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.
Summer
Nothing says summer more in Australia than sunshine filled days at the beach or pool. South Australia is bursting with stunning beaches and expansive coastline, providing the ultimate summer holiday. Escape to the shady Adelaide Hills, the seafood capital of Australia - Port Lincoln, the intriguing city of Mount Gambier on the Limestone Coast or the island sanctuary of Kangaroo Island with its azure waters and white sanded bays, the perfect summer retreat is everywhere.
It’s also vintage time in the famous wine regions of the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale and the time for events, from the Tour Down Under, Adelaide Fringe, Adelaide Festival, WOMADelaide and many others making for a vibrant city atmosphere on those balmy nights. It is also the season for exploring the state’s vast array of stunning beaches from the vibrant metro beaches of Glenelg, Henley, Brighton and Semaphore to the Yorke Peninsula’s 700 kilometres of uncrowded coastline. When it comes to making the most of summer, South Australia is right up there.
Autumn
Autumn in South Australia brings with it an abundance of fascinating colour, particularly in the Adelaide Hills as shades of amber, brown, green, yellow and red fill the rolling hills, creating a breathtaking vista annually. Explore the Mount Lofty Botanical Gardens, which are absolutely spectacular this time of year, to really appreciate the scenery. Wander the picturesque hills village of Stirling and the German settled town of Hahndorf, both nestled amongst postcard perfect scenery, and wander the quaint shops plus enjoy the enticing restaurants, cafes and dessert houses. Visit world-class wineries throughout the Hills region, pick your own apples or pears straight from the tree at various fruit orchards and enjoy the myriad of seasonal activities that autumn in South Australia brings.
Over the water on Kangaroo Island, this season is favoured by many locals, thanks to the warm days and cooler nights and excellent bushwalking conditions with the wildflowers and rare birdlife in full swing.
Winter
When it comes to winter in South Australia it’s time to embrace the cold and enjoy the fresh crisp air, enjoy a red wine by a roaring cellar door fire and cosy cottages amongst nature for a warming winter getaway in South Australia. With so many world class cellar doors, a wonderful food and wine experience awaits in the renowned Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley and picturesque Adelaide Hills as a start. Curl up in front of an inviting wood fire and take advantage of the local foodie experiences often not far away.
As the temperature drops, explore the season’s adventures including looking up! The Milky Way becomes an evening spectacle from June to September as South Australia enjoys the best view as it passes overhead. Plus, the cooler months also bring some of the best whale watching opportunities as the Southern Right Whales embark on their annual migration with the Eyre Peninsula being the prime destination to spot them. The cooler months are also one of the best times to explore the Flinders Ranges with ideal walking conditions and the rains filling the waterholes bringing out the local wildlife!
Spring
From fields of gold to streets of purple, spring in South Australia is known for its jacaranda lined streets in the eastern suburbs of Adelaide, electric purple Wisteria-Arbour of the Botanic Gardens and canola filled fields as far as the eye can see in Clare Valley.
It is the time to explore the flora of the state, experience the various spring festivals or embark on a zoo trail to spot any new arrivals at the Adelaide Zoo or Monarto Safari Park. On Kangaroo Island, enjoy the burst of new colour as the native wattles and orchids are in full bloom and the wildlife re-emerging in the warmer weather. Take advantage of the warmer days to experience the state’s superb dining and bar scene as it blossoms into alfresco and enjoy the wonderful walks, National Parks and recreational activities that adorn SA.
Click here for our holidays featuring South Australia or contact the Holidays of Australia & the World team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au.
Image credit: Ben Goode, Jonty Paterson, South Australian Tourism Commission, Lachlan Swan, Iain Bond
