Tag / Holidays

by brandsa2018

How to choose SA this Easter

We’re the birthplace of Haigh’s Chocolates, our Easter seafood is the best in the nation and we knew that combining Fruchocs and hot cross buns was a legendary move.

South Aussies know how to make the most of Easter, whether it’s camping under the stars in the Flinders Ranges or nibbling the ears off a chocolate bilby at the Beehive Corner.

With the four-day break only days away, we’ve compiled a list of ways to choose South Australian businesses, products and places this Easter.

Don’t forget to share your local purchases or experiences with us on Facebook and Instagram by using the hashtag #ichoosesa

1. Stick around

Why gallivant around elsewhere when some of the most stunning landscapes, natural hideaways and pristine environments are on our doorstep?

Eyre or Yorke Peninsula coastal getaways, Far North explorations, Limestone Coast escapes and Barossa Valley wonders are all reachable within a day’s drive (or flight).

When you choose to holiday locally, you support local accommodation providers, the hospitality sector, shops, businesses and families.

So pick a spot you haven’t been before or return to an old favourite.

The Adelaide Central Market is a good place to collect Easter seafood that’s fresh and local.

2. Stock up at the Adelaide Central Market

Almost half-a-million shoppers are expected to wander through this foodie’s paradise in the lead up to Easter, on the hunt for fresh products, local seafood and traditional Easter eats.

Market traders are expecting to sell more than one million kilograms of fresh produce before the weekend, with Easter rating as the market’s second biggest trading period of the year.

Samtass Seafoods is expecting to sell 500kg of fresh local snapper, 250kg of Spencer Gulf prawns and 100kg of local flathead fillets, while market bakers will churn out more than 75,000 hot cross buns.

Visit the Kangaroo Island Stall in the market for a selection of island produce, including the ultimate Easter feast, southern rock lobsters by Ferguson Australia.

3. Go fishing in one of SA’s pristine ocean spots 

From the clear and peaceful waters of the Yorke Peninsula to the true fisher’s territory off Kangaroo Island, there are plenty of good spots to wet a line in SA.

Autumn is the time for mullet as the fish school in large numbers, while catches of flathead and the much-prized King George whiting increase in the lead up to winter.

Stuck on where to go? Check out our Top 10 Fishing Spots.

Simon Haigh from Haigh’s Chocolates is an I Choose SA ambassador.

4. Get your chocolate fix from a local chocolatier

From the legendary Haigh’s Chocolates, to a hot-cross bun flavoured Red Cacao truffle, SA knows a thing or two about Easter indulgences.

Chocolatiers are perfectionists and sticklers for quality so you can be sure that a beautifully packaged Easter treat has been made with love and probably hand-packaged as well.

Try Melba’s Chocolates at Woodside, Bracegirdle’s House of Fine Chocolate, Chocolate @ N°5 in Hahndorf, Just Bliss, or the Port Elliot-based Carob Kitchen.

5. Frock up for the Easter races

The Oakbank Easter Racing Carnival in the Adelaide Hills is one of the biggest events on the state’s racing calendar, with the tradition dating back almost 150 years.

This year the carnival will undergo a bit of a reshuffle, as the Great Eastern Steeplechase moves from Easter Monday to Easter Saturday, with the latter expected to draw crowds of about 20,000 people.

The Clare Easter Races will also unfold on Saturday, March 31, and seeing as the Clare Valley is home to some of the state’s finest wines and produce, expect gourmet offerings.

6. Cling onto the Fringe madness

The Adelaide Fringe might have gone into hibernation for another 12 months, but in Whyalla the party is just getting started.

The UneARTH Festival is on March 30 and 31, providing creatives, artists and locals a chance to enjoy everything from circus acts to music and cabaret.

7. Have a hot-cross-bun-a-thon

There is nothing more mood-lifting than watching butter melt on a toasted hot cross bun.

Longstanding family business Kytons Bakery do a good all-round version of the spiced sweet buns (and even a Fruchoc variety!) while we hear that Red Door Bakery is also among the best bun makers in town.

Give a few local bakeries a go and rate them out of 10!

8. Fly a kite at Semaphore

Kite flying is a childhood pastime and in Semaphore the sky will come alive with colour for the Adelaide International Kite Festival from March 31 – April 2.

The free community event at Semaphore Beach will feature South Aussie kite fliers going up against New Zealanders and interstate visitors.

A festival marketplace with wares and activities will be open from 11am–5pm each day.

9. Soak up the tunes at the Blenheim festival

About 2000 people are expected to gather in the Clare Valley for the annual Blenheim Music and Camping Festival from March 29–30.

Listen to tunes by the likes of The Black Seeds, Mojo Juju, Timberwolf, Bootleg Rascal, Z-Star Delta, Kings and Associates, Wanderers and Emdee.

Festival-goers can camp (or glamp if it’s more your style) under the stars and do it all again the next day.

Blenheim is family friendly event with all ages welcome.

Zoos SA CEO Elaine Bensted is an I Choose SA ambassador.

10. Visit the zoo

Adelaide and Monarto zoos will both be open over Easter.

Free choccie eggs will be on offer and visitors have the chance to see a real life Easter bilby.

Monarto Zoo’s Lions 360 experience will also run as usual – although this heart-stopping chance to get up and close to the king of the jungle is popular so be sure to book before you go.

11. Get on ya bike!

With an extensive network of trails across national parks, forests and reserves, Adelaide’s Mt Lofty Ranges is well on its way to becoming an international mountain biking destination.

So dust the cobwebs off the deadly treadly, pump up those tyres and explore some pretty amazing scenery at the Cudlee Creek Forest, Eagle Mountain Bike Park, the Belair National Park or Sturt Gorge Recreation Park.

Check out more spots here.

12. Take your pooch on an Easter egg hunt.

Yes, really.

The Woofery Dog Bakery is hosting a free doggie Easter hunt on Saturday, March 31, at Plant 4 Bowden.

Four-legged friends will be sniffing out dog-friendly Easter treats in Bowden Park and humans can also indulge as the Plant 4 market stalls will be open from 9am–3pm.

Register your pooch here.

Phil Sims from Robern Menz is an I Choose SA ambassador. The longstanding SA business is bound to get a workout in the lead up to Easter.

13. Grab a FruChocs showbag at Coles

Fruchocs maker Robern Menz has been around for 150 years and is one of the state’s strongest family businesses spanning over four generations.

This Easter they’ve launched a $10 FruChocs Easter showbag in all Coles supermarkets across SA.

Featuring a trio of Fruchocs varieties, the goodie bag is the perfect Easter gift to take to that Easter barbecue.

14. Graze your way around a farmers market

Prepare to stretch your I Choose SA tote bag to its limits this weekend, as many farmers markets will welcome Easter treats to the usual lineup of fresh produce.

Farmers markets are great places to not only smash the weekly shop, but sample local produce and chat to the farmer or maker all in the one spot.

Many SA farmers markets have live music, hot coffee and delicious pastries to keep you going while you stock up for an Easter Sunday feast.

Check out this list of SA farmers markets, but consult Google to check if the one closest to you is running over Easter!

15. Enjoy the bizarre pre-Good Friday rush at your local supermarket

There’s nothing quite like the Easter Thursday rush that has grocery shoppers in a flurry.

Mums and dads are flying through the aisles with chocolate-smeared toddlers hanging from their trolleys, the cheese and cracker section is getting a good work out and everyone’s arguing over what box of Shapes to take on the camping trip.

It’s busy and a bit crazy, but the pre-holiday spirit is infectious.

Visit I Choose SA to find out how you can support our state by choosing South Australian businesses, products and services.

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by brandsa2018

Top 10 places to visit in SA (while the weather’s still playing nice)

It’s official.

Summer is over and autumn is here.

The good news, however, is that the good weather won’t disappear overnight, so consider this your last chance to get out there and enjoy some of South Australia’s most iconic and Instagrammable spots.

With a couple of long weekends on the horizon, we’ve rounded up 10 amazing local sights that have to be seen to be believed.

(And yes, it was nearly impossible to cap it at 10 – we sure do live in a beautiful place!)

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1. Locks Well Beach

We all love the Eyre Peninsula for a long weekend getaway and Locks Well Beach is of the most reliable locations for catching salmon in SA.

There’s also a lookout with panoramic views of the beautiful rugged coastline and the perfect photo opportunity to capture a stunning west coast sunset.

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2. Lake Bumbunga

Drive two hours north of Adelaide (approximately 25 minutes from Port Wakefield) and you’ll not only think pink, you’ll see it.

Lake Bumbunga is made up of three salt pans that have been harvested for over 30 years for use in swimming pools, water softener and – wait for it – fish and chips. Yes, really!

3. Umpherston Sinkhole

Who knew a sinkhole could be so beautiful?! Located in the heart of Mount Gambier, this naturally formed limestone cave was transformed into a garden late in the 19th century and it’s been a tourist magnet ever since.

However, we doubt Instagramming your visit was around back then…

4. Seal Bay

Kangaroo Island’s south coast is not only home to white sandy beaches, but – as the name suggests – plenty of seals.

You’ll literally find yourself surrounded by the cute sea creatures lazing around on the sand. They’re Insta stars in their own right and know how to strike a pose.

A post shared by SAM ROGERS (@samrogerss) on

5. Talia

The tiny town of Talia is another Eyre Peninsula hidden gem.

Waves have crashed against the granite cliffs for many years to create this stunning seaside destination which is known for rock fishing, fossils and its beautiful turquoise coloured ocean.

A post shared by JA Mes (@jirryjames) on

6. Fishery Bay

Located in Port Lincoln National Park, Fishery Bay is a spectacular section of coastline bordered by high cliffs.

A popular fishing area, the bay was the site of a 19th century whaling station and some of the remains are still visible on the eastern rocks.

A post shared by Dennis We (@denniss0n) on

7. Lake Eyre

Lake Eyre – despite its name – is usually dry and only fills up once every eight years. Despite this, it remains one of SA’s most well-known natural landscapes.

The vast, dry expanse of shimmering salt is so large that it crosses the borders of three states and on a cloudless day, seems to merge into the horizon.

A post shared by Cass Bennett (@cassbenn9) on

8. Remarkable Rocks

No visit to Kangaroo Island holiday would be complete without a trek to one of its signature landmarks.

It took approximately 500 million years for rain, wind, and crashing waves to create the Remarkable Rocks which are now part of the Flinders Chase National Park.

Word has it that early morning and early evening are the best time to visit and take a snap.

9. Wilpena Pound

Wilpena Pound is more than 800 million years old, located in the heart of the Flinders Ranges.

A large natural amphitheatre created by millions of years of erosion, it’s surrounded by ancient mountain ranges, spectacular gorges and sheltered creeks.

It’s also is a favourite for nature lovers and bushwalkers alike.

A post shared by CAM HEXT 📷 (@camhext) on

10. Innes National Park

If you’ve ever wanted to get away from it all, head to Innes National Park.

You won’t be completely alone as it’s home to emus, kangaroos and tammar wallabies, and you may also see whales, dolphins and seals swim past.

This stunning location is a natural playground with beaches, bushwalking trails and secluded fishing spots with the most incredible view of the stars.

Sonia Bavistock is a fashion and lifestyle blogger and also has her own social media management and copywriting business. Sonia is passionate about all things South Australia and can often be seen dining out with a glass of wine in hand.

by brandsa2018

Top three spots to ‘glamp’ in SA … and how to do it in style!

We are spoilt for choice when it comes to local holiday destinations in South Australia – be it resorts, holiday homes or caravan parks.

But have you ever thought of glamping?

For the uninitiated, ‘glamping’ is shorthand for glamorous camping, and involves accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those usually associated with traditional camping.

So, pack the car – leave the sleeping bag at home – and set off for one of these top three SA glamping destinations.

A six-course feast with matched wines? Yes please!

1. For the wine lover

Located in the Coonawarra wine region, 7km north of the township, is Bellwether Wines – a boutique winery, community kitchen, cellar door, produce garden and campground.

It’s every wine lover’s dream – stay at a winery and see/experience the wine being made during vintage.

The foodies of the family are also looked after, as you can cook your own meals using fresh herbs and produce from the garden including fresh eggs.

Bellwether Wines also offers you the chance to dine at the ‘Table for Twelve’.

Imagine sitting in an 1868 shearing shed, around a former wool sorting bench turned dining table, ready to enjoy a six-course degustation cooked by your own personal chef, while wines are selected by the winemaker.

The campground features 10 sites, including four with beautiful Bell tents, surrounded by magnificent 500-year-old red gums and a central communal campfire.

Prices start from $200 per night.

You don’t have to travel to the other side of the world to go on safari.

2. For the safari seeker

The Wilpena Pound Resort is an amazing way to escape the ordinary and enjoy outback hospitality and the extraordinary beauty of one of the earth’s oldest landscapes.

While much of the region’s accommodation are located on the outskirts of the Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park, the Ikara Safari Camp is the only accommodation located within the park.

The glamping site features 15 high quality spacious and powered safari tents.

Each tent has an ensuite bathroom, king sized bed, mini bar, reverse cycle air-conditioning and ceiling fan, private deck and fire pit. Accommodation options are available for couples and families.

Breakfast is served daily in the main tent while a lounge area allows guests to relax and socialise.

Prices start from $320 per night.

Get amongst nature in all its glory.

3. For the wilderness warrior

The Gawler Ranges is located 600km north west of Adelaide on the Eyre Peninsula and is home to Gawler Ranges Wilderness Safaris.

The small family owned and operated business specialises in the wildlife and nature the region has to offer.

Kangaluna Camp – the glamping site – has been developed by owners, Geoff and Irene Scholz, from a lifetime’s experience of trekking and camping.

The luxury safari tents feature two bedrooms, as well as their own bathrooms which use rainwater collected from the site.

The camp also has a central dining room which is a great place to relax, socialise and enjoy nature at its harmonious best.

Top five tips for glamping in style

1. Pack a capsule wardrobe of basics in neutral colours that mix and match. We’re talking t-shirts, tank tops, shorts and a light jacket for cool evenings.

2. Bring footwear that’s functional and fashionable. Good quality hiking boots and sneakers for daytime adventures and the old faithful flip-flops for when you need to throw something on in a hurry are your best bet.

3. Hats are stylish but also sun smart. We all remember the ‘no hat, no play’ policy at school and it goes without saying it’s a philosophy we should still be following as adults. Pack a hat or two to wear on your glamping getaway such as a wide-brimmed straw hat, fedora, baseball cap or a floppy felt hat.

4. Bring photoshoot props you can use, eat and drink. For those that like to ‘gram their getaways, pack props that can perform double duty. Think: wine, cheese, books, playing cards, board games. Once you’ve captured that perfect photo, you can put the phone down and finally enjoy all the activities!

5. Pack a first aid kit. Not cute, but essential. OK so this isn’t a fashion tip as such, but no one looks good or feels great when they’re covered in mosquito bites or – worse – sunburn.

Sonia Bavistock is a fashion and lifestyle blogger and also has her own social media management and copywriting business. Sonia is passionate about all things South Australia and can often be seen dining out with a glass of wine in hand.

by brandsa2018

Why you should stay in SA this holiday season

No 9am meetings, no peak hour bus commutes, pinging emails or packed soggy lunches.

The Christmas holidays are so close we can smell them, so pack the camper, fill the barbecue gas bottle and prepare to leave the office long behind.

You backed SA all year, you shopped local and supported all things homegrown.

But the number  of South Australians choosing to explore their own backyard could do with a boost.

“Our international and interstate visitors are up, but we’re not seeing as many South Australians taking advantage of the great holiday locations right on their doorstep,” says Tourism Minister Leon Bignell.

“SA was named as one the top five regions in the world to visit in 2017 by Lonely Planet, proving there’s no need to visit places like Bali or Thailand when we have some of the best beaches in the world right here in SA.”

So whether it’s a day-trip to Port Elliot (worth the bakery visit alone) or falling off the map for a while at the Innes National Park, choose SA not only as home – but for adventures too.

Why? Because summer in SA is the stuff that childhood memories are made of.

Here’s the Top 6 reasons to choose SA this holiday season.

The luxurious Amazon Star houseboat.

1. We have the River Murray.
The grand old Murray is a natural beauty winding its way though the Riverland and Murray Mallee before entering the Southern Ocean at Goolwa and the Coorong.

The Murray River is a haven for water-skiers, house-boaters and picnickers.

Bit of a history buff? Many river towns, including Renmark and Mannum, offer rides aboard paddlesteamers which have been chugging along for decades.

West Cape, Innes National Park.

2. We have the Yorke Peninsula.
White sandy beaches and freshly caught seafood? Sold.

Only a short drive away, Yorkes is a fisherman’s paradise, beachgoer’s delight and ice cream indulger’s haven. (The Moonta Coffee Barn and Gelateria is a must-visit).

Whether it’s reeling in southern garfish and blue swimmer crabs at Ardrossan or checking out a lighthouse or two at Corny Point or Cape Spencer, the YP is the place for a typical seaside summer getaway.

Peel Street is the perfect spot for bar hopping.

3. We have laneways.
Peel, Leigh, Bank, Gilbert, Ebenezer. The list goes on.

There’s nothing quite as thrilling as stumbling upon a hidden gem down a narrow laneway.

What’s more satisfying is that you’re bound to sip on local wines, gins, or whiskeys, as most holes in the wall are big on choosing SA. Looking for a new watering hole? Check out 11 bars you might have missed.

4. We have cricket at Adelaide Oval.
Cheer on the Adelaide Strikers at the oval this summer (head to the website for more info).

Even if you lack knowledge of the gentleman’s game the Big Bash League is an easy-to-follow game enjoyed by all.

However, get in quick as tickets are snapped up fast!

Underground ambience at the Desert Cave Hotel. Photo: Facebook.

5. We have opals.
Coober Pedy is a gem. (See what we did there?)

The Desert Cave Hotel in SA’s fascinating “opal capital of the world” is a unique accommodation experience, with a choice of above-ground or dug-out style living.

Old Timers Mine offers a fantastic insight into the history and labour that the first opal miners endured back in the early days.

Other outback places to visit include the Heritage Blinman Mine, a Mid North copper mine that thrived between the years of 1862 and 1907.

Cheers to the holidays!

6. We have (really good) wine.

Ever had the dreaded experience of desperately searching an interstate wine menu for an SA drop?

Troubleshoot that problem by never leaving!

With Adelaide being one of the Great Wine Capitals of the world, you’ll never be left dry.

SA’s globally celebrated wineries (of which there are more than 200) offer a range of experiences from cellar door wine tastings to grazing platers piled with fresh, local produce.

We’d love you to share your local holiday sights with us on social media by using the I Choose SA hashtag #ichoosesa

Visit I Choose SA to find out how you can support our State by choosing South Australian businesses, products and services.

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