7 memorable experiences in the Adelaide Hills and KI

Come in, we’re open.

By Lauren Ferrone
Published: Thursday, January 23, 2020

Every trip and every dollar counts. That’s the message of the South Australian Tourism Commission’s new campaign, aiming to boost visitation to the state’s fire-affected regions. Want to get involved? Here are 7 things to do in the Adelaide Hills and on Kangaroo Island that will help get these communities back on their feet.

To get involved in the campaign, book any of the below experiences, post a photo to social media and don’t forget to tag #BookThemOut.

1. Watch the Tour Down Under

Throughout the Adelaide Hills

Adelaide Hills’ towns are receiving a boost to their economies as the Tour Down Under gets underway. There’s still time to head for the hills this afternoon (24 January) to catch the Tour Down Under action in person. From 2.30pm, cyclists will make their way up to the Adelaide Hills via Gorge Road, pedalling through Cudlee Creek, Birdwood and other charming towns. Make a day of it with lunch among the vineyards at one of the region’s many wineries or a cuppa at a local café.

Cyclists ride on the road for Tour Down Under.
Support the riders and the region at Tour Down Under. Image: SATC/Meaghan Coles

2. Visit Penneshaw Penguin Centre

Penneshaw, KI

Devastatingly, thousands of animals lost their lives in the fires on Kangaroo Island. There’s never been a better time to visit a wildlife centre and support our furry friends. For something different, check in at the Penneshaw Penguin Centre where you’ll spend the day with some very special (and cute) sea birds in their close-knit colonies. Keep in mind, the centre generally isn’t open during the day, so if you’re on the island for the weekend, book an evening walk. Armed with wildlife-friendly torches, try to catch a glimpse of the world’s smallest penguins.

3. Experience Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action

Vivonne Bay, KI

With almost half of Kangaroo Island affected by fire, it’s hard to imagine the aftermath. Parts of Vivonne Bay have been blackened by the flames, but there’s still beauty to behold in the area. One of the best ways to see KI’s rugged and beautiful landscape is from the seat of a quad bike. Hit the trails with Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action, riding through 500 acres of winding bush trails, open grassland and rocky terrain. If you’re feeling daring, grab a sandboard or toboggan and surf the massive sand dunes at Little Sahara.

People riding on quad bikes.
Explore the island on a quad bike. Image: SATC/Jonathan van der Knaap

4. Indulge at Melba’s Chocolate Factory

Woodside, Adelaide Hills

The Hills haven’t lost their sweet side. Saved from physical damage, Melba’s Chocolate Factory remains open to tempt your sweet tooth. From choc-coated confectionery to bite-sized treats, there’s plenty of goodness waiting to be taken home. Pick up a few bags of your favourites – devour them yourself or share with a loved one.

5. Stay the night at Ecopia Retreat

Gregors Rd, KI

Tired from all that exploring? Get some shut eye at Ecopia Retreat, a luxury residence located on a spacious private property in the centre of Kangaroo Island. Wake up to sounds of wildlife roaming the 150 acres of land around you. Get a closer look from behind a pair of binoculars, provided by the retreat. While you’re staying at Ecopia, don’t forget to check out the nearby Raptor Domain and Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park – both of which are still open to the public.

A property in the middle of no where.
Stay at Kangaroo Island's luxury Ecopia Retreat. Image: Stirling West

6. Sip SA’s best at an Adelaide Hills winery

Across Adelaide Hills

Many wineries across the Adelaide Hills tragically lost vines in the blaze. While some wineries remain temporarily closed, others have re-opened. Take your pick from Anderson Hill winery in Lenswood, Bird in Hand at Woodside or The Lane Vineyard in Hahndorf, among many others. Sit back with a vino or two and take in the panoramic views from all angles. While the flames have cast a shadow across some vineyards, we’re optimistic that there’ll be greener pastures on the horizon.

7. Cruise with SeaLink

Kangaroo Island

With emergency travel restrictions now lifted, Sealink is back on the water and offering discounted ferry rides to Kangaroo Island. They’ve also resumed tours of the island, taking in a range of attractions including world-famous Seal Bay as well as other experiences run by local business owners who need your support.

Blue crystal water and a ferry docked.
Cruise to Kangaroo Island with Sealink. Image: Isaac Forman, Serio

What else is open?

There are a wide range of local operators open for business in the Hills and KI – you can find updated details on SATC’s website. Then there are just two things left to do: book and go.

See SA shine

Explore our beautiful Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island and let’s #BookThemOut.

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