Add these regions to the top of your must-see list next time you visit South Australia.
South Australia’s stretching coastline, endless vineyards and twisting rivers are part of what makes this state a must-see for travellers. There’s something for everyone and the list of things to see and do just keeps going. Some of Australia’s most iconic destinations call this state home, but we think it time to show a little love to the regions that might not come to mind quite as quickly.
THE ADELAIDE HILLS
Just 45 minutes west of Adelaide are the Adelaide Hills, a region rich with enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures.
The quaint yet utterly charming town of Hahndorf has to be your first stop. Nestled in the south of the Adelaide Hills, Handorf is the oldest German settlement left in the country. German and Prussian settlers founded the town in the nineteenth-century and many of the buildings from that time have been preserved. The result? Hanhdorf is unlike anything else you’ll see anywhere else in Australia; its cobbled streets and stone buildings are more like something out of a Brother’s Grimm tale than an Australian town. Wander down Main Street and peruse the many shops, stop by the heritage hub (a 150-year-old building on Main Street) and see a local art exhibition or sample German cakes and sausages at a traditional German bakery.
RIVERLAND
If a relaxed time by the water is what you’re looking for in your next trip, we’ve got the place for you. The Riverland is home to twisting rivers, charming country towns and endless activities for kids big and small.
The big kids will delight in the Wiladene Woolshed Brewery, one of the region’s most beloved tourist attractions. With a wide selection of locally produced beers, ciders and non-alcoholic drinks, the brewery prides itself on its use of local ingredients (even wattle!) to give their beverages unique, rich flavours. You’re more than welcome to simply wander the grounds yourself or join a guided brewery tour. But people aren’t just flocking to this brewery for the tantalizing beverages or the tasty local produce available at the bar. Wiladene sits on the majestic banks of the Murray River, so what could be more relaxing than enjoying a cold drink overlooking the breathtaking Murray? When it comes to settling down for the night, there are a few options.
LIMESTONE COAST
Looking for pristine wilderness experiences? Then you can’t go past the Limestone Coast and the Tantanoola Caves. Created over 250,000 years ago by the force of the tide, these caves simply aren’t of this world. Leave modern civilisation behind as you head down into the depths of the cave and are transported into another realm. Thousands of stalactites hang gracefully from the cave roof as you descend the steps and move deeper into the cave. The result is a simply awe-inspiring experience. To top it all off these caves one of the only cave systems in Australia that are wheelchair accessible.
EYRE PENINSULA
The Eyre Peninsula: home to some of South Australia’s best nautical adventures. An area of untouched coastlines and crystal clear waters – not to mention the mouth-watering seafood – you’ll be surprised you didn’t visit sooner.
Whyalla is a lucky place in a number of ways, but none more so than its dolphins. Throughout the year, a pod of wild bottlenose dolphins call the Whyalla marina their home. These friendly creatures love to make friends and say hello to visitors, so one company is letting you do just that. Hire a kayak and head out into the water to see these marvellous creatures play in the waves. They’ll even come right up to your kayak so you can really see a dolphin up close. As the dolphins visit the area continuously throughout the year, you’re guaranteed to see a dolphin no matter what time of year you visit.
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