South Australia's charm finds its roots in the heart of foodie-friendly Adelaide and flows out over the rolling Adelaide Hills to the paradise of the Barossa Valley. The region boasts an abundance of destination that are rich in culture, scenery, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, best enjoyed with a glass of Barossa Shiraz. Six Travel Associates consultants gathered unforgettable memories on their recent journey through this southern wonderland.
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1. Maggies Beer’s Farm Shop
Home of ABC’s The Cook and the Chef, this is a great stop for families and foodies. You can taste-test absolutely everything in the shop, which sells original specialty items. The kids can wander the farm while you fuel your inner Master Chef at a cooking demonstration, and finish with a charming farm-style lunch from the tasty picnic fare menu.
Lolo Trendall - Trendell & Turner Travel Associates.com.au, QLD
2. Seppeltsfield Winery
This Barossa jewel should not be missed by anyone on the wine trail. A sense of grandeur accompanied us on our informative tour and continued with us to the port tasting. Drinking my birth-year port straight from the barrel made me feel like I’d joined an exclusive club! I want to return with my grandparents to taste their birth-year vintage.
Leisa Moyo - Chisholm & Turner Travel Associates – NSW
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3. The Louise
My memories of The Louise begin with the spectacular view of rolling hills and lush grapevines that I enjoyed from my room. The US owner brings a touch of Southern charm to this luxury retreat, and its central location offers great access to many of the Barossa vineyards. The gorgeous setting and divine restaurant make it an ideal city break.
Roslyn Wyatt - Taylor & Turner Travel Associates, QLD
4. Barossa Farmer's Market
It’s all about the fresh and the local at this boutique farmers' market. Some of the produce is picked nearby on the same morning, and you get a unique opportunity to chat freely with the growers. The stalls offer a beautiful array of Barossa's best produce and some delectable treats – don’t miss out on the balsamic vinegar and strawberry ice-cream!
Katrina Sky - O'Sullivan & Turner Travel Associates, NSW
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5. Penfolds Magill Estate
I loved the blend of old and the new - the winery tour is an amazing insight into the rich history of how Penfolds’ famous Grange and other wines used to be made and highlights recent winemaking innovations. Everyone in the area is so passionate, from estate staff to local growers. I’m an absolute Penfolds wine convert now!
Lolo Trendall - Trendell & Turner Travel Associates.com.au, QLD
6. Mt Lofty Summit and Mount Lofty House
This manor hotel has been lovingly renovated to a truly luxurious standard. One of my lasting memories will be the spectacular views that reach from Adelaide to the Gulf of St Vincent. I enjoyed this sweeping vista while sipping some beautiful wine from grapes that I know were grown in the region that lay before me - an unforgettable experience.
Laura Venn Wolf & Turner Travel Associates, VIC
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7. Adelaide Central Market
The market is so proud of its produce and strongly supports a diversity of local suppliers and growers. Foodies will be thrilled to sample Adelaide's finest offerings in the one spot; there’s no need to spend the time or money at restaurants. It’s all there in a relaxed yet cultural setting and it’s easy to wander at your own pace.
Katrina Sky - O'Sullivan & Turner Travel Associates, NSW
8. Mayfair Hotel
The Mayfair experience leaves you with no doubt that you’re in the lap of luxury. The hallmark of a true luxury hotel is quality linen, and the Mayfair’s beautiful bedding is first-rate. The stunning, individually-styled rooms are topped off by the opulent Hennessy Rooftop Bar, all in a central location that offers the height of city chic and elegance.
Roslyn Wyatt - Taylor & Turner Travel Associates, QLD
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9. Hahndorf
Hahndorf is a historic German settlement that oozes with old-world charm. The highlight was browsing the gorgeous little boutiques that sell everything from cuckoo clocks to incredible German pastries, where I discovered the best sweet shop I’ve ever visited. It was a little cool in April, but there’s always a fireplace to cosy up to in this authentic German village.
Laura Venn Wolf & Turner Travel Associates, VIC
10. The Haus
The restaurant is an integral part of Hahndorf Village, and its merry atmosphere and warm decor will have you feeling as if you’ve been transported to Germany to enjoy lunch with the locals. The large menu offers beautiful, authentic German cuisine, which is served up in huge portions. Embrace the town’s German heritage and don’t go easy on the kranskys!
Bryan Wye - Wye & James Travel Associates, NSW
*All photos © SATC
'10 Reasons We Loved South Australia', as seen in Inspirations Spring 2016
