Known for its vast array of world-class wine regions, stunning natural beauty, deliciously fresh produce and gourmet delights, some of the best beaches in Australia and cultural festivals to rival those around the country – South Australia is brimming with wonders. Embrace the best of South Australia in every season from the superb seasonal produce and pristine coastline to the ancient outback and major year round events. With a Mediterranean climate, South Australia embraces the sunny, dry summers and crisp, mild winters with every season proudly showcased from the superb seasonal produce, pristine coastline, ancient outback and major events, this state really has it all, anytime of the year.
ADELAIDE HILLS
Roughly a 30-minute drive just outside the city you can escape to the Adelaide Hills where quaint suburbs and local towns, such as picturesque Hahndorf, provide the perfect place to grab a coffee and cake, browse the different shops, plus, there’s more premium wineries throughout the hills regions than you’ll know what to do with. Choose from one of the many cosy coffee spots in Stirling and Aldgate or wander through the German town of Hahndorf and taste Bavarian style platters and beers. Enjoy a wonderland of spring or autumn colours at Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens and sample the range of world-famous products and pick fresh strawberries (Nov-Apr) at the famous Beerenberg Farm. To top it off, try an award-winning Gruner Veltliner at the Hahndorf Hills Winery.
MURRAY RIVER
Just under 2 hours from Adelaide, you’ll find yourself in South Australia’s stunning Murray and Mallee region. Experience the captivating tranquility of one of the world’s longest rivers. Golden limestone and red ochre cliff faces, sweeping turns and the sounds and sights of the vast birdlife variety nesting amongst the wetlands along the way. Step back in time and experience the old-world charm of the river aboard a historic paddle steamer. The PS Murray Princess is the largest inland paddle wheeler in the southern hemisphere and cruises the mighty Murray River between Mannum, Murray Bridge and Slater’s Station in South Australia. Offering a small ship holiday, catering for up to 120 passengers, it provides a unique cruise and touring option through this spectacular destination. Or perhaps a leisurely cruise on one of the many houseboats available to hire, from budget to luxury, and offering all the mod-cons for a memorable getaway.
BAROSSA VALLEY
No one does the Barossa quite like the Barossa. Visitors flock to the famous Barossa Valley, consistently, year after year, to experience the world-class cellar doors and increasingly incredible local produce. Not to mention the stunning landscape and fascinating history of the region. The towns of the region are in close proximity, each offering something special and unique. With over 150 cellar doors in the region, this is a personal preference depending on your taste and palate. Enjoy a multitude of world-class wineries on a day tour or stroll down the charming main street of Tanunda and discover quirky boutiques, antique stores and gourmet eateries.
KANGAROO ISLAND
An intriguing ferry ride or short flight from the South Australian mainland begins the journey to this island sanctuary with over a third of the island consisting of protected nature reserves. The remainder, a perfect blend of unspoiled coastline, gourmet local artisan produce, world class wineries, abundant roaming wildlife, spectacular raw scenery at every turn and that unmistakable country air and hospitality. Visit the renowned Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch in the Flinders Chase National Park and watch wild sea lions frolic and play at Seal Bay.
LAKE EYRE
Lake Eyre, officially known as Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre, is the largest salt lake in Australia, filling only once every eight years on average. It was formed some 200 million years ago with the seemingly endless pink salt crystals glistening under the sun captivating travellers year upon year. The best time to visit Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is between April and October as there is more likely water during the cooler months and the best way to see it? By plane of course!
FLINDERS RANGES
Experience the splendour and sheer vastness of the ancient Flinders Ranges from above on a scenic flight and get back to nature by staying in a luxury glamping Ikara safari tent. Explore the wonders of the Flinders Ranges via a multitude of 4WD tracks and walking trails and delve deeper into Indigenous culture with an experienced guide.
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COOBER PEDY
Coober Pedy is situated in the outback of South Australia, 850km north of Adelaide and 690km south of Alice Springs. The township offers all the facilities expected in a large country town, including shops and restaurants. The town is surrounded by a moon type landscape dotted with shafts and mullock heaps from mining activities, with opal workings extending for nearly 40km around the town. Kanku – Breakaways Conservation Park lies 32km north of Coober Pedy and it consists of colourful low hills which have broken away from the Stuart Range, hence their name ‘The Breakaways.
COFFIN BAY
At the southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula lies Coffin Bay, where pillowy sand dunes meet glassy waters brimming with fish and bushland teeming with wildlife. Coffin Bay is a hugely popular holiday destination, and it’s a haven for ocean-lovers. The calm, crystal clear waters of the bay are perfect for sailing, swimming, water-skiing and skin diving while the fishermen can rock, surf, jetty or boat fish. Coffin Bay oysters are produced in the remote, unspoilt & pure waters of the large Coffin Bay waterway at the entrance of the bay.
LIMESTONE COAST
Explore the ancient beauty of South Australia's only World Heritage site at Naracoorte Caves National Park or take a guided tour around the burgeoning wine region and visit popular wineries. Get a photo at tourist icon - the striped Robe Obelisk and take a drive down 17 kilometres of pure white sand on the aptly named Long Beach. In the heart of Mount Gambier discover the aptly-named Blue Lake and the underground oasis, Umpherston Sinkhole. It is also home to the stunning Coonawarra wine region with other 40 cellar doors to tour through.
Click here for our South Australian escapes. Alternatively you can contact our team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au for further information.
