Adelaide, may be the countries original home of good food, wine and agri-tourism, so we take a trip, in and around the city and to beautiful Barossa Valley-to find out why.
There’s more to this city than historical churches and dashing buildings, Adelaide’s charm lies in the people and their sense of place, along with a ‘big country town’ attitude. Recently announced as the ‘Coolest city in Australia’ by the Wall Street Journal, it’s fast becoming the place to be and see.
We stay at the newly refurbished and charming Playford Hotel, ideally located on North Terrace, adjacent to the old railway station and the picturesque River Torrens. The hotel embraces its historical roots and offers a classic style, in the heart of the city-from the lobby draped with sculptured lines to the vibrant cocktail bar and dining room.
There are 182 styled rooms, decorated with a touch of Art Nouveau- a fusion of old meets new, with exquisite details in each room. The stately building has recently been transformed with comfort and convenience in mind. Expansive windows and Juliette balconies are well appointed in selected suites, and capture the city’s skyline and natural surrounds.
Dining at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant Luma (meaning light) is a showcase of what South Australia has on offer, from farm fresh produce to an assortment of local wine. The curated menu is threaded with local produce and is inspired by international cuisine- a testament to Adelaide chef Cameron Tabe.
The hotel is located close to the city’s main attractions, take a walk through the botanical gardens or explore the vibrant centre of town, with an array of top notch eateries, lively bars and street-art clad laneways.
We take a taste and tour around the Barossa Valley (just an hour up the road) to explore what the award-winning region has to offer, from a plethora of wines to botanical gin and small-goods. First wine stop is Pindarie Winery, located at the entrance of the valley with sweeping views, a variety of grapes and a tasting room, located in the farms stables.
Next stop is Turkey Flat Winery renowned for their French style rose and delicious house made Pedro Ximenez, infused into a home made pate, which we devour at lightning speed. The tasting room is built into the farm’s quaint cottage, we wander the lush property and enjoy a drop of rose, by the outdoor fire-pits.
Lunch is served down the road at ‘1918 Bistro & Grill’ located in a century old manor, with open fireplaces and country garden surrounds. We savour a degustation menu, threaded with the regions produce, such as Coffin Bay Oysters and Forest Mushroom Risotto-washed down with a selection of Barossa wines.
It is said that the region is home to over 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors, dotted across the picturesque valley-the Barossa is an agri-tourism hot spot, that also produces botanical gin and craft beer.
Our last stop day tripping across the Barossa is Seppeltsfield Road Distillers, known for its award-winning Shiraz Gin, as tasty as it is colourful-the distillery is the ideal place to pull up a pew and stay awhile.
We head back to The Playford Hotel for some rest and recuperation, before we check out Adelaide’s latest luxe hotel, The Sofitel. The exquisitely designed space is decorated with original artworks and sculptured fittings, with luxurious rooms to suit.
Dinner is served at the hotel’s decadent, French restaurant Garcon Bleu, a delicate menu that champions the region’s food and wine. We try classic dishes like the Three Cheese Soufflé, Hiramasa Kingfish and Kangaroo with Roasted Eggplant-the food is sublime.
Adelaide is known for its fabulous festivals that take over the city for ‘Mad March’, such as WOMAD and Adelaide Fringe, but we suggest visiting the ‘Coolest city in Australia’ any time of the year- you’ll discover a vibrant city that bursts with culture and pride.
For more travel inspiration and information, don’t forget to check out www.travellingsenorita.com, the best travel blog and podcast dedicated to Adelaide, Australia.