The Fleurieu Peninsula is just a stone’s throw from Adelaide and manages to pack in a mix of beautiful scenery, beaches, wildlife and that famous country hospitality.

Visitors just keep coming back to this place again and again, so if you’re on your way there, here’s the route we recommend.

Strathalbyn

Start off in Strathalbyn, the antique capital of South Australia. This place is home to one of the country’s most impressive and photographed churches, St Andrew’s. The heritage-listed Soldiers Memorial Garden is worth a look as well and it’s in a great spot with the southern Mount Lofty Ranges in the background.

Goolwa

Next onto Goolwa, at the mouth of the mighty Murray, where paddle steamers used to go up and down the river all day long. You can experience a steam boat trip yourself on the 100-year-old PS Oscar W. 

Victor Harbour

Down the way in Victor Harbour, you can stick with the nostalgic theme and ride the country’s only horse-drawn tram to Granite Island which is home to 2,000 little penguins. Southern Right Whales also frequently migrate close to the shores of Encounter Bay.  

Deep Creek Conservation Park

Over at the Deep Creek Conservation Park, take a bushwalk through one of the 15 different walking trails or take the 4WD trip to Blowhole Beach*. The scenery is amazing with views expanding towards Kangaroo Island.

Rapid Bay

Rapid Bay is a budget-friendly camping area located right on the beach and a short walk from the 240m historic jetty. The iconic jetty provides easy access for fishing and a special launching platform for diving.

Normanville

In Normanville, you’ll come across the heritage-listed sand dune system and in-shore reefs which have seen more than their fair share of shipwrecks including the infamous ex-HMAS Hobart. You can still scuba dive through the thing if you get a permit.

Myponga Reservoir

A short drive north from Normanville takes you to the incredible Myponga Reservoir Lookout. Built in 1962, the reservoir holds an impressive 26,800 mega litres and supplies water to the southern metropolitan area and the south coast. Despite the impressive sounding numbers, it’s the lookout that you’ll really come for, the views sweep across the reservoir and beyond.

Willunga Farmers’ Market

If you’re a fan of farmers’ markets, Willunga is the place to go. The popular Willunga Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday, is the perfect place to stock up on fresh fruit and veges. Willunga also organises an annual Almond Blossom Festival every July.

*Please check conditions with Deep Creek Conservation Park Headquarters before driving this route.