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South Australia

Planning a trip to explore the enchanting attractions of South Australia? This Aussie gem, tucked away on the southern coast of Australia, is famed for its scenic coastal landscapes, vibrant cities, and Outback beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the art-laden streets of Adelaide, venture into the wild, untamed coasts of the Eyre Peninsula, sip wine in the lush vineyards of Barossa Valley, Claire Valley, and McLaren Vale or meet the diverse wildlife awaiting on Kangaroo Island, a campervan trip through SA makes these experiences seamlessly accessible. 

What’s more, with a camper, you have the freedom to easily navigate South Australia’s picturesque climate and seasons, as well as the freedom to chase the sun or find a cozy nook in the hills. In short, South Australia is a haven for adventurers, food and wine lovers, as well as cultural enthusiasts with its world-class wine, historic sites, and stunning landscapes. Whether you want to check out one of these or all of them, there is no shortage of things to do in South Australia. 

 

Why explore South Australia by campervan

Exploring South Australia by campervan is simply unmatched in the ability to tailor your journey to your travel taste and style. A campervan allows you to wake up to a new sunrise in different parts of this stunning region every day—from the serene beaches of the Fleurieu Peninsula to the secluded coves of Kangaroo Island. What’s more, a campervan offers all the conveniences of home, with the freedom to explore the world right outside your doorstep. 

So, whether it’s making a spontaneous stop to taste freshly shucked oysters in Smoky Bay or camping under the stars in the Flinders Ranges, you can fully immerse yourself in this state without sacrificing comfort. If that weren’t enough, South Australia is also peppered with campgrounds that are perfect for campervan stops, many of which offer facilities such as power hook-ups and water supply, so you are free to roam with peace of mind that a safe haven is always within easy reach.

 

Things to do in South Australia

South Australia is the perfect holiday destination for wine, beaches and culture. With more than 200 cellar doors across the state, wine aficionados can indulge in a glass of world-famous Shiraz in the Barossa or a delicate Riesling in the Clare Valley. For those who prefer the sand between their toes, South Australia’s beaches are unrivalled. From the family-friendly shores of Glenelg in Adelaide to the surf hotspots on the Fleurieu Peninsula, there’s a slice of paradise for everyone. Beyond the beach, the rugged wilderness of Kangaroo Island teeming with native wildlife, the Flinder’s Ranges with its spectacular Aboriginal culture, not to mention the numerous vibrant festivals and events like the Adelaide Fringe that are held here annually — you will never be left wondering what to do in South Australia.

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Popular SA road trips & itineraries

South Australia is located on the southern coast of Australia, bordered by Western Australia to the west, Northern Territory to the north, Queensland to the northeast, and Victoria to the southeast. Internationally, South Australia can be accessed via Adelaide Airport, with direct flights from major cities worldwide. From neighbouring states like Victoria and New South Wales, driving to Adelaide takes approximately 8-10 hours, making it a feasible destination for most Australia campervan holidays. Some of the most popular road trip itineraries within South Australia include Adelaide to the Eyre Peninsula, Adelaide to Flinders Ranges, and the cross-state road trip from Adelaide to Perth — discovering the rugged landscapes of the Nullarbor Plain and the Great Australian Bight! 

Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary
Sarah Latham
/ Categories: AU Itineraries, All Locations, Northern Territory, South Australia, Victoria, All Duration, 10-14 Days, All Categories, Iconic Road Trips, Outdoor Activities, Natural Wonders, Beaches & Surf, Outdoor Activities

Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

From the vibrant Melbourne city to the dramatic Great Ocean Road coastline, the rugged outback of South Australia and the spiritual heart of Australia - Uluru, you'll do it all on this 14 day Melbourne to Alice Springs road trip.

Day 1: Melbourne

Pick up your Apollo vehicle at our Melbourne Apollo Branch and start exploring. While in Melbourne we recommend visiting Brighton Bathing Boxes, the Eureka Skydeck and indulging in a big breakfast and one of Melbourne's renowned coffees in a cute laneway cafe. 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Day 2: Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Travel time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Distance: 196kms

It's time to wave goodbye to Melbourne and head to the Great Ocean Road. While you only have 2 hours and 40 minutes of driving time today, there is plenty to stop at along the way. We recommend stopping in at Bells Beach, one of the more famous surfing locations in Australia, and Point Addis along the way. Make sure you also pull over and grab a picture at the official Great Ocean Road sign just before Lorne! 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Day 3: Apollo Bay

Spend your day exploring Great Otway National Park around Apollo Bay. This is some of the most beautiful forest scenery you can experience in Australia and we highly recommend visiting the Californian Redwoods Forest and Hopetoun Falls while you're here.  

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Day 4: Apollo Bay to Portland

Travel time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Distance: 261kms

Continuing along the Great Ocean Road, today is full of bucket list moments. The 12 Apostles are limestone stacks, a result of erosion from hundreds of thousands of years of being exposed to the extreme Southern Ocean. Each year they attract thousands of tourists and for good reason! While you're here be sure to visit Gibson Steps, just around the corner where you can walk down to the beach to take in the Apostles from below. After you've soaked in all the Apostle glory, continue on to Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, the London Bridge, the Bay of Islands and the Bay of Martyrs before arriving at Portland. 

Image: Instagram - @_sarahlatham

 

Day 5: Portland to Salt Creek

Travel time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Distance: 346kms

Today you say goodbye to Victoria and cross the border into South Australia. Just under 4 hours driving today, once you've arrived at Salt Creek stretch your legs at the Ngugie Ngoppun Walk or Lakes Nature Trail. 

Image: Instagram - @tomquan_photographer

 

Day 6: Salt Creek to Adelaide

Travel time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Distance: 210kms

On your way to Adelaide today we recommend detouring to Mount Barker and Sellicks Beach. On the Fleurieu Peninsula, Sellicks Beach is a well liked spot (and quickly growing in popularity on Instagram!). The vibrant orange hills plumment down to the calm blue ocean are not only visually appealing, but are also a great spot for a dip. 

Image: SATC Media Gallery

 

Day 7: Adelaide

The day is yours to explore Adelaide, the capital of South Australia. Work your way through the range of delicious restaurants before finishing the day at one of Adelaide's quirky bars. We also recommend a visit to the Art Gallery of South Australia while you're here. 

Image: SATC Media Gallery

 

Day 8: Adelaide to Port Augusta

Travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Distance: 309kms

It's time to head north. Say goodbye to Adelaide and hit the road, destination Port Augusta. We recommend spending the afternoon at the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens to gain a greater appreciation of Australia's arid plants.

 

Day 9: Port Augusta to Coober Pedy

Travel time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Distance: 540kms

Continue north and into Australia's outback. Today's destination is the unique Coober Pedy. This area is the opal capital of the world, and is a place like no other with most of its residents actually residing underground!

Image: SATC Media Gallery

 

Day 10: Coober Pedy

Spend the day exploring Coober Pedy. We recommend choosing from the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, the Unions Opal Mine and Museum, a round of golf at the Coober Pedy Opal Fields golf course or the Anna Creek Paintied Hills. 

Image: Tourism Australia

 

Day 11: Coober Pedy to Marla

Travel time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Distance: 234kms

Only 2 and a half hours in your Apollo vehicle today as you head closer towards the Northern Territory and the centre of Australia. Marla is a great resting point between Coober Pedy and the world famous Uluru that awaits you tomorrow. 

 

Day 12: Marla to Uluru

Travel time: 5 hours 20 minutes

Distance: 522kms

We recommend hitting the road early today as you cross from South Australia to the Northern Territory. With just under 5 and a half hours on the road, you'll enjoy sunset tonight overlooking the majestic Uluru. 

 

Day 13: Uluru

Experience sunrise over Uluru before exploring the surrounding area. We recommend the Uluru base walk (a 10km walk taking you around the base of the rock) but be sure to start early and bring plenty of water and sun protection with you as well as visiting Kata Tjuta, a 20 minute drive away. 

Image: Thomas Wielecki

 

Day 14: Uluru to Alice Springs Apollo Branch 

Travel time: 4 hours 50 minutes

Distance: 468kms

Say goodbye to Uluru and head back to Alice Springs. If you want to extend your road trip by a day or so, we recommend taking the longer route and visiting Glen Helen Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole and Simpsons Gap. Otherwise spend your final afternoon exploring Alice Springs before dropping off your Apollo vehicle and heading home! 

Image: Thomas Wielecki

 

 

 

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Tags: Apollo Camper Outdoor Activities Natural Wonders Victoria Iconic Road Trips Beaches & Surf Northern Territory South Australia 10-14 Days
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Great savings on your SA road trip

Start planning your budget-friendly adventure through South Australia with Apollo Camper's great savings and special offers. Hire a fully self-contained motorhome from our Apollo branch in Adelaide, equipped with everything you need for an unscripted holiday experience. Explore South Australia's scenic wonders and cultural delights while enjoying significant savings on your Australia campervan holiday. Discover epic deals and see how much you can save on your next journey across this jam-packed state! 

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Apollo SA campervan branch

Adelaide is the perfect starting point for hiring a campervan for your Australia campervan holiday across SA, WA, and even the NT. Our Apollo Adelaide branch is conveniently located less than 10 kilometres from Adelaide Airport and just over 8 kilometres from the city centre. Whether you’re heading to the vineyards of Barossa Valley to the rugged coastline of Kangaroo Island or have a grand Aussie road trip planned, Apollo’s central location and great deals on motorhome and campervan rentals, ensure you will have an easy start to your Australia campervan holiday.

 

 

 

 

Helpful Tips for Visiting SA

Helpful Tips for Visiting South Australia

Do so with confidence using these essential tips. From understanding the climate to packing smartly and discovering nearby attractions and things to do in South Australia, this section equips you with all the basics you need for an unforgettable adventure through South Australia.

South Australia enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot summers and mild winters. As such, the best time to visit is during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when temperatures are pleasant for beachgoing, outdoor activities, and sightseeing. Travelling in these off-peak times offers quieter experiences compared to the peak season, when you can expect bustling tourist spots and long queues for attractions. What’s more, travelling in off-peak times could mean potential savings without the higher ticket accommodation and sightseeing costs. If you find yourself travelling at peak times, be sure to book early to ensure you get the biggest savings and guaranteed accommodation!

Packing for your South Australia adventure is easy with a little planning. Be sure to pack essentials like outdoor gear, sun protection, and any additional camping supplies that you won't have in your camper, such as a flashlight. It is also worthwhile considering the kinds of activities you have planned during your Australia campervan holiday across SA. For example, if you are planning to visit the local wineries, you may want a few smart casual outfits. Alternatively, if you have hiking on the itinerary, you should pack a pair of good hiking shoes. For more tips on what to pack, check out our guide on summer campervan road trip essentials.

Still looking for ideas of what to do in South Australia? Here’s a closer look at some of the must-visit destinations and things to do in South Australia:

Barossa Valley

Renowned globally for its world-class wines, Barossa Valley invites visitors to savour exquisite Shiraz and Riesling varieties amidst picturesque vineyards. Beyond wine tasting, this region is a perfect setting to indulge in gourmet food, explore charming historic towns like Tanunda and Angaston, or set out on scenic drives through rolling hills dotted with cellar doors.

Kangaroo Island

A wildlife haven just off Adelaide’s coast, Kangaroo Island boasts pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife. On a typical day on the Island, you may very well encounter sea lions at Seal Bay, spot koalas in Flinders Chase National Park, and marvel at the natural formations of Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike trails through untouched wilderness or relax on secluded sandy shores.

Murray River

Stretching across South Australia, the mighty Murray River offers leisurely cruises, watersports, and riverside picnics, perfect for the water lovers in the family. Here, you can explore historic paddle steamers at Mannum, visit charming river towns like Renmark and Loxton, or unwind with fishing and birdwatching along its tranquil banks.

Adelaide Hills

Escape to the lush Adelaide Hills for a scenic retreat filled with quaint villages, artisanal produce, and panoramic views. Here, you will also find Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, where you can sample local cheeses and chocolates or wander through leafy national parks like Mount Lofty Botanic Garden.

Fleurieu Peninsula

South of Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula beckons with its stunning coastline and relaxed beachside towns. Surf the waves at Middleton, spot migrating whales at Victor Harbor, or explore the protected waters of Encounter Marine Park. Foodies can indulge in fresh seafood and regional wines at local eateries overlooking azure waters.

McLaren Vale

Famed for its Mediterranean climate and premium wines, McLaren Vale is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. Spend a day here touring boutique wineries, sampling bold Shiraz and Grenache blends, or cycling through vine-covered landscapes.

Clare Valley

Nestled in the heart of South Australia, Clare Valley charms with its scenic beauty and boutique wineries. Taste award-winning Rieslings, explore historic cellar doors, or wander along the eucalypt-lined Riesling Trail on foot or bicycle.

Whether you prefer free camping spots in Australia amidst stunning natural landscapes, the convenience of Aspen Holiday Parks along Highway 1, the picturesque Murray River views at Berri Riverside Holiday Park, the historic charm of Karoonda Tourist Park, or the tranquil setting of Riverton Caravan Park near Clare Valley's wineries, there are plenty of campervan friendly camping options with easy access to South Australia's major attractions.

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