While we advocate spending a few summer days bar-hopping through the quietened city streets, to properly recharge for the year ahead take a drive out to one of our five favourite South Australian getaways.
January 6, 2023
Habits
CityMag’s summer get-out guide
Although the New Year has fallen upon us, many across the city are probably already becoming reacquainted with their work desks.
If this is not you, and you still have time to plan a miniature (or extended) getaway, there are a tonne of great places to escape to that are but a drive away.
Wuldi Krikin Ngawanthi (Eagle Waterhole)
Deep Creek National Park, Deep Creek 5204
Near the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula, this walk-in only campground is just two kilometres from the carpark at Cobbler Hill picnic area, making it an ideal introduction to overnight hiking. A communal shelter with filtered water and a USB charging station overlooks 10 sites arrayed around a frog-filled pool. The slopes above are dotted with bushy yacca looking over to Kangaroo Island.
Bandicoot Springs
Ironbank 5153
Though it’s less than half an hour from the city, this cute wooden tiny house in the Adelaide Hills feels like it’s part of another world. Nestled in secluded bushland beside a natural spring, it’s the perfect spot to switch off and feel the rhythm of the bush, with just bandicoots, koalas and kangaroos for neighbours.
WanderPods
Off North Coast Road, Middle River 5223
You won’t find any screens in these cabins perched high above Snelling Beach. Instead, everything centres around unblemished views of Kangaroo Island’s north coast, thanks to glass-fronted bedrooms, an open deck and obligatory outdoor bath. And if you want to amp up the romance, dine in the dappled light between the boughs of a 120-year-old giant at The Enchanted Fig Tree.
Ukiyo House
Martin Street, Port Willunga 5173
Classic Australian beach house vibes collide with mid-century Scandinavian style at this light-filled “OzJapScaNdian” bungalow that emphasises natural materials with charred shou sugi ban timber and rammed-earth walls. It’s just a 300-metre stroll to the cliff-ringed beach at Port Willunga, and the beach trolley, kayak and shelter make long summer days at Adelaide’s loveliest beach a breeze.
Le Mas
1929 Barossa Valley Way, Rowland Flat 5352
Imported French silks and objets d’art fill this sumptuous Rowland Flat B&B, modelled on a Provençal-style farmhouse. A guest-only restaurant in the airy conservatory and secluded mineral pool beside the North Para River make it hard to leave, but the guest bikes and a restored deux chevaux in the garage make it a delightful base to explore the Barossa Valley.
Share —
