Where to stay in Adelaide, Kangaroo Island & Southern Outback

This 1850's five-bedroom homestead is set in the heart of the ancient Flinders Ranges, home to some of the most spectacular outback scenery in the country, and offers a taste of classic Australian country hospitality. Arkaba is a 60,000 wildlife conservancy whose craggy sandstone bluffs and dry creek beds lined with River Red Gum trees are a quintessential Australian scene, while the acclaimed geological amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound lies on the property's northern boundary. Just a four and a half hour drive from Adelaide (or a one hour scenic charter flight), the Flinders Ranges is undoubtedly one of the most accessible outback destinations in Australia.

Rawnsley Park Station is a classic Australian outback sheep station located on the edges of the infamous Wilpena Pound in the centre of the Flinders Ranges National Park, about a 3 hour drive north of Adelaide. The One and Two Bedroom Luxury Eco Villas are ideal for independent travellers, self-driving to the flinders as they have every creature comfort you could wish for as a base including stunning 360 views of the ranges.

Set atop a gentle hill with sweeping views of the Barossa Valley, The Louise is surrounded by hundreds of acres of vines that produce some of Australia’s most significant wines. The acclaimed on-site restaurant ‘Appellation’ showcases quality regional seasonal produce in a casually elegant setting. The property has just 15 suites offering absolute luxury and inspired design, with sunrise or sunset vistas over the surrounding vineyards.

Southern Ocean Lodge is Kangaroo Island’s only world-class wilderness lodge - a sanctuary of comfort, style and intimacy. Located at Hanson Bay on the island’s south west coast, the lodge adjoins two National Parks and is at the heart of the island’s major attractions.

Guests staying at The Frames will adore the sumptuous accommodation, tranquillity, and independence it provides. Yet, it's the uniquely curated immersive experiences by owners Cathy and Rick Edmonds that truly captivated our imagination. Easily integrated into any South Australia itinerary, within 3 hours drive of Adelaide, Flinders Ranges or Barossa Valley (or a shorter drive from Mildura, an hour and a half away with flights from Sydney or Melbourne), this unique location offers a juxtaposition of landscapes.

Tucked away on its own private cove, Sea Dragon Lodge is an intimate boutique lodge with just thirteen suites and villas, each enjoying breathtaking views of the turquoise ocean and stunning beach. Within the 250 acres, guests are invited to explore and immerse themselves in this spectacular haven, home to native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, and goannas. Avid bird watchers will see a variety of birdlife, including the endangered Glossy Black Cockatoo. Dolphins and seals regularly swim past the beach, which guests often see when walking on the many trails throughout the property and along the coast to Cape Willoughby Lighthouse.

Situated in an unrivalled location in the heart of Adelaide, this elegant boutique hotel has been lovingly reimagined from a 1930 Heritage-listed building, formerly the Colonial Mutual Life Office. Just steps away from Rundle Mall and the North Terrace cultural precinct, you couldn’t be more central. The River Torrens and Adelaide Central Market are all within half a mile of the front door, and behind the hotel, the lively laneways of the West End offer plenty of cool cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Sequoia is an intimate adults-only luxury lodge, perched on the edge of the Adelaide Hills with sublime views of the Piccadilly Valley. It is the perfect place to stay when visiting Adelaide, especially if you are planning a side trip to Kangaroo Island or The Flinders Ranges, as an alternative to two city stays. The city is only a twenty-minute drive from Sequoia, yet you’ll feel a world away in this intimate retreat.