While Adelaide is famous for its city charm, cultural sites and thriving food scene, no group trip is complete without an adventure beyond the city limits.
The good news? You don’t have to travel far to experience some of South Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, flavours and attractions. Within just a couple of hours’ drive from Adelaide, you’ll find world-class wine regions, beautiful coastlines, incredible wildlife enoucnters, and charming towns that are perfect for a quick day trip.
Whether you’re on a weekend excursion with your family and are looking for an adventure in nature or on a getaway with your friends and want to explore Adelaide’s famous wine regions, there’s somewhere for you. Here’s where to go and what to know to plan your perfect group escape from Adelaide.
1. Clare Valley
Clare Valley is one of Australia's oldest wine regions – and one of its most low-key ones! Famous for its award-winning Rieslings and relaxed country charm, it boasts more than 40 cellar doors, picturesque vineyard scenery and plenty of tasty local produce to sample – perfect for a laidback group getaway. And if you’re not into wine, that’s not a problem! Hire some bikes and cycle along the famous Riesling Trail, explore the historic towns of Mintaro and Sevenhill, or settle in for a long, leisurely lunch.
Getting there: Hire a car to drive your crew, or book a tour. Buses are available, however it is typically a 2.5 hour journey.
2. Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is famously one of Australia’s most spectacular nature destinations and a must-visit for outdoor adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts. Over a third of this Australian island is protected as nature reserves, home to iconic Australian wildlife including koalas, wallabies, echidnas, penguins, and migrating southern right whales. Spend your days exploring pristine beaches, hiking rugged bushland, marvelling at Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, or simply soaking up the breathtaking coastal views.
Getting there: Hire a car to drive from Adelaide to Cape Jarvis, then board the ferry to Penneshaw. Alternatively, book a full-day Kangaroo Island tour with transfers, meals, and stops at major highlights included.
3. Victor Harbor
Located within the Fleurieu Peninsula, Victor Harbour is a charming seaside town on the south coast, just an hour’s drive from Adelaide. Whether you're crossing the historic causeway to Granite Island by horse-drawn tram to spot Little Penguins, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or joining a seasonal whale watching cruise, Victor Harbor has something for every kind of traveller. With over 100 cellar doors dotted throughout the surrounding region, it’s also a top pick for wine lovers. Give yourself a few days — there’s plenty to explore.
Getting there: Easily accessible by car from Adelaide or join a guided day tour for a relaxed way to reach the peninsula.
4. Murray River, Lakes and Coorong
From wilderness adventures to ultimate relaxation, the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong region has it all – and it starts just one hour from Adelaide. Hire a houseboat on the mighty Murray River, try your hand at windsurfing or skydiving, or simply spend an afternoon paddling and wildlife-spotting through the quiet wetlands. To truly get away from it all, pitch a tent in Coorong National Park. This beautiful area is steeped in both natural beauty and cultural heritage, with the vast Coorong lagoon and its epic sand dunes offering a truly remote escape. Add in options like kayaking, birdwatching, windsurfing, or even skydiving, and your group getaway can be as laid-back or as action-packed as you like.
Getting there: Hire a car and drive from Adelaide towards Murray Bridge. From there, you can easily explore the river towns, national parks, and coastal areas. Guided tours and houseboat rentals are also available. Discover and book experiences in the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong region..
5. Barossa Valley
Just 60 kilometres northeast of Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is one of Australia's most famed wine regions. Sample rich reds from some of the world’s oldest Shiraz vines as you explore your pick of over 150 Barossa Valley wineries. Although the Barossa is best known for its red wine, don't forget to try the other tipples on offer, as well as its gourmet produce the significant amount of stellar gourmet produce – from hand-crafted cheeses and smoked meats to freshly baked pastries.
Getting there: Hire a car t o drive from central Adelaide, or book a Barossa Valley wine tour for a relaxed, door-to-door tasting experience without needing a designated driver.