Weekenders from Adelaide 

With our partners at Nissan, we’re highlighting inviting SA locations that create the ideal weekend road trip from Adelaide.

The Barossa

In a sentence: Incorporating revered wineries of the Barossa and Eden valleys dotted around heritage towns, Australia’s premier wine region dishes up an unforgettable escape.

The drive: Choose between a 75km route that cuts through the city’s northern suburbs or a path of a similar distance that incorporates the Adelaide Hills. 

Top attractions in The Barossa

• Barossa Wine Region: Dozens upon dozens of cellar doors! Household names mix with boutique beauties.
• Châteaus: A trio of grand buildings enhance the cellar-door experience.
• Maggie Beer's Farm Shop: Various foodie activities meet a feast of homemade goodies.
• Mengler’s Hill Lookout and Barossa Sculpture Park: Sweeping views and quirky art combine for ample visual treats.
• Barossa Regional Gallery: Loaded with interesting spaces.
• Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park: Spy odd rock features, wildlife, and more on a walking trail. One of three conservation parks in the region.
• Greenock Aviation Museum: A hidden-in-plain-sight gem.

What’s nearby: Marvel at the quirky acoustic effects derived by Barossa Reservoir’s Whispering Wall, located about 25-30km from the main townships.

Stay at: BIG4 Barossa Tourist Park.

Port Hughes

In a sentence: A small coastal town spotted at the top of Yorke Peninsula, Port Hughes is the perfect place to unwind for a weekend…or longer.

The drive: A relatively straight 170km northwest journey along Port Wakefield Hwy before veering to the western side of the peninsula.

Top attractions in Port Hughes and surrounds

• South Beach: Glorious, long stretch of white sand and blue waters. 
  
• Port Hughes Jetty: Renowned fishing hotspot year round.
• Simms Cove: Another pristine beach complete with dedicated lookout.
• Moonta Mines Museum: Tales of the region’s Cornish pioneers are prominent.
• Splash Town – Copper Coast: Ample aquatic fun (seasonally).
• Moonta Mines Tourist Railway: Loads to see; operates weekends and other selected times.
• The Copperclub golf course, Port Hughes: Greg Norman designed and built.
• Bird Islands Conservation Park: A twitcher’s delight.
• Wallaroo Heritage and Nautical Museum: Loads to hold interest.

What’s nearby: Crisscross the peninsula and visit the charming heritage town of Ardrossan, 60km away. Expect vibrant red coastal cliffs, a long jetty, museum, and more.

Stay at: BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks - Port Hughes.

Loxton

In a sentence: The charming small town allows an easy escape from the hustle and bustle with its prime location along the Murray River.

The drive: Choose from two routes of roughly 255km: one heads slightly downwards and passes Monarto Safari Park and Murray Bridge; the other veers a tad upwards and encompasses the Barossa, a tempting pitstop.

Top attractions in Loxton

• The Village – Historic Loxton: Tangible time travelling.
• Loxton Memorial Gardens: Roses galore.
• 'Heaven' Clifftop Viewpoint: Admire those river vistas.
• Loxton Golf Club: Quality country course.

What’s nearby: Scenic strolls and tasty vino combine at Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre.

Stay at: BIG4 Loxton Riverfront Holiday Park.

Port Willunga

In a sentence: This pleasant coastal township affords the simplest of city escapes, yet its positioning between beautiful beach and world-class wine region feels a world away from it.

The drive: A simple 45km trip from Adelaide’s heart, largely incorporating the Southern Expressway, leads to the top of the Fleurieu Peninsula. No need for stops when the journey is this short and sweet.

Top attractions in Port Willunga

• Port Willunga Beach: Glittering stretch with historical features.
• Star of Greece restaurant: Delicious food, excellent views.

What’s nearby: Renowned McLaren Vale wine region is ‘just up the road’ and more beautiful beaches are within grasp. And that’s just for starters!

Stay at: BIG4 Port Willunga Tourist Park.

Want more? All BIG4 parks in SA are here.

For weekender ideas in other state capitals, head here.