6 Days: Wine Trails & the Outback [ST-SD23]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Adelaide (2 Nights), Barossa Valley (1), Wilpena Pound (2), Prairie Hotel (1)
  • Rental Car - For Self-Drive though South Australia. Base Rate only. Does not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees
  • Day Tours are Optional (not included), but can easily be included on request
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person) available on request
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • Additional Accommodation, Sigthseeing Day Tours, International & Domestic Flights are available on request
  • Customize? Tell us what you want & our Travel Experts will design your vacation and give you a no-obligation Quote.
Itinerary Details
(Days 1 to 3) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Adelaide

Travel to your accommodation in Adelaide, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 Star boutique style hotel, is located in the heart of Adelaide’s central district. The hotel is within walking distance to the city’s major cultural attractions, shopping precinct’s and entertainment centres.

Adelaide is known as the city of food and wine, a place to experience the buzz, culture and convenience of a big city without big city frustrations. The city centre, surrounded by parklands, is a charming blend of historic buildings, wide streets, numerous shops, street cafes and restaurants.

Optional Tour (Not Included) - Kangaroo Island Discovery

Discover the magnificent flora and fauna of Kangaroo Island. Tour through several different island habitats to see native Australian wildlife in its natural environment. Visit unique Seal Bay where you’ll get up close to nature as the wild Australian sea lions frolic and laze about on the stunning beach. Enjoy a two-course lunch, followed by a memorable tour through the Flinders Chase National Park. View koalas and kangaroos at the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park on your last visit of the day.

Your day begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel for a scenic coach transfer to Cape Jervis. Enjoy taking in the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula with its vineyards, coastal views and rolling hills of this gorgeous part of South Australia.

You’ll then board a fast and comfortable ferry for the 45-minute crossing to Kangaroo Island. On arrival, settle back in comfort and let the scenery slide past on your way to Seal Bay. Here you will enjoy a beach walk among a colony of rare Australian sea-lions. Guided by a National Parks Guide, this really is the experience of a lifetime. Bring your camera!

After a two course lunch, head on down to Flinders Chase National Park for the rest of the afternoon. Flinders Chase is internationally renowned as a sanctuary for a host of native Australian animals – kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, goannas and more.

Walk along the rugged southern coastline (on specially constructed walkways to protect both you and the environment!) to Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch. Remarkable Rocks provides a spectacular backdrop for all you creative photographers, so bring plenty of film.

Admiral’s Arch boardwalk takes you down a rugged cliff face to confront a spectacular rock arch and a nursery haven forlong-nosed fur seals. Watch the fur seals diving, playing or just lolling about on the sun-drenched rocks, warming up again after swimming in the surf.

Your last visit of the day is to the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park to feed some kangaroos and get up close to koalas while listening to the Keeper talk about the cuddly mammals. You might even see more kangaroos and wallabies on your return to Penneshaw for your ferry and coach transfer back to Adelaide!

Operates
Monday, Wednesday, Firday, and Saturday, excluding December 25.

Departs at 6:45am from Adelaide and returns at 10:30pm (approximate).
Departs at 9:00am from Cape Jervis and returns between 6:30pm – 6:45pm.

Need to Know
Minimum of 4 passengers required. Maximum of 48 passengers allowed. Pickups within Kangaroo Island available at Penneshaw, American River, and Kingscote. Tour is subject to change and some inclusions may be replaced temporarily without notice. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

Inclusions
– Selected hotel pick up and drop off from Adelaide
– Return travel to Kangaroo Island coach/ferry
– Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk
– Flinders Chase National Park including Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch
– Koala and kangaroo viewing at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
– 2 Course Lunch
– Expert Commentary by a local driver/guide.

Upgrades
Upgrade with one-way or return flights from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island and cut down on transfer times.

Photo Credit: Sealink

Optional Tour (Not Included) - Murray River Cruise

Relax on this lunch-time cruise along the historic Murray River. Gain an insight into this unique river system with its magnificent landscapes and spectacular cliffs. Then travel alongside the Murray River in your coach, taking in the spectacular views and stopping regularly for great photo opportunities. On the return journey, visit Melba’s Chocolate Factory and Woodside Cheese Wrights at Woodside.

Your tour departs Adelaide and travels to the mighty Murray River. On your arrival, board the MV Proud Mary and relax as you cruise the historic river enjoying the wildlife and surrounding scenery. Enjoy lunch on board the Proud Mary as you continue your journey along the river and gain insight into the river system and unique landscapes of the region.
Upon disembarking, enjoy a tour along the riverbank of the Murray River taking in spectacular views and stopping regularly for great photo opportunities, including the Mannum Lookout.
Travel back to Adelaide via the delightful Adelaide Hills, stopping at Melba’s Chocolate Factory where you can purchase afternoon tea and delight in cheese tastings at Woodside Cheese Wrights in Woodside (both at own expense).

Operates
Mondays only
Departs 9:15am from Adelaide Central Bus Station or selected Adelaide hotels and returns 5:15pm (approx.)

Includes
– Full day tour
– Two-hour cruise
– Two-course lunch with complimentary water, tea, & coffee
– Scenic drive
– Pick up and drop off
– Expert commentary by local driver/guide

Need to Know
Itinerary is subject to change. Vessel type may vary. If a minimum of 10 people not booked, then an alternate date or refund will be offered. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

(Days 3 to 7) - Car Rental, South Australia

Discover Australia as you travel by rental car for five days.

As part of your vacation self-drive Australia and explore our stunning landscapes, coastlines, regional towns and wildlife. Stop and meet the locals, maybe enjoy a counter meal at a local Aussie pub, or relax on the beach while sampling some takeaway fish & chips from the local deli or servo. During one of your rest stops try to spot a kangaroo, emu or even a Koala in the wild.

Please bring a valid American drivers license with you and be aware that the Australians drives on the left hand side of the road.

Base rate only paid by About Australia. GPS, Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

(Day 3) - Self Drive from Adelaide to Barossa Valley

Enjoy your drive from Adelaide to Barossa Valley, approximately 1.5 hours.

Take the Princess Highway northbound from Adelaide to Gawler Historic Town, then eastbound on to the indulgent pleasures of the vine clad hills and dales, orchards, and historic country towns of the Barossa Valley wine region.

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(Days 3 to 4) - 1 Night Accommodation in the Barossa Valley

Travel to your accommodation in the Barossa Valley, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1night.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is nestled in the picturesque Barossa Valley, just 55 minutes from Adelaide, Australia. Surrounded by many world famous wineries, the resort is next door to a golf course. Each room is equipped with a balcony, ensuite bathroom, kitchenette facilities, and air conditioning. The resort features a heated outdoor pool, gymnasium, spa, sauna, kids club, and an 18 hole golf course. Originally settled by European peasant farmers and English free settlers who made the Barossa Valley their home from the 1850s, the region has a rich cultural legacy in superb Barossa specialty foods, dozens of festivals and events, historic architecture and inspiring arts and antique galleries. Travel and explore the region by going on a wine tasting tour.

(Days 3 & 4) - Self Drive through Barossa Valley

Take the day to drive through Barossa Valley, South Australia.

Be sure to stop at the Whispering Wall (Williamstown) – its quite incredible that a ‘whisper’ can travel that far. See the beautiful historic wine estates surrounded by colorful gardens with their boutique restaurants, classy cellars & daily wine tastings. Be sure to visit the country’s oldest and most beautiful wineries such as Seppeltsfield, Langmeil, Yalumba and Henschke – they are well worth the history lesson. Also check out the local ‘Events List’ to see if there is a local festival, fair, wine show or family fun day that you want to attend. Events are pretty regular here with maybe 2 -3 events each month. Other sightseeing highlights include lavender farms, a local Cooper where you can watch the process of wine barrels being constructed, hot air balloon rides & horse-riding to mention a few. Maybe hit the ‘Foodie Trail’ for some culinary delights, the Heritage trails if you’re a history buff, or just walk the historic main streets and shop for local arts & crafts. Must sees include the historic architecture such as the Wheatsheaf Inn near Lyndoch, fabulous churches in Tununda and Bethany (part of the Tanunda Heritage Trail) and Luhrs Cottage at Light Pass. Maps for all the foodie & heritage trails, short local scenic drives, walking trails and more are available at the local Visitor Centers.
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(Days 3 & 4) - Self Drive - Clare Valley, South Australia

The Clare Valley is the wine lover’s haven. Located just 2 hours north of Adelaide, you will truly enjoy your self-drive through this spectacular historical wine region. Experience this beautiful region and the many trails, wineries, museums and galleries it has to offer.

Clare Valley, South Australia is framed by vineyards and farms. There are over 40 cellar doors in this beautiful and scenic region, which all lie along a 40km route between Clare and Auburn. The first vines were planted in 1851 by Jesuit priests who fled religious persecution in Europe.

A rising gourmet food scene is making its way into the Clare Valley. Local produce and wines are all showcased and offered in the towns’ historic locales. There are many trails to choose from and are becoming a very popular way to experience the Clare Valley. Leave your car and head out on foot or bike, make time for a pleasant picnic lunch or treat yourself to a meal at one of the many local restaurants and wineries.

There are many art galleries and museums to visit in the Clare Valley, South Australia. Travel back in time to see how life once was in this historic region. Copper was a big find among the valley and Burra’s Monster Mine was once the world’s largest mine.

Discover the conservation parks to see fossils, wildflowers and even colonial homes, one of the most famous is Martindale Hall. Visit the markets filled with local produce, you might be surprised to learn that many of the local business still use antique “grindstone technology”. You can’t ask for anything better than Clare Valley, South Australia.


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(Day 4) - Self Drive from Barossa Valley to Wilpena Pound

Enjoy your drive from Barossa Valley to Rawnsley Park Station.

Depart Barossa Valley and drive to Burra (2 hours drive)

Burra is one of the most beautifully preserved towns in South Australia. This former copper mining town is listed on the National Estate Register and also declared a State Heritage Area. Today, you can explore the town on Burra’s Heritage Passport Trail. Armed with a charming little guidebook and your own key, you’ll drive past 65 fascinating sites and learn why Burra was once South Australia’s copper centre.

After exploring Burra, depart for Rawnsley Park Station (3.5 hour drive)


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(Days 4 to 6) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Rawnsley Park Station

Travel to your accommodation in Rawnsley Park Station at the entrance to Flinders Ranges National Park.

Flinders Ranges National Park is one of Australia’s premier national landscapes – it’s the real Australian Outback! The park encompasses mountain ranges, spectacular gorges, gentle flowing creeks lined with massive river red gums and an abundance of unique Aussie wildlife. Surrounding the Flinders Ranges are vast flat plains with stunning red dirt rippled deserts spotted with clumps of yellow spinifex, saltbushes & grasses. The sheer contrast between the Flinders Ranges and its surrounding desert plains is an amazing geological phenomenon, with the highlight being the natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound (Ikara) cradled amongst the park’s mountains. This area is world renowned for its geological sights and cultural aboriginal heritage.

Start your adventure at the Wilpena Pound Visitor Information Centre. From here, explore the park’s stunning landscape, Aboriginal rock art sites, fossil heritage and ruins of early European settlement. The park offers visitors a network of bushwalks and trails to explore the region at your own pace. See the breathtaking sunburned pallet of colors (especially when the sun is low) and dramatic scenery that has inspired generations of photographers, filmmakers and artists from all over the world.

For an in-depth look at the wonders of the region maybe join a guided tour or possibly take a scenic flight over Wilpena Pound (own expense).

Your vacation accommodation is nestled in the picturesque Rawnsley Park. Surrounded by many different types of wildlife. Each villa is equipped with a retractable ceiling offering night-sky viewing from the comfort of your bed, fully equipped kitchen, telephone and wireless internet, original artworks by local artists and reverse-cycle air conditioning. Holding Advanced Ecotourism accreditation, the villas have been designed to complement the natural environment. They feature a host of environmental design features, including rendered straw bale walls, polished timber floors over suspended concrete slabs and overhanging eaves and wide verandahs to shade walls.

(Day 6) - Self Drive from Wilpena Pound to Parachilna

Relax on your Lovely Drive from Rawnsley Park Station to Parachilna.

Depart Rawnsley Park Station for Parachilna (1.5 hour drive)

The morning has been left free for you to drive at your leisure between Rawnsley Park Station and The Prairie Hotel at Parachilna via Blinman (approximately 115km or 1 ½ hours, with no stops). We suggest you explore the following places along the way:

Bunyeroo Valley
The scenic Bunyeroo Valley road with its impressive razorback ridge and lookouts starts 4 km north of the Wilpena junction on the main Hawker-Blinman road. Visit the Yanyanna hut and stockyards before entering Bunyeroo Gorge where you follow the creekbed to pass through the gorge. Yanyanna was the central point in the Aroona pastoral run and is now the site of a ruined pug and pine shepherd’s hut from the 1850s and still standing iron shelter from 1937.

Brachina Gorge
Brachina Gorge is one of the park’s most popular and spectacular tourist attractions. The gorge is an important refuge for the Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby as well as many species of birds and reptiles. The Brachina Gorge Geological Tour is a 20 km self-guided trail that passes through 130 million years of earth history. Trail signage provides an insight into past climates, the formation of the ranges and the evolution of early life forms. The trail is best travelled from east to west, commencing at the Brachina Gorge/Blinman Road junction. A geological map and more detailed information on the Brachina Gorge Geological Trail is available from the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre.

Blinman
In the second half of the nineteenth century, the historic township of Blinman, 50 km north of Wilpena, was a thriving copper mining centre with some 1,000 residents. Some of the pug and pine huts and stone buildings erected close to the old mines remain today. The population dwindled when the cost of transporting copper ore by cart and dray to Port Augusta made the mining venture unprofitable. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the mine site all year round. Your destination for the day, Parachilna (Prairie Hotel), is situated on the plains adjacent to the Flinders Ranges and serves as a perfect base for exploring the region and offers access to gorges, creek beds, red sandhills, claypans, mountains & vast open areas.


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(Days 6 to 7) - 1 Night Accommodation in Parachilna

Travel to your accommodation in Parachilna, South Australia, where you will be staying while on vacation for one night.

The Prairie is an oasis on the cusp of the rugged Flinders Ranges east-side, and desert plains west-side, sweeping toward Lake Torrens. Step Into a haven of character, charm, creature comforts, country hospitality and great food. A perfect base to explore the area.

Award-winning accommodation. Outback architecture featuring innovative, energy-efficient design. Spacious bedroom/lounge area, partially set into the earth.

Your room includes the following:
Ground level entrance lobby, ensuite bathroom and luggage area
Heating and cooling
Tea and coffee-making facilities, refrigerator, mini-bar
Luxurious towels and toiletries, hair dryer
Access to private guest lounge & indoor courtyard

(Day 7) - Self Drive from the Prairie Hotel to Adelaide

Today you will continue your self-drive adventure from Parachilna onto Adelaide.

Depart Parachilna (the Prairie Hotel) in the morning to drive to Burra (3.5 hour drive).

Burra is one of the most beautifully preserved towns in South Australia. This former copper mining town is listed on the National Estate Register and also declared a State Heritage Area. Today, you can explore the town on Burra’s Heritage Passport Trail. Armed with a charming little guidebook and your own key, you’ll drive past 65 fascinating sites and learn why Burra was once South Australia’s copper centre. After exploring Burra, continue on your drive to Adelaide (2 hour drive).


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Customize your Self Drive to Regional South Australia via Wine Regions & the Outback?

Remember, this road trip is fully customizable. Combine it with other destinations, add accommodation, sigthseeing tours and flights (international &/or domestic).

Just let us know what you want and our Travel Experts will design your complete itinerary with a ‘no-obligation’ quote.

  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.