A Perfect Week in South Australia – Local life, Outback & Wilderness
By Rachel Gleave
South Australia is one of Australia’s most diverse and under-the-radar gems, where world-class wine regions, dramatic outback scenery and characterful coastal towns sit just hours apart. While it’s tempting to spend your time hopping between vineyards, this itinerary is all about pairing the rich food and wine scene with some of the state’s most beautiful, wild landscapes.
This is just one way to explore this incredible region. If you're looking for a different flavour of South Australia, we also have an alternative suggestion that combines Adelaide, the Barossa Valley and Kangaroo Island.
Day 1 - Adelaide
Fly into Adelaide and check in to the stylish Mayfair Hotel, perfectly located for exploring the city on foot. Spend the day browsing the boutique shops of Rundle Street, stopping for coffee in laneway cafés or sampling local produce at the Adelaide Central Market – a true foodie hotspot. For dinner, you’ll find some of the country’s best restaurants right here in the city, with an exciting focus on seasonal, regional ingredients.
Days 2 -4 - Flinders Ranges
Pick up your hire car and head north into the outback – it’s about a four-and-a-half-hour drive to the Flinders Ranges, a timeless landscape of red rock gorges, ancient ranges and sprawling wilderness. Stay three nights at Arkaba, a luxury retreat and former sheep station, where conservation and comfort go hand in hand, or at Rawnsley Park Station, where eco villas offer sweeping views over Wilpena Pound. Guided walks and 4WD safaris bring this raw and remote corner of Australia to life, with opportunities to spot kangaroos, emus and yellow-footed rock wallabies against a stunning backdrop of ochre-hued hills.
Days 5-6 - Murray River
Head southeast for around four and a half hours to reach the Murray River, Australia’s longest waterway and a serene contrast to the rugged ranges. Check in to The Frames, a collection of ultra-luxury villas perched above the river, complete with private pools and chef-prepared meals. Take a leisurely sunset cruise in a restored gondola, meet local producers or simply relax and soak in the scenery – this is a slower, more soulful side of South Australia, and a great way to connect with local life.
Day 7 - Adelaide Hills
Drive west towards the Adelaide Hills, around three hours from the Murray, for your final night at Mount Lofty House or its intimate luxury sister property, Sequoia Lodge. Surrounded by forested national park and rolling vineyard views, this is a romantic and refined end to your week. Take a cellar door tour, dine at the award-winning Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant or simply unwind with a glass of pinot and enjoy the views. You’re only 15 minutes from the city, but it feels like a world away.
Suggested extensions
Kangaroo Island: Add a few days to explore this wildlife-rich island, just a short flight from Adelaide. Think rugged coastlines, pristine beaches and incredible native wildlife, paired with boutique lodges and local produce.
Port Lincoln: Head to the Eyre Peninsula for two nights of ocean adventures – from swimming with sea lions to cage diving with great whites.
Barossa Valley: Stay longer in South Australia’s most famous wine region, with award-winning cellar doors and luxurious vineyard stays.
Reverse the Route: If you’re flying into Mildura from Melbourne or Sydney, you can start at The Frames and work your way back via the Flinders Ranges to Adelaide Hills.
