Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and gear up for the ultimate 21-day South Australian road trip to sample the best of the State. This journey takes you from the vibrant city life to the idyllic outback, culminating in the most pristine beaches and wildlife encounters that Australia has to offer. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring the very best of South Australia.
Days 1-3: Adelaide
Start your trip in the beautiful city of Adelaide, South Australia’s cosmopolitan coastal capital. Explore the city’s thriving arts scene, picturesque parklands, and taste world-class wines.
- Adelaide Central Market: Stock up on local produce and gourmet treats for your journey at Adelaide Central Market, Australia’s largest fresh produce market.
- Art Gallery of South Australia: Visit the Art Gallery of South Australia, housing one of the country’s most significant art collections.
- Adelaide Botanic Garden: Don’t miss the Adelaide Botanic Garden, a 51-hectare public garden at the north-east corner of the Adelaide city centre. Read more about Adelaide‘s attractions
Days 4-6: Barossa Valley (About 1 hour, 70km from Adelaide)
Head to the Barossa Valley, one of the world’s greatest wine regions, renowned for its food and wine, cultural experiences, and easy-going lifestyle.
- Wine Tours: Experience Barossa Valley’s wineries, home to over 150 wineries and cellar doors.
- Barossa Farmers Market: Visit the Barossa Farmers Market to explore locally produced food and wine. Read more about the Barossa Valley
Days 7-9: Clare Valley (Approximately 1 hour, 90km from Barossa Valley)
Next stop is the Clare Valley, another premium wine region, known for its Riesling trail.
- Riesling Trail: Cycle or walk along the Riesling Trail, a 35km track following an old railway line.
- Martindale Hall: Visit Martindale Hall, a historic Georgian mansion and living museum. Read more about the Clare Valley
Days 10-12: Flinders Ranges (Roughly 2.5 hours, 200km from Clare Valley)
Immerse yourself in the Australian outback’s beauty at the Flinders Ranges, South Australia’s largest mountain range.
- Wilpena Pound: Trek through Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheater of mountains and one of Australia’s most significant Aboriginal art sites.
- Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorges: Take a scenic drive through these spectacular geological sites. Read more about the Flinders Ranges
Days 13-15: Port Augusta (Approximately 1.5 hours, 100km from Flinders Ranges)
Port Augusta is a small city that serves as a gateway to the outback and the Eyre Peninsula.
- Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden: Visit the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden, featuring a stunning display of arid zone plants.
- Wadlata Outback Centre: Learn about the history and culture of the Outback at the Wadlata Outback Centre. Read more about the Port Augusta
Days 16-18: Eyre Peninsula (Around 3 hours, 300km from Port Augusta)
The Eyre Peninsula boasts pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, and diverse marine life.
- Coffin Bay: Visit the seaside town of Coffin Bay, renowned for its oysters.
- Port Lincoln: In Port Lincoln, opt for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Great White Shark Cage Diving.
- Whalers Way: Explore Whalers Way, offering some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in South Australia. What to Do and See on the Eyre PeninsulaRead more about the Eyre Penninsula
Days 19-21: Kangaroo Island (Drive to Cape Jervis and then take a ferry)
End your trip with a ferry ride to Kangaroo Island, famous for its diverse wildlife and nature reserves. You will need to book ahead for hte ferry on most occasions.
- Seal Bay: Take a guided tour at Seal Bay and see the sea lions.
- Flinders Chase National Park: Spend a day in Flinders Chase National Park, home to the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch.
- Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park: Don’t miss the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, where you can cuddle a koala or hand-feed kangaroos. Read more about Kangaroo Island
That’s your ultimate 21-day South Australian road trip, filled with experiences that will create memories for a lifetime. Remember, this is just a guide, and the best part about a road trip is making it your own. Enjoy the journey, and safe travels!
