3 spectacular SA Easter escapes

Posted 18 March, 2021 min@showpony.com.au

Whether you want to hit the road to the country, the river or the beach, here are 3 ways to explore South Australia this Easter long weekend.   If the approaching four-day break has crept up on you, we’ve put together a few ideas to help you get out and about, exploring our beautiful state*. Stay for a night, head out for a day or take the whole weekend – whichever route you take, SA is waiting for you. *Word to the wise: this weekend is a popular one, so be sure to enquire about availability as soon as possible. While these options might be available at time of publishing the article, they book out fast.

Retreat to the Riverland

Easter in Australia has always been synonymous with water activities, so why not make a dash to the Riverland and soak up the last of the warm weather? Clock on to river time and while away those glorious weekend hours. Just under 3 hours’ drive from Adelaide, Berri is a quaint country town along the beautiful Murray. While many head to Renmark on a trip to the Riverland, neighbouring Berri is a delightful alternative, full of character and boasting the same waterside perks.   If you’re looking for somewhere to rest your head, RAA members get special rates on stays at the recently refurbished Berri Hotel. There are budget, standard, deluxe and family rooms to choose from, so there’s something there for all travelling tribes. If bookings are tight, or you’d like to relax under the stars, there’s a beautiful collection of campgrounds along the Murray and in Murray River National Park. Whether you stay around Berri or travel up the river towards Renmark, you’ll pass a number of popular grounds like Katarapko and Lyrup Flats. Check out Parks SA for more information on campgrounds and to book.   If you like to travel and camp in style, why not take your very own caravan with you? RAA members receive discounts on Jayco caravan hire. If you only want to head up for the day, or you need an activity to keep your crew busy while you’re there, book in a river cruise. Rivergum Cruises offer a range of tours down the Murray from Waikerie, including their beautiful sunset cruise, or Yarra Cliffs cruise – all at special member prices.  

Soak up some countryside charm

While the Barossa and McLaren Vale can be busy on any given weekend, why not head a little further afield to Clare to experience true countryside charm? A little under 2 hours’ drive from Adelaide, you could make it a day trip or stay for a night or 2. Known for its top-notch Riesling, Clare Valley is home to a collection of wineries that are beautiful on the eyes and pleasing to the palate. It’s also home to the popular Clare Valley Riesling Trail, perfect for a bike ride between your favourite cellar doors. If you’d like to soak up some history, take a tour of Burra with the Burra Heritage Passport. The pass will give you access to explore a number of sites around town including miner’s dugouts, Redruth Gaol and two museums.   Step back in time at the Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre in Peterborough, where members can save 10% on entry prices. Discover gorgeously restored carriages and experience what dining cars would’ve been like back in the day. There are a range of accommodation options in Clare Valley to choose from, whether you fancy a stay in nearby Blyth at the Blyth Hotel, or Burra at the Burra Motor Inn. Alternatively, hire a caravan and choose where you’d like to rest your head for the night, with Getaway Caravan Hire. Snap up your spot at the leafy green grounds of Discovery Parks – Clare, or make the most of the collection of nearby camping spots in Clare and surrounding towns.  

Rest and relax in coastal calm

While Robe and the Fleurieu are always great picks for an Easter vacation, these coastal areas can be packed out in the busy periods. With more people holidaying at home this year, venturing a little further afield can certainly have its benefits. Around 2 hours west of Adelaide, the Yorke Peninsula is a pristine piece of coastline, stretching down the beloved ‘foot’ or ‘boot’ of the state. If you’re keen on a road trip, you could head up for the day (you’ll fit in a few games of eye spy along the way) or stay the night and soak it all up for longer. Natural wonders abound here, with Port Hughes beach one of the top bucket list items. While a little more secluded, you can make your own fun on the peninsula here. Think nature hikes, camp fires and a spot of fishing.   Moonta Bay Jetty is an angler’s delight, and a great spot for little ones to learn the ropes. King George whiting, Australian salmon and blue swimmer crabs are generally caught all year-round in these parts, so you might be lucky enough to catch your lunch or dinner. There’s also a range of marine parks and national parks to explore. Whether you hike, kayak, dive or take a simple stroll, you can soak up nature in these wild and wonderful landscapes. Check out a range of hikes, walks and sight-seeing options as well as park passes if you want to rest your head in the wilderness – but be quick as spots fill fast. Looking for a place to stay? The peninsula boasts a range of camping spots – you’ll be spoilt for choice in this picturesque neck of the woods. Hire a mobile home on wheels with Getaway Caravan Hire.      

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