http://RealAdventures.com/vacations/445493_articles-australia-sa.htm Check out some of the recently updated travel & vacation listings on RealAdventures. Be inspired, go explore! en-us Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:19:26 GMT Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:19:26 GMT http://RealAdventures.com http://RealAdventures.com/vacations/445493_articles-australia-sa.htm 100 100 http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1200692_Adelaide http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1200692_Adelaide Articles Australia Tue, 29 Sep 2009 03:09:03 Adelaide is one of the best planned cities in the world. Adelaide is a thriving city with plenty of attractions, Adelaide restaurants, entertainment and a good base for exploring the surrounding areas. -
Adelaide is one of the best planned cities in the world. Adelaide is a thriving city with plenty of attractions, Adelaide restaurants, entertainment and a good base for exploring the surrounding areas.


Eyecatching Adelaide, the capital of South Australia , is known in Australia as the City of Churches '. A well planned and laid out city, Adelaide has a grid of wide shopping streets and various squares all within a couple of square kilometres making it almost impossible to get lost in the city centre. Adelaide 's reputation for elegant architecture and cultural standing is yielding to an exciting, new vitality and verve for some of the best of Australia 's festivals, arts exhibitions, theatres, pubs, clubs and all manner of entertainment.

With a Mediterranean style climate, Adelaide has warm, dry summers making it perfect for open air activities and a great place to explore on foot or by one of the many tours available. The selection of accommodation available in Adelaide and the surrounding areas is superb with everything from congenial bed and breakfast hosts to fivestar, luxury hotels.

In the heart of seaside Glenelg, only 20 minutes from the city centre, is a magnificent beachfront which continues south to Brighton then Onkaparinga and the pretty Fleurieu Peninsula .

Adelaide is also the stepping stone to some of Australia 's finest wine producing areas. Rent a car and drive for a couple of hours, or relax and take a guided tour, and you'll pass through some stunning scenery with cosy villages, steeped in history, to enjoy on your way to valleys bursting with wineries, great restaurants and tons of other attractions.

Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and known for parks, churches and a more conservative life style. The River Torrens runs through the centre of Adelaide and is a most pleasant city for walking around. Close by is the Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island, Glenelg and Victor Harbour.

Details & Reservations: Adelaide
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184744_Discover-the-Clare-Valley http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184744_Discover-the-Clare-Valley Articles Australia Mon, 20 Oct 2008 22:10:15 Famous for its Riesling Trail, and only an hour and a half from Adelaide, the magnificent Clare Valley provides the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Rieslings are not the only drawcard, with fantastic restaurants, national par -
Famous for its Riesling Trail, and only an hour and a half from Adelaide, the magnificent Clare Valley provides the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Rieslings are not the only drawcard, with fantastic restaurants, national par


Famous for its Riesling Trail, and only an hour and a half from Adelaide, the magnificent Clare Valley provides the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Rieslings are not the only drawcard, with fantastic restaurants, national parks and green rolling hills beckoning each visitor to stay a little longer. With such diversity of interesting places to explore, this is the perfect destination for a campervan holiday.

One of the best places is call home would be the Clare Caravan Park located predictably in the township of Clare. It is ideally based close to the many walking trails in the area, and some of the best wineries in the Valley. There is a swimming pool, barbeque area and with a sprawling thirty acres of gum trees and grassy sites you will want to stay longer.

You might prefer to take a day trip or two and choose discoverycarhire Adelaide, which is popular amongst tourists and locals. Once you arrive you might want to start with the picturesque twenty five kilometre Riesling Trail which can be cycled or walked at your own pace, running from Clare to Auburn. This gentle walk will bring you up close and personal with the wildlife, friendly locals, and most importantly the wineries in between, lining the hills in every direction. This interactive walk has placed the Clare Valley on the map, bringing visitors back time and time again for another taste of rich country life.

Restaurants are scattered through the valley, usually accompanying the fine wineries, with the Clare Valley Gourmet Weekend held every May if you are fortunate to time your trip with this major event. The wine tasting, eating and touring of wineries may take up a few days of your trip, which is fully understandable in this decadent region. Once you are ready for more exploring, the Spring Gully National Park is a sight to behold, with the Cascades waterfall and Bluegum Lookout always a great reward for your trekking efforts.

The Billygoat Hill and Neagles Rock Lookouts are also worth the visit, bringing panoramic views of the valley and especially beautiful at sunset. Another great spot to relax and unwind around a picnic lunch is Inchiquin Lake, with fishing, walking trails and a great bike track for the kids. Brooks Lookout is another popular picnic spot, which spans the valley right through to Yorke Peninsula. Add this to your list of stops along the way as you experience the valley at its most picturesque.

Set half a day aside to explore Burra, as you head through Burra's Heritage Passport Trail. This will take you eleven kilometres past the Redruth Gaol and copper streets. You will also pass the Burra Mine, another attraction which takes you back to a slice of history that made Burra what it is today. The Burra Trail Ride is ideal for horse lovers, as you head out into the wilderness into the depths of the northern Clare Valley and surrounding countryside.

Mintaro is another must do, with the drive as fascinating as the town itself. The architecture, antiques, gardens and quaint old streets all add to Mintaro's charm and deserve a closer look by foot. Take the kids to Mintaro Maze which is a series of hedges and conifers all designed to outwit the most dedicated maze lover. Mintaro is famous for its local slate, and you can even buy your own slate maze.

These are just some of the many attractions offered in this sprawling oasis of vineyards, including everything you need for a relaxing country getaway. The villages are inviting and friendly, the Riesling Trail is the perfect way to see the country from a closer perspective, and the local food and wine combine to present this region as one of the most favoured in South Australia. Now that you know about it, there is no time like now to start planning a campervan holiday to the rolling hills of the Clare Valley.
Details & Reservations: Discover the Clare Valley
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184272_Riverland-Relaxation http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184272_Riverland-Relaxation Articles Australia Mon, 08 Sep 2008 21:09:12 The Riverland in South Australia seems almost like it could be custom designed for a campervan holiday. Picture this rolling countryside divided into a patchwork of lush orchards, where exotic fruits such as olives, citrus, garlic, apricots and grap -
The Riverland in South Australia seems almost like it could be custom designed for a campervan holiday. Picture this rolling countryside divided into a patchwork of lush orchards, where exotic fruits such as olives, citrus, garlic, apricots and grap


The Riverland in South Australia seems almost like it could be custom designed for a campervan holiday. Picture this rolling countryside divided into a patchwork of lush orchards, where exotic fruits such as olives, citrus, garlic, apricots and grapes hang off the vine and branch. Splitting the region in two is the mighty Murray River, which flows past high limestone cliffs and expansive wetlands, breathing life into the fertile soils and giving character to the countryside. A number of small towns in the Riverland provide bases for the fruit and fresh produce industry (one of the biggest in Australia), and it is in these that you can find hospitable caravan parks to base your motorhome in. The scenic riches around you and the laid back, accommodating atmosphere in the towns will ensure that your tour of the Riverland is one you'd like to repeat again and again.

The Riverland extends for 300 kilometres, marked at each end by the townships of Waikerie and Renmark. The former is the closest to Adelaide, and is reached by an easy two and a half hours drive from there an easy drive through picturesque countryside. At the centre of the region is Barmera, which is the biggest town in the Riverland and undoubtedly the commercial centre. At 221 kilometres from Adelaide, its a bit far for a daytrip but just perfect for a weekend away!

Barmera sits on the shores of Lake Bonney, and water sports enthusiasts take full advantage of this fact. On any given day the lake's horizon will be dotted with the sails of boats and windsurfers and boats towing wakeboarders, waterskiers and other strange inflatable contraptions regularly zoom past. Yacht races are regularly organised, attracting crowds of enthusiasts and spectators. The lake is big enough that there are still areas of peace and quiet where anglers can try their luck with the many species of fish lurking beneath the surface. If you can tear yourself away from the lake there are a number of fun ways to entertain yourself in the town. A favourite place to visit is the Rocky Country Music Hall of Fame, which was established to honour local country legend Dean 'Rocky' Page. Inside is a huge collection of memorabilia and instruments, commemorating all the Australian greats such as Slim Dusty.

On your tour of the region Waikerie is a town you should definitely call into. It gives the impression of a place where nobody takes themselves too seriously probably helped along by the fact that all the garbage cans in town are the shape of oranges! As it is an internationally recognised destination for hang gliders, on any given day the skies are dotted with these large, silent planes gliding high above the surface. A number of majestic old sandstone buildings on the main street add to its character, and you can find out all about the town and the surrounding attractions at the Orange Tree Information Centre, located right on the Sturt highway. A trip to the Scenic Lookout is especially enthralling perched atop high cliffs it offers stunning views of the Murray River.

Travelling through Australia you may have seen the 'Berri' insignia on various fruit juice products. Well, the town of Berri is in the Riverlands, and its the source of all these tasty juices. A visit to the town will take you past the 'Big Orange', the ubiquitous tourist attraction that commemorates the main local industry which here is of course the citrus and fruit industry. There s a tower and a museum, and great views from the top of the 'orange'! After a visit there head on to Berri Ltd, where their products are for sale, and you can find out the process fruit goes through from the vine to the juice bottle!

Of course you cannot visit the Riverlands without indulging in the feature that gives the region its name the Murray River. Whether its enjoying a barbeque on the grassy banks under the a shady tree, or hiring a boat and some fishing rods and getting out for a bit of fishing, the Murray is the perfect place to recharge and forget about all of your stresses. Houseboats are also a popular form of escape on its wide and smooth waters, and a great way to finish off a day is with an evening cruise nothing beats watching the sun go down with a drink in hand, serenely floating down the river.

Thats actually a good word to sum up the whole Riverland region serene. Its a place big enough to see something new everyday, but small enough that you dont have to travel too far in your campervan for a change of scene. Theres plenty of places to stay, every town has its share of caravan and tourist parks. So forget about your worries and head to the Riverland for that break youve been craving all this time!
Details & Reservations: Riverland Relaxation
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184200_Mt-Gambiers-Underground-World http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184200_Mt-Gambiers-Underground-World Articles Australia Mon, 25 Aug 2008 23:08:04 Mt Gambier, regional centre of the Limestone Coast in South Australia and second largest city in the state, is a unique holiday destination if ever there was one. It is set in an ancient volcanic landscape of lakes, sinkholes, underground waterways -
Mt Gambier, regional centre of the Limestone Coast in South Australia and second largest city in the state, is a unique holiday destination if ever there was one. It is set in an ancient volcanic landscape of lakes, sinkholes, underground waterways


Mt Gambier, regional centre of the Limestone Coast in South Australia and second largest city in the state, is a unique holiday destination if ever there was one. It is set in an ancient volcanic landscape of lakes, sinkholes, underground waterways and other amazing limestone features which provides ample fodder for a driving holiday through the region. You dont have to travel far from Mt Gambier to see these limestone wonders, in fact the city is built on top of a large tract of limestone that extends out to the sea so caves and sinkholes are present even in the city centre! The mountain from which it takes its name, Mt Gambier, is in fact Australia's youngest volcano and the volcanic activity over time helped form the geological features of the region.

The attraction that really pulls in the tourists and gets people talking is the aweinspiring Blue Lake. One of three lakes that make up the Mt Gambier Crater Lakes complex (the others are Valley Lake and Leg of Mutton Lake), Blue Lake lives up to its name in late November, when its water turn a dazzling turquoise blue the result of a chemical equation and the refraction of light. This is an amazing wonder of nature that has to be seen to be believed it is particularly impressive on a sunny day. The lake fills the crater of Mt Gambier volcano, and is 1 kilometre wide at the widest point. There is a 4 kilometre long road and walking track that goes around its circumference that will take you to the best lookouts and viewing points on the banks of the lake. You are also able to go down the original dolomite well shaft where water used to be draws from in the early days. This is done in a glass panelled lift which gives impressive all round views as you descend and ascend.

Another attraction within the town is the Umpherston Sinkhole. This was once an underground cave, but the top caved in and left a large depression. It 1886 James Umpherston converted it into a lush garden, which over time has been looked after and added to to become the attraction it is today. Floodlit at night, large numbers of possums come out and feed, to the delight of watching visitors.

Beneath the city lies a huge complex of limestone caves that promise adventure and discovery for experienced scuba divers. They enter the water in one of two chambers within Engelbrecht Cave, and from there head off to explore the underground system a system they have been succesful in mapping over the years. Those of us who cannot dive will have to make do with a 45 minute tour of Engelbrecht Cave, where you can view the underground water that in about five hundred years will have filtered through to the ocean.

Further inland from Mt Gambier lies another impressive cave system, one that has made its way onto the World Heritage List the only place in South Australia to do so. Naracoorte Caves National Park consists of 26 caves that have formed in the malleable limestone landscape, each containing dazzling displays of stalagmites and stalactites. Over time these caves have acted as pitfall traps, and any unfortunate animals that wandered too close have fallen in to their deaths. This has been happening for 500 000 years, and as a result the in the caves was preserved one of the most comprehensive fossil records we have ever found, containing important clues to the evolutionary history of Australia. It is this fact which led to the caves being placed on the World Heritage List.

One of the caves here is home to the endangered Southern Bentwinged Bat in fact thousands of the little creatures return in spring each year to raise their young here. Modern technology has allowed us to witness this spectacle without getting in the way of the bats infra red cameras video the bats and transfer the images to an observation room where humans observe them on screens. This alone is a sight worth making the drive to Naracoorte for.

So with so many geological attractions in and around Mt Gambier you wont run out of ideas on places to visit. The city itself is small and friendly, with that hospitable 'country town' feel to it, and there is a myriad of accommodation options available. The shopping facilities are renowned as being very classy, and there is a rich sense of culture and heritage in the architecture, buildings and the society of Mt Gambier. Remember that a hire car will give you the freedom to explore the region to your hearts content!


Details & Reservations: Mt Gambiers Underground World
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184006_Getting-away-to-Glenelg http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184006_Getting-away-to-Glenelg Articles Australia Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:07:44 With balmy Mediterranean weather and incredible scenery, vineyards and art galleries, Adelaide and its seaside bring tourists from far and wide. The neighbouring city of Glenelg has become increasingly popular over the years with its Bay Discovery -
With balmy Mediterranean weather and incredible scenery, vineyards and art galleries, Adelaide and its seaside bring tourists from far and wide. The neighbouring city of Glenelg has become increasingly popular over the years with its Bay Discovery


With balmy Mediterranean weather and incredible scenery, vineyards and art galleries, Adelaide and its seaside bring tourists from far and wide. The neighbouring city of Glenelg has become increasingly popular over the years with its Bay Discovery Centre, trendy cafs and delightful coastline. A campervan is one of the best ways to visit this region, with plenty of beautiful places to relax and enjoy the beach views.

Glenelg has grown into a vibrant holiday destination, buzzing with trendy cafes and fine dining. The Adelaide hinterland provide the rest of the country with world class wines, so they flow freely here along with the conversation and friendly locals. Another famous icon is the vintage tram, conveniently depositing travellers right to Glenelg beach from the centre of Adelaide. Why not base yourself in Glenelg and then hop on the tram for a traffic free day of sightseeing? In under an hour you have the best of both worlds.

Many locals and tourists head to Glenelg for the white beaches, dazzling sunsets and, of course, the shopping. There are over two hundred outlets to choose from, and when you tire of hunting for bargains, the museums and galleries are brimming with local talent and historical artefacts just waiting to be discovered. History buffs will be drawn to the end of Anzac Highway for a birds eye look at the replica of the 'HMS Buffalo', which stands tall and proud against the coastal backdrop. Adelaide is known as the art capital of Australia, and the more you see of Glenelg it is obvious this rich creativity has spread
to Glenelg.

There are heaps of things to do once you get here, such as all types of water sports, volleyball, cycling, golf and plenty of sightseeing. Jetty Road is the place to head once you are ready for a stroll. This is the shopping strip, and offers endless scenery, walkways and is the main meeting place in town. Weekends provide more entertainment, with markets adding to the bargains you are destined to find here.

You can't miss the Bay Discovery Centre, giving you a closer look at this diverse region. Located at the Glenelg Town Hall, each exhibition will capture your imagination and give you a wider appreciation of Glenelg and the wonder of South Australia. Combine this with the popular Proclamation Trail, a three and a half kilometre trail through the city leading you to a number of important historical sites along the way.

Dolphins and whales are common to the area so bring your binoculars and prepare for some relaxing 'mammal spotting' by the waters edge, or head out on one of the dolphin tours, 'Temptation Sailing', for a closer look. There is an abundance of wildlife up and down the coastline, and plenty of walks bringing you closer to nature and a closer look at the beauty of this area.

Known as the 'house of fun', The Beachouse is one attraction you don't want to miss. With three waterslides, dodgem cars, a five storey play castle, carousel and arcade games there is something for the whole family. There is also an 18 hole mini golf course that Dad will love! This has helped put Glenelg on the map with so many choices of fun for all ages. You will want to keep coming back!

Glenelg has so much to offer, with its gorgeous blue bay, ideal weather and countless choice of touristy shops it's a fantastic destination for the holiday maker in search of a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. An added advantage for travellers is its close proximity to Adelaide, so you can choose where to base yourself. My preference is Glenelg as a destination. There is too much to see and do here just in one day alone.

Details & Reservations: Getting away to Glenelg
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1183665_Riverland-Country http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1183665_Riverland-Country Articles Australia Mon, 23 Jun 2008 22:06:46 The fertile fields of the Riverland draw life from the long hours of sunshine falling on them and from the smooth flowing waters of the mighty Murray River offering up a juicy bounty of grapes, citrus fruits, nuts and stone fruit. -
The fertile fields of the Riverland draw life from the long hours of sunshine falling on them and from the smooth flowing waters of the mighty Murray River offering up a juicy bounty of grapes, citrus fruits, nuts and stone fruit.


The fertile fields of the Riverland draw life from the long hours of sunshine falling on them and from the smooth flowing waters of the mighty Murray River offering up a juicy bounty of grapes, citrus fruits, nuts and stone fruit. As a result this picturesque area has a substantial dried fruit industry and is the largest wine producing region in Australia but thats not all its known for. Holiday makers have been coming here for years to enjoy a vacation in the sunshine, utilising the Murray River for all sorts of recreational activities. The climate is mild and sunny, the landscapes are beautiful, and the people are friendly. And at the heart of it all lies Barmera, a pleasant town with a country atmosphere that will wash away the stress of your everyday lives!

The Riverland extends for 300 kilometres from Renmark to Waikerie. Lying 170 kilometres away, Waikerie is the closest town to Adelaide and is reached by a easy 2 and a half hour drive in your hire car. Barmera is 220 kilometres from Adelaide a pleasant drive through leafy fields and the lush South Australian countryside. Its not quite close enough for a daytrip, and in fact you would want at least a weekend to enjoy exploring the region, because theres a lot to see.

Barmera is perfectly located on the shores of Lake Bonney, and as a result has become South Australia's favourite aquatic playground. The fresh water lake comes alive with boats, canoes, kayaks and jetskis on the weekend. Anglers are attracted from far and wide by the lake's reputation as a fishing hotspot, and on any given day they spread out along its shoreline or head into the deeper waters in a tinny or canoe. Sailing is also a popular pastime, and the yacht club here has an enthusiastic body of members. Every weekend they organise yacht races that provide an impressive spectacle which is well received by onlookers from the land. The lake is a beautiful spot, so many just choose to relax and enjoy the scenery over a few drinks or a barbeque. There is an impressive amount of wildlife living around the lake and on the adjoining wetlands, so keep your eyes open for wallabies and the like and different species of birds.

Barmera town itself is a vibrant place, coming alive throughout the year for many festivals and shows its residents dont hide the fact that they like a reason to celebrate! It has a rich history, dating back to about 1838, and this is evident in a lot of its attractions. Definitely worth a visit is the Overland Corner Hotel, located 18 kilometres north of Barmera on the Morgan Road. Commissioned in the 1850's as a refreshment point for weary travellers (mostly cattle drovers) and locals, today its now a pub with a museum in it housing many artefacts from the past. Theres a great atmosphere for you to soak up here! Another historical place to visit is the ruins of Nappers Old Accommodation. Although it is just a shell now, and certainly not a place to pick up a drink, this hotel was built in 1863 and used to be a vital storing place for crop supplies for the farmers in the region.

Of course you cannot pay a visit to this region without spending a bit of time appreciating the majestic Murray River. It is also a haven for watersports, and fishermen will relish the challenge of capturing one of the elusive Murray cod. The best and most popular way to appreciate the Murray however is on one of the large houseboats that are often seen floating past. Day cruises are available on these, as are simple sunset cruises nothing quite beats watching the orange rays of the sinking sun reflecting off the smooth waters with a sundowner in hand. The houseboats can be hired for longer periods of a night or more where you self drive them up the river and find appropriate places to dock at night. It is a refreshing taste of freedom and independence on the water that you will never forget, and that you will probably want to repeat as soon as you can!

Back in Barmera Town another popular attraction is Rocky's Country Music Hall of Fame. Built to commemorate local country music legend Dean Rocky Page, it houses a range of memorabilia from a range of country stars and has a large ten metre high replica of a guitar. This town is big on its country music, and hosts an annual festival that attracts country fans and singers from across the country. If country isnt your thing but your stuck for something to do, then head to the drive in, one of the last in South Australia. It shows current release films and is a fun outing for adults, kids or couples.

There is a large range of accommodation in Barmera, so whether you want to camp, stay in budget accommodation or treat yourself to a fancy hotel you will be catered towards. Remember you can always be adventurous and hire a houseboat! Wherever you stay your time here is bound to be refreshing and invigorating, and you will take home some special memories set amongst spectacular landscapes.
Details & Reservations: Riverland Country
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156859_The-Murraylands-Houseboat-Holiday-Heaven http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156859_The-Murraylands-Houseboat-Holiday-Heaven Articles Australia Tue, 20 May 2008 23:05:20 The wide expanse of the Murray River flows past sedately, lazily making its way to the ocean. The setting sun reflects orange off its still surface, broken only by the fishing line and float that you have thrown out in hope of catching an elusive Cod -
The wide expanse of the Murray River flows past sedately, lazily making its way to the ocean. The setting sun reflects orange off its still surface, broken only by the fishing line and float that you have thrown out in hope of catching an elusive Cod


The wide expanse of the Murray River flows past sedately, lazily making its way to the ocean. The setting sun reflects orange off its still surface, broken only by the fishing line and float that you have thrown out in hope of catching an elusive Murray cod. Across the bank a substantial group of migratory waders preen themselves in the shallow water, and upstream a large house boat drifts slowly into view. Except for the sounds of nature the evening is quiet, and while you sip on your sundowner you think how infectious this tranquility is.

This may all sound like some sort of daydream, but in the Murraylands this is the reality of life a reality that attracts thousands of tourists each year who come to recharge their batteries and enjoy the peace of the Murray River environment. The powerful river breathes vitality into the dry Mallee region, creating stark contrasts in landscapes which highlights the lushness of the areas directly around the Murray. Just an hours drive from Adelaide, the Murraylands are easily accessible and the perfect option for a weekend away. Visitors flying into Adelaide just need to pick up a hirecar at the airport, and in no time at all they can be relaxing on the green banks of the Murray!

The ultimate way of seeing the Murraylands is from the water, and it is no surprise that a houseboat holiday is the premier vacation idea for the region. There are over 80 houseboats operating in the Murray and most of them come equipped with all the luxury fittings to make your stay on them a pleasure. No special license is required to hire one, you just need to be above 18 and to hold a valid driving license. Training and tuition as to how to drive them, the river conditions and mooring spots is provided before you leave for your trip. Of course you do not have to commit to taking out a houseboat to get onto the water, there are shorter cruises too. Some of these go for a day and some just for a few hours, but all of them give you the same relaxing satisfaction of being out on the water.

The towns of the Murray share the laid back and relaxed feel that is so typical of this region, and wherever you choose to stay you will be welcomed with open arms. Murray Bridge is the largest town on the river, and has everything the tourist may need or want. A range of accommodation options is complemented by shopping centres, restaurants and sporting facilities, and there are attractions such as the Dundee Wildlife Park, the Avoca Dell Mini Golf and the Sturt Bunyip Reserve which help make it a great retreat for the whole family. Along the river shore there are numerous leafy parks and barbeque areas where you can appreciate the quiet serenity of the river from.

With so much water around its no surprise to learn that one of the primary recreation pursuits in the Murraylands is fishing. Expect to hear plenty of 'the one that got away' stories when it comes to the Murray Cod. This elusive freshwater fish grows to over 100 kilograms and is notoriously difficult to catch, which makes it quite the talking point amongst local fishermen. It makes great eating, which adds to its appeal. Dont let its phantom nature put you off fishing however, because there are lots of species that are just as tasty that roam the river such as the yellow bellied callop. Its always a good idea to befriend a couple of locals and pick their minds for the best fishing spots and techniques whenever fishing in a strange area.

Just when you think you have seen and done everything in the Murraylands you hear about the Monarto Zoological Park. This 100 ha sanctuary combines the concepts of zoo and wilderness to create a an open range area where numerous exotic species roam. Expect to see herds of giraffe, zebra, ostrich and zebra wandering through the natural bush setting. Its like your very own African safari! Located at the town of Monarto which is the gateway to the Murraylands, the park is an important breeding program and a great place to bring the kids.

Whether its for a love of the great outdoors, a bit of fun and adventure or just a relaxing and rejuvenating break, your reasons for visiting the Murraylands are bound to be satisfied. The vast river system and the historical towns are easily explored in a rental car, and the diversity of the region ensures that whatever your age or your interests, you will find something in the Murraylands to make your holiday special.
Details & Reservations: The Murraylands Houseboat Holiday Heaven
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156662_The-Highs-and-Highs-of-the-Adelaide-Hills http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156662_The-Highs-and-Highs-of-the-Adelaide-Hills Articles Australia Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:04:55 So Adelaide isnt the craziest city in the world, but as in all urban conurbations there is still that general busy vibe produced by lots of people around you are going about their daily nine to five. It never becomes too overpowering in Adelaide howe -
So Adelaide isnt the craziest city in the world, but as in all urban conurbations there is still that general busy vibe produced by lots of people around you are going about their daily nine to five. It never becomes too overpowering in Adelaide howe


So Adelaide isn't the craziest city in the world, but as in all urban conurbations there is still that general busy vibe produced by lots of people around you are going about their daily nine to five. It never becomes too overpowering in Adelaide however, and this is partly thanks to the close proximity of the Adelaide Hills whose serene and tranquil atmosphere creates the perfect balance for the more hectic city life. Just a twenty minute drive from the city centre, the Hills are an easily accessible destination with a myriad of touring opportunities for a campervan holiday. Lush forest, cosy towns and magnificent views are just part and parcel of what you can expect here.

The Adelaide Hills were initially settled by the Germans, and their influence still runs thick through the towns here. Especially famous is Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement having been established in 1839. Many of the buildings first built here are still standing, and the elm and plane trees that line the streets are a century old, which helps create an air of historical significance. Shops selling wursts, cakes and other decadent German confectionery line the streets and add to the Bavarian character of the town, as do the numerous German tourists visiting this slice of their homeland.

A town with a more English feel to it is Macclesfield, which lies deep in the Hills about an hours drive from Adelaide, and is surrounded by pleasant farmlands, vineyards and natural bush. It is built around a village square that historically was the hub of a major transport route during the gold rush days in the 19th century. Today it is less busy, but there is an excellent English style pub here where you can sit down and have a hearty meal and a pint. Every Sunday the square comes alive with the sounds of farmers from the surrounding regions setting up stalls and selling off their fresh produce to the public.

The Adelaide Hills are as much about natural beauty as they are about the beautiful towns, and the best place to fully appreciate this is at Mount Lofty. The summit here is the highest peak near Adelaide, and there are stunning views not only of the hills and valleys nearby but also of the Adelaide Plains, Kangaroo Island and Yorke Peninsula. The summit is situated in the Cleland National Park, which is also home to Waterfall Gully on its western side. This large waterfall is a popular spot for tourists, who are able to park their cars in the large carpark and then make the short walk to the falls. There is a pleasant restaurant and a kiosk here.

There are a couple of wildlife parks in the Hills that your kids will just love. Cleland Wildlife Park is close to Mt Lofty, and visitors are able to walk through large enclosures and interact with Australian animals such as kangaroos, koalas and echidnas. Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is bigger and is just 20 minutes out of Adelaide. Home to over 100 species of bird and animals, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the Australian bush and wildlife in a protected habitat.

There is a strong sense of culture in the Adelaide Hills, whether it be in the German settlements or in the art galleries and museums that are scattered throughout the towns and countryside. The National Motor Museum in Birdwood is an intriguing place to visit, housing more than 300 vintage, veteran and classic motor bikes and bicycles the largest collection in Australia. Arts buffs will enjoy visiting the Cedars, the old home and studio of famed artist Sir Hans Heysen. Still owned by his family, here you can see his painting materials, tools, sketches, notes and much more.

To round off your motorhome holiday in the Adelaide Hills why not go for a tour of the numerous cellar doors in the region and sample some of the local produce? The hillsides and valleys here are lined with vineyards, and the crisp wines they produce are notorious the world over. Good food and good wine always seem to go hand in hand, and the restaurants and cafes here match the quality of the wine with the culinary dishes they produce. So go ahead and indulge in the complete dining experience! The best thing about the Adelaide Hills is that if you only have a single day free you can get there easily and still have a lot of fun touring round. But if youve got a couple of weeks free, even better... you're going to want to stay as long as possible!
Details & Reservations: The Highs and Highs of the Adelaide Hills
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