Curator’s statement
Australia is a vast and diverse country with plenty of amazing destinations to explore. While most travelers to Australia focus on Sydney or the Great Barrier Reef, they are missing out by not visiting Adelaide. Situated on the southern coast, Adelaide is a beautiful city with a rich history, culture and cuisine. It's also a gateway to some of Australia's most stunning natural attractions and outstanding wines. So by all means, spend some time in Sydney, then add another 4 (or more) days to visit Adelaide. You won't regret it!
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Day 1: Adelaide Central Market & Botanic Garden
Start your first day with a visit to Adelaide Central Market where you can find fresh produce, delicious food and unique souvenirs. After that, head to Rundle Mall for some shopping and to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Don't miss a visit to the beautiful Adelaide Botanic Garden and the iconic Adelaide Oval. End the day with a scenic walk along the River Torrens and dinner at one of the many fantastic restaurants in the city. Some favorite options include Fino Vino and Fugazzi.
Day 2: Wine Tasting & Barossa Valley
Get ready for a day of wine tasting and breathtaking scenery in the Barossa Valley, which is only an hour's drive from Adelaide. There are plenty of wineries to choose from, but some of the most popular ones include Penfolds, Jacobs Creek and Seppeltsfield. You'll get to taste some of the best wines in the world and enjoy the beautiful views of rolling hills and vineyards. Book yourself a dinner reservation at Appellation, the intimate restaurant at The Louise.
Day 3: Hike the Adelaide Hills
Take a drive to Adelaide Hills, a picturesque region with charming towns, lush forests and stunning views. Visit the historic town of Hahndorf, where you can wander the quaint streets and sample some German-inspired food and wine. Don't miss a visit to Mount Lofty Summit, which offers panoramic views of Adelaide and the surrounding areas. Depending upon the season, you should stop at Beerenberg to pick fresh strawberries.
Day 4: Another Day, Another Wine Tour
This time, head to McLaren Vale, which is also only an hour's drive from Adelaide. McLaren Vale is known for its award-winning Shiraz and Grenache wines, as well as its stunning coastal views. Some of the best wineries to visit include d'Arenberg, Wirra Wirra, and Coriole Vineyards. Book yourself a table for lunch at Coriole, where you can enjoy locally-inspired food served family style.
Day 5: Kangaroo Island & Flinders Chase National Park
Take an early morning ferry from Cape Jervis to Kangaroo Island. Once you arrive, head straight to Flinders Chase National Park, which is home to the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Marvel at the stunning rock formations and the rugged coastline, and keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies and seals. After that, head to Seal Bay Conservation Park, where you can see Australian sea lions basking on the sandy beach. Take a guided tour to learn more about these fascinating creatures and their habitat. In the afternoon, visit one of the island's stunning beaches, such as Vivonne Bay or Stokes Bay, where you can go for a swim, take a walk along the shore or simply relax and soak up the sun.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on Food & Wine.