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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.

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Time to Visit Tasmania

Looking for the best month to travel to Tasmania? Situated at the very bottom of Australia, this island state is known for its incredible natural landscape and having some of the cleanest air in the world. Not only are there many things to do and places to visit in Tasmania all year round but there is also a profusion of events happening every month. So, if you’re looking for the best time to pick up your campervan hire and take a road trip around this Australian state, it’s worth doing some research into the best time to visit Tasmania that aligns with what you like to do and see.

 

The weather in Tasmania

Wanting to find out about the best weather in Tasmania? Unlike some parts of Australia, Tasmania has four distinct seasons. So, if you’re wanting to know what months are hot in Tasmania, summer (December-February) is very pleasant, with temperatures at 17-23 degrees Celsius. In contrast, in winter (June-August), the Tasmania weather drops, and you’ll enjoy a fresh 3-11 degrees Celsius.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are a great middle ground with the Tasmania weather averaging 8-17 degrees Celsius. While spring is considered the wettest time of the year in Tasmania, you’ll be pleased to hear that Hobart remains the second driest capital in all of Australia. Autumn is a very pretty time to partake in a Tasmania road trip, with beautiful autumnal trees lining the roads. Whatever time of the year you visit Tasmania, it’s a good idea to pack both light and warm layers as well as ample sun protection.

 

The busiest time for travel in Tasmania

Due to the warm, dry weather and coinciding with the school holidays, summer is a very popular time to travel across Tasmania. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and experience a lower-key road trip holiday, spring, autumn, and winter are great times to visit Tasmania.

 

The cheapest time for travel in Tasmania

As popular times to visit Tasmania often correlate with increased prices. The cheapest time for travel in Tasmania is outside the peak season of summer and outside of the Australian and New Zealand school holidays. Rates at holiday parks are likely to be lower in winter, spring and autumn. If you are travelling Tasmania in summer, you need to be more prepared and you may need to book experiences and accommodation in advance.

Image: Instagram - @andrewatsonphoto

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Spring

Attend the Tulip Festival

On the second Saturday in October each year, north-western Tasmania bursts into bloom at the Wynyard Tulip Festival. Held at the Table Cape Tulip Farm in Wynyard, this free entry festival celebrates the breathtaking tulips in full bloom alongside an array of food stalls, entertainment, and attractions from across Tasmania. If visiting the Tasmania tulip farm is on your Tasmania things to do list, you’ll want to time your road trip with the spring season.   

 

Visit Brickendon Historic Farm

Add a history education to your Tasmania travel itinerary with the Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village. One of Tasmania’s World Heritage Sites, you can explore this convict-built village including its Gothic chapel, Sussex barns, blacksmith shop and shearing shed. Gain an insight into the life of early convict history in northern Tasmania while the kids will love feeding the friendly farm animals.

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Summer

Attend Tasmania Taste of Summer

Situated on the Hobart Waterfront and one of the best things to do in the Hobart CBD, the Tasmania Taste of Summer is the must do summer event. Held from late December to early January each year, live music sparks the atmosphere as you work your way through more than 80 food and drink stalls. This ticketed event is free for children under 16 and your single day ticket is valid for multiple entries throughout the day.

 

Swim at the amazing beaches

We’ll let you in on a secret, Tasmania has some of the most incredible beaches in Australia and one of the best things to do in Tasmania in summer is to cool down with a beach swim. Named by Lonely Planet as the ‘world’s hottest travel destination’ you’ll find the popular Bay of Fires on Tasmania’s east coast. Due to the east coast’s milder climate, this area is also where you’ll likely find the best weather in Tasmania. After you’ve soaked in the beautiful Bay of Fires, head south to the famous Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park. Wineglass Bay is considered to be one of the top ten beaches in the world and both spots are must-includes on your road trip travel itinerary.

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Autumn

Head out for some hiking

Autumn in Tasmania is the best time to take advantage of the cooler Tasmania weather and beautiful fall scenery. Tasmania has over 2,800 km of walking tracks and more than 880 National Park walks to choose from. Some of the best Tasmania hikes include Organ Pipes in Mt Wellington, the Tasmania Overland Track, and the Three Capes Track.

As previously mentioned, Freycinet National Park is one of the main things to see in Tasmania, but this Tasmania tourist attraction isn’t just known for swimming and Wineglass Bay, it also tops the Tasmania hikes list with a challenging 3-hour return hike – but we can assure you the views are worth the output. If you’re looking for more information on Tasmania hikes, see this Hiking and walking in Tasmania guide and if you’re looking further afield our guide to Family-friendly hikes and walks in Australia will help you out.

 

Visit the wineries

Tasmania weather means its vineyards are thriving. Famous for cool-climate wines and ample vineyards, if you time your Tasmania road trip with autumn, you’ll be arriving just in time for the harvest season. Tamar Valley, located in north Tasmania, is the oldest wine-growing region of the state and is home to 32 wineries that are renowned for their wine-tasting experiences. Secure your Apollo motorhome in one place for the night before enjoying sipping your way through the delectable Tasmania cuisine.

Image: Instagram - @_letsescapetogether_

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Winter

Attend Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest

There’s no better way to embrace winter than by attending the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest. Just a half-hour from Hobart, Huon Valley is known for its beautiful countryside and flourishing apple orchards. It is this apple-picking history that is the foundation of the festival where locals partake in an old English tradition of wassailing, a ritual designed to rid bad luck and ensure a good apple harvest. Outside of this light-hearted ceremony you can enjoy ample food and drink, music, and fireside storytelling.  

 

See the Southern Lights

A true bucket-list experience, seeing the Southern Lights is easily one of the best things to do in Tasmania. Your best chance at witnessing the incredible Aurora Australis is in winter. We recommend heading to Mount Wellington or Mount Nelson, both located just an hour's drive outside of Hobart to increase your chance of seeing the sparkling green flickers light up the night sky. Please note that sightings of this ethereal light show can be fleeting, but if you’re one of the lucky ones, you’ll remember it for the rest of your life.

 

Where to stay in Tasmania

BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park

Award winning for a reason, the BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park is an ideal base for exploring Launceston and northern Tasmania. The kids will be entertained with a playground and a giant jumping pillow while you can make use of the camp kitchen, laundry, and barbecues. Make sure you bring a torch, for each evening an array of wildlife can be spotted from the top of the park.

 

BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park

Found only 300 metres from the St Helens’ waterfront, BIG4 ST Helens Holiday Park has a range of campervan sites on offer, from powered, unpowered, concrete and ensuite. Only a 30-minute drive from the famous Bay of Fires (one of the best places to visit in Tasmania), here you can enjoy the wood-fired pizza and challenge the kids to a game of table tennis.

 

Need an itinerary for your Tasmania Adventure?

Let us take the hard work out for you. Now you know the best places to visit and see in Tasmania, it’s time to plan your campervan itinerary. While how many days is enough in Tasmania depends on you, our 11 day Highlights of Tasmania travel itinerary combines the Tasmania attractions and things to do all in the one road trip.

 

Explore more of Tasmania with Apollo

Hire an Apollo motorhome or camper and discover the best of Tasmania via road trip. Decide what time to visit Tasmania, choose your favourite campervan and book online. You’ll be hitting the road in Tasmania in no time!

Looking for more Hobart attractions and things to do in Hobart? We have you covered:

Family-friendly things to do in Hobart

Things to do in Hobart

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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 Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

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.

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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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