South Australia might not be the first destination that comes to mind when it comes to Australian gardens, but it’s truly a must-see. From the heart of Adelaide to the shores of Kangaroo Island, South Australia is home to a fantastic mix of gardens and landscapes that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

With that in mind, let’s explore 5 reasons why this region is a must see.

1.  Biodiversity

As a state, South Australia has an incredible range of plant life and natural habitats, from the native eucalypts of the Adelaide Hills to the rare flora of Flinders Chase National Park. South Australian gardens often showcase native plants alongside exotics, which really offers a unique look into how the native biodiversity is preserved and celebrated.

Wildlife encounters, whether it’s koalas among the treetops or sea lions basking on the beach, add to the natural charm even further.

2.  Proximity

South Australia is easy to get to from almost every corner of the country, including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.

After arriving in Adelaide, you can easily go from vibrant city gardens to coastal lavender fields or from vineyard valleys to wild national parks. Whether you’re basing yourself in Adelaide or heading out to Kangaroo Island, everything is within reach, perfect for weekend getaways or scenic road trips.

3.  Unique Garden Designs

South Australia’s garden culture is a unique blend of heritage, creativity, and sustainability. From the world-famous Barossa Valley to the artistic flair of Tickle Tank and the historic grandeur of Carrick Hill, each destination tells its own story.

You’ll find gardens that are not just beautiful but deeply meaningful, many shaped by history, art, and personal passion.

4.  Seasonal Beauty All Year Round

Thanks to its relatively mild climate, South Australia offers seasonal garden experiences all year. Spring brings vibrant irises and roses to full bloom, while summer offers fragrant lavender fields and shady conservatories.

Even in autumn and winter, you’ll find colour and interest through foliage, bark textures and winter-flowering natives.

5.  A Blend of Nature, Culture and Flavour

Touring South Australia’s gardens isn’t just about plants, it’s about the full experience. Visit a garden, then enjoy a local wine tasting or farm-to-table meal. Many gardens, like Maggie Beer’s Pheasant Farm, combine culinary excellence with natural beauty, while others like ‘The Cedars’ tie in art and culture.

It’s the kind of journey where every stop offers something fresh, be it visually, emotionally, or through the fantastic local food.

Must See Destinations

Here comes the really fun part. Let’s have a deeper look at the many stunning gardens and destinations on offer during our  South Australia small group tour.

Emu Lavender Bay (Kangaroo Island)

Emu Lavender Bay is a beautiful lavender farm on Kangaroo Island, offering stunning views and a sensory experience with its fragrant lavender fields.

With its spectacular setting, the farm is known for its high-quality lavender products, including oils and creams. The stunning coastal landscape and the sight of endless lavender rows make this spot both peaceful and visually captivating, a must-visit for anyone looking to relax and reconnect with nature.

The Parndana Community Garden (Kangaroo Island)

The Parndana Community Garden is a post-bushfire regeneration project where locals grow produce, share gardening knowledge, and rebuild the landscape together.

It represents resilience and community spirit, particularly after the 2020 bushfires. The local focus on sustainability and land restoration adds a deep sense of meaning to the garden, making it more than just a place to admire plants; it’s a symbol of recovery and community.

Flinders Chase National Park (Kangaroo Island)

Flinders Chase National Park features rugged landscapes, stunning geological formations like Remarkable Rocks, and diverse wildlife, including koalas and echidnas.

It offers dramatic views along walking trails, with coastal cliffs and bushland creating a diverse environment for wildlife and nature lovers. The Remarkable Rocks are a standout feature, offering unique photo opportunities. It’s also a haven for birdwatchers, making it a top destination for anyone interested in the natural world.

Seal Bay (Kangaroo Island)

Seal Bay is home to a unique colony of Australian sea lions. Visitors can walk along the beach and observe these fascinating creatures up close in their natural habitat.

It provides one of the best opportunities in Australia to observe sea lions in their natural environment. The guided tours offer educational insights into their behaviour, and the pristine beach setting adds to the experience. It’s a perfect spot for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Spanning 51 hectares, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens is a central green space filled with diverse plant collections, historical architecture, and tranquil water features.

The gardens are a quiet escape from the city, featuring unique sites like the Palm House, Victorian glasshouses, and the Bicentennial Conservatory. You’ll find walking tours that explain the garden’s history, plant diversity, and the role it plays in environmental education. It’s a place that balances beauty, learning, and relaxation.

Anlaby Station (Barossa Valley)

Anlaby Station is home to Australia’s oldest Merino sheep stud and offers a glimpse into the past with its historic garden and stunning landscape.

This heritage site is both a working farm and a garden destination. Visitors can explore beautifully restored gardens featuring terraced lawns, walled spaces, and a rose garden. The chance to see the iconic Merino sheep in such a historic setting adds to the experience.

Maggie Beer’s Pheasant Farm (Nuriootpa)

Located in the Barossa Valley, Maggie Beer’s Pheasant Farm offers a blend of scenic beauty and delicious food products, all surrounded by the valley’s iconic vineyards.

It reflects Maggie Beer’s passion for seasonal, fresh produce. The farm’s stunning gardens feature a range of native plants, while the food products provide a unique culinary experience. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy local flavours while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Tickle Tank (Adelaide)

Tickle Tank is a vibrant garden known for its colourful mosaics, quirky sculptures, and imaginative plantings that make it a visual delight.

Designed by Irene Pearce, this garden is a blend of art and nature. Every corner offers a new surprise, with themed sections that tell a story through plants and artistic design. It’s a place that sparks curiosity and wonder, ideal for those seeking something off the beaten track.

One Tree Hill (Al-Ru Farm)

Al-Ru Farm is a colourful garden featuring an extensive range of flowers, including poppies, roses, and perennials, nestled in the hills of One Tree Hill.

The farm combines formal garden layouts with a mix of vibrant flowers. Owner Ruth Irving’s dedication to creating a space that blends beauty and creativity is evident in every detail, making it an ideal place for flower lovers.

Ashgrove Iris Garden

Located in South Australia, Ashgrove Iris Garden is renowned for its stunning display of irises, complemented by roses and other seasonal blooms.

It’s a true celebration of colour and form, with irises taking centre stage. Diane Michalk’s expertise in curating these striking blooms ensures that visitors experience the best of what the season offers. The combination of irises and roses creates a beautiful contrast that captivates visitors year-round.

Carrick Hill

Carrick Hill features an array of rose gardens, including Old Garden Roses, Hybrid Teas, and the unique Alister Clark roses, all set against a grand historic property.

The garden is deeply connected to the property’s history, which was once home to art collectors Ursula and Bill Hayward. The rose gardens are an essential part of the landscape, with each section offering different varieties. It’s an ideal spot for garden lovers and those interested in heritage gardens.

‘The Cedars’ (Home of the Heysen Family)

‘The Cedars’ in the Adelaide Hills boasts beautiful gardens inspired by the late Hans Heysen, featuring roses, zinnias, and native eucalypts.

Not only is the garden beautiful, it also reflects the artistic legacy of Hans Heysen, famous for his landscape paintings. The gardens offer visitors a peaceful environment to explore while the adjacent studio showcases his work. The connection between art and nature here is truly unique.

Spirit of the Coorong (Murray River)

The Coorong is a 100-kilometre-long wetland system at the mouth of the Murray River, home to a variety of bird species and an important area for biodiversity.

This region offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Australia’s diverse ecosystems. The Coorong’s tranquil waterways and diverse birdlife make it an ideal destination for wildlife photography, bird watching, and boating. The area is also steeped in cultural significance, making it a fascinating location for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Visit South Australia in Style with Ross Tours

Ready for an unforgettable journey through South Australia and the pristine coastal wilderness of Kangaroo Island? At Ross Tours, we run a one-of-a-kind Kangaroo Island small group tour led by friendly and experienced tour guides.

You can experience the splendour of gardens in full bloom as roses intermingle with iris and other beloved flowers in the picturesque Barossa Valley and Adelaide Hills.

From private garden tours to encounters with endangered wildlife, this small group tour promises an extraordinary adventure. Discover natural wonders like Admiral’s Arch and the Remarkables at Flinders Chase National Park on Kangaroo Island. 

Book a spot on a South Australia small group tour and create memories to last a lifetime!