6 Day Trips from Adelaide That Even Locals Will Love
Over the years, Adelaide quietly evolved into a hub of arts, culture, great food and wine, and (of course) festivals. If you’re planning a trip to Adelaide to reconnect with loved ones, you may want to set aside a few extra days. Even better, treat your host to a fun day out that you know they’ll enjoy. We’ve come up with our 6 favourite spots outside of Adelaide that are perfect for a day trip, whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time. Don’t forget to check out our list of affordable accommodation around Adelaide at the bottom so you can start planning today.
McLaren Vale
Conveniently located just 40 minutes’ drive from Adelaide CBD, McLaren Vale is the perfect place to sip the day away. Whether you’re from Adelaide or just visiting, you’re sure to be impressed with the variety of wines (Shiraz, Grenache, Fiano and Vermentino, to name a few), as well as the growing popularity of organic and biodynamic farming practices at a number of wineries in the region. We like to think that equals a smaller hangover, right?
Adelaide Hills
Photo from Shutterstock
Whether it’s picturesque drives, cute villages, delicious food, arts and culture, wineries or berry picking, Adelaide Hills has you covered. Start the day at Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, swing by the town of Stirling for brunch, then on to Mount Barker to stroll the tree-lined main street, pick strawberries at Beerenberg Farm, then pop into a cellar door for a wine tasting on your way back. And that’s all in one little pocket of the region.
Hahndorf
Alright, it’s technically within the Adelaide Hills, but Hahndorf is such a cute little town we just couldn’t resist adding it to the list! German-themed shops and restaurants line the streets, making you feel like you’ve been transported in time and space to old Germany. Think cuckoo clocks, bratwurst, pretzels, and lederhosen...
Victor Harbour & Fleurieu Peninsula
Granite Island
It doesn’t take much convincing to get someone to visit the Fleurieu Peninsula, even if they’re your best mate who’s lived in Adelaide for over 5 years. A simple 1 hour drive south of the CBD takes you to Victor Harbour on the Fleurieu. Soak up seaside bliss with sandy beaches and cliff-top hikes while trying your luck at spotting whales, dolphins and seals. Tuck into the freshest local seafood, then walk or take the horse-drawn tram to Granite Island Recreation Park where you can wander around 62 acres of natural beauty.
Adelaide Beaches
Sheltered waters and wide stretches of sand are the perfect combination for lazy beach days. One of the best things about Adelaide is that you can find idyllic beaches just moments from the city centre. Take your pick from Brighton, Glenelg, Henley and Semaphore beaches, to name a few. Each one has its own personality, so if you’ve got a few days visiting people in town then take your time and check ‘em all out.
Kangaroo Island
Remarkable Rocks, Kangaroo Island
There are few places in the world that come close to the incredible beauty of Kangaroo Island. Whether you’re in it for the wildlife, natural beauty, delicious food or all of the above, you’re sure to enjoy your visit. Hop on a ferry to explore the unique rock formations, perfect sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Only problem is, you won’t want to leave!