8 SA weekend getaways
Looking for a short break? There’s plenty to do around South Australia, so escape to these regional destinations and enjoy all they have to offer.
1. Hahndorf – Adelaide Hills
Stroll down the iconic main street of this town rich with German heritage and check out the many shops offering local produce, traditional sweets and even cuckoo clocks. Stop at the Hahndorf Inn for a German banquet. Visit Beerenberg Farm to stock up on tasty treats or enjoy high tea in The Farm Cafe. Further afield, take a Jurlique Farm tour to see how this global leader in skincare makes its products.
2. American River – Kangaroo Island
Base yourself at American River for the weekend, and feast on KI oysters plucked from the salty sea that morning. Later, climb the 500 steps to the top of Prospect Hill for picturesque views of the island. Reward yourself with a visit to Clifford’s Honey Farm or peruse the many stalls at the Penneshaw Market.
3. Tanunda – Barossa
As the weather cools, get cosy by the fire in the Barossa. Wine and dine your way around this iconic region, tasting drops from the likes of Hentley Farm, Rockford Wines and Pindarie. With a menu designed around the seasons and inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours, Harvest Kitchen at Jacob’s Creek provides comforting winter meals. Lastly, don’t forget to stock up on choccies at the Barossa Valley Chocolate Company.
4. Port Lincoln – Eyre Peninsula
South Australia’s seafood capital lives up to its name with lobster, prawns and tuna on the menu. Savour oysters picked from nearby Coffin Bay or devour fish and chips and other seafood at the Fresh Fish Place factory outlet. Nature lovers will want to explore Lincoln National Park, featuring coastal trails and diverse wildlife. The breathtaking views provide an ideal environment for hiking, camping and photography.
5. Coonawarra – Limestone Coast
Coonawarra is known for its wine but what about walking? Take this gentle 5km walking trail through vineyards, stopping at six wineries along the way, and get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the winemaking practices in the region. Just 20 minutes from Coonawarra, you’ll find the ancient Naracoorte Caves. The site gives visitors a glimpse into the region’s past and the ancient animals that roamed the area.
6. Wallaroo – Yorke Peninsula
You may have memories of summer trips to Wallaroo, but this Yorke Peninsula destination also has plenty to offer during the cooler months. Take a 9km self-guided driving tour, stopping at the town’s historical locations including the old post office, bond store and smelter sites. Enjoy a warming meal at Bond Store Wallaroo and see the Wallaroo Silo Light Show – a nightly automated projection on the town’s grain silos.
7. Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary – Flinders Ranges
Lace up your hiking boots and go bushwalking in the northern Flinders Ranges for the long weekend. Featuring rugged mountains, unique geological rock forms, towering peaks and waterholes, Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is home to a range of bird life, reptiles and mammals. While hiking, keep an eye out for the endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby.
8. Monarto Safari Park – Murray and Mallee
Giraffes, lions, elephants – they might sound like animals you’ll see on a safari in a faraway land. But you can see all of these animals and so much more only an hour’s drive from Adelaide at Monarto Safari Park.
Come face to face with more than 50 species of native and African animals. Get up close to giraffes as they eat, watch chimps play, and see rhinos snort and stomp. Be sure to also see the four Asian elephants that call Monarto home.
Want to stay the weekend? Spend a night or two at the Monarto Safari Resort, operated by Journey Beyond, and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’re looking for something even more elevated, the Safari Lodge, offers a slice of savannah-style luxury. With 20 private luxury safari tents positioned around a central waterhole, you can watch the sunset from your balcony after a day exploring the safari park.