Explorers Way Road Trip

Ease into this road trip with a short 2-hour drive from Adelaide. The first destination of this adventure leads you to Clare Valley, where you can see the visible contrast of the outback and rolling vineyards.

Along a 40km strip, you will be spoilt for choice with more than 50 cellar doors to choose from. The signature wine of Clare Valley is Riesling, so be sure to try out a few drops! Spend your day wining, dining, and unwinding in this incredibly beautiful spot, taking in all it has to offer.

Spend an evening at the Clare Valley Discovery Holiday Park.

For a morning pick me up, head to the Watervale General Store for a coffee and a delicious breakfast. If you are a fan of history and architecture, make a stop at Martindale Hall where you are welcomed to explore the history and grandeur of the Georgian-style sandstone mansion built-in 1879.

Once you arrive in Burra, take some time to explore the town. This historic mining town is nestled perfectly at the crossroads between the flourishing vines of Clare Valley and the rawness of the red dirt of the Outback. Known for its rich history, you could spend all day exploring abandoned mine sites, old police lock-ups, and underground dugouts.

After a day filled with history, head to Red Banks Conservation Park. Spend your evening unwinding in the outback and make sure you take some time to admire the clear and dark sky broadcasting a dazzling nighttime display.

Spend the next leg of your trip heading to the Flinders Ranges. Driving through the Flinders Ranges will transport you to an otherworldly destination. Towering cliffs and deep craters of dusty red roads will leave you feeling like you just explored Mars.

Within the Mount Remarkable National Park, you will find Alligator Gorge. After cutting and shaping its way through ancient rocks, you are now able to walk into the gorge and explore even more on the longer hikes in the area. Alligator Gorge is a great spot for wildlife watching, take in all the beauty whilst looking out for birds, emus, kookaburras, wildflowers, and animals such as kangaroos.

Spend your night at the nearby Mambray Creek campground relaxing in the outback.

Head deeper into the Flinders Ranges and immerse yourself in the truly remote wilderness of Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. This destination will leave you awestruck by its sheer size and beauty. With giant cliff tops, impressive mountain ranges, and iconic dusty red roads, paving your way.

One of South Australia's most iconic destinations, you are bound to be wowed by the ancient landscapes and wealth of wildlife you will find at this destination. Be sure to allow some of your time to explore Wilpena Pound. This 800-million-year-old ancient giant is a must-see.

The Flinders Ranges are of significant cultural importance to the Adnyamathanha people who have inhabited these ranges for tens of thousands of years. Learn about this history by embarking on a cultural walk from Wilpena Pound Resort.

Worked up an appetite with all your exploring? Head out of town for an hour to the Prairie Hotel for a classic Aussie pub meal with a twist. As one of the top 100 gourmet experiences in Australia, trialing this interesting menu is a must-do on any trip to the South Australian Outback. If you were wanting to explore a little more in-depth – look into the Arkaba Walk, a three-day walking tour through some of the most incredible bushland in Australia. Learn about the unique flora and fauna, fascinating geology, and rich cultural history of the land.

Spend your evening at the Wilpena Pound campground under a blanket of outback stars.

Head even deeper into the rugged and wild Flinders Ranges to continue your explorative roadie. Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is the next destination of this route. This Ecotourism Hall of Fame spot will leave you feeling inspired and amazed.

Go on foot and explore this sanctuary from corner to corner with its 130km of public access tracks. With a caravan park on-site, it's hard to say no to spending a few days at this incredible destination. With some of the clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere, and home to one of the largest privately-owned observatories, you can experience next-level access to a stunning light show.

Take all the time you need to explore this astounding spot before turning back and embarking on your journey back to Adelaide.