Author // Clare Davissen
Some say the City of Churches, but these days Adelaide is fighting it out for the culinary capital of Australia. Adelaide is surrounded by world-class vineyards, award-winning restaurants, beautiful beaches only 10mins from the city and rolling hills, providing either a place to stretch the legs or somewhere to snuggle next to a fireplace with a good book.
Adelaide is also a year-round destination. The weather is comfortably warm in summer and cool in winter, with beaches and roaring snug fireplaces, there’s something to do in every season!
Saturday Morning
Follow the locals to the Central Market for delicious local produce and tasty breakfast treats. You’ll need to fill your belly before heading south to discover the vineyards of one of Australia’s oldest and most acclaimed wine regions in McLaren Vale. Only 45 minutes’ drive from Adelaide there is so much to see, sip and enjoy.
Be sure to check out the d’Arenberg Cube, such an interesting space to not only enjoy tasting some superb SA wine but a visual and sensory experience throughout with their art installations. Coriole is a favourite with some superb lunch options in the vineyard. If you want to balance wine with a bit of exercise, stop by Chapel Hill vineyard to have a tasting before wandering along the Chapel Hill Lookout Loop.
Saturday Evening
This evening it is time to hit the town. So many great bars and restaurants to enjoy in and around Adelaide’s CBD. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or wanting to sample some of the best gastronomic delights on offer, you could book one of Adelaide’s finest restaurants – our suggestions are Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, Orana, or Botanic Gardens Restaurant.
Sunday Morning
Today we’re swapping the hills for the sand and heading to Henley Beach, just shy of 10km from the CBD. Grab a late brunch at one of the many beachfront cafes and enjoy the long stretches of sunny seaside. Dip your toes in the Great Australian Bight and enjoy a stroll to the pier.
Sunday Afternoon
Enjoy a cruisy afternoon spanning into the evening, checking out the laneways back in the city – Linden Lane, James Place, Leigh St, and Peel St. Relaxed liquor licensing laws for small venues in 2013 has led over 90 venues to pop up in the various laneways, creating a thriving culture of little venues each with a unique offering.
As you sit back and enjoy a sundowner you may now understand why Lonely Planet listed Adelaide as one of the Top 10 cities of the world in 2014 – ‘ready to be uncorked’!
If you are keen to investigate Adelaide further be sure to get in touch. Clare has lived in the city and would love to help you book the perfect getaway.
