Adelaide is a city with a high status throughout the world. Consistently ranked amongst the most liveable cities globally, the capital of South Australia certainly has a lot going for it. From a reputation as one of the country’s leading regions for food and wine, to its status as a hub for festivals of all shapes and sizes, Adelaide really is a modern metropolis.

St Francis Xavier Church in AdelaideThe city of churches is an Australian treasure.

Once you’ve walked the streets, seen the sights and tasted the local cuisine, there’s no better experience then taking to the road to explore the rest of the state, with the city as your base. For many, the journey is limited to Adelaide, but for a more adventurous traveller, South Australia has a wealth of treasures just waiting to be discovered.

Here are three day-trips by car from the capital that make a worthy addition to any holiday. So hire a car in Adelaide and hit the road.

Barossa Valley

The food and drink in the capital may be world-famous, but if you want to sample the goods at their source, head an hour north east and you’ll find yourself in the picturesque surrounds of Barossa Valley, where some of the nation’s best wine is produced. Shiraz and riesling are the specialities here, and there are plenty of restaurants dotted around the place where you can stop in for a bite between winery visits.

The region is also known for its painterly landscapes, which make for an abundance of top-notch picnic spots that put the ambience of even the most chic Adelaide restaurant to shame. All you need is a bottle of wine, some local food, a blanket and you’re good to go.

 

Spectacular vineyard of Barossa Valley, South Australia #southaustralia #barossavalley #australia #vineyards #travel

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May 4, 2016 at 1:39am PDT
The Flinders Ranges Keep heading north and after a few hours you’ll find the colours of the landscape changing from lush green to dusty brown as you make your way into perhaps the most famous of Australia’s natural beauties – the outback. With open space extending in every direction as far as the eye can see, the Australian deserts are truly something to behold. The Flinders Ranges sit a little over four hours from Adelaide and the conditions can get rough, so be sure to rent an SUV for the outback. The highlights of the Ranges are all-natural, encompassing everything from unusual animals to monolithic rock formations. The best-known landmark is the Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre of rock that covers an area of 100 kilometres. Take one of the Pound’s many treks, and be sure to keep a weather eye open for kangaroos and emus.

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May 4, 2016 at 4:00pm PDT
Murray River Heading east from Adelaide will take you across the state to the beautiful Murray River. Winding its way down through South Australia until it meets the Southern Ocean, Australia’s longest river provides travellers with a cornucopia of diverse experiences. From aquatic activities like fishing and kayaking to palatable pleasures like the local wine, this part of the state is quickly growing into one of Australia’s most attractive destinations. For the history buffs among you, the Murray River also has huge significance as one of the original settling areas of the Aboriginal people, over 40,000 years ago. Delve into the region’s past with a guided tour and learn all about the local tribes. Taking one (or better yet, all) of these day trips is a great way to add a bit more of South Australia into your holiday in Adelaide. Contact us if you have any questions and don’t forget to bring a camera!

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Mar 18, 2016 at 4:31am PDT