Often unfairly overlooked, South Australia holds massive appeal guaranteed to stimulate the senses of gourmands, families, nature lovers and anyone who appreciate the finer things in life. South Australia may not be the first holiday hotspot on your radar when planning a visit Down Under, but you'd be surprised at the variety of experiences this gem of a destination offers. And while Adelaide and its surrounds are renowned for gourmet food and award-winning wines, there's certainly more to South Australia than the Barossa Valley - its crowning jewel. The best facets of Australia's west and east coasts combined, South Australia has a relaxed pace of life and offers a myriad of multi-cultural influences, unique festivals and events, sporting activities, sandy beaches and an abundance of nature and wildlife. Sheltered by the nearby Adelaide Hills, the "City of Churches" faces the waters of Gulf St Vincent. Cruise through the centre of Adelaide in an original Tramontin designed Venetian gondola - a must for romantics. Cupid sanctified and certified, you'll be able to appreciate views of the city lights and tree-lined parks as you glide along the glassy waters of the River Torrens. Indulge in some of South Australia's finest wines as you admire Adelaide's famous black swans and watch the world go by. Unique landscapes offer visual harmony and a Mediterranean climate, so gaze at the blue skies, breathe in the fresh air and prepare to be swept off your feet. Wine & dine The Barossa Valley is just an hour away from Adelaide and offers everything you'd expect from Australia's most famous wine region. Winemakers are eager to share their secrets, landscapes are etched with manicured vineyards, while passionate food producers proffer wares at country markets and luxurious accommodation is offered at grand châteaux surrounded by ornate gardens. The region owes much of its appeal to the European farmers and English migrants who settled here in the 1850s, a rich cultural heritage you can experience in the superb specialty foods, fun festivals and events, historic architecture and inspiring arts and antiques galleries of the Barossa region. Take a winery tour in a limousine or vintage car, or better yet, float above the valley in a hot-air balloon! Spend the night in a restored settler's cottage, five-star resort, luxurious country house or relaxed caravan park. Wander at your will and take your time exploring this unique part of South Australia. Beach bum alert Lofty heights Historical townships CONTACT http://www.southaustralia.com.sg/ (Singapore) http://www.southaustralia.com/ (Malaysia) - general information and a wide range of accommodation options. http://www.restaurant.org.au/ - comprehensive list of South Australian restaurants. TO DO √ 
South Australia is home to some of Australia's best food and wine, a legacy of the early 1800s' influx of European and Mediterranean migrants to the region. Get an immediate taste of this with a morning excursion to Adelaide's Central Market in Gouger Street. Founded in 1869 it offers a dizzying array of fresh fruits and vegetables, plus an excellent range of gourmet specialties. Indulge in fine chocolates at Haigh's Chocolate Factory (http://haighschocolates.com.au) before making your way to the National Wine Centre (http://www.wineaustralia.com.au/) to discover more about South Australian wines. Make sure you purchase a Cellar Door Pass (http://www.cellardoorpass.com/, A$99), your ticket to discover more than 50 wineries, including those in the state's famous wine regions such as the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, McLaren Vale and Coonawarra. South Australia produces half of Australia's wines and accounts for approximately 70 percent of wine exports. You'll certainly never be thirsty!
The seaside suburb of Glenelg offers a stunning beach setting, luxurious lodgings and an upbeat atmosphere. Getting to Glenelg is half the fun. Catch one of the old trams from Victoria Square and in just 30 minutes you can be swimming with dolphins, fishing, sunbathing or just relaxing with a glass of wine. If speed is in your blood, cruise the coast in a Hel-a-va Jet Boats (http://www.helava.com.au/) high-adrenalin craft, among the world's fastest. Or go shopping along Jetty Road and stop off at one of the many restaurants or cafes for a relaxed meal.
The Adelaide hills are just 20 minutes away from the city centre. Discover walking trails, rolling vineyards, historic townships, wildlife sanctuaries, botanical gardens, national parks, farms and many inviting cafes and pubs. Pack a picnic and admire stunning panoramic views of the city of Adelaide and the ocean from the summit of Mount Lofty, rising 2,385 feet above sea level. Visit the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden and Cleland Wildlife Park, as well as wineries, historic guesthouses and other attractions.
Stop off at Hahndorf for a taste and feel of Germany. Its numerous art galleries and shops selling souvenirs, antiques, clothing and traditional German food, make this town an intriguing place to spend the day. Numerous wineries here are known for delicate white and sparkling wines. If you're travelling between October and May visit the Beerenberg Strawberry Farm (www.beerenberg.com.au) and pick your own delicious strawberries before soaking up the picturesque views from the balcony.
Enjoy a Huckleberry Finn adventure! Hire a traditional houseboat and go cruising along the Murray River - it's the ultimate in privacy and all you need is a valid driver's license. Stop off for a barbecue or visit the number of riverside towns along the way. For an exciting family holiday, hop over to Kangaroo Island. This world-famous nature sanctuary is one of the best places to get close and personal with Australian wildlife in their own environment. Various tours depart by 4-Wheel-Drive, coach, on foot and by sea. Don't miss the Seal Bay Conservation Park (www.parks.sa.gov.au/sealbay) where you can walk amidst a colony of sea lions in their natural habitat. Marvel at Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, just two of the many amazing land formations within the 33,000-hectare Flinders Chase National Park. Be daring and hop on a sand board to ride the ridges of Little Sahara, a series of spectacular sand dunes - equally fun for kids and adults. And before leaving, make sure you stop at Sunset Winery to enjoy elevated sea views of South Australia's Eastern Cove.
Hire a houseboat Most come with well-equipped kitchens, spacious cabins, en suite bathrooms, sundecks and even spas. Web: www.houseboats.com.au
Warrawong Sanctuary See unique Australian wildlife and go on guided dawn and sunset walks. Web: www.warrawong.com
Naracoorte Caves Located in the Limestone Coastal town of Naracoorte, many of the caves are open for self-guided and guided walks. Web: www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/naracoorte/index.html
Swim with dolphins Just 20 minutes from Adelaide's city centre, Temptation Sailing explores the glittering shoreline of Glenelg and invites you to take to the water for a meet-and-greet with dolphins. Web: www.dolphinboat.com.au
Chateau Barrosa Rose Garden Featuring more than 20,000 roses of over 2,000 varieties, the stunning Chateau Barossa Rose Garden is 30 acres of inspiration and reflection. Web: www.chateaubarrosa.com.au
Whale Watching Southern right whales migrate to the waters near Fleurieu Peninsula and the Head of Bight from June to October to give birth and care for their young. Web: www.sawhalecentre.com
Granite Island If you're visiting Victor Harbor, catch the horse-drawn tram to Granite Island. Web: http://www.tourismvictorharbor.com.au/, www.graniteisland.com.au
Lavender Farm Enjoy scenic walks and visit the quaint café to sample lavender ice cream, scones and biscuits. Web: www.lyndochlavenderfarm.com.au
Kangaroo Island Just a 30-minute flight south of Adelaide. Walk among huge weather-worn granite boulders and discover seals basking on quiet beaches, koalas, echidnas, kangaroos, goannas, wallabies, penguins and birds at just about every turn. Web: www.tourkangarooisland.com.au
Coober Pedy Visit this opal mining town where locals live underground to escape the summer heat and learn how to noodle for opals or play golf on a grass-free course. Web: www.opalcapitaloftheworld.com.au
Hot Air Ballooning See the sun rise over the Barossa Valley from your private balloon and enjoy a Champagne picnic breakfast. Web: www.balloonadventures.com.au 
Local produce is widely used and iconic establishments continue to build on their enviable reputations. For chic dining, visit Melbourne Street or Rundle Street and take time to explore Gouger Street, Chinatown in the Central Market precinct, Hutt Street and O'Connell Street.
SkyCity An exciting mix of bars, restaurants and dance clubs. Web: http://www.skycityadelaide.com.au/.
Windy Point Restaurant Located at the foot of Adelaide Hills, this restaurant offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city below and serves eclectic seasonal cuisine combined with an impeccable regional wine list. Web: www.windypointrestaurant.com
Appellation at Peppers The Louise is the Barossa's premier destination dining experience. This luxury vineyard retreat offers acclaimed world-class food, wine and service. Web: www.peppers.com.au/thelouise
Barr-Vinum Innovative cuisine makes this restaurant a memorable dining experience. Tel: +618 8564 3688
Vintners Bar & Grill Situated in the picturesque vineyard setting of the Barossa Valley, this restaurant features a vine-covered courtyard and a huge open fire. Web: www.vintners.com.au
1918 Bistro & Grill Located in the Tanunda - Barossa region - lunch and dinner is served in a villa overlooking a pretty garden. Tel: +618 8563 0405
Salopian Inn This 150-year old rustic inn is one of Australia's most pleasant and regionally authentic country restaurants. Web: www.salopianinn.com.au
Limeburners Restaurant This striking glassed restaurant presents great dramatic flourish. Tel: +618 8323 8599
d'Arry's Verandah Enjoy wonderful views of the patchwork quilt of vineyards in the McLaren Vale region. Web: www.darenberg.com.au
Star of Greece This charming 1950s establishment is perched on a cliff and offers magnificent views of the coastline of Port Willunga - all within ten minutes of the McLaren Vale wineries. Tel: +618 8557 7420
Blues Restaurant Modern Mediterranean cuisine served in a coastal village. Tel: + 618 8554 1800
Flying Fish Cafe Superb seafood fare on the foreshore of magnificent Horseshoe Bay in the Fleurieu Peninsula. Tel: +618 8554 3504
Text and images: www.southaustralia.com.sg
Posted Nov 06
