightair offers scenic flights for Outback regions departing from William Creek and Coober Pedy.
Heading West
Yorke Peninsula, Gateway to the Outback, Eyre Peninsula, Far West & Nullarbor
Just over a one hour drive northwest of Adelaide, you will discover the spectacular Yorke Peninsula. Explore over 700 kilometres of pristine coastline, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear water. A true fisherman’s paradise with many boat ramps, long jetties, and an ocean teeming with whiting, garfish, snapper, squid, and many other varieties of marine life. The peaceful resort towns of Port Broughton, Stansbury, Port Vincent, and Port Hughes are ideal for that relaxing getaway. Moonta was the site of the richest copper mine in Australia and was once the second-largest town in South Australia. Innes National Park, located at the southern tip of the Peninsula, is one of the most spectacular coastal national parks in South Australia. Emus, wildflowers, dolphins, and shipwrecks can all be seen here. It is easy to see why SA’s Yorke Peninsula is ‘top of the list’ of must-see holiday destinations.
Located at the top of Spencer Gulf, Port Augusta has long been known as the "Crossroads of Australia" and the "Gateway to the Outback" where the desert meets the sea. Before you head up towards the Flinders and Outback, or continue west to the Eyre Peninsula, we recommend you spend several days exploring around the town. Be sure to check the road conditions (for more information on Flinders and Outback, go to ‘Heading North’ on our website).
The Eyre Peninsula offers coastal and Outback adventure that stretches right through to the Western Australian border.
Explore its incredible diversity, remote beaches, rugged rock formations, limestone caves, and sandy deserts. Whyalla, on the east coast of the Peninsula, enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine per year and is famous for its visiting giant cuttlefish and fishing tournaments. Towns like Cowell (famous for its Jade), Port Neill, and Tumby Bay have excellent facilities for visitors as well as lovely beaches, picnic spots, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Port Lincoln is situated on one of the world’s largest protected harbours at Boston Bay. Try famous Coffin Bay oysters, surf, fish, swim, or book an aqua farm adventure. Elliston, on the shores of Waterloo Bay, is fantastic for spotting migrating whales, sea lions, and dolphins.
Inland are the interesting townships of Wudinna, Minnipa, and Kimba (situated halfway across Australia) and the spectacular Gawler Ranges, one of South Australia’s natural wonders because of its many rare species of bird and animal life. Ceduna, 780km west of Adelaide on Eyre Highway A1 (and 480km east of the Western Australian/South Australian border), has the title of ‘Oyster Capital of Australia’! You will find a full range of shopping, banking, and business services available. From Ceduna, you enter the Far West and the official start of the Nullarbor.
The Nullarbor Plain is one of the world’s greatest driving adventures. It is a flat, limestone bedrock that stretches from Ceduna, South Australia, to Norseman, Western Australia (a 1,200km distance). Be careful driving at dusk/night as there are many kangaroos, emus, and even camels on that stretch. Your stop-offs for fuel and food are limited, so do your research before you head off. We suggest you check out this link: https://nullarbormap.com.au/
South Australia’s west is a coastal and Outback adventure!
