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South Australia

Planning a trip to explore the enchanting attractions of South Australia? This Aussie gem, tucked away on the southern coast of Australia, is famed for its scenic coastal landscapes, vibrant cities, and Outback beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the art-laden streets of Adelaide, venture into the wild, untamed coasts of the Eyre Peninsula, sip wine in the lush vineyards of Barossa Valley, Claire Valley, and McLaren Vale or meet the diverse wildlife awaiting on Kangaroo Island, a campervan trip through SA makes these experiences seamlessly accessible. 

What’s more, with a camper, you have the freedom to easily navigate South Australia’s picturesque climate and seasons, as well as the freedom to chase the sun or find a cozy nook in the hills. In short, South Australia is a haven for adventurers, food and wine lovers, as well as cultural enthusiasts with its world-class wine, historic sites, and stunning landscapes. Whether you want to check out one of these or all of them, there is no shortage of things to do in South Australia. 

 

Why explore South Australia by campervan

Exploring South Australia by campervan is simply unmatched in the ability to tailor your journey to your travel taste and style. A campervan allows you to wake up to a new sunrise in different parts of this stunning region every day—from the serene beaches of the Fleurieu Peninsula to the secluded coves of Kangaroo Island. What’s more, a campervan offers all the conveniences of home, with the freedom to explore the world right outside your doorstep. 

So, whether it’s making a spontaneous stop to taste freshly shucked oysters in Smoky Bay or camping under the stars in the Flinders Ranges, you can fully immerse yourself in this state without sacrificing comfort. If that weren’t enough, South Australia is also peppered with campgrounds that are perfect for campervan stops, many of which offer facilities such as power hook-ups and water supply, so you are free to roam with peace of mind that a safe haven is always within easy reach.

 

Things to do in South Australia

South Australia is the perfect holiday destination for wine, beaches and culture. With more than 200 cellar doors across the state, wine aficionados can indulge in a glass of world-famous Shiraz in the Barossa or a delicate Riesling in the Clare Valley. For those who prefer the sand between their toes, South Australia’s beaches are unrivalled. From the family-friendly shores of Glenelg in Adelaide to the surf hotspots on the Fleurieu Peninsula, there’s a slice of paradise for everyone. Beyond the beach, the rugged wilderness of Kangaroo Island teeming with native wildlife, the Flinder’s Ranges with its spectacular Aboriginal culture, not to mention the numerous vibrant festivals and events like the Adelaide Fringe that are held here annually — you will never be left wondering what to do in South Australia.

Apollo Team
/ Categories: AU Blog

Great Ocean Road and Grampians Road Trip

Exploring beauty around every bend

We partnered with Dutch traveller, Lonne Rijvers, so that she could explore the Great Ocean Road and Grampians National Park. The below writings are taken from and inspired by her trip. You can find her website, written in Dutch, HERE. All images credited to Lonne Rijvers.

 

This is one of the best things, if not the best, that you can do in the state of Victoria in Australia. Rent a campervan and go on an adventure. A road trip along the Great Ocean Road & Grampians National Park is a trip where you feel small in the univese. A trip where you experience the greatness and emptiness of Australia. A trip you will remember, because the landscape is even more beautiful after every bend of road. Wake up in your own campervan between kangaroos, breakfast on the beach and hikes to beautiful views. Fancy this? I understand. This is the ideal route for a road trip along the Great Ocean Road & Grampians National Park. A trip like this is perfect to escape the hustle of city ​​life in Melbourne. 

 

View from the campervan out to the ocean

Take a campervan

The advantage of a campervan is that it is a house on wheels. You have everything you need with you. You can cook and sleep in it – you don’t need more. Even though you can’t free camp in Australia, it’s more free than staying in hostels/hotels/motels. For the real roadtrip experience a campervan is the ideal solution. Check out Hippie Camper for their range of campervans.

 

Lonne sitting on the side step of the campervan reading a map

 

What is a nice route?

I first drove from Melbourne to Grampians National Park (250 km). After a three-hour drive, you arrive in Halls Gap. Here you will find an information point, some shops and, importantly, a gas station. Orient yourself and decide what you want to do. Before you press the accelerator, take a look at the Visit Grampians website for lots of information on the area.

 

'Wally' the camper out the front of the information centre at Halls Gap

 

Boroka Lookout

In Halls Gap you can already see the mountains and all I thought: I want to go there. I want to go up. From Halls Gap you can easily take the fun and adventurous route to Mackenzie Falls. By car! Along the way you will pass some absolute (literal) highlights. Starting with the Boroka Lookout. This viewpoint is located about 15 kilometres from Halls Gap. You look down on Halls Gap, east of the Grampians and Lake Bellfield.

 

Lonne at Boroka Lookout

 

The Balconies & Reeds Lookout

First you will pass the Balconies. The place lives up to its name, because the long, flat stones form as if they were a balcony where you can marvel at the view again. Then walk another mile or two on a very easy path to Reeds Lookout. Here again you have a magnificent view over Victoria Valley, Victoria Range, Serra Range, Lake Wartook and the Mt Difficult Range.

 

Lonne at The Balconies and Reeds Lookout

 

Mackenzie Falls

These are one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria and must be seen when you go to the Grampians. To get down to the waterfall you have to walk down the stairs for a kilometre. Sounds heavier than it is. It gets so monotonous when I say that it is beautiful here again, but it is. Go, go, go!

 

Lonne walking in front of Mackenzie Falls

 

Mount Abrupt & Mount Surgeon

I didn’t complete this part of the trip but the gentleman from the information desk in Halls Gap told me that it is a beautiful but tough walk through nature. Definitely for the active among us - this is a real hike and not just a walk. The entire route is about 7 kilometres in total and takes about three hours.

 

Where to sleep in Grampians National Park?

There are several options to stay overnight. If you’re going to continue your route to the Great Ocean Road (like I did), it may be useful to drive a bit out of the park. You can use the free ApolloConnect app to see what campsites are available in the area (downloadable for free on the App Store or Play Store). You can also save on local attractions! My expectations of an Australian adventure were met with crackling campfires in the evening and kangaroos in the morning.

 

Aerial view of campground at Grampians National Park

 

Lonne resting at a park bench with the camper behind her

 

My next drive was about two hours from Grampians National Park to Warrnambool (130km). This is where the Great Ocean Road, also known as B100, officially begins or ends. The greatness of the coast makes it so beautiful and special to see. Every now and then there is a new point where you can stop. Before I left, I was worried that I would pass beautiful viewpoints and then arrive at a point relatively disappointed and think: oh no, I missed this and this and this. Maybe I should drive back a bit? Well I can tell you that is not going to happen. The spectacular viewpoints and other beauty are so obvious when you see them.

 

Lonne with the view along Great Ocean Road

 

Top Tip: Allow yourself time

It’s easy to do the Great Ocean Road in one day. But then the question is: how much fun is that really? I believe it becomes more of a check-off ride instead of actually experiencing it. So allow yourself at least two days. Nothing is more annoying than driving with time constraints. Besides, it’s a shame to take a break at a beautiful location only to drive away without properly taking it in. You should stay, keep looking at the view, have a power nap on the beach or whip out the gas stove to cook a nice meal. All possible if you take your time!

Again, you can use the ApolloConnect app to find a place to camp up for the night and rest your legs.

 

Lonne lying down in the campervan overlooking the Great Ocean Road

 

I found the most beautiful part of the Great Ocean Road is between Apollo Bay and Lorne with spectacular views of the water. The road winds along the ocean, each bend as beautiful as the last. I recommend taking a break at Wye River where the rainforest meets the sea. Located in a bend, the area feels cozy and has easy access to the beach.

 

View from the campervans side mirror and a resting spot on the beach

 

Teddy’s Lookout is a place you must go to when you are in Lorne. It’s a bit of a climb but the viewing platform provides a photo-perfect view. This is a popular place, so you may share the platform with others. If you want to enjoy the view on your own, you can always walk down the sandy path and enjoy from there.

 

Lonne at Teddy's Lookout, Lorne

Top Tip: Refuel on time

During your drive along the Great Ocean Road you pass a few villages but not all of them have a gas station. You can refuel in Lorne, Anglesea, Apollo Bay and Torquay.

Once you have arrived in Torquay it is time to cover the last 100 kilometers back to Melbourne. SAD LIFE. The total round trip is almost 1,000 kilometers. My road trip lasted three days, which is really the minimum. I would make it four or maybe five days myself.

 

 

Map of Australia and the Great Ocean Road, Grampians Road Trip

 

 

Final tips!

 

  • Christmas lights are a fun way to light up the van. 
  • Bring power banks if you don’t plan on staying at campgrounds with electricity
  • Have a flash light, a lighter, a roll of toilet paper, a pocket knife and a water bottle
  • Before you go very far after picking up your campervan, stop at the local supermarket to stock up on enough food and drinks (read: wine and cheese)

Finally, ENJOY! It is an amazing round trip.

 

Combination of images showing the van on the road, the view along Great Ocean Road and Lonne taking a rest

 

 

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Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

From the vibrant Melbourne city to the dramatic Great Ocean Road coastline, the rugged outback of South Australia and the spiritual heart of Australia - Uluru, you'll do it all on this 14 day Melbourne to Alice Springs road trip.

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Great savings on your SA road trip

Start planning your budget-friendly adventure through South Australia with Apollo Camper's great savings and special offers. Hire a fully self-contained motorhome from our Apollo branch in Adelaide, equipped with everything you need for an unscripted holiday experience. Explore South Australia's scenic wonders and cultural delights while enjoying significant savings on your Australia campervan holiday. Discover epic deals and see how much you can save on your next journey across this jam-packed state! 

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Apollo SA campervan branch

Adelaide is the perfect starting point for hiring a campervan for your Australia campervan holiday across SA, WA, and even the NT. Our Apollo Adelaide branch is conveniently located less than 10 kilometres from Adelaide Airport and just over 8 kilometres from the city centre. Whether you’re heading to the vineyards of Barossa Valley to the rugged coastline of Kangaroo Island or have a grand Aussie road trip planned, Apollo’s central location and great deals on motorhome and campervan rentals, ensure you will have an easy start to your Australia campervan holiday.

 

 

 

 

Helpful Tips for Visiting SA

Helpful Tips for Visiting South Australia

Do so with confidence using these essential tips. From understanding the climate to packing smartly and discovering nearby attractions and things to do in South Australia, this section equips you with all the basics you need for an unforgettable adventure through South Australia.

South Australia enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot summers and mild winters. As such, the best time to visit is during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when temperatures are pleasant for beachgoing, outdoor activities, and sightseeing. Travelling in these off-peak times offers quieter experiences compared to the peak season, when you can expect bustling tourist spots and long queues for attractions. What’s more, travelling in off-peak times could mean potential savings without the higher ticket accommodation and sightseeing costs. If you find yourself travelling at peak times, be sure to book early to ensure you get the biggest savings and guaranteed accommodation!

Packing for your South Australia adventure is easy with a little planning. Be sure to pack essentials like outdoor gear, sun protection, and any additional camping supplies that you won't have in your camper, such as a flashlight. It is also worthwhile considering the kinds of activities you have planned during your Australia campervan holiday across SA. For example, if you are planning to visit the local wineries, you may want a few smart casual outfits. Alternatively, if you have hiking on the itinerary, you should pack a pair of good hiking shoes. For more tips on what to pack, check out our guide on summer campervan road trip essentials.

Still looking for ideas of what to do in South Australia? Here’s a closer look at some of the must-visit destinations and things to do in South Australia:

Barossa Valley

Renowned globally for its world-class wines, Barossa Valley invites visitors to savour exquisite Shiraz and Riesling varieties amidst picturesque vineyards. Beyond wine tasting, this region is a perfect setting to indulge in gourmet food, explore charming historic towns like Tanunda and Angaston, or set out on scenic drives through rolling hills dotted with cellar doors.

Kangaroo Island

A wildlife haven just off Adelaide’s coast, Kangaroo Island boasts pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife. On a typical day on the Island, you may very well encounter sea lions at Seal Bay, spot koalas in Flinders Chase National Park, and marvel at the natural formations of Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike trails through untouched wilderness or relax on secluded sandy shores.

Murray River

Stretching across South Australia, the mighty Murray River offers leisurely cruises, watersports, and riverside picnics, perfect for the water lovers in the family. Here, you can explore historic paddle steamers at Mannum, visit charming river towns like Renmark and Loxton, or unwind with fishing and birdwatching along its tranquil banks.

Adelaide Hills

Escape to the lush Adelaide Hills for a scenic retreat filled with quaint villages, artisanal produce, and panoramic views. Here, you will also find Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, where you can sample local cheeses and chocolates or wander through leafy national parks like Mount Lofty Botanic Garden.

Fleurieu Peninsula

South of Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula beckons with its stunning coastline and relaxed beachside towns. Surf the waves at Middleton, spot migrating whales at Victor Harbor, or explore the protected waters of Encounter Marine Park. Foodies can indulge in fresh seafood and regional wines at local eateries overlooking azure waters.

McLaren Vale

Famed for its Mediterranean climate and premium wines, McLaren Vale is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. Spend a day here touring boutique wineries, sampling bold Shiraz and Grenache blends, or cycling through vine-covered landscapes.

Clare Valley

Nestled in the heart of South Australia, Clare Valley charms with its scenic beauty and boutique wineries. Taste award-winning Rieslings, explore historic cellar doors, or wander along the eucalypt-lined Riesling Trail on foot or bicycle.

Whether you prefer free camping spots in Australia amidst stunning natural landscapes, the convenience of Aspen Holiday Parks along Highway 1, the picturesque Murray River views at Berri Riverside Holiday Park, the historic charm of Karoonda Tourist Park, or the tranquil setting of Riverton Caravan Park near Clare Valley's wineries, there are plenty of campervan friendly camping options with easy access to South Australia's major attractions.

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