South Australia’s top 10 destinations

I was talking to a tourism industry leader last week and asked him what was South Australia’s top tourism attraction for interstate and international visitors outside Adelaide.

He surprised me by saying it was Kangaroo Island. I thought it should have been Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake, but imagined it was probably the Barossa Valley.

He said there were studies to confirm Kangaroo Island’s status. I’ve been there (admittedly for work) but didn’t think it was anything special.

I have travelled fairly widely in South Australia. There are many places I haven’t been to, but know by reputation. Here’s my top 10 (excluding Adelaide):

1. The Flinders Ranges. There are hills around the world but few ranges have as much diversity within 250km as the Flinders. They stretch from the reliable rainfall district of Clare, with its wineries, to the edge of the outback north of Hawker. There are many historical sites, the landscape changes dramatically and some of the views are inspiring. One of my favorite places is the Wirrabara Forest, a hidden gem. A photo of mine appears in this Flickr collection showing snow near Jamestown.
2. The Blue Lake, Mount Gambier. A large lake in the crater of an extinct volcano which changes color with the seasons.
3. The Barossa Valley. Used to be Australia’s best known wine region. It has a German heritage, and although I haven’t been there for many years, I have rated it highly by reputation.
4. The Coonawarra. This region around Penola in the South East of the state produces Australia’s best wine. I declare here I’m the new editor of the local paper, and I really look forward to exploring the district.
5. The Great Australian Bight. There are magnificent cliff-top views of the Southern Ocean and whale watching is a feature.
6. Lake Eyre. Australia’s biggest lake and one of the largest inland waterways in the world. It’s dry most of the time, but fills up every 20 years or so. I’d love to see it full, but worth a visit any time.
7. The Murray. Australia’s greatest river is dying, according to the experts. Renmark is suffering as the river diminishes, but still offers some glimpses of its former glory. I hope to do a houseboat cruise sometime.
8. Naracoorte Caves. They sound terrific. I’m yet to explore them, but plan to soon.
9. The west coast of Eyre Peninsula. I lived at Ceduna for 18 months. I can recommend the coastal drive from Fowlers Bay to Elliston, with many remote beaches, small fishing ports and other highlights.
10. The Yorke Peninsula. There’s a lot to see in a small area, including safe beaches, rugged coastline and historic towns. We’ve bought a house at Moonta and hope to retire there.

Hopefully this list convinces you that South Australia is more than just Adelaide and Kangaroo Island.

I’m sorry to leave out Coober Pedy, with its opal mining and underground accommodation. Port Lincoln, the Gawler Ranges and Victor Harbour could also have easily been included.

Update (December 29, 2011): Having travelled a lot more widely in South Australia over the past 18 months I would change this list, if starting from scratch, or rebadge it as “underrated destinations”.

The intent of highlighting that South Australia is more than just Adelaide and Kangaroo Island remains valid.