Australia is an incredible country which is not only widely recognised for its gorgeous natural beaches, iconic red sands of the Australian outback, beautiful wildlife but also its cosmopolitan cities as well.
As much as we enjoy immersing in the vibrant energy in sophisticated Sydney and artsy Melbourne, there are times when we just want to be away from the mayhem of the city life for somewhere more laid-back. For many Singaporeans, a trip away from the urban city is a necessity as it helps to reduce stress from the pressures of life.
If the idea of getting up close and personal with gorgeous wild animals and strolling down vineyards with a glass of wine in hand sounds appealing to you, Adelaide is where you need to be visiting next. The capital city in South Australia, Adelaide is an insanely rich region—both geographically and culturally speaking.
The wonderful weather, stunning natural landmarks and friendly locals combined with top-notch restaurants, cafes and farmers markets make Adelaide the ideal travel destination for a relaxing holiday. So if you are ready for an experience of a lifetime, read our tips on the top 10 things you have to do when you are in Adelaide.
#1 GO FOR A FOOD AND WINE TOUR AT ADELAIDE CENTRAL MARKET
You will be able to find a myriad of local produce, imported food, and baked goods all year round at one of the most famous markets in Australia—Adelaide Central Market. Most of the items on offer are seasonal and picked directly from local farms so you know you are getting only the freshest produce.
Take your time while you explore the market and soak in the bustling atmosphere of the place—sample on various cheeses, surprise your partner with colourful blooms, slurp up raw oysters or just watch the locals going about doing their weekly grocery shopping.
#2 STRAWBERRY PICKING AT BEERENBERG STRAWBERRY FARM
With an entry fee of AUD$4 per person, visitors get to pick the sweetest and juiciest strawberries at Beerenberg Strawberry Farm. If you are wondering when is a good time to visit, strawberry picking season usually begins in November and lasts all the way until April.
Do note that there is an additional fee of AUD$9/kg for the strawberries. Once you are satisfied with your loot, visit the farm shop at Beerenberg which opens all year round; look forward to free tastings on their famous produce—including jams, sauces and condiments!
#3 HAVE LUNCH AT HAHNDORF INN
Having been in business for more than 150 years, Historic Hahndorf Inn is an established restaurant serving up the most authentic German grub you can find in the area.
Their signature Hahndorf Inn (Deluxe) Platte is a sight to behold. Meant for groups of two to four, the deluxe Bavarian platter features their famous schweinshaxe, schnitzel, sausages, Bavarian rissoles, beef ribs, sauerkraut, rotkohl, potato salad, mashed potato, mustard, mushroom sauce and pork jus. This platter is definitely not for the fainthearted!
#4 HEAD UP TO MOUNT LOFTY SUMMIT
Get a bird’s eye view of Adelaide city from the top of Mount Lofty, which is 710 meters above sea level. Mount Lofty Summit draws an estimate of 350,000 people per year to visit the peak where they are able to take pictures of the breathtaking sight.
#5 GET UP CLOSE WITH SEA LIONS AT SEAL BAY, KANGAROO ISLAND
Seal Bay is a must-visit destination on Kangaroo Island for all animal lovers as this is where you get to watch sea lions frolic in the sea or sunbathing on the sandy beach.
Each group is led by a Parks Interpretive Officer who will bring you down to the beach, where you will be about 10 meters away from the majestic sea creatures!
#6 SEE KOALAS AT HANSON BAY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, KANGAROO ISLAND
Another pit stop to make at Kangaroo Island is Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, a place that is known to be one of the most biodiverse and pristine eco-systems in Australia.
Get your cameras ready as you walk down the road as you will find plenty of curious koalas peeking at you from the tall Eucalyptus trees they are resting on.
#7 TAKE PICTURES OF THE REMARKABLE ROCKS, KANGAROO ISLAND
Mother Nature is oh-so-wonderful and we were in awe of the Remarkable Rocks on Kangaroo Island—a cluster of gigantic granite boulders which were sculpted by strong weather forces and crashing waves of the ocean.
This is one scenic spot to take pictures against the unique rock formations which cannot be found anywhere else.
#8 GO FOR A WINE TASTING MASTERCLASS AT JACOB’S CREEK
Even if you are no wine expert, a wine tasting masterclass (AUD$150 per pax) at Jacob’s Creek will broaden your knowledge on this ancient practice. Guests are given a sampling tray with different types of food to match with the wines. For those who are doing this for the first time, your taste buds are in for a wild ride!
Once the class is over, you are treated to a four-course lunch and two glasses of wine to complete the entire experience. Walk around the vineyard when you are done and bask in the warm rays of the sun during cold weather—this is our idea of an idyllic afternoon.
#9 CONCOCT YOUR OWN BLEND AT PENFOLDS
Nestled in the Barossa Valley, Penfolds is one of the oldest and most well-known wineries in Australia. Apart from wine shopping, you also get to make your own blend in their winemakers’ laboratory.
Using a mixture of wines such as Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro, you are able to concoct your very own wine based on your preferences and creativity. The wine is then sealed in a bottle for you to enjoy during your trip. A minimum party of two is required for this session (AUD$65 per pax).
#10 VISIT LYNDOCH LAVENDER FARM
Immerse yourself in a sea of purple during the lavender blooming season, which happens from August to January. Imagine admiring the various lavender blooms while taking in the lovely scent of fresh lavenders in the air; what an unforgettable memory. And even enjoy lavender ice-cream!
There are also lavender products on sale in their humble shop and cafe beside the lavender field ranging from edible products such as lavender tea and scones to beauty items and essential oils.
DYNASTY TRAVEL’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY
Dynasty Travel is celebrating its 40th anniversary!
And in conjunction with this big occasion, there will be special travel packages at the upcoming NATAS fair that is happening from 23 Mar to 25 Mar 2018. If you haven’t made any travel plans, you know where to head to!
This post is brought to you by Dynasty Travel and South Australia Tourism Commission.
I’m planning a trip to Australia. Which part would you recommend to go? I’m thinking between Melbourne or Perth. Are you able to advise?