All Images: South Australian Tourism Commission
From the lush, tree-lined streets of the Adelaide Hills to the world-famous vineyards of McLaren Vale and the Barossa, and the rugged natural beauty of the Murray River, Lakes & Coorong, South Australia’s regions offer extraordinary day trips that are perfect for memory-making.
Whether you’re showing off the state to visiting friends or family, taking a break between Adelaide’s major events, or simply seeking a fresh perspective for the weekend, these regions have something to surprise and delight.
With stunning scenery and unforgettable stops around every corner, there’s no better time to hit the road.
Adelaide Hills: A patchwork of colour, culture and culinary delight
A short, 20 minute scenic drive from Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills feels like a world away. Picture rolling vineyards, charming villages, and leafy streets that put on a seasonal show with emerald greens in summer and fiery reds come autumn.
Morning: Ease into the day with breakfast at Emma & Ivy in Lobethal, a café, florist, and wine bar all in one. It is the kind of spot locals secretly hope visitors won’t find. Other much-loved breakfast options in the Hills are Fourth Hill Providore at Verdun, FRED Eatery in Aldgate, or Sazon in Mount Barker. Afterwards, consider a guided tour at Jurlique Farm in Mylor to learn the biodynamic secrets behind this internationally loved skincare brand.
Midday: For a quintessential Hills experience, head to Beerenberg Farm for strawberry picking (seasonal) or discover other fruity delights at @Lenswood Pick Your Own apples. If you are welcoming interstate family, this is the perfect ‘only in SA’ experience. To find our more on where to go fruit picking in South Australia click here.
Afternoon: Explore Hahndorf’s artisan shops, galleries, distillery and wine cellar doors, including a tasting at Sidewood Estate, The Lane Vineyard, or Ambleside Distillery. Do not miss a visit to SA’s own FruChocs shop right in the heart of the street! For families, the Hahndorf Farm Barn offer animal encounters, and the Woodhouse Adventure Park in Piccadilly is a huge, fun-filled playground with tube slides, and the world’s only giant split-level maze with a fun firefighter’s pole!
Fine dining lunch option: For those after an elevated dining experience, book a long lunch at LVN at Bird in Hand in Woodside or Ondeen in Verdun, both offering premium seasonal menus set against the stunning Adelaide Hills landscape. For other outstanding food experiences also consider Ngeringa, Honey Bang Bang, and the Sticky Rice Cooking School.
Evening: As the day winds down, spoil yourself with a degustation at Mount Lofty House, or enjoy a relaxed dinner at the Stirling Hotel or the country-chic Uraidla Hotel. To catch the sunset pop into the Scenic Hotel at Norton Summit – perfect for soaking up the Hills’ laid-back charm.
Free option: Wander the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, follow the International Sculpture Trail, or snap a quirky photo at the Big Rocking Horse in Gumeracha.
Barossa: Wine, history and gourmet indulgence
Less than an hour northeast of Adelaide, the Barossa is world-famous, but still manages to charm with its authenticity. Whether you’re sipping your way along the Epicurean Way Road Trip or looking for an unforgettable foodie or wine experience, this region delivers.
Morning: Take to the skies with Barossa Valley Ballooning for a hot air balloon ride at dawn, followed by a Champagne breakfast at Novotel Barossa Valley Resort. Or if you head to Angaston on Saturday visit the Barossa Farmers Market. Grab a famous Barossa bacon and egg roll or a breakfast special with local sausage and sauerkraut. With coffee, bagels, dumplings, crumpets, and more from over 40 stallholders, it’s a true taste of the region.
Midday: Head to the Barossa Chocolate Factory in Tanunda for handcrafted chocolate paired with wine or enjoy the scent of 90 varieties of lavender at the Lyndoch Lavender Farm. For the sweet tooth, grab one of SA’s most loved donuts from Browns Barossa Donuts in Tanunda — award-winning and worth every bite.
Afternoon: Wine lovers are spoilt for choice, but boutique experiences at Seppeltsfield, Hentley Farm or Cimicky Wines offer intimate tastings and stories of the region’s pioneering spirit. If you’re visiting during AFL Gather Round or another big event, many cellar doors offer tailored packages or even boutique accommodation.
Evening: There are dozens of great dining experiences to be had in the Barossa Valley. However, the high street in Tanunda is home to some of the best. Check out 1918 Bar & Grill, Char Barossa, Vino Lokal, and Ferment Asian.
Free option: Don’t miss the Whispering Wall where a whisper travels 100 metres across the dam or meet Kapunda’s Map the Miner — one of SA’s iconic ‘big things’.
McLaren Vale: Where vines meet the sea
McLaren Vale, just 45 minutes south of Adelaide, is pure Mediterranean charm. Framed by rolling hills and pristine coastline, it’s the perfect blend of world-class wine and coastal cool.
Morning: Start at Manna Cafe where locals gather for wholesome breakfasts and lemon-berry pancakes that have a cult following.
Midday: Spend the day cellar door-hopping with a stop at Dandelion Vineyards for unbeatable views, Chalk Hill Wines for a sensory tasting matched to music, or the ever-popular Down the Rabbit Hole, with its double-decker bus bar and Italian eatery, Fiore.
Afternoon: For families (or the young at heart), Maxwell Wines offers a hedge maze and casual grounds perfect for picnics. More adventurous travellers can join a Walking Donkey Tour through the vines — a quirky alternative to your usual tasting.
Evening: Stick around for sunset over Port Willunga and book a table at Star of Greece, perched high Popular weekend spots include Pizzateca and The Salopian Inn.
Free option: Walk or cycle the Shiraz Trail, a gentle 7km path connecting McLaren Vale to Willunga, or find the cheeky giant grapes sculpture at the town’s entrance.
Murray River, Lakes & Coorong: South Australia’s quiet giant
For those who like their day trips with a side of wilderness, the Murray River, Lakes & Coorong region is an underrated gem. Ancient river systems, sweeping wetlands, and remarkable wildlife make this an adventure-rich destination.
Morning: Start with a warm country welcome at one of the region’s many sensational country bakeries before deciding whether you want thrills or tranquillity. Try Tailem Bend Bakery, Randell Street Bakery – Mannum, or McCue’s Bakery – Murray Bridge.
Midday: For motorsport fans, Shell V-Power Motorsport Park is unmatched, while those after a softer pace can explore the river by kayak, houseboat, or join a heritage paddle wheeler cruise.
Afternoon: Head to Monarto Safari Park, home to lions, giraffes, cheetahs, and two magnificent new elephants. Opening soon, the Monarto Safari Resort will offer unique overnight stays for those tempted to extend their ‘day’ trip. Alternatively visit the Langhorne Creek wine region with their Grapes for Good – Langhorne Creek program – self-drive and taste wines at some or all of the six participating Langhorne Creek cellar doors.
Cultural Insight: Visit Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Site with a guide to gain a deeper understanding of this land’s rich Aboriginal stories and Dreaming.
Evening: Toast to the day at Mallee Spirits in Lameroo, serving up small-batch gins with rustic country charm. But you must book ahead – on their website they state “If we are home, We will open up for you!“
Free option: Admire the towering Lameroo Silo Art or spot the Giant Yabby at Clayton Bay — quirky, memorable and very SA.
For more road trip inspiration, discover the South Australian Road Trips hub or browse what’s happening right now via What’s On SA.
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South Australia’s regions are diverse, beautiful, and have something for every traveller, or local. These four regions provide the perfect opportunity for a memorable day trip, filled with experiences you’ll truly never forget.
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