This article is sponsored by South Australian Tourism Commission
Images via South Australian Tourism Commission
If you're sitting at your desk dreaming of a holiday that has everything, South Australia’s got you covered!
This hidden gem lets you experience the best of Australia in one place, is easy to get around, AND offers a more intimate travel experience (read: lesser crowd and annoying tourists to deal with)!
You may have heard of its famous capital, Adelaide, which is very accessible—in fact, Adelaide is known as the 20-minute city because you’re only 20 minutes away from everything!
It’s also the home of Adelaide Fringe, the 2nd largest annual arts event in the world, and the city has a special connection to Penangites too ❤️ because it was founded by Colonel William Light, the son of Captain Francis Light!
Let us take you on a journey of what a vacay in South Australia will look like…
#1 You’ll see wildlife and nature like never before
If you’ve not been to Africa, this is a close second. The Monarto Safari Park has 500+ exotic and Australian native animals including favourites like giraffes, meerkats, white rhinos, lions, and of course, kangaroos!
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
One way to explore the place is to take a stroll through its 12km walking trails, where the animals and prettiest flora await. But if walking isn’t your thing, don’t fret. There’s a Zu-loop shuttle bus that you can hop on for a guided tour around the park. 😉
Besides seeing the animals in a natural setting, there are also opportunities to get up-close with some of them. From mingling with meerkats, to hand-feeding giraffes, and interacting with a white rhino, think of all the TikTok content you’ll be able to capture!
The sights you’ll see of its pristine clear waters and larger-than-life rocks will positively leave you breathless. Some of the recommended attractions include:
Remarkable Rocks: This cluster of granite boulders have been shaped by the forces of nature for over 500 million years. Drop by in the morning or late afternoon for the perfect photo op!
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Emu Bay Lavender Farm: Home to about 7,500 types of lavender plants, the farm also offers a wide range of lavender products such as essential oils and balms.
Seal Bay Conservation Park: A wild Australian sea lion colony uncaged! Learn more about these endangered animals as knowledgeable guides lead you to the heart of the colony.
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Little Sahara: Channel the Lisan Al-Gaib and stop for a spot of surfing on the sand—don’t worry, there’s no Shai-Hulud in sight. This long stretch of dune network can rise up to 70 meters above sea level!
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
#2 You’ll get good food pretty much everywhere
If you love jam with your bread, this is the place to be! Open 365 days a year (except for Christmas Day), the Beerenberg Family Farm is where you can try one of the oldest owned family jam recipes.
The sweet deal doesn’t stop there. You’ll also get to pick your own strawberries (from November to April) and enjoy the yumminess that the farm café offers. Beerenberg jams, condiments, sauces, dressings, ice creams, waffles, and shakes, it’s a spot that any sweet tooth will approve.
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
For an extra special visit, there’s also an option to experience a seasonal cooking demonstration with the café’s head chef!
If you’re more of a savoury person, pop over to the state’s central market AKA Adelaide’s Central Market. Here, you’ll be able to sample lots of local delicacies because the market is also the largest undercover fresh produce market in the southern hemisphere!
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
With over 70 traders under one roof, take your pick of fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, seafood, cheeses, baked goods, and health foods, along with some of Adelaide’s most popular cafés and eateries.
How about an amazing view of the Penfolds vineyard and Adelaide to go with a fancy meal?
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
The Penfolds Magill Estate had an interesting beginning—it was initially established for the purpose of medicinal winemaking by an English doctor, who emigrated to Australia.
Today, it has expanded to include the Magill Estate Restaurant, known for its Grange degustation menu, which reflects the heritage and innovation of Penfolds, using local seasonal ingredients.
There’s also a Technical Tasting Room, where you can reserve for a private dining experience for up to 12 guests.
If you’re looking for a more casual, pocket-friendly dining option, the Magill Estate Kitchen’s bespoke food offerings will ensure a memorable experience.
This next stop will have you wondering: is it a place to eat or a work of art? Well, it’s both!
The d’Arenberg Cube gives off an optical illusion of floating in a vineyard, and each level serves mind-boggling views overlooking the rolling hills of Willunga.
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Here, you’ll find d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant, set in a restored 19th century homestead, with a menu that offers a lavish 8-course degustation or a seasonal ala carte menu. Their signature lobster bisque is a must try!
In case you’re missing the familiar flavours of home, the Singapore Circus is the place to be. The restaurant is a melting pot of Southeast Asian cuisine and is open for lunch daily.
#3 You’ll be enlightened by rich histories and cultures
Did you know that there’s a Germanic settlement in Adelaide? In fact, it’s the oldest surviving one in Australia and was founded in 1839!
The charming artisan village of Hahndorf houses over 100 German heritage shops including a candlestick maker, leathersmith, jeweller, chocolatier, and more. Don’t forget to also make time for a stroll along the tree-lined Main Street.
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
If you like strudels, you’ll want to pop by the Hahndorf Inn and sign up for a strudel-making experience too. Imagine biting into your very own handmade apple strudel! Delish!
Set aside a bit more time at this cultural precinct because there are just too many things to see and explore!
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
For starters, marvel at the amazing architecture of stone buildings along the terrace. History buff will be happy to know that the terrace also holds statues and war memorials that pay homage to the times that were.
When you’re done exploring the terrace, pop by the Adelaide Botanic Garden for a picnic stop before continuing your cultural discoveries at the Art Gallery of South Australia—where you can find old and new world exhibits—and the Migration Museum.
Look out also for the Government House, which is the residence of the Governor. If you’re visiting in April, there’s an opportunity to sign up for an annual open day, where you can take a closer look at the stately home.
This is definitely THE place to learn more on South Australia. 😉
Earlier, we said South Australia is a holiday that has everything, and this includes books… lots of it!
A visit to the State Library isn’t just for the bookworms though. The library spans across three legendary buildings: the award-winning contemporary Catherine Helen Spence Wing with its iconic glass foyer, the Mortlock Wing with its 19th century Victorian splendour, and the 1861 heritage listed Institute Building.
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission
History buffs will be happy to discover its collectibles too, showcased in exhibition bays lining the heritage-listed Mortlock Chamber and the Treasures Wall in the contemporary Spence Wing.
Live your best life in the South of the Down Under
To get started on your best South Australia holiday, visit bit.ly/4bhd6kh for more recommendations and travel deals.