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 The state to the south is a cultural and natural
wonder. This state is home to some of the most interesting and famous landmarks around
Australia. You can wander around the cultural city of Adelaide which is recognised for it
festivals, music and the arts, or visit the famous wineries, which produce some first rate
wine. To the south of Adelaide is the tranquil Kangaroo Island which is a must on any
itinerary to South Australia. The outback regions offers exciting adventures in the
Flinders Range, or perhaps you can head off towards the west; the Gateway to the Outback.
The Capital of South Australia is Adelaide and is situated in the southern part of the state, lying at the base of the beautiful Adelaide Hills. A smaller city with many of the big city services. Here you will find a gracious city with a sophisticated feel. Historic Churches, beautiful gardens, and restored pubs abound. The city has the usual gamut of accommodation, with many city tours and sights. It is approximately 10 kilometres from the airport with the usual airport transfers available. A casino is located in the Festival Centre to keep the gamblers happy and the town centre is great for shopping. Adelaide is one of the most convenient cities in the country. A walk around the city will leave you impressed with it's peaceful ambience and relaxed gentle feel. You will come across the State Library, Old and New Parliament House and the South Australian State Art Gallery and Museum, which is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of art in the country. Adelaide is affectionately known as the Festival State, with it's major attraction being the Festival of the Arts every 2 years. The Festival Centre, Botanical Gardens and parks run along the beautiful Torens River and are a great way to spend a pleasant afternoon. For the beach lovers, the coast just 10 kilometres south of the city will keep you happy if the weather allows. The waters are cold on the south coast of Australia.
The Flinders Ranges are approximately 200 kilometres north of Adelaide and are a great place to go exploring. The Ranges are full of deep gorges, steep rugged cliffs and rolling hills, and the feel of total isolation is overwhelming. Geologically the ranges are amongst the oldest on earth. Tours of the ranges are available by 4WD, trekking, horseback or for the truly indulgent, a scenic flight is awe inspiring. The ranges are named after Mathew Flinders who discovered the range in the early 1800's. It was once populated by the Aborigines, and rock art sites and sacred grounds are scattered around the ranges. The employ of good tour guides will give you the best locations. Further north you venture into the outback. Great sights, with the highlights being Cooper Pedy, the underground town, Australia's oldest and largest opal mine. This is a great place to purchase opals. Tours of the mines are available. A great way to see the north part of this state is to travel on the famous "Ghan". A rail journey starting in Adelaide and ending up in Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. The train has been refurbished and is a fantastic way to see the outback in air conditioned comfort. The Wine Growing Regions of South Australia:
These 3 regions are high on my favourites list. These area's produce some of Australia's best wines, and all three are relaxing, and great to get lost in. They all have a broad selection of accommodation, but guesthouses are the most popular. Tours of the many wineries are available in all locations and great restaurants can be found. For something truly Australian, stay on a working sheep farm and get a feel for rural Australian life. The Barossa Valley is the closest to Adelaide. Approximately 2 hours drive north west of Adelaide. Loads of tours, restaurants, and guesthouses. The Clare Valley is further to the north, and the Coonawarra Region is to the south-east of Adelaide. This is not meant to be a travel directory, but I will break this rule once. For many years I was on the Guesthouse of Australia circuit, seeking the most romantic house in the country. So many to choose from. My Favourite, ended up in South Australia. Padthaway Guest House, in the Coonawarra, surpassed all expectations of luxury. The service was impeccable, and the lady of the house was attentive to our every need. If you are in the area, I highly recommend that you spend a night at Padthaway. It will be a experience you will never forget.
The third largest island off the coast of Australia. You will need a few day's to explore the island in it's entirety. It is only 16 kilometres from the mainland and a ferry service is available from Port Adelaide or air services operate from Adelaide Airport. There are plenty of tour operators which will guide you around the island, and coach tours are also available. For those who like to explore on their own, 4WD hire is available. The island has an abundance of flora and fauna to keep any naturalist happy and the island has retained many plants and animals that are found nowhere else. Because of the delicate balance of the island, most of the national parks are protected and access not allowed. The best way to see what the parks have to offer is to go on a guided tour. The Kangaroo Island National Parks and Wildlife Service will be more than happy to help. |
Introduction |
Northern Territory |
Queensland |
Western Australia |
New South Wales |
Victoria |
Recreation |
Shopping |
Home |