Let’s face it—Australia Day falling on a Sunday is a golden opportunity to escape the grind for a cheeky four-day weekend. Whether you call it “creative leave planning” or simply “chucking a sickie” and take this Friday off (hey, no judgment here), Adelaide is the perfect spot for your extended getaway. With its mix of culture, wine, beaches, and wildlife, you’ll be living your best life while everyone else is still in the office.
Here’s how to spend your four days in the City of Churches (and let’s be honest, vino).
Day 1: Friday – Sip, Stroll, and Soak in the Culture
• Morning: Kickstart your trip with a caffeine hit at one of Adelaide’s iconic cafes like Exchange Specialty Coffee. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the Adelaide Botanic Garden—a peaceful way to ease into holiday mode.
• Afternoon: Head straight to Adelaide Central Market for some food therapy. Sample fresh produce, grab a gourmet lunch, and stock up on snacks for the road.
• Evening: Hit up Leigh Street or Peel Street for a vibrant dining experience. Try Osteria Oggi for modern Italian or Africola for a flavor-packed, cheeky night out.
Pro tip: Don’t overdo it on day one—pace yourself. The weekend’s just getting started.
Day 2: Saturday – Barossa Bliss
Adelaide without a Barossa Valley wine tour is like a weekend without Australia Day: unthinkable.
• Morning: Pick up your rental car and head an hour north to the Barossa Valley. Book a guided wine-tasting tour or DIY with stops at Penfolds, Seppeltsfield, and Jacob’s Creek.
• Lunch: Pair world-class wines with a lazy lunch at Maggie Beer’s Farm Eatery or Fino at Seppeltsfield.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a post-lunch stroll in charming towns like Tanunda or Angaston before heading back to Adelaide.
• Evening: If you’ve got energy left, check out the buzzing bar scene at Proof or Hains & Co. If not, order room service and call it a day—no judgment here.
Day 3: Sunday – Beach, Wildlife, and Relaxation
• Morning: Start your day with a scenic drive to Glenelg Beach. Swim, sunbathe, or sip cocktails at one of the beachside bars.
• Afternoon: Drive south to Cleland Wildlife Park to meet kangaroos, koalas, and more. Bonus points if you grab a koala selfie.
• Evening: If you’re up for adventure, make your way to Henley Beach for sunset dining at Stella Restaurant or Estia Greek Cuisine.
Day 4: Monday – Take it Easy Before the Journey Home
• Morning: Treat yourself to breakfast at Leisurely Coffee, then spend your final hours wandering Rundle Mall for some last-minute shopping.
• Afternoon: Before returning your rental car, swing by Mount Lofty Summit for panoramic views of Adelaide and its surrounding landscapes.
A Final Word on Your Return to Work
Sure, there might be some raised eyebrows when you return on Tuesday with a glowing tan, a Barossa wine haul, and zero regrets—but that’s Future You’s problem. For now, live it up in Adelaide.
Start your cheeky long weekend the right way—book your rental car with Redspot Car Rentals today. After all, how else are you going to haul all that wine back home?