Thinking about exploring the world again when the time is right? Then let’s talk about the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia. Located 84km from Adelaide, capital city of South Australia, the Fleurieu Peninsula is famous for its stunning rolling hills, rugged coastlines and world-class wine regions, particularly McLaren Vale.
But that’s not all. Pronounced locally as floo-ree-oh, the peninsula offers a range of exciting must-visit attractions and year-round activities for all ages including fishing, beach surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing and swimming. Here are five things you must include in your Fleurieu Peninsula to-do list:
- Ride The Iconic Horse-Drawn Tram At Victor Harbor
Hop on the iconic horse-drawn tram and watch in awe of the beautiful coastline. Photo: South Australia Tourism Commission
Ever wonder what it’s like to be on a tram led by a horse? At Victor Harbor, you can hop on and ride the iconic horse-drawn tram, take plenty of pictures with your family and loved ones, all while being in awe with the beautiful coastline and clear blue ocean. The ride will take you on a 3.1km journey to nearby Granite Island where you'll be able to get to Oceanic Victor, the next stop on your list.
- Swim With A Bluefin Tuna At Oceanic Victor
Don’t miss out on the chance to swim with a bluefin tuna. Photo: South Australia Tourism Commission
If you love the water, or you're looking for new and exciting experiences, this in-sea aquarium is a must visit. Go on a journey of a lifetime and swim with a bluefin tuna, the fastest fish in the ocean.
Don’t feel like getting wet but still want to be part of the action? You can opt to feed the tuna from the viewing platform, or watch a diverse fish species from the underwater observatory. Another exciting tour package is the guided nature and penguin tour, which lasts 90 minutes and is perfect for families with kids.
You can also book the Ultimate Oceanic Experience where you get to relax at The Island Cafe with a four-course shared lunch that comes with booze, tea and coffee – after your two-hour aquarium swim. To make your experience more intimate and memorable, private charters are available. Be sure to make a booking before arriving to avoid disappointment.
Then after spending your time at Victor Harbor, drive about 4km southwest towards Encounter Bay where you can spot seals, dolphins and even whales.
- Make New Friends At Softfoot Alpaca Farm
Hand-feed a joey and be part of the kangaroo's rehabilitation. Photo: South Australia Tourism Commission
Want to make some new furry friends on your holiday? A trip to Softfoot Alpaca Farm, less than half an hour away from Victor Harbor, will do just that. There you'll get to meet and feed an alpaca!
Besides tasting an Australian alpaca farm lifestyle, you'll get to hand-feed joeys that are in rehabilitation before these kangaroos are reintroduced into the wild. Also, explore the dramatic 242ha picturesque Hindmarsh Valley of South Australia where you can ride through the dynamic countryside in 4x4 all-terrain buggies.
- Down The Rabbit Hole Winery
Hop on and dine in a powder blue double-decker bus at the winery. Photo: South Australia Tourism Commission
Located in the wine region of McLaren Vale, Down The Rabbit Hole is a winery that aims to inspire imagination with an attitude of adventure. Home to sustainable winegrowing, world-class wines and tantalising culinary experiences, McLaren Vale boasts more than 80 cellar doors and vineyards.
Though best-known for its shiraz, McLaren Vale also excels in the production of ultra-premium grenache and cabernet varieties, leaving you spoiled for choice when it comes to enjoying your red. In addition to learning about winegrowing and tasting, you can spend the day walking around the vineyards and experience the country living lifestyle of South Australia.
Later in the evening, whet your appetite with some wholesome vegetarian food while dining in a powder blue double-decker bus as you watch the sun set. Be sure to capture these beautiful Instagram-worthy moments as an everlasting memory.
- Explore The Quirky d’Arenberg Cube
Where art meets nature. Photo: South Australia Tourism Commission
This five-storey building influenced by the famous Rubik’s cube is situated in the wine region of McLaren Vale, South Australia. Surrounded by the d'Arenberg Winery vineyards, you can now walk into a life-size Rubik’s cube that consists of a museum, restaurant and (of course) a wine bar.
Take a tour of the tasting room, and if you like, you can even blend your own version of their Dead Arm shiraz to take back as a souvenir. On the top floor, panoramic views of the McLaren Vale region await guests. Pair the scenery with a scrumptious meal at the restaurant for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Still have time to spare after crossing off this checklist? Then hit the neighbouring towns for more fun and excitement! In Willunga, you'll find and learn about a shipwreck from the 1800s along the coastline of Port Willunga. And head over to Willunga Farmers Market for lots of local fresh produce. There you can grab a quick bite before heading out on the road again.
For more information on South Australia, click here. You can also follow their social media pages on Facebook (@SeeSouthAustralia), Instagram (@southaustralia) and Twitter (@southaustralia) to learn more.
