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.

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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.

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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.

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Only 30km from Adelaide, the leafy Hills town of Balhannah is home to vineyards, bakeries and stylish shops. It’s perfect for a day trip.

Established in 1839 by publican James Turnbull Thomson, Balhannah served as a junction station for the Mount Pleasant railway line between 1918 and 1964. The town is still on the main line for The Overland train, which travels between Adelaide and Melbourne.

See

With world-class wineries on Balhannah’s doorstep, why not take advantage? Book a guided tasting at Nepenthe and sip some finely crafted red or white wines while learning about the winery’s sustainability practices.

At Shaw + Smith, indulge in a glass of its famous sauvignon blanc – bottled on site and perfectly suited to the cooler Adelaide Hills climate.

If art’s your thing, look for Silvio Apponyi’s black granite Le Peloton sculpture – part of the Adelaide Hills Sculpture Trail – and the Balhannah Overpass Kaurna mural.

Shop

For a unique gift, visit Field Trip Balhannah and browse its ethically made products, including jewellery, clothing, handmade ceramics and toasty Japanese knitwear.

At Living by Design, you’ll find furniture, kitchenware, comfy cushions, scented candles, art and much more, all guaranteed to turn your head.

Visit the Kidman Flower Co farm gate to buy a fresh bunch of flowers, with more than 60 seasonal Australian and South African varieties to choose from. It’s open from April to November.

Eat and drink

Love bakeries? You’re near one of SA’s best, so pop into the Balhannah Bakery and treat yourself to a chunky steak pie or vegetarian pasty. Don’t forget to get yourself something sweet for dessert.

With its renovated outdoor space, the Balhannah Hotel is ideal for a pub lunch or dinner. If it’s chilly, sit by one of three fires and warm up with a spicy pepperoni pizza or a pulled brisket burger.

At the Olive Branch Café, enjoy a caffeine pick-me-up and a tasty snack while you view some original artworks. Two Sundays a month, tap your feet to local musicians belting out a few tunes at one of the café’s ‘club acoustica’ sessions.

Stay

Modern luxury meets old-world charm at The Old Schoolhouse. This fully restored 1858 schoolhouse features church-like architecture, Gothic windows and a statement staircase.

The Winemaker’s Hut offers an idyllic break from city life, with mod cons and continental breakfast included. You may even share it with some friendly neighbourhood kangaroos.

At the aptly named Farm Stay Picturesque views accommodation, enjoy hills scenery, free Wi-Fi and pure relaxation. Pull up a seat, watch the sunset and enjoy life’s pleasures.

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Autumn is the perfect time for a getaway in South Australia. The sun’s still providing warming rays and biting southerlies are yet to chill our bones.

Spend a long weekend in one of these top-notch regions and get your fill of memories and interesting yarns for your next gathering.

Barossa Valley

Whether or not you indulge in a drop of the region’s famous wine, the Barossa has plenty of ways to keep you entertained, rested and well fed.

Do

You know Maggie Beer from MasterChef. Now, cook up a storm in her studio kitchen, with Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop interactive cooking demonstration. Prepare your creations with fresh local produce and then taste them with fellow guests.

Head skyward for a bird’s-eye view in a hot-air balloon with Barossa Balloon Adventures. Watch the Barossa sunrise as you drift gently above the mist-covered vineyards and then tuck into a scrumptious breakfast, including locally smoked bacon, free-range eggs and sourdough bread.

If you love arts and culture, the Barossa has you covered. Angaston’s North Street Studios showcases a selection of contemporary art, leather artisanship and fashion. At Corroboree Dream Art in Tanunda, you’ll find stunning Aboriginal artworks from recognised and emerging artists. And at Seppeltsfield’s Wonderground, wander the modern art gallery as you sip a glass of local wine.

Eat and drink

The Barossa is full of places to wine and dine. Visit Fino Seppeltsfield for a ‘choose your journey’ sample menu, including chorizo scotch eggs and yellowfin tuna with avocado and togarashi – a Japanese spice mix. After your meal, pop into JamFactory at Seppeltsfield and browse the selection of handcrafted ceramics, furniture, glassware and jewellery from prominent Australian artists and designers.

At family-owned Pindarie Wines, you can taste prize-winning drops, including a sparkling rosé or a blood-red tempranillo. Stay for a grazing plate or devour a crispy, homemade lamb, quince, rosemary and potato pie or a vegetable and lentil hotpot.

Still thirsty? First Drop Wines is sure to tickle your fancy. Known for its award-winning ‘Mother’s Milk’ shiraz and its Home of the Brave cellar door, this quirky winery offers a tapas menu that includes patatas bravas, Parmigiano Reggiano with honey and walnuts, and limoncello-flavoured tiramisu.

Stay

Get back to nature at CABN’s off-grid accommodation. With a range of luxury levels, CABN offers king beds, private saunas, and outdoor baths, all in quiet, secluded locations across the Barossa.

For more gorgeous landscapes, the Novotel Barossa Valley Resort in Rowland Flat features views of the Jacob’s Creek grape vines. Melt away with a remedial massage at the on-site Endota Spa.

Located in central Tanunda, The Wine Vine is a good base for exploring the town. With comfy beds and extra fluffy pillows, it’s your Barossa home away from home.

Ikara-Flinders Ranges

Recently included in Lonely Planet’s prestigious 2026 Best in Travel list, the Ikara-Flinders Ranges is blessed with natural beauty and ripe for exploration.

Do

If it’s thrills you’re after, it’s hard to go past a Rawnsley Park four-wheel-drive tour. Climb aboard an expertly guided modern vehicle and enjoy spectacular red-rock gorges, native fauna and flora, and learn about the geological history of this ancient region.

There’s no better spot than SA’s Far North to try opal mining, so book yourself an Andamooka Observatory tour. Learn the basics of fossicking for these precious mineraloids, the best spots
to find them and how to stake your claim.

If all this ground-based excitement isn’t enough, take to the skies with a Wrightsair scenic flight. Marvel at the spectacular Anna Creek Painted Hills, the stone amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound, the bird-filled spectacle of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, and many more natural wonders.

Eat and drink

Reopening in March, Parachilna’s Prairie Hotel is famous for its Feral Mixed Grill, with chargrilled kangaroo fillet, camel sausage and emu rissole on the menu. Topped with mashed spuds, roasted mushrooms, and crispy saltbush and red wine jus, the Parachilna’s Prairie Hotel combines bistro dining with bush tucker. Go on – when in Rome, as they say.

Flinders Food Co. in Hawker is just what you need before or after a day of red-dirt adventure. Rehydrate with a refreshing, native-inspired quandong or golden wattle soda, or for breakfast order the popular combo of bacon and egg roll and frothy coffee.

For more bush tucker, visit the Woolshed Restaurant at Rawnsley Park. Originally known for ‘spotted dog’ (damper with sultanas), the Woolshed Restaurant is now famous for modern Australian cuisine. Try the Rawnsley Station lamb shank, with a vanilla custard trifle or blueberry cheesecake for dessert.

Stay

Stay at Wilpena Pound and choose between hotel rooms, safari tents and a campground for your caravan or tent. With modern facilities and a blanket of stars overhead, you’re sure to find an unforgettable spot.

Further south, Quorn’s self-contained Quandong Apartments have all the mod cons and outback charm. Don’t ignore the heavenly aromas wafting in from the Quandong Café next door. Treat yourself to a steaming coffee and a piece of homemade quandong pie.

North-east of the Gammon Ranges lies Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, offering a range of accommodation styles. Arkaroola is also an international dark sky sanctuary, so bring your telescope or binoculars and become lost in the billions of twinkling stars above.

Riverland

Life in the Riverland revolves around the mighty Murray River, and there are plenty of reasons to visit one of the region’s many towns or natural reserves.

Do

Where there’s water, there are boats, so hire a canoe or kayak at Canoe Adventures in Berri. Take a guided tour or choose your own adventure and glide along as you spot graceful pelicans and maybe a curious turtle or two.

At nearly 15,000 hectares, there’s no shortage of activities in Murray River National Park. Take the one-hour Cragg’s Hut Walking Trail or the 20km Katarapko Trail for a challenge. With fishing, mountain biking, bird watching and more, this is a nature-lover’s paradise.

For your final water adventure, jump aboard the restored PS Industry for a one-hour cruise. Leave the Renmark riverfront and head upstream, while admiring the plentiful wildlife and majestic gum trees. It’s an ideal way to step back in time and learn more about the Murray River paddle steamer heritage.

Eat and drink

The laid-back bistro vibe of Nanya at the Hotel Renmark is sure to please when you’re riverside. Sip a cleansing cocktail and enjoy tasty classics like schnitzel, battered flathead and pavlova.

South-west of Renmark in Berri, visit Earth Restaurant and sample some of the Riverland’s finest produce. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink before indulging in some Murray Cod or chocolate hotcakes if you’re there for breakfast.

And with so many outstanding SA-produced spirits, why not try one more? At Renmark’s Twenty Third Street Distillery, sip on an award-winning Australian single-malt whisky or an ever-popular espresso martini.

Stay

Choose from a variety of comfortable rooms or a three-bedroom apartment at Big River Golf and Country Club in Berri. Improve your swing and short game on the 18-hole golf course or avoid the frustration by relaxing with a cool drink and watching those who are trying to.

For a non-golfing stay, camp within a stone’s throw of the water at Barmera’s Lake Bonney Caravan and Holiday Park. Book a cabin, unit or powered site and strap yourself in for hours of swimming, sailing, biking, windsurfing and more.

For more water-side accommodation, get yourself a luxury eco-suite at Byrne Vineyards in Morgan. Here, you’re surrounded by wetlands, burnt-orange cliffs, vineyards and more starry skies. With a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

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Australia’s seafood capital, Port Lincoln, on the Eyre Peninsula, is teeming with natural beauty and things to taste, see and explore.

After mapping the location in 1802, English explorer Matthew Flinders named the city after his home county of Lincolnshire.

Port Lincoln’s beautiful natural harbour meant it was once considered for South Australia’s capital city. However, Colonel William Light eventually overlooked the town, partly due to a lack of fresh water supply and difficult access for ships.

Modern Port Lincoln is jam packed with things to see and do so you’ll be spoilt for choice, but we’ve picked five ways to have a trip you’ll never forget.

1. See food… and eat it

If you’re partial to a prawn or two, welcome to paradise. With locally caught tuna, oysters, prawns, mussels, abalone and more, you’d have to be the world’s pickiest eater not to find a seafood dish to tempt you.

Make your first stop The Fresh Fish Place – a buzzing seafood factory outlet and eatery that should win an ‘accuracy in business name’ prize.  Grab some pan-grilled, battered or crumbed flathead, whiting, or garfish, with chips. Feast on salt and pepper squid, marinated octopus, tempura prawns, steamed mussels and panko crumbed scallops. You can also take home a selection of fresh and frozen fish fillets, smoked and pickled seafood, and much more.  

2. Make a splash

Port Lincoln is the place to be if you fancy going nose to nose with a legendary great white shark. Home to two charter companies, a shark cage diving expedition will have your adrenaline surging as you dip under the water and from the safety of a metal cage stare into the black eyes of a fearsome shark.

For something less deadly than a fish with razor-sharp teeth, why not swim and snorkel with some friendly sealions? These puppies of the sea love showing off and interacting with the humans who enter their watery backyard. Swim with them, sit back and watch, or take the perfect photo.

3. Wild memories

In Port Lincoln, you’re only ever a short drive away from a stunning beach. Put the four-wheel-drive accessible surf beach of Fishery Bay on your must-visit list or prepare to spy a few dolphins from atop a lumpy sand dune at Sleaford Beach. Cool off at Eyre Peninsula’s most famous swimming spot, Greenly Rockpool, where you might even spot a shy starfish.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the incredible Golden Island beach at the tip of Coffin Bay National Park. Admire the view from the lookout or wander down to enjoy the rocky reefs, white sand and breaking waves up close.

4. Bon appétit

The award-winning L’Anse Café – a delightful piece of France in the heart of Port Lincoln – is known for its buttery, flaky croissants, fruit tarts, exceptional coffee and other delicious French fare. Book a table and try the croissant madame, with bechamel sauce, mustard, ham and a fried egg or the Asian-style chilli scrambled eggs.

You can even watch the skilled French chefs making their mouth-watering pastries at the on-site kitchen. If you’re keen to explore Port Lincoln and its surrounds, grab a takeaway flat white and an almond croissant or something else from its daily selection of sweet treats. Vive la France!

5. A farm with a difference

You won’t find any tractors or working dogs at this farm. Instead, you’ll find rows and rows of underwater baskets full of plump Coffin Bay oysters. Choose from a range of tour operators, including Untamed Escapes and Experience Coffin Bay, and enjoy a cruise out to the pristine, clear waters where these world-famous oysters grow. Don a pair of waders for a closer look and learn why these waters and growing conditions make Coffin Bay oysters sought after worldwide. Best of all, you can enjoy a dozen freshly shucked, salty oysters onboard before you head back to shore.

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We love a good celebration in South Australia, the Festival State, and we set the bar high for a good time.

We have festivals for cheese and motorsport, history and art, guitar and football. There’s a festival for everyone, but how does the rest of the world compare?

Let’s go on a journey around the world and discover 11 festivals to add to your travelling itinerary.

1. Sundance Film Festival | Utah, USA

Film aficionados should add attending the Sundance Film Festival to their bucket list. Held annually in the United States at the end of January, 2026 will be the final year the festival takes place in Utah before it moves to Colorado from 2027 onward.

See brand-new films on the big screen long before they reach mainstream audiences. You may even find yourself walking the red carpet and rubbing shoulders with your favourite independent filmmakers and celebrities.

2. Carnival | Venice, Italy and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Carnival celebrations take place worldwide in February to mark the beginning of Lent, but Venice, Italy, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (pictured at top), are the undisputed standouts – so they both deserve a spot on this list. Both festivals feature vibrant costumes and electrifying parades, yet each offers a unique flavour.

In Venice, elaborate masks are essential, echoing the tradition of nobility disguising themselves to mingle freely with the public. At Rio Carnival, energetic samba dancing, massive floats, colourful block parties and infectious music bring locals and visitors together in celebration.

Though worlds apart, both festivals share one outcome: joyful, exuberant gatherings where people from all walks of life come together.

3. Cherry blossom (Sakura) season | Japan

Beginning in Japan’s southern regions and slowly moving north, the blooming of the sakura is a spectacle that must be seen to be believed. The exact timing shifts each year, but visiting between late March and early April gives you an excellent chance of experiencing the blossoms at their peak.

Simply strolling the streets immerses you in their beauty, but many regional celebrations coincide with the bloom. Hanami (flower-viewing) festivals take place across the country, including at Kitakami Tenshochi, Osaka Castle Park, Mount Yoshino and Tsuruoka.

4. Vivid Sydney | Sydney, Australia

Closer to home, Vivid Sydney illuminates the city during May and June. Wrap up against the winter chill and explore immersive outdoor light installations and 3D projections that transform landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Experience the most relaxed – and most efficient – way to see the sights by sailing past on a Vivid Lights Cruise. Don’t forget to use your RAA membership for an exclusive discount.

Alongside the visual spectacle, enjoy performances by local and international musicians, creative workshops, talks and remarkable culinary events.

5. Matariki | New Zealand

Matariki is a relatively new addition to the festival calendar, with the occasion first celebrated across New Zealand in June 2022. The date changes each year, usually falling in late June or early July. Marking the Māori New Year, this is the first national holiday based on a First Nations celebration.

Matariki invites all New Zealanders and visitors to learn about Māori culture and traditions. It’s a time for reflection and renewal, with celebrations including art exhibitions, concerts, food festivals and cultural workshops. As it’s tied to the appearance of the Matariki star cluster, make sure to head outside and look to the skies.

6. Goodwood Festival of Speed | West Sussex, England

Imagine South Australia’s Bay to Birdwood meeting the Monaco Grand Prix, with a dash of British aristocracy, and you have the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Despite its name, it’s not held in Adelaide but at Goodwood House in West Sussex, England each July.

The festival is a mash-up of summer garden party and motorsport prestige. Expect everything from historic racing machines to the latest supercars and motorcycles making their global debut. Motorsport legends, rising stars and engineering marvels take to the iconic hill climb – the centrepiece of the event. You can even camp on-site with your travel buddies so you don’t miss any of the action.

7. Edinburgh Fringe Festival | Edinburgh, Scotland

Exactly six months after Adelaide’s Mad March, the Edinburgh Fringe takes over the historic city of Edinburgh every August. It’s the largest Fringe Festival in the world with Adelaide proudly in second place.

The event began when performers staged shows on the “fringe” of the prestigious Edinburgh International Festival after World War II, and the two festivals still run side by side today.

For three manic, sleepless weeks, Edinburgh becomes a playground of performance, featuring theatre, comedy, circus, magic, music, visual art, street shows – anything you can imagine. With more than 3000 different shows, there’s something for everyone.

8. Oktoberfest | Munich, Germany

Despite its name, Oktoberfest takes place mostly in September in Munich, Germany. Originally held in October to celebrate a royal wedding more than 200 years ago, the festival shifted forward to September as there’s better weather for the party.

Today it attracts more than six million visitors each year, making it the largest festival in the world. Locals and travellers don traditional dirndls and lederhosen to drink fine Bavarian beer, enjoy lively oompah bands, and feast on dishes like pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe) and sauerkraut.

9. Abu Simbel Sun Festival | Abu Simbel, Egypt

Held twice a year (February and October), the Abu Simbel Sun Festival in Egypt has taken place for more than 3200 years. Although the temple of Ramses II is spectacular year-round, on these two days the sun aligns perfectly to illuminate the inner sanctum and bathe the statues of Ra (the sun god) and Amun (king of the gods) in brilliant light.

Visitors and locals gather before dawn to witness this ancient spectacle, followed by Nubian dance, live music and plates of warm, comforting koshari – Egypt’s national dish.

10. Diwali | India

Diwali is one of the most exciting times to visit India, with the festival featuring a riot of colour, feasts, fireworks and thousands of glowing oil lamps. Celebrated over five days in October or November, festivities take place across the country.

The Hindu celebration marks many occasions, including the beginning of the harvest season, the triumph of light over darkness, and the welcoming of Lakshmi – the goddess of wealth. Top destinations for experiencing Diwali include Jaipur (the Pink City), bustling Mumbai and the holy city of Varanasi.

11. Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival | Harbin, China

A tribute to the magic of winter, the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is the largest event of its kind in the world. Expect towering ice palaces, intricate sculptures, global competitions, skiing, winter swimming and glowing ice-lantern exhibitions.

Held in Harbin, China from December through February, it’s dazzling and extremely cold. Temperatures range from -16C to a frosty -35C, making it a perfect festival for cold-weather lovers.

For must-see Christmas festivals and markets, have a look at our list of the seven best for 2025.

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