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South Australia is a land of magical landscapes. Most visitors begin in artsy Adelaide, and focus on the wine country of McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley or the Adelaide Hills. We're big fans of venturing a little further afield, however, to discover the vast landscapes of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, or the cliff-lined coastline of Kangaroo Island. Around 400 kilometres north of Adelaide, the Flinders Ranges rise from the red earth, studded with trees and home to myriad birds, wallabies and kangaroos. The National Park itself covers an impressive 95,000 hectares, and is a fantastic area for hiking, mountain biking and off-roading, as well as embarking upon guided botanical treks. To the south-west, on the other hand, sits Australia's third-largest island, where verdant hills and fields are framed by craggy cliffs and vast sandy beaches. The Flinders Chase National Park, the Seal Bay Conservation Park, and the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park are alll highlights for nature lovers dreaming of memorable wildlife encounters. Whether you plan to head for the outback or the beach, our Gurus are thrilled to recommend five of South Australia's best nature-focused hotels, each of which pairs a positive eco-ethos with a very special setting.
For Ocean Views
© Sea Dragon
- Lifetime Private Retreats is made up of three private villas, each overlooking Snelling's Beach on mesmerising Kangaroo Island. See dolphins, whales and seals out on the ocean, explore Flinders Chase National Park, or try your hand at fishing. The three-bedroom Cliff House is ideal for families or groups, whilst the one-bedroom rammed-earth villas offer cosy hideaways for couples.
- Sea Dragon Lodge faces Pink Beach Bay, near to Willoughby Lighthouse. Also on Kangaroo Island, this collection of contemporary suites and villas is brilliant for those looking to combine luxury with an immersive wildlife experience. Spot up to 30 of the island's 260 species of birds on strolls through the lodge's grounds, see wallabies and kangaroos from your terrace and take guided nature walks. Expect a strong eco-ethos and delectable locally sourced produce.
For Luxury in the Outback
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- Arkaba Station, a restored five-bedroom homestead dating back to the 1850s, now promises unparalleled luxury in the South Australian outback. Discover parts of the 63,000 acre conservancy on the guided Arkaba Walk — including spotting yellow-footed rock wallabies and rare birds — tuck into terrific homegrown produce and reconnect with nature in spellbinding surroundings. Utterly dazzling.
For a Romantic Island Hideaway
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- StowAway sits within 250 acres of farmland, owned by the same family for three generations. Not far from Kangaroo Island's northern coast, four cosy cabins promise absolute seclusion, complete with modern kitchens, huge bathrooms, crackling fireplaces and terrace hot tubs. For romantics eager to hide away together, spotting birds at Lathami Conservation Park and ambling through the farm.
For Budget-Friendly Adventures
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- Wilpena Pound Resort offers self-catering units as well as glamping tents and a campsite in the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Pick this place for its friendly commuity feel, affordable options and admirable focus on Aboriginal culture and history. Think traditional welcomes and walks with Yura guides, as well as day-long hikes to St Mary Peak and off-roading adventures.