There are long lunches, and then there are the ones you will talk about for years. This year, as part of Tasting Australia’s 2025 program, a select group of guests will be treated to something truly unforgettable — an exclusive culinary escape to the spectacular private Louth Island, just off the coast of Port Lincoln.
With sweeping ocean views, untouched landscapes and an undeniable sense of seclusion, Louth Island is fast becoming one of South Australia’s most coveted luxury destinations.
Following a $20 million transformation, the island is preparing to unveil a new era of indulgence, with high-end villas, a day spa and additional dining spaces on the horizon. Before the full expansion is revealed, this Tasting Australia event offers guests a rare and intimate preview of what’s to come.
“The island is still a very well-kept secret and by creating an event like this for Tasting Australia we can attract serious foodies who want to experience something really special,” says Resort Manager Natasha Metcalfe.
“Guests will begin their journey by boat, crossing the crystal-clear waters of the Eyre Peninsula, before stepping ashore on the rugged and pristine island. From there, the afternoon will unfold into something quietly extraordinary,” adds Natasha.
The culinary highlight awaits at Samphire Restaurant, the jewel of Louth Island, which opened its doors in August 2024. Dedicated to showcasing provenance at its finest, Samphire embraces an eat-local philosophy under the guidance of award-winning Executive Chef Jono Sweet. Recognised with two Australian Good Food Guide Chef’s Hats for 2025.
“Here at Rumi, guests will experience the rich flavours of the Eyre Peninsula from pristine, locally caught seafood to ingredients foraged right here on Louth Island,” said Jono.
For this Tasting Australia special occasion, guests will enjoy a lavish multi-course feast featuring Yumbah abalone, hiramasa kingfish, Hanna V king prawns and the iconic Coffin Bay oysters. Every dish is elevated further by perfectly matched South Australian wines, making for a dining experience that is as refined as it is memorable.
“My cooking is all about refinement and freshness—letting the produce speak for itself. I lean toward bright, citrus-driven sauces that enhance the pure, natural essence of the seafood, while weaving in the vibrant, enticing notes of Mediterranean cuisine.”
“For our upcoming Tasting Australia event on Louth Island, my goal is to create an unforgettable experience—one that captures the beauty and bounty of this unique region. I want every guest to leave with a meal that lingers with them long after they’ve gone.”
Cementing its rising reputation, Samphire’s has been awarded two Australian Good Food Guide Chef’s Hats for 2025, placing it among the top one percent of restaurants in the country.
“The chef’s hats speak volumes about the quality of our dining experiences,” says Natasha.
“The kitchen leans easily on local produce so does the bar with local producers like Jumpship Brewing, Teakle Wines, and West Coast Distilling, which is only a touch on what we can source across the Lower Eyre Peninsula.”
The restaurant’s approach leans into the Eyre Peninsula’s rich bounty, crafting Modern Australian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes that honour the region’s world-class seafood.
Canapes and paired drinks will be provided at three stops along the way, with chefs and producers on hand to offer their insights.
A seated three-course lunch at the new Samphire restaurant is next. Be among the first to discover this remarkable property, created with wild indulgence at its heart.
We’ll keep the specifics a surprise, but expect to see a full spectrum of Eyre Peninsula seafood – oysters, tuna, prawns and abalone – followed by a lavish dessert.
Though deeply connected to South Australia, Louth Island offers a sense of escape that feels worlds away.
“When people visit our island they feel like they could be in a resort in Far North Queensland or the Greek Islands. Five-star luxury, privacy and exceptional food,” says Natasha.
This is far more than just a long lunch. It is an invitation to slow down and savour, where every course, every glass and every view has been carefully considered. From the moment guests step ashore to the final lingering sip of wine, the experience is designed to transport.
For one day only in May, Louth Island will open its shores to Tasting Australia guests, offering an experience few will ever forget.
With limited seats and an atmosphere of effortless luxury, it is set to be one of the most sought-after events of the season. A private island, exceptional seafood and a rare opportunity to indulge in South Australia’s finest.
This is a really accessible way to experience one of South Australia’s bucket-list destinations that is fast becoming a nature’s playground for the rich and famous.
With salt on the breeze, wine in hand and the ocean’s freshest catch on the table, this long lunch promises to be something truly special.
Rumi on Louth is putting together weekend itineraries to add to the already once-in-a-lifetime dining experience with suggestions for Sunday evening Eyre Peninsula accommodation, coupled with experiences and other restaurants, transfers and flight options. Making this Tasting Australia lunch one adventurous culinary odyssey.
RUMI LOUTH ISLAND JOURNEY
When: Saturday 3 May, 2025
Tickets: From $595pp >> click here
INCLUSIONS –
- Food: Gourmet canapés and a decadent multi-course lunch
- Beverages: Welcome beverage, drinks from tasting stations, and wine pairings with lunch
- Return ground transfers between Port Lincoln Hotel and Louth Bay compound
Planning Your Louth Island Escape
For those lucky enough to secure a seat at this exclusive event, here are a few essentials to help plan the perfect weekend in Port Lincoln and Louth Island.
Flights are available direct from Adelaide to Port Lincoln, with Qantas and Rex offering convenient connections. Recommended departures from Adelaide are at 1.20pm or 4.10pm, while return flights from Port Lincoln operate at 11.55am or 5.20pm. Once you’ve landed, car hire is available at Port Lincoln Airport through Avis, Enterprise or Budget.
A range of charming and comfortable accommodation options are dotted across Port Lincoln for those planning to stay. Popular choices include the Port Lincoln Hotel, Bay 10, Met Apartments, Shaen Motel, Marina Hotel and Limani Motel.
A suggested weekend itinerary invites you to make the most of your time on the Eyre Peninsula. Ease into Friday with a relaxed stroll along the foreshore, keeping an eye out for the famous Makybe Diva statue, before enjoying a sunset drink at The Hotel Boston and dinner at Line & Label Restaurant at Teakle Winery.
Saturday begins with breakfast at the beloved L’Anse Patisserie before you embark on your transfer to Louth Island for the main event — the unforgettable Tasting Australia long lunch. After returning to the mainland, cap off the day with a pint and live music at Beer Garden Brewing.
If you’re lingering a little longer, Sunday is perfect for a leisurely coffee at Rogue & Rascal or The Beach Bakery before joining a Coffin Bay Oyster Tour, complete with pick-up from Port Lincoln Hotel.
For those with more time, Port Lincoln and surrounds are brimming with activities, including coastal walks, wineries, museums and wildlife experiences. Highlights include Coffin Bay National Park, Mikkara Station Koala Sanctuary, Boston Bay Winery, Whalers Way and the popular Oyster Farm Tours.
For bookings or further information, contact the Rumi on Louth team at [email protected] or phone (08) 7093 5699.
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