Five Unmissable Experiences in South Australia

If you only do one thing in South Australia, make it Kangaroo Island. It's a wildlife-lover's dream, where kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, wallabies, goannas, and dolphins all call the island home – and spotting them in the wild never gets old. Highlights include the sea lion colony at Seal Bay, long-nosed fur seals basking beneath Admirals Arch, and the chance to taste honey from the home of the world's oldest bee sanctuary, which protects a pure strain of Ligurian bee. Keep your eyes peeled on the ferry across, too – if you're lucky, you'll see dolphins playing in the surf. It's not just a day out; it's the kind of experience you'll be talking about for years.

Bonus tip: To truly experience Kangaroo Island, consider a two-day tour to soak in all it has to offer.

For the best views in the city, nothing beats the Adelaide Oval RoofClimb. It's a proper heart-racing adventure, scaling the roof of one of Australia's most iconic stadiums – but the reward is worth every step.

From the top, you're treated to sweeping 360-degree panoramas stretching from the foothills to the coast, with Adelaide laid out beneath you and blue sky in every direction. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just after that showstopping photo, it's an experience that'll stay with you long after you've climbed back down.

No trip to South Australia is complete without raising a glass in the Barossa Valley. This is one of the world's truly great wine regions, where over 800 families grow the grapes that go into its famous bottles – and it's especially celebrated for its rich, delicious Shiraz. Spend a day touring the cellar doors, from historic family-owned producers like Kies Family Wines to the grand estate of Château Tanunda. Fancy something a little different? Save room for a chocolate and tawny tasting at Melba's Chocolates, soak up the valley views from Mengler Hill Lookout, and treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner paired with local wine.

Expert tip: A small-group guided tour means you can sip and savour without worrying about driving.

For wide-open spaces and true Aussie outback magic, head to the Flinders Ranges. This is country-escape territory at its finest – ancient landscapes, dramatic gorges, and some of the most breathtaking stargazing you'll ever experience. If you're brave, spend a night sleeping under the stars in a traditional swag, then wake early for a sunrise walk. You might even spot joeys hopping through the bush.

For a deeper connection with the region, attend a Welcome to Country to gain a moving insight into the culture of the Adnyamathanha people. It's remote, it's peaceful, and it's good for the soul – the perfect antidote to busy everyday life.

Here's a fact that might surprise you: Adelaide has more restaurants per head than anywhere else in Australia. For food lovers, that makes it an absolute playground – and with a free tram service around the city centre, it's wonderfully easy to explore. A few of our favourites to get you started:

•    Soda: The rooftop bar and restaurant at The George Glenelg, perfect for sharing South Australian wines and small plates (brave eaters can even try kangaroo!).
•    Paper Tiger: Go for the "feed me" sharing menu and let the kitchen spoil you.
•    Markets and Meander: The lamb ragu paired with a glass of local wine is the stuff dreams are made of.

Don't miss the buzzing Adelaide Central Market, either – a feast for the senses and a brilliant way to taste your way through the region.