Getting Oriented

South Australia encompasses both the dry hot north of the Outback and the greener, more temperate south coast. The green belt includes Adelaide and its surrounding hills and orchards, the Barossa and Clare Valley vineyards, the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula, and the cliffs and lagoons of the mighty Murray, Australia's longest river. Offshore, residents of Kangaroo Island live at a delightfully old-fashioned pace, savoring their domestic nature haven.

• Adelaide. Heritage buildings line the small but perfectly formed center of South Australia's capital city. A diverse range of attractions, eateries, and bars makes the city a livelier option than its reputation would suggest.
• The Barossa Wine Region. One of the country's best-known wine regions—expect rolling hills, delicious local produce, and some of the best Shiraz in the world.
• The Clare Valley. Less visited than the Barossa. Riesling fans should meander through the valley, tasting as they go while enjoying some spectacular views of the Flinders Ranges.
• Fleurieu Peninsula. Wine buffs on a short time frame shouldn't miss beautiful McLaren Vale and its amenable cellar doors, while beautiful beaches and dramatic cliff walks are only a short drive away.
• Kangaroo Island. Remote, beautiful, and just verging on the right side of isolated, Australia's third-largest island is a paradise for animal lovers, and also offers some of the world's coolest accommodation.
• The Outback. Heading north, a trip to South Australia's Outback gives visitors a glimpse into an arid and dramatic landscape that is unmistakably Australian.