With Japan inundated by tourists, it’s no surprise Australian travellers are busy searching for an alternative destination that offers a similar mix of rich cultural immersion, incredible food experiences, and family-friendly travel. For many people, South Korea is that place.

South Korea is a fascinating land where ancient traditions and youthful energy coexist easily, offering a wealth of memorable experiences for the curious traveller. Just don’t wait too long to book your trip. A record 267,000 Australians visited in 2025, and that number is sure to increase this year.

New and old

Tradition and modernity collide on every corner in South Korea’s relentlessly buzzing capital. This is a city where glittering skyscrapers tower over ancient palaces, and it takes just two minutes to walk from a 1200-year-old temple to a sculpture immortalising Psy’s viral 2012 hit ‘Gangnam Style’.

Visitors can get a taste of Korea’s rich history at Gyeongbokgung (Palace of Shining Happiness), where the imposing Gwanghwamun Gate hosts a ceremonial changing of the guard. Beyond the gates lies a harmoniously designed compound where elegant pavilions gaze out over picturesque ornamental gardens and artificial lakes.

Alternatively, dive into the future in neon-lit Hongdae – a student hotspot where buskers compete with bars blasting out the latest K-pop hits, and achingly cool hipsters browse indie fashion boutiques in search of the latest trends and styles.

Wander the streets checking out the ever-changing landscape of street art, then copy the locals and sing your heart out in one of the many noraebangs (private karaoke rooms).

If you want to see an alternative vision of Korea, you can even take a day trip to the DMZ (Demilitarised Zone) that separates North and South Korea. Just 50km north of Seoul, it can only be accessed on a guided tour that includes several poignant memorials, a walk through a secret tunnel dug by North Korea, and the chance to look over the heavily fortified border.

A full table

Food in Korea is more than a means of physical sustenance; it’s a way of life that provides a sense of connection and community. Meals are best enjoyed in company, and joining a group of friends around a glowing charcoal grill covered with sizzling skewers of marinated beef and pork for a classic Korean BBQ is a highlight of any trip.

You don’t need to be a kimchi fan to fall in love with South Korea’s vibrant cuisine (though it certainly doesn’t hurt), but you can expect bold flavours in every meal. Delicacies like gimbap (rice and fillings wrapped in seaweed) and hwae (thinly sliced raw fish) resemble popular Japanese dishes, but bibimbap (a rice bowl topped with sautéed vegetables, meat and an egg) is so iconically Korean that its birthplace of Jeonju has been declared a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

And no matter whether you’re sitting down to a meal of japchae (sweet and savoury glass noodles stir-fried with vegetables and sesame oil), perfectly crispy Korean fried chicken, or tteokbokki (chewy rice cakes simmered in a spicy sauce), you can expect the table to be laden with banchan. These side dishes (banchan) are essential to any true Korean meal, and might include spicy cucumber salad, blanched greens with garlic and sesame oil, crunchy potato pancakes, fried tofu or shredded squid.

Busan bound

South Korea’s second-biggest city of Busan is a bustling port that has preserved its raffish energy even as skyscrapers have sprung up and transformed the skyline. Today it’s a place where bustling street markets and flashy seaside hotels coexist between densely forested mountain ranges and a coastline of surprisingly inviting beaches.

Start your day the same way generations of locals have in the sprawling Jagalchi Fish Market, where hundreds of stalls sell every imaginable form of seafood… and several you never knew existed. Then enjoy an overview of the cityscape from the glass-bottom Songdo Cable Car, which provides spectacular views as it floats almost 90 metres above a sparkling turquoise bay.

Busan’s coast is sprinkled with white-sand beaches and even a rare coastal temple where multi-tiered pagodas stare out over the waves. But the city’s most intriguing destination lies further up the hill. Once populated by refugees fleeing the Korean War, Gamcheon Culture Village has, in recent years, transformed into a creative hotspot. The neighbourhood’s candy-coloured houses are connected by alleyways filled with quirky cafes and strikingly contemporary street art.

Into the wild

Four out of five South Koreans are city dwellers, which leaves plenty of space for wilderness across the peninsula. The mountainous landscape is home to more than 20 national parks, and when it launches later this year, the 750km Dongseo Trail will allow hikers to walk from coast to coast.

But the country’s most beautiful landscapes lie further south, where the subtropical island of Jeju rises out of the Korea Strait in a harmonious blend of mountain, sea and forest. At the centre of the island sits an extinct volcano known as Hallasan Mountain. At 1947 metres, it’s the tallest peak in the country.

The Olle Trail network encircles the entire island and is split into 27 sections that connect a host of natural wonders, including Jeongbangpokpo – a 23-metre-high waterfall that thunders directly into the ocean.

Seongsan Ilchulbong – a symmetrical volcanic crater that makes a perfect viewpoint to watch the sun rise over the sea – and countless rock formations that shoot up dramatically from the turquoise waters offshore are also visible from the route.

Even if the weather isn’t conducive to hiking, an extensive system of lava tubes stretch for more than 7km below the surface and can be explored year-round.

A living museum

Korea’s rich cultural heritage is on full display in the city of Gyeongju. Once the capital of the Silla Kingdom – one of the three kingdoms that laid the foundations of modern Korean culture – today it’s known as ‘the museum without walls’.

Take a stroll around the city and you’ll discover serene parks filled with ancient burial mounds, eye-catching pagodas and one of the world’s oldest astronomical observatories. See the story of the Silla Kingdom unfold through displays of intricate golden jewellery and religious carvings at the Gyeongju National Museum. Marvel at the harmonious Buddhist architecture of Bulguksa temple before climbing to an eighth-century grotto where a famous granite Buddha stares out over the sea and protects the country.

Back in the city, take a trip to the Hwangnidan-gil neighbourhood where you can eat, shop and even spend the night in a traditional timber and stone hanok building with a peaceful inner courtyard. Sleep on a foldable Korean yo mattress that’s placed directly on the floor beneath the distinctive curved tiled roof. A night in a hanok makes it easy to connect to the strong sense of tradition that permeates Korean culture. But the modern world is never far away in this endlessly connected nation. When you’re ready, the KTX high-speed train will whisk you back to central Seoul in just two hours.

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Smartphones have revolutionised the way we travel, and with nine out of 10 South Australians owning one, it’s safe to say there’s a phone in pretty much every traveller’s pocket.

Gone are the days of quick calls and creatively cramming everything you need to say into 160-characters SMS. Today’s phones are tiny supercomputers, with processing power and speeds faster than many desktop computers.

But left unchecked, they can also rack up enormous bills, drain your battery and leave you unable to phone home. So how do you make sure your phone is contributing not counteracting?

Here are seven features on your phone to check before switching to airport mode and taking off.

1. Download offline maps

Downloading offline maps before you go takes the stress out of getting lost in an unfamiliar country, saves you relying on slow (or non-existent) hotel or airport Wi-Fi, or being unexpectedly charged for data. Offline maps need no extra data once downloaded, work in coverage dead zones, use far less battery and help you avoid roaming fees. Even if you’re buying a local SIM, there’s no harm in having your maps ready as a backup.

Keep in mind, offline maps won’t give you real-time traffic and is designed for driving and walking routes rather than public transport.

Google Maps and Apple Maps are the most popular for offline navigation. Tap your profile picture, select Offline maps and choose your area. The more you zoom out, the more road information will be saved Keep zooming out to save the largest area; it takes up more space on your phone but it means that there’s a greater area of road information available to you.

And if you forget to delete the map once you’re home, don’t stress because most expire on their own.

Top tip: Keep Wi-Fi toggled on even in airplane mode. It won’t connect you to the internet, but it does give your phone access to better GPS positioning.

2. Snap photos of your belongings

Describing to weary lost baggage desk staff how your black suitcase differs from all the other black suitcases isn’t a lot of fun. Showing a photo on your phone can help staff locate your bag much faster than a verbal description.

The same goes for other essentials like your wallet, camera and the details page of your passport. In the unfortunate instance you need to prove something is yours at an airport or police station, having a snap ready makes the process easier.

It’s also worth keeping digital copies of important documents stored safely as either files or photos to access quickly if you don’t have internet access, like travel insurance, car hire confirmations and accommodation bookings.

Top tip: Create a dedicated photo album or hidden album for these so you’re not scrolling through 16,981 pictures to find the one that matters.

3. Turn data roaming off

There are few reasons to leave data roaming switched on, so play it safe and toggle it ‘off’ before you fly. Data roaming lets your phone ‘borrow’ signal from a local network when your own provider has no towers nearby – there’s no Telstra in Tokyo, for instance. Email, web browsing, social media, streaming music and navigating maps (if you didn’t download them) can rack up fast.

With data roaming left on, your phone starts searching for a local signal the moment you switch off airplane mode, often auto-connecting and letting background apps sync to the cloud or download updates. This not only sends your bill skyrocketing, it can drain your battery in the process. There are two times you’d switch roaming on:

1. You’ve bought an international roaming pack or eSIM (like Airalo) for that destination.
2. It’s an emergency, you have no local SIM or roaming pack, and no Wi-Fi is available. It’s not guaranteed to work and is often slower than what you’re used to.

Top tip: Once you’ve switched roaming off, you can leave it off – even back home. In remote parts of Australia your device will simply connect to available domestic networks.

4. Check your mobile data settings

You’ve turned data roaming off, bought a 3GB data travel pack that should last the whole week and somehow, you’ve powered through all your data in the first day. How? The culprit is usually background activity, when apps quietly download updates, backup to the cloud and scan for new notifications.

Turning off mobile data entirely means your apps will only work over W-Fi, which is handy for stretching your data further but not so useful if you need something on the go. A better middle ground is to check your data usage settings and switch off background data for apps you won’t need while you’re away, then toggle them back on if you need.

Top tip: Adjust settings in apps like Instagram and YouTube to limit auto-playing in high definition, so your data can stretch further while scrolling on holiday.

5. Check if your SIM has restrictions

If your service provider’s international roaming add-ons suit your needs, you can skip this tip. However, if you’re planning to get a local SIM to make calls, receive texts and use data, then read on before holding up the queue at the airport arrivals hall SIM desk.

Some phones are ‘locked’ to a single carrier, meaning only a SIM from that provider will work. This is most common with phones bought on a bundle plan. The only fix is to contact your provider; a task much easier done at home.

To check, either try another SIM in your phone, or look in your settings for terms like ‘Service provider lock’, ‘Carrier lock status’ or ‘Mobile network state’. If it names a carrier like Telstra, Optus or Vodafone, your phone is locked and needs unlocking before you go.

Top tip: If your phone is newer, you can skip the airport SIM swap entirely by downloading a digital eSIM like Airalo before departure. Leave your physical home SIM in your phone, turn off its data roaming and your eSIM will be ready to connect the moment you land.

6. Check your emergency contacts can be reached

Don’t be faced with a ‘not delivered’ error or dialling a complete stranger when calling or texting home.

Every country has a unique code to sort and direct international phone calls. Australia’s is +61. Even a number saved in your contacts beginning with the local ‘04’ will either fail to connect or you may end up chatting to someone else entirely.

Before you go, replace the leading 0 in your important contacts with +61. It’ll make no difference when you’re at home, but it’ll make for a smoother experience in a travel emergency.

Top tip: Set up an ‘In Case of Emergency’ (ICE) contact. If something happens and your phone is locked, emergency services can reach your people without needing your passcode.

7. Set up Find My Phone

Before you go, set up Lost Mode in the Find My iPhone app or make sure Find My Device on Android is switched on. If your phone goes missing, you can use another device to track its location remotely and lock it to keep your data safe.

You can even display a custom message on the lock screen such as a friend’s phone number and a reward if returned.

Top tip: Turn on ‘offline finding’ which is available in many newer smartphones. It uses nearby strangers’ Bluetooth signals to anonymously and securely relay your phone’s location – even if it’s switched off, has a drained battery, in airplane mode or has no data.

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Bali, Fiji and the Gold Coast have long been on the must-visit list for families, but have you considered a vacation to the land of smiles?

On a recent trip to Thailand – the first with our two young daughters – we found it to be a great family destination.

Here are five reasons you should put it on your must-visit list.

1. Bustling Bangkok

When you think of family destinations, you’re probably not considering Bangkok, but it’s a great place to kick off your holiday in Thailand.

There are family attractions galore in this metropolis, from the Bangkok Children’s Discovery Museum where the littlies can try plenty of hands-on activities, to a Dream World theme park which will keep older kids entertained for hours.

It’s also a great base location for day trips to the Maeklong Railway Market, Ayutthaya’s ruins or one of the many floating markets close to Bangkok.

Known as the Venice of the east, families can enjoy a boat trip along the Chao Phraya River or Bangkok’s many khlongs (canals). It’s a trip that will give the kids great insight into how many of this city’s residents live day-to-day.

Want to escape the heat? Bangkok is full of world-class malls with plenty of entertainment that’s usually half the price that it is back home. Places like Siam Paragon have indoor theme parks, aquariums, ten-pin bowling alleys and ice rinks.

2. Tours kids and adults will both enjoy

On our trip to Phuket in the south of Thailand, we were surprised at how accommodating the tours were for families. On a kayaking tour in Phang Nga Bay we were treated to an entire day of activities, with plenty of time to rest on the boat as well.

Our guide (who did hard work kayaking for us) navigated his way through caves before coming to an opening, and as we entered a tropical lagoon surrounded by sheer cliff faces, my two children let out “ooohs” and “ahhhs” at the awe-inspiring sight before them.  A snake slithered across a branch, small fish flittered and jumped above the water before diving back underneath, and birds darted down to the surface in search of food.

As the sun set, we entered the water one last time to see one of the best bioluminescent plankton displays in Thailand. We swished the water with our hands and blue and green spark-like patterns appeared. The girls shouted with glee and their eyes widened in amazement. It was a mesmerising experience, and one that my children will remember forever.

3. Family-friendly resorts

You’ll be spoilt for choice when booking a place for the family to stay in Thailand.  There are plenty of resorts that cater to families. Giant Kids’ clubs, with supervised activities, will keep the young ones entertained for hours. Many have multiple pools, water play spaces for varying ages and even water slides and wave pools. Your kids can splash around and play while you supervise with a cool drink in hand.

Many family-friendly resorts also provide in-room or connecting family suites, or even villas with a private plunge pool. Some are even themed for kids. The hotel room during our most recent visit to Thailand had an underwater theme. Coral, fish, dolphin and jellyfish murals were painted across the walls, and the lighting gave it a playful, aquarium-like glow. When we arrived, the girls were so excited they spent 20 minutes exploring every nook of the room.

4. Kid-friendly food

Spicy cuisine is the first thought most people have when Thai food is mentioned. While some food will make you rush to a 7-Eleven for some milk to cool your mouth, there are plenty of tasty options for the littlies.

Phuket’s Old Town is a cornucopia of delicious cuisine, particularly each Sunday when dozens of market stalls line the roads. Kids and adults alike will love slurping on freshly made mango smoothies as they wander the markets looking for the next delicious snack. Vendors fry up small batches of the popular pad Thai in multiple woks, offering different spice levels depending on your tolerance.

Kids will demolish aromatic pork and chicken satays served with sticky rice, and there are a range of stalls selling Thai desserts the whole family will devour. Khanom bueang – crispy Thai crepes folded over sweet coconut and meringue filling – are a fan favourite you’ll easily find being made by many traders.

There are thousands of these markets across Thailand, and in many cities and towns you’ll find stalls lining the streets selling all sorts of fare the whole family will enjoy.

5. Cultural activities for curious kids

There are plenty of opportunities to experience Thailand’s culture, from the thousands of ornate temples to fruit carving or Muay Thai. You’ll even find cooking classes that cater to families.

On our kayaking tour in Phang Nga Bay, the guide spent an hour with our two children creating Thai Krathong offerings – a handmade raft made from a banana leaf trunk and decorated with leaves, yellow marigolds, purple orchids and white plumeria flowers. The craft session wasn’t just fun for the littlies; it also gave them a chance to learn more about the Thai people’s beliefs.

The post 5 reasons families should visit Thailand appeared first on samove.com.au.

With steam rising from hearty lunches, unhurried conversations by cosy fireplaces, and pauses within sheltered remains of a time long past, the Clare Valley’s winter glow is why off-season travel is where the real magic happens.

Chionophile (that’s a lover of winter) or not, a cosy escape to the historic and picturesque Clare Valley is hard to resist. With beanie, scarf and jacket at the ready, take a leisurely drive about 100km north of Adelaide. Just beyond the Barossa, you’ll find yourself among the patchwork of heritage towns and rolling green hills that’ll draw you back time and time again.

Cosy

Hygge – the Danish word for simple, delightful cosiness – is in abundance in the Clare Valley. Nowhere is it more embodied than at Paulett Wines in the township of Polish Hill River. Settle beside the open fire and watch fog spill softly across the valley as you sample plate after plate of comforting dishes, paired with rich, oaky Cabernet Sauvignon and plummy Shiraz – a treat for the senses.

A dreamy afternoon for chocoholics awaits at nearby Taylors Wines in Auburn. Visitors can warm themselves inside and out indulging in the dark and decadent chocolate and wine pairing while relaxing next to one of the venue’s many fireplaces.

For another cosy stop, head just down the road to Pikes. Taste their renowned Rieslings and reds at the cellar door or try small-batch brews at Pikes Beer Co, before losing track of time over a long lunch made with seasonal local produce.

Nostalgic

The Clare Valley’s historic towns offer countless reminders of the past. In Burra, the Heritage Passport experience turns the town into a treasure hunt that takes you back in time. A key unlocks the doors and gates to 11 National Heritage-listed sites, revealing the region’s bustling mining history. Explore the Monster Mine, once Australia’s largest copper mine, step inside (and out again) of Redruth Prison, and visit the cave-like dwellings dug by miners seeking to live rent-free.

Just north of Burra, along the Barrier Highway, a lonely red brick farmhouse may tug at your memory. This is the Burra Homestead, better known as the iconic “Midnight Oil House” that appeared on the cover of the band’s 1987 album Diesel and Dust. Crumbling but still standing, the abandoned building sits on private land but can be seen from the road. Be safe if you pull off the highway to stop for a photo, and admire the iconic view from behind the fence.

Film lovers may also recognise the heritage-listed Martindale Hall, nestled among the misty vineyards and paddocks near Mintaro. The grand mansion famously appeared as Appleyard College in the film Picnic at Hanging Rock. In reality, the beautifully preserved rooms, intricate craftsmanship and peaceful grounds feel worlds away from the haunting atmosphere of the film, and offer an enchanting escape from the winter chill.

Snug as a bug

Discover a slice of luxury with complimentary wine, private balconies and open living at Neagles Retreat Villas.

B&B on the Riesling Trail? Enjoy wood fires, spas and scented rose garden at the Brice Hill Country Lodge.

Offering a pet and family-friendly stay, the Clare Country Club also features a golf course, buffet breakfast, and spa and sauna.

Discover more cosy stays

Fresh

What better place than the Clare Valley to practise uitwaaien – the Dutch tradition of clearing the mind by spending time in wild, windy weather on a brisk walk or bike ride. The 35km Riesling Trail is the region’s best-known track, and a little winter air only adds to the experience. Hire a bike or plot a walking route, warming up between sections with stops at favourite cafés, historic sites and cellar doors.

Fresh air, fresh produce and fresh finds are never far away either. With a market held somewhere in the Clare region most weekends, slipping on your winter coat and browsing the stalls is a must.

Regular favourites include the Clare Show Markets and Saddleworth Country Markets, held on the second Saturday and first Sunday of each month respectively. Stallholders sell everything from antiques and collectables to handmade arts, crafts, homewares and fresh fruit and vegetables. Additional markets pop up throughout the year in Auburn, Riverton, Burra, Mandoora and beyond.

If the Riesling Trail feels a little ambitious, let the brisk air bring a rosy flush to your cheeks on one of the region’s many shorter walks. The Cascades Walk, a 1.4km circuit in Spring Gully Conservation Park, is an easy but gently undulating track. It winds past the only stand of red stringybark trees in South Australia before reaching the waterfall, which is likely to be flowing during the cooler months. It’s one of six short walks in the Clare Valley, perfect for active travellers and families alike.

Little discoveries

Travelling with a budding archaeologist? There’s no need to brave the elements to search for fossils – simply head to the restored Burra Railway Station. Here, visitors can learn about the extinct megafauna that roamed the region tens of thousands of years ago, including the enormous wombat-like Diprotodon optatum and the giant flightless bird Genyornis, which resembles an emu.

All aboard! At Clare Valley Model Engineers, visitors can ride miniature steam and diesel trains along more than a kilometre of track through Melrose Park, travelling over bridges and through tunnels. Check online before visiting, as operating days vary.

For a cosy escape from the winter chill, swap the small screens for the big one at the charming Blyth Cinema. Groups of 10 or more can book a private screening and choose the film themselves. Another showing of Frozen, perhaps?

Unhurried

Apricity, the welcome warmth of the winter sun, can be felt in the generous hospitality of hosts, with guests having time to linger a little longer thanks to fewer visitors during the cooler months. Perhaps it means an intimate wine tasting, or maybe you’re looking for something more adventurous. Keep your feet dry and let Clare Valley Wine Tour’s four-wheel-drive take on the rainy vineyards and paddocks. Your local guide will help you discover the region’s hidden gems, and you might even meet a winemaker or end the day around a toasty campfire.

The region has an abundant arts scene, which is ideal for escaping the cold. Take your time at the Burra Regional Art Gallery, housed in the beautifully restored 1860 Post and Telegraph Office. The gallery has a rotating program of exhibitions alongside permanent collections and events. Visit the historic 1913 courthouse in Balaklava, now home to a gallery and gift shop. Many cellar doors double as gallery spaces too, like Pikes, which features dedicated exhibition walls.

You can even let your own creativity shine when the sun isn’t. Local studios offer hands-on workshops, including painting sessions at The Journey Studio where you can create and take home your own acrylic artwork. The region is also home to three towering murals on the Australian Silo Art Trail, which you can view up close or from the warmth of the car: the Storytime Silos of Eudunda, the railway-themed mural in Farrell Flat, and Wheat Bags to Sandbags painted across the Owen silos.

Winter may be the shoulder season, but by following the scent of wood smoke, exploring cosy cellar doors, hidden galleries and historic streets, you’ll unlock the best-kept secrets of the Clare Valley.

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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.

The post 8 SA weekend getaways appeared first on samove.com.au.

If you’re looking for a holiday that brings together the best of nature, sophisticated food, wine, and accommodation experiences, Noosa can’t be faulted.

Recently named one of the most welcoming towns on the planet, Noosa Heads was the only Australian town to make the top 10. It’s a testament to Noosa’s holiday vibe – a place where schedules are built around the surf and sun, and locals want visitors to love their home as much as they do.

Water everywhere you turn

Stay in Noosa Heads and one of Australia’s best beaches will be only footsteps away. Not only is the water at Laguna Bay calm and inviting, but the broad, sweeping white sand is framed by the dramatic backdrop of the hinterland and Noosa National Park.

Start the day with beach yoga, cool off with a swim, then walk the headland trail, looking out for koalas along the way, to enjoy spectacular views across the bay. The two-and-a-half-hour walk along the trail will take you to Sunshine Beach, where you can swim in the surf or have lunch in the laid-back Sunshine Beach village. Further south, Peregian Beach offers more spectacular white sand and surf breaks.

Noosa’s combination of beaches, freshwater rivers and creeks offers double the opportunity to get out on the water. The Noosa River has safe swimming spots and a variety of water activities, from fishing and kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding and river cruises.

Explore the river’s quiet tributaries and wetlands for a tranquil nature experience on the water. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, especially in spring and summer when migratory shorebirds arrive from the Northern Hemisphere and gather around the river mouth to feed and rest.

Wining and dining

Noosa’s long-running food and wine festival is a testament to the region’s commitment to local produce and excellent dining, with local chefs taking a starring role.

Don’t worry if your holiday plans don’t coincide with the festival – there are excellent dining options in Noosa year-round.

You’ll never run out of options, whether it’s a post-swim burger at Betty’s or a long lunch right by the beach at Season Noosa, where the spanner crab pasta has legendary status.

When the sun goes down, there’s nowhere more appealing than Italian restaurant Locale. Surrounded by subtly backlit lush sub-tropical plants, the moody interior is the perfect setting for classic Italian fare, including handmade pasta, local seafood and Queensland-made burrata.

If it’s seafood with a contemporary flavour you’re after, head to Lanai in Noosaville and make the most of its open-air dining room with views of the river.

Alternatively, go back to basics with one of Noosa’s best fish and chips at the Sunshine Beach Surf Club.

If you’re dining in, time your visit to coincide with the weekly farmers’ market or drop into Belmondo’s Organic Market in Noosaville for supplies.

From Eumundi meats to fresh produce, wholefoods and a bakery, be sure to arrive hungry so you can squeeze in a Clandestino coffee and a Danish from Tanglewood’s.

Not far from Belmondo’s is the elegant Seabourne Distillery. Take a tour or drop in for a gin cocktail at the spectacular long bar.

Adventure abounds

Noosa is the traditional home of the Kabi Kabi (also Gubbi Gubbi) people. Each night at 7pm, traditional custodians Lyndon Davis, Jacquie Sandy, Jaiva Davis and Yeelara Chilly from Gubbi Gubbi Dance share local knowledge and stories at the Hastings Street Information Centre via a virtual audio-visual experience. It’s a must-see introduction to the region’s Indigenous history.

For more Indigenous experiences, Saltwater Tours, based 40 minutes’ drive south of Noosa Heads, offers bushtucker cruises, accessible canoe tours and more.

For immersion in Kabi Kabi country, the Noosa Trail Network offers everything from one to two-hour walks to multi-day treks across the Noosa hinterland.

If you want to do more than just swim in the ocean, Noosa Ocean Adventures offers nature-focused marine experiences along the coastline. Spot dolphins, turtles, rays, and whales from June to November.

There are many do-it-yourself exploration options along the river. Drop into a local hire company and set out on a boat, paddleboard or canoe for the ultimate see-what-happens adventure. If you prefer to try before you buy, a trip on the Noosa ferry offers an ideal introduction to the water.

Further afield

Head to the tiny village of Kin Kin. Less than an hour’s drive from Noosa, through scenic winding hinterland roads, this small town has plenty to see and do. For a long lunch, visit the heritage Kin Kin Hotel, with the menu featuring ingredients from the eatery’s market garden. Head chef Oscar Holgado is passionate about paddock-to-plate dining and has been named by Broadsheet as a chef to watch.

After lunch, drop into Kin Kin depot to browse through jewellery, country-style retro homewares or locally made candles. Book into the newly opened Kin Kin bathhouses for a relaxing soak overlooking rolling hills and farmland.

On your way home, stop in Eumundi to browse the famous Berkelouw Books and enjoy a coffee at Eumundi Coffee Roasters. If it’s market day, flip your road-trip script and spend a few hours browsing the stalls before heading to Kin Kin for lunch.

With sun-drenched beaches, extraordinary dining, rich Indigenous culture, and a laid-back soul that wraps around every visitor, Noosa is simply impossible not to love.

Sleep to the sounds of surf

Stay in Noosa Heads or Sunshine Beach and you’ll fall asleep to the soothing sound of the surf every night. There’s accommodation to suit all budgets, from hostels and apartments through to five-star hotels. For a truly indulgent break, book into the recently opened five-star Elysium Noosa Resort on Hastings Street (the former Sofitel Noosa) for ocean and river views, a spectacular pool and top-notch dining and spa experiences.

If you love classic Queenslander style, the newly restored heritage-listed Halse Lodge Noosa Heads offers everything from dorm rooms to luxurious private suites, plus excellent dining courtesy of acclaimed local chef Ryan Fitzpatrick.

For a complete immersion in nature, take the car ferry from Tewantin to Senses Noosa North Shore. Located within 16 hectares of native bushland, with an almost deserted beach on its doorstep, this private retreat for families and groups offers two, three or four-bedroom architecturally designed homes.

The post Noosa’s warm embrace appeared first on samove.com.au.

At the heart of the Flinders Ranges, old-world streetscapes are set against the distinctive Australian outback in the historic railway town of Quorn.

Nearly four hours’ drive from Adelaide, just north of Port Augusta, Quorn was once a vital and bustling crossroad for trans- Australian travel. Today, its old-world charm sits alongside a new generation of artisan makers.

See

Step back in time aboard the restored steam and diesel trains of the Pichi Richi Railway. Half and full-day excursions follow sections of the original Ghan route between Port Augusta, Quorn and Woodlshed Flat, chuffing past kangaroos, rocky red outcrops and bluebush plains. Afterwards, go behind the scenes in the volunteer-run workshop to learn how the historic locomotives and carriages are maintained.

To get your bearings, pick up a map from the visitor centre and follow the self-guided heritage walk through town. Grand stone hotels, railway buildings and civic halls hint at Quorn’s prosperous past. On the last Sunday of each month, the Quorn Markets take over the town hall and surrounding square with local produce and handmade goods.

In the evening, settle in for the free Quorn Silo Light Show, projected nightly from sunset. Pack a picnic or get takeaway from a nearby pub, and enjoy the audiovisual celebration of the region.

Eat and drink

Quandongs, the tart-yet-sweet native fruit are so beloved that the town holds an annual festival dedicated to them. If you can’t make it for the festival, taste the fruit throughout the year at The Quandong Café. This restaurant uses the fruit in homemade cakes, scones and jam, and also in savoury dishes.

If you’d rather drink the native fruit, Flinders Gin offer a tasting flight inspired by the landscape. Flavours of quandong, native lemongrass, butterfly pea flower and more are infused in spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic thirst-quenchers.

Visit Scruffy Fella to start your day with a barista-made coffee and a monster cookie. Return later for a local craft beer or wine and browse handmade products including speciality beard care and candles, in the company of the shop’s resident pooches, Harry and Willie.

Shop

Spirit of the Flinders is far more than a traditional newsagency. Alongside newsagency essentials, you’ll find curated gifts and locally made pantry goods. You can even unlock your creativity at a Studio Saturday workshop.

Take home quality treats from the charming family-run shop, A Dash of Oak. The store has everything from books and jewellery to games for kids lining the beautiful stone walls.

Bargain hunters and sustainability enthusiasts should visit the Quorn Pre-Loved Community Boutique. You’ll find a treasure trove of second-hand clothing, books, manchester and homewares near the silo.

Stay

With cabins and camping to suit a range of budgets and group sizes, Quorn Caravan Park is conveniently within walking distance of the silo, railway station and main street.

Great Northern Lodge, with its bright lofts and apartments, offers modern lodgings for the whole family.

Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at Pichi Richi Park. Choose from self-contained private cabins, large group quarters and campsites, all nestled among the rugged bushland.

The post A day in Quorn appeared first on samove.com.au.

Looking to take a break but don’t want to go interstate or overseas?

Spend your next holiday at one of these South Australian holiday parks.

1. Echo Holiday parks Normanville, Fleurieu Peninsula

With one of the biggest water parks in the state, this holiday spot is a must visit for families. Tucked behind the dunes on the Fleurieu Peninsula coast, travellers can unwind or take a stroll along a remote part of Normanville Beach.

The park is within easy reach of attractions like Ingalalla Falls and the popular seaside town of Victor Harbor.

2. Big4 Blue Lake Holiday Park, Limestone Coast

Discover the beauty of the Limestone Coast while based at this holiday park, nestled within the volcanic landscape between the mighty Blue Lake and smaller Valley Lake.

Explore the region’s walking trails, caves and world-class wineries. Kids will be entertained at the park, which has an indoor heated swimming pool and water slides.

3. Discovery parks – West Beach Parks, Adelaide and surrounds

Located along the stunning metro coastline, the West Beach holiday park has several types of accommodation, from self-contained beach houses and cosy cabins to powered sites for caravans.

A massive playground, giant jumping pillow, games room, pool and water-play area will keep the littlies busy.

Nearby, you’ll find West Beach Adventure outdoor activity park, the Pat GC golf course and the Harbour Town shopping precinct.

4. Rawnsley Park Station, Flinders Ranges

Open your tent to spectacular views of the southern side of Wilpena Pound. While not your traditional holiday park, Rawnsley Park Station offers cabins, villas, camping areas, and powered and unpowered caravan sites. The station is the perfect base for visitors looking to explore the majestic Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park.

5. Port Broughton Tourist Park, Yorke Peninsula

Mini golf anyone, or maybe a ninja playground? Port Broughton Tourist Park on the Yorke Peninsula provides a unique coastal experience.

Offering bay views, accommodation options include cabins and powered sites for caravans, RVs and tents. Don’t forget the kids’ bikes and scooters so they can rip it up on the park’s very own pump track.

6. Tumby Bay Caravan Park, Eyre Peninsula

A favourite among recreational fishers and families, visitors can enjoy crystal-clear blue waters and Tumby Bay’s idyllic atmosphere.

Stroll along the white sand, try stand-up paddle boarding or just unwind as the waves gently crash on the shore. From powered sites to three-bedroom cabins, the park offers several accommodation types.

7. Discovery Parks – Renmark riverfront, Riverland

Watch the mighty Murray River pass you by while relaxing on the deck of your modern cabin. Chuck out a fishing line and attempt to reel in a feed or try your hand at yabbying.

The Renmark riverfront park has plenty to offer, including a pool, water and splash park, and giant jumping pillow. Cross Paringa Bridge and head out to the Woolshed Brewery for the afternoon or visit Twenty Third Street Distillery in Renmark.

The post 7 best SA holiday parks appeared first on samove.com.au.