Get more out of a trip to Adelaide and explore its sparkling surrounds. Here are my top ten recommendations to put some sizzle into your SA sojourn.
1. Drink iconic Shiraz in the BarossaA mere 90 minutes from Adelaide is Australia’s most prestigious wine region, the Barossa. Jump on a bus tour from your Adelaide hotel for a day of fine wine and merriment.Favourite cellar doors:
• Hentley Farm
• Jacobs Creek
• Laughing Jack
• Two HandsFor more on the Barossa read Adam Liaw’s expert guide here.
2. Hit the happening bar scene in Adelaide
Adelaide’s had a cool bar renaissance. Work your way through the cocktail lists at these fine establishments:
• Udaberri
• Clever Little Tailor
• The Collins (inside the Hilton)
• Little Miss Miami
3. Swim with wild dolphins in Glenelg
The coastal waters off Adelaide are home to thousands of frolicking bottlenose and common dolphins. Sign up to a cruise and you can splish, splash and interact with the friendly mammals in their natural environment. A very special experience you’ll remember forever.
4. Be transported to rural Europe in the Adelaide Hills
Just thirty minutes out of Adelaide city is a curious, cute-as-a-button region with quaint villages and meandering country laneways. Feel like you’re stepping into the pages of a children’s fairytale as you wander the chocolate box pretty streets of Hahndorf.
If you want to take the hassle out of your exploration, sign up to a tour.
5. Do long lunch on the coast
Port Willunga’s Star of Greece serves top notch food and delicious wines under the majesty of a truly breathtaking coastal view. Bookings in advance necessary.
6. Explore the Central Markets
From melt in the middle cheeses to paddock-fresh vegetables or Italian inspired delicacies, take your senses on a culinary journey at the bustling Central Markets. The internationally acclaimed market is a must-do for every visitor to the city.
For a unique experience you can get a guided market tour at dawn.
7. Dress up and do dinner in the city
SA is firmly asserting itself as a great foodie hot spot. Bring your fancy pants and go out for a great feast.
Recommended eateries include:
• The Grace – a hip restaurant cum bar in Norwood
• Concubine – modern-cool Chinese on Gouger St
• Gin long canteen – Asian fusion in North Adelaide
8. Take a turn through Adelaide
Discover for yourself why the Lonely Planet crowned Adelaide one of the top ten cities to visit in 2014. Wander the streets to admire the city’s sporting and historical architecture, classic gardens and surprising laneway street art. End your walk with a much needed hit of sugar at the famous Haigh’s chocolate store on Rundle Mall.
9. Sink some more vinos in the McLaren Vale
Vineyards meet the ocean at the delightful McLaren Vale wine region just forty minutes outside of the city. This strikingly pretty rural area is a favourite of locals. Get in on the action and discover some top drops (minus the Barossa crowds) at some intimate cellar doors.
Recommended wineries:
• Alpha Box & Dice
• Lloyd Brothers
• Samuel’s Gorge
10. Say g’day to the pandas at Adelaide Zoo
Housing over 1,800 animals, Adelaide Zoo is located in the city’s attractive parklands. Admire the zoo’s most famous inhabitants Wang Wang and Funi, two super fluffy giant pandas and get up close and personal to smaller creatures at the Children Zoo.
Book your zoo ticket here.
