With world-class wine, beautiful beaches for both swimming and surfing, a breathtaking coastline and impressive selection of fine dining, the Fleurieu Peninsula is a spot that LML Sarah and I can’t miss on our first trip to South Australia.We head to Victor Harbor, just over an hours drive from Adelaide and instantly feel the serenity of the coastal town. Its laid-back seaside vibe and colonial style architecture shows off its historical past-it’s stunning. As we explore, we’re met with small-town hospitality and really begin to feel on holiday. It’s easy to see why this is a favourite spot for South Australians.
The Causeway from Victor Harbor to Granite Island
It’s time to get out on the water, so we head out on a 30 minute Big Duck Boat Tour of Encounter Bay. The intimate 10-seater boat offers a fantastic view as we cruise across the harbour to Seal Rock. We spot heaps of Australian Sea Lions and New Zealand fur seals basking in the sun – including a baby! Some put on quite a show, somersaulting in the water alongside the boat. If you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, there is also a scenic horse drawn tram which transports visitors along the causeway to Granite Island – an experience not to be missed.
For dinner, we choose The Australasian circa 1858, a beautifully restored boutique hotel in Goolwa. Normally reserved for hotel guests, the restaurant opens to the public on Saturdays for an evening of fine dining. We’re treated with a delicious and fresh, Asian inspired three course menu consisting of scallops with fresh lime and Japanese pepper, baked coorong mulloway fillet and the most mouth-watering dessert treats, all created by chef Juliet Michell. The salted caramel sauce is to die for!
After exploring the town and sampling its exquisite food we head back to our oasis for the night at Bluff Apartments. We are wowed by the spacious three bed apartment, full kitchen, and open-plan dining and lounge. The huge wrap-around balcony offers stunning views over the turquoise waters of Encounter Bay and beyond. Now this is a view I could get used to.
If you’re looking to enjoy a slower pace of life for a few days during your next SA holiday, don’t skip Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula off your itinerary. We loved it and will definitely be back!
Wendy travelled as a guest of SATC and Bluff Apartments.
Book a stay at the The Bluff Resort Apartments (formerly Whalers Resort )