South and East Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and tips for exploring South and East Adelaide Region in South Australia. Explore natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and local cuisine with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to South and East

Located in the Adelaide Region of South Australia, South and East offer an incredible range of natural and cultural attractions for travelers. From stunning wildlife sanctuaries, lush conservation parks, and awe-inspiring vistas to world-class museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks, South and East offer something for everyone.

This tour guide will provide everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to South and East. From the best places to explore to cultural tips and safety information, this guide has everything you need to get started.

List of Places to Visit in South and East

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Adelaide has plenty of cultural landmarks to explore. Some of the top museums and historical places in South and East include:

  • Migration Museum: A fascinating museum dedicated to exploring the history of immigration in South Australia.

  • South Australian Maritime Museum: This museum offers insights into the maritime history of South Australia, including the Port Adelaide Lighthouse and a collection of historic vessels.

  • National Motor Museum: This museum showcases over 300 fascinating exhibits, including cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and other vehicles.

  • Art Gallery of South Australia: A world-class museum that features an extensive collection of Australian art, as well as works from around the world.

Natural Attractions of South and East: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

South and East are home to a wide range of natural attractions that offer plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the must-see natural attractions in the region include:

  • Cleland Conservation Park: This park offers the perfect escape from the city, with plenty of hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and stunning views.

  • Adelaide Hills: A beautiful and scenic destination with plenty of hiking and cycling trails, wineries, and wildlife sanctuaries.

  • Morialta Conservation Park: This park offers stunning views, hiking trails, and some of the best rock climbing in South Australia.

  • Hallet Cove Conservation Park: A geological wonderland with some of the oldest rocks in the world, offering hiking trails and stunning views over the coastline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South and East

South and East are home to some of the best hiking and biking routes in South Australia. Some of the top routes to explore include:

  • Heysen Trail: A 1,200-kilometer hiking trail that starts from Cape Jervis and winds its way through stunning landscapes, including the Flinders Ranges and the Barossa Valley.

  • Coast to Vines Rail Trail: A popular cycling route that takes you from the scenic coastline through beautiful vineyards and rolling hills.

  • Mount Lofty Summit Loop Trail: A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views over the city and the coastline.

Best Things to Do in South and East: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for an adventure, South and East have plenty of amazing things to do. Some of the best activities and tours to try when visiting South and East include:

  • Wildlife Tours: Adelaide is home to some incredible wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas. A wildlife tour is a great way to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures.

  • Wine Tours: South Australia is home to some of the best wineries in Australia, and the Adelaide Hills and Barossa Valley both offer excellent wine tours.

  • Cultural Tours: Adelaide has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. Some of the best cultural tours include visiting historic landmarks and museums, as well as taking a walking tour of the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for South and East

If you have a week to explore South and East, here is a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1: Arrival in Adelaide and settling in.
Day 2: Explore the city of Adelaide and visit the museums and galleries.
Day 3: Visit the Adelaide Hills and explore the local wineries.
Day 4: Hike in Cleland Conservation Park or Morialta Conservation Park.
Day 5: Head to the Barossa Valley for more wine tasting and vineyard tours.
Day 6: Take a wildlife tour to see kangaroos and koalas up close.
Day 7: Depart for your next destination or continue exploring Adelaide.

Food and Drink Scene of South and East

Must-Try Dishes

South Australia is known for its great food and wine, and Adelaide has plenty of delicious local foods worth trying. Some of the must-try dishes in South and East include:

  • Barramundi: A delicious local fish that is often grilled or pan-fried.

  • Pie floater: A classic Adelaide dish that consists of a meat pie floating in a thick pea soup.

  • Kangaroo meat: A lean and healthy meat that is delicious when cooked correctly.

  • Vegemite: A savory spread made from yeast extract that is often enjoyed on toast or crackers.

Local Beverages

Adelaide is known for its world-class wine, and there are plenty of excellent wineries in the region. Some of the other local beverages worth trying include:

  • Coopers Beer: A local beer that has been brewed in Adelaide since 1862.

  • Bickford’s Cordial: A non-alcoholic beverage that has been made in South Australia since 1874.

Where to Stay in South and East: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation, a budget-friendly hostel, or a cozy guesthouse, there are plenty of options in South and East. Some of the top places to stay in the region include:

  • The Playford Adelaide: A luxury hotel located in the heart of Adelaide.

  • Adelaide Backpackers and Travellers Inn: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center.

  • Adelaide’s Shakespeare Backpackers International Hostel: A cozy hostel located in a historic building in Adelaide.

What to Buy in South and East: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home from South and East, here are some ideas:

  • Australian wine: South Australia is known for its excellent wine, so consider bringing home a bottle or two from a local winery.

  • Aboriginal art: Adelaide has a vibrant arts scene, and there are plenty of local galleries that showcase Aboriginal art.

Local Culture and Customs of South and East

Adelaide has a rich cultural heritage, and there are a few customs and traditions that visitors should be aware of when traveling in South and East. Here are a few tips:

  • Tipping: It is standard to tip around 10% in Adelaide restaurants and cafes.

  • Language: English is the most commonly spoken language in South and East.

Best Time to Visit South and East

The best time to visit South and East is during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore local attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of South and East

Do:

  • Do try the local food and wine: South Australia is known for its delicious local food and wine, so take the time to try some of the local specialties.

  • Do explore the natural attractions: South and East are home to some of the most stunning natural attractions in Australia, so take the time to explore them.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the weather: South Australia can be quite hot and dry, especially in the summer months, so be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

  • Don’t forget to book ahead: Adelaide is a popular destination, so be sure to book accommodation and tours ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Safety and Health

Safety in South and East

Adelaide is generally a safe city, but it’s still important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.

  • Watch out for wildlife: Adelaide is home to some incredible wildlife, but it’s important to keep a safe distance and never approach wild animals.

Health in South and East

Adelaide has excellent healthcare facilities, so if you need medical attention, you’ll be in good hands. It’s also important to take precautions to avoid heatstroke and dehydration, especially during the hot summer months.

Getting to South and East: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near South and East

The closest airport to South and East is Adelaide Airport, which is located approximately 25 minutes from the city center.

Bus Stations Near South and East

Adelaide Central Bus Station is located in the city center and offers regular services to destinations throughout South Australia.

Other Options

There are plenty of other transportation options for getting around Adelaide, including taxis and rental cars.

How to Get Around in South and East

Adelaide has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and trams. There are also plenty of taxi services and rental cars available for those who prefer to explore on their own.

Where to Go Next from South and East: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of South Australia, some of the nearby destinations worth visiting include:

  • Kangaroo Island: Known for its spectacular wildlife and stunning landscapes, Kangaroo Island is just a short ferry ride from Adelaide.

  • Flinders Ranges: A beautiful wilderness area that offers some of the best hiking and camping in South Australia.

  • Yorke Peninsula: A beautiful coastal area that offers excellent fishing, swimming, and surfing.

Conclusion

South and East are two of the most beautiful and fascinating regions in South Australia. With stunning natural attractions, rich cultural landmarks, and delicious local food and wine, South and East offer plenty of reasons to visit. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this incredible region.