5 Nature-Focused Escapes in South Australia

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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in South Australia.
• Alternatively, check out our list of the best wine hotels in the Barossa Valley.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Lifetime Private Retreats Kangaroo Island 3 rooms from $413

    
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    Families  -  Book three-bedroom Cliff House for a fabulous family trip, with heaps of outdoorsy activities & access to Snelling's Beach

    Snorkelling  -  Take a two-hour guided boat & snorkelling safari to see dolphins, whales, birds and seals out on the ocean

    Hideaway  -  The Beach Retreat or Sky House are ideal for a tranquil escape in a magical setting overlooking the ocean

    Wildlife Area  -  Flinders Chase National Park is brilliant for hiking and walking, as well as spotting birds and seals

    

    Luxurious private villas set atop the cliffs overlooking Snelling's Beach on Kangaroo Island. Families and friends will adore three-bedroom Cliff House, whilst couples can hide away in blissful tranquility in one-bedroom rammed-earth villas with mesmerising views. A gem, promising absolute privacy. See More

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  • Sea Dragon Lodge Cape Willoughby, Kangaroo Island 13 rooms from $958

    
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    Wildlife Area  -  Dolphins, seals & whales swim by the beach, whilst kangaroos & wallabies hop around the grounds, delighting wildlife enthusiasts

    Birdwatching  -  Kangaroo Island is home to 260 bird species — 30 can be spotted on walks or from your deck. Take guided tours for more!

    Back to Nature  -  Spot kangaroos and wallabies, whales and seals from your terrace — or take private birdwatching tours and guided walks

    Views  -  Each of the rooms, suites and villas boasts fabulous views over the bay from their clifftop spot

    

    Nestled close to Willoughby Lighthouse with panoramic views over Pink Beach Bay, this tranquil retreat comprises a handful of airy, rooms, suites & villas with a fresh, nautical feel, each with a private deck (the best with outdoor tub). Delicious dinners champion South Australian produce. Magical. See More

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  • Arkaba Station South Australia 5 rooms from $1482

    
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    Great walks  -  Delve into conservation efforts & endemic wildlife with a guided bush walk and camping excursion through the conservancy

    Wildlife Area  -  Spot red and western grey kangaroos, yellow-footed rock wallabies and countless birds on guided treks

    Back to Nature  -  A remote escape offering the chance to reconnect with nature and wildlife in a specatcular setting

    Foodies  -  Gourmet dining using home-grown produce is a highlight at Arkaba, perfect for keen foodies

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Set on a private 60,000-acre reserve bordering Arkaba Creek, this restored 1850s homestead offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with the natural world. Expect five elegant guest rooms, each with marvellous views. Return from the legendary Arkaba Walks to savour gourmet fare at this hidden haven. See More

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  • StowAway Kangaroo Island 4 rooms from $592

    
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    Hideaway  -  Four gorgeous hideaways within 250 acres of family-owned farmland close to Stokes Bay — utter bliss!

    Honeymoons  -  Honeymooners will adore kicking back in chic cabins with private hot tubs under the stars

    Great walks  -  Take scenic strolls along Stokes Bay, where you can also swim or enjoy a picnic of mouth-watering island food & wine

    Birdwatching  -  The nearby Lathami Conservation Park is home to the rare Glossy Black Cockatoo, perfect for keen bird watchers

    

    Four stylish hideaways on 250 acres of verdant farmland, owned by the same family for three generations. Expect fresh, airy interiors with natural textures, crackling fireplaces, pretty kitchens & dazzling views. Star-gaze from your hot tub, glass of South Australian wine in hand. Bliss. See More

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  • Wilpena Pound Resort Flinders Range, South Australia 75 rooms from $150

    
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    Groups  -  Fabulous rates and flexible options for groups eager to experience adventurous activities & kick back in the wilderness together

    Trekking  -  Embark upon a day-long hike to St Mary Peak, the highest point in the Flinders Ranges, or venture to dramatic Edeowie Gorge

    Learning  -  Guests are invited to a traditional welcome by a Yura guide each evening, offering an introduction to the land and culture

    Active Holiday  -  Hike, mountain bike, enjoy four-wheel-drive excursions or take to the skies at this outdoorsy resort

    

    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    The only resort in the Flinders Ranges, including well-equipped self-catering units, motel-style rooms, glamping tents and campsites. The fabulous focus on Aboriginal culture and history is a real stand-out, imbuding treks and excursions with rich meaning. A budget-friendly choice for adventurers. See More

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Written by Saskia Walker

posted Wednesday, 6th December 2023