We went back recently and it just works. Like, actually works. The kids disappear (not in a scary way… more like “they’ve found the games” way), the drinks stay cold, and you can actually finish a sentence. Huge win.

The venue nails that industrial-chic vibe with high ceilings, exposed beams, raw brick, and big open spaces that somehow feel cool and welcoming at the same time. Inside, there’s enough going on to keep the kids busy without you having to micromanage every second: pinball, arcade games, a skill tester that will happily eat your coins, and shuffleboard. Outside, it’s chalk, giant Jenga, a rope balance thing, and a little rocking boat that my kids became oddly obsessed with. Add in colouring and puzzles on the kids menu, and you’ve actually got a solid window to sit, chat, and drink something while it’s still cold

Now the food… we went all in. The menu is just too good to pick, so we ordered a bunch of things and honestly? Not a single regret.

The baked provolone with chilli and chimichurri is a must. Like, don’t even think about skipping it. Sharing is optional but risky. The fried chicken ribs with the curry mayo? Absolutely wild. The mortadella, salami, and stracciatella focaccia combo was fresh, salty, a little sweet and just ridiculously good. Fish and chips is generous and classic, the wagyu cheeseburger does exactly what you want it to do, and the pork scotch with that sticky IPA + gochujang glaze had one of those “okay wow” moments mid-bite.

We also ordered both desserts because self-control simply wasn’t on the table. The ice cream cookie sandwich and the cheesecake were both absolutely worth it. The kids’ menu is really reasonable at $12 per meal, with a choice of five options: cheese toastie, spaghetti, chicken bites, beef slider, or a grazing plate. You can even add a drink for $2 and finish off with an ice cream sundae for $8. Oh, worth noting that kids eat free on Mondays and in the school holidays, kids meals are half price!

There are 24 beers on tap, and the staff are total legends; chill, happy to let you try before you commit (essential if you panic-order like me). Not a beer person? You’ll still find something to love. They also run brewery tours if you’re feeling educational… or just want to justify another drink.

It’s kid-friendly, dog-friendly, and the perfect spot for catching up with your crew. No stress, great food, good vibes, and you leave feeling like you’ve actually had a break (even though your kids were right there the whole time). Bonus: easy on-street parking.

We’re big fans. Go. Eat the cheese. Stay longer than you planned.

Location: 18 Baker Street, Port 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, SA, 5015
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs 11am – 10pm | Fri – Sat 11am – midnight
Phone: (08) 8317 2111
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Villa 19 is in the absolute dream spot. It’s right next to a huge lagoon-style pool, complete with a shallow end for the little ones, and just across from a massive grassy expanse where kids can run, ride scooters, play basketball, swing from trees, and generally disappear for hours. There are picnic tables scattered around, so you can grab a drink or snack and actually sit down while they play, and if that’s not enough, a private boardwalk leads straight to the beach. Honestly, it’s one of those layouts where the kids feel free to roam, but you still have that calm, safe feeling as a parent.

The villa itself looks out over the lake, which is stunning in the morning light and gives the whole place a peaceful vibe. There’s a deck off the downstairs bedroom that’s perfect for a quiet coffee, and upstairs a huge balcony with a proper outdoor dining setup and a BBQ that basically screams weekend feasts and margaritas for the adults. It sleeps up to ten, which works really well for two families or a bigger group without anyone feeling on top of each other.

Inside, the attention to detail is next level. The bunk room was an instant hit, with two double bunks, books, and toys already set up, which makes settling in that much easier. The beds are seriously comfortable, and the linen is so soft you almost don’t want to get out of bed in the morning (as we’ve come to expect from a Sanbis stay). The lighting is warm and gentle, and the lampshades are exactly the kind I’d pick for my own house if I could. Small touches that make the whole place feel effortlessly cosy.

The house is set up for families in a way that actually makes sense. There is plastic dining for kids, a high chair, step stool, portacot, pool towels, sports gear, Netflix, WiFi, and even a popcorn machine, which quickly became the highlight of movie night. The adults aren’t forgotten either, with a proper barista-style coffee machine that made mornings feel a little indulgent. And yes, it is a two-storey house, which means stairs, but there is a safety gate at the top that any parent of little ones will quietly celebrate. The garage as been transformed into a second living space with another TV and fridge making it the perfect hangout for older kids or teens.

Normanville itself is quiet and coastal, with cafes, shops, and a few short drives for exploring the rest of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Ingalalla Falls is only five minutes away, with Second Valley and Rapid Bay also close by. But honestly, once you are at Villa 19, it is hard to want to leave. The pool, the lake, the grassy areas, the private boardwalk to the beach, it all just works so the kids are happy and the parents can breathe.

If I could move in here, I would in a heartbeat. Since that is probably a bit far-fetched, I will happily settle for a Sanbis Villa stay at least once a year.

Location: Villa 19, South Shores, Normanville
For bookings and more information:
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Hardwicke Bay is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it coastal towns that somehow ends up being exactly what you needed. Quiet streets. Kids riding bikes up and down the road like it’s the 90s again. Evenings slow right down, you fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up wondering why you don’t live here.

We recently found the most gorgeous family-friendly house here and honestly, it’s the sort of place that makes you start checking the calendar for “when can we come back?”

First things first… the location. Hardwicke Bay is such a good base for exploring Yorkes. You’re close to some of the peninsula’s best spots, but far enough away from the busier hubs that it still feels like a little secret. Just 10 minutes down the road is Flaherty’s Beach, which was voted 4th Best Beach in Australia. Casual. No big deal. Just one of the best beaches in the entire country basically in your backyard. The water is beautifully calm and shallow, perfect for kids to splash around safely. You’re also about an hour from the Copper Coast, an hour from Innes National Park, and surrounded by some of the peninsula’s prettiest coastal drives and hidden swimming spots. Need to stock up on the basics? Minlaton is just five minutes away.

Halcyon house itself sleeps families comfortably with three bedrooms, two with queen beds (perfect for parents, or if Nan and Pop decide they’re coming too) and a bunk room for the kids. And can we just say, bunk beds are basically a holiday requirement. The excitement level of kids claiming top or bottom bunk is unmatched.

But what we really loved about this place, aside from the view, which is absolute perfection, is how genuinely family-friendly it is. Not “there’s a couch and a TV, good luck” family-friendly. Actually thought-out, parents-will-appreciate-this kind of family-friendly.

The entire property is gated, which makes it perfect for younger kids who want to run around safely. Out the back there’s a basketball hoop, a swing set with a slide, and totem tennis that will humble even the most coordinated adult. Inside, the kids’ bedroom has a basket of toys and books ready to go, which means you don’t have to pack half your house “just in case.” That alone deserves a standing ovation.

The kitchen has everything you need to cook up big family breakfasts or simple weeknight-style dinners, and the full wrap-around balcony is perfect for sipping a morning coffee while keeping an eye on the kids. The deck also has full BBQ facilities, running water, all the cooking utensils you could need, and a radio for some tunes while enjoying dinner ‘alfresco-style’. There’s a selection of bikes you can borrow, which honestly just fits the Hardwicke Bay vibe perfectly. Slow morning rides. Sunset cruises. That wholesome, wind-in-your-hair, no-one-asking-for-wifi energy that feels a bit like stepping back into the kind of childhood we all talk about wanting for our kids. But hey, if you want wi-fi, there’s that too!

Directly out the front, about 50 steps from your driveway, is the Beach. A sheltered bay perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating, and when the tide is out, there are gorgeous little rock pools just begging for curious little explorers.

Days here are easy. Beach in the morning. Back for lunch. Afternoon basketball shoot-outs. Maybe a little explore around Yorkes. Then home again to rinse off sandy feet, pour a drink, and watch the sky turn ridiculous shades of pink and orange. Yorke Peninsula sunsets are next level, like nature showing off.

If you’ve been looking for a Yorke Peninsula escape that actually works with kids, not against them, this Hardwicke Bay home really is something special. Easy, relaxed, set up properly for families, fully gated for little ones, and close to some of Australia’s best beaches. What more could you want?

Well… maybe just one more night.

Location:

This content was created in partnership with Halcyon Hardwicke Bay

Tucked away in the rolling countryside just outside McLaren Vale, this distillery door feels personal in the best way. It’s not flashy or overdone. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and the kind of place where you arrive, take a breath, and realise you’re in no rush to leave.

What really stood out to us though was how genuinely family-friendly it is. Gin tastings are usually a strictly grown-up experience, but here the kids are very much part of the visit, not an afterthought. With a kids tasting flight on offer, the whole family can sit down and enjoy the experience together, something we don’t see often, and always appreciate when we do.

The Little Trotters Tasting Flight is made for the little ones, with three drinks and three snacks. It’s such a simple idea, but honestly, it makes visiting with kids feel way more relaxed. Everyone gets to join in, no FOMO here.

And then… the butter board. Gin flights might be old hat for us grown-ups, but a butter board? That was something new, and we are very here for it.

The Little Oinker Butterboard stole the show. Imagine creamy whipped butter piled high with mini marshmallows, hundreds and thousands, dark choc chips, and a drizzle of raspberry syrup, all served with soft white bread. Sweet, sticky, ridiculous… and absolutely delightful. There are adult butter board options too, which sound very fun, but between the delicious pizzas and arancini balls, we couldn’t manage another bite and that’s our excuse to go back soon.

So yes – they’ve got great gin ✔️
Delicious food ✔️
Thoughtful kid-friendly options ✔️

But if you need one more reason to visit, let it be the beautiful outdoor space. A relaxed patio opening onto a gorgeous stretch of green grass, surrounded by rolling countryside, birdsong, and that peaceful, slow-down feeling you don’t realise you need until you’re there. It’s quiet, intimate, and instantly makes you want to linger.

For kids, there are lawn games (giant Connect Four and Jenga), and even a piano to tinker away on. For parents, it’s the kind of place where you can actually sit back, exhale, and enjoy your drink while the kids are happily occupied.

Ginny Pig Distillery isn’t just a distillery door. It’s one of those rare spots where families genuinely feel welcome. And that’s something worth raising a glass to.

Location: 240 Cleland Gully Rd, Mt Compass, SA, 5210
Opening Hours: Open Thursday – Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm
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If Christmas had a home base in 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, Santa’s Wonderland would be it and after four years in a row, our kids have basically grown up thinking this place is the North Pole. I swear if you lined up photos from each year, you could measure their height in candy canes. So yes, we’re back again in 2025… because at this point, it wouldn’t be December without it.

This year is extra special because Santa’s Wonderland is celebrating its tenth season. A whole decade of rides, snow, sparkles and very excited children. The Jubilee Pavilion once again transforms into a huge glowing Christmas playground and somehow it still hits that warm fuzzy feeling as soon as you walk through the doors.

Each session runs for three hours and almost everything inside is included once you are in. There are two sessions every day, morning and afternoon, which gives families a generous block of time to play. Rides, ice skating, giant inflatables, the ten-stop Activity Trail, stage shows, photo moments and roving characters all run non stop from the moment the snow starts falling. A few extras like gingerbread decorating, carnival sideshow games, food and novelty items are available to purchase separately.

Here’s how we spend a three-hour session at Santa’s Wonderland:

We arrive early as usual because the magic starts the second the doors open and the snow begins to fall. The kids dash straight to the first stop of the Christmas Activity Trail, which this year has ten stops, from crafts to letters to Santa to storytelling, with a few extra touches from South Australian brands. Our crew is determined to complete every stop. When you’re under nine, this is very serious business.

Next up are the rides. There are no new additions this year, but honestly, the original lineup is comfort food for festive hearts. The kids head straight for favourites like the Wave Rider, which somehow survives eight consecutive spins without complaint, the Dragon Wagon Coaster, and the Taxi Jet for the smaller kids. With everything included, the only limit is how many loops your stomach can handle.

Between rides we stop at all the shiny selfie spots. The giant Christmas tree is still a highlight, and the sparkly displays make it easy to forget you are in a pavilion in Wayville rather than the North Pole.

We always take our snack break during the stage show. The kids are entertained with singing, dancing, and Christmas characters while we get a few blissful minutes to actually eat. We learned this lesson in our first year, before we knew the art of surviving a three-hour Christmas session.

Ice skating is always a highlight too. The full-size rink has skating aids for wobblers and brave parents alike. Thick socks are essential, and a spare pair in your bag is a lifesaver. We usually leave this to last so if the kids get cold or wet, it’s home time anyway. Some things just make sense.

By the time the three hours are up, the kids are sparkling, sweaty, slightly sticky, and glowing with that “Christmas magic hit me in the soul” feeling that makes this tradition worth it every single year.

Is it worth it in 2025? Absolutely. It is the nostalgia, the chaos, the sparkle, and the memories that keep our kids talking about it all year. After ten years, Santa’s Wonderland still knows how to put on a show. If you are thinking about going, don’t wait. Weekend sessions sell out faster than presents under the tree on Christmas morning.

Must-Know Tips for Families

1. Shoes and socks sorted – wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off for the inflatables, and pack thick socks for ice skating. If you forget, you can buy some there for $5.
2. Bring snacks – a little fuel goes a long way, and the stage show is the perfect time for a bite while the kids are entertained.
3. Pram friendly – the space is roomy, sessions are capped, and little ones are easy to wrangle.
4. Book early and think weekdays – weekend sessions sell out fast. Weekday sessions are less busy and cheaper, so if you can, grab one of those.
5. Have fun – laugh, twirl, take photos, and soak up every glittery moment. And remember, the Christmas magic is real!

ENTRY TICKETS:
• All adults and children aged 2 years & above require an ENTRY ticket (children under 2 years old are FREE and do not require an entry ticket).

UNLIMITED FREE RIDES

• Wave Rider (Family Ride)
• Taxi Jet Ride – (Children’s Ride)
• Dodgem Cars (Family Ride)
• Tea Cups (Family Ride)
• Dragon Wagon Coaster (Children’s Ride)
• Ride on Motor Bikes (Children’s Ride)
• Convoy Trucks (Children’s Ride)
• Super Planes (Family Ride)
• Elephant Train Ride (Family Ride)
• Santa Fe Train (Children’s Ride)
• Christmas Inflatable Jumping Castle Zone (Children’s Activity)
• Ice Wonderland Ball Crawl (Children’s Activity)
• Candy Land Bouncy Castles (Children’s Activity)
• Ride on Reindeers (Children’s Ride)

TRADITIONAL FAMILY CHRISTMAS LAND 

• Christmas Story Telling with Mrs Christmas
• Write a Personal Letter to Santa & Mail It
• Santa’s Giant Red Sleigh Photo Opportunity with FREE take home Christmas selfie props
• Magic Reindeer Food Stables – FREE take-home carrot thanks to Nicol Carrots!
• Little Picassos with FREE colouring crayons
• Ride on Reindeer’s Coral with Rudolf & Friends
• Christmas Inflatable Jumping Castle Zone
• Amusement Rides
• Santa’s Wonderland Giant Christmas Tree
• Light up bauble selfie opportunity
• Light up giant walk through present selfie opportunity

ICE WONDERLAND

• Unlimited Ice Skating
• Ice Wonderland’s Ball Crawl
• Snow Queen Winter Wonderland White Sleigh Family Photo Stop with FREE mini milk!
• Giant Ice Lights Christmas Tree
• Light-up Walk through Christmas Baubles
• Polar Bears, Penguins & Arctic Foxes

CANDYLAND

• Candyland Inflatable Maze
• Personalise a Christmas BAUBLE Stop
• Candyland’s Giant CANDYLAND tree
• Candy Cane and Gingerbread Men Selfie Stop
• Free Take Home Candy Cane
• Amusement Rides
• Main stage entertainment

2025 CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY TRAIL

Stop 1: Little Picasso’s proudly presented by NOVA 919 – Collect your FREE colouring crayons!

Stop 2: Santa’s Mailbox proudly presented by NOVA 919 

Stop 3: Santa’s Sleigh

Stop 4: Bauble Zone proudly presented by Goodstart Early Learning

Stop 5: Spin to Win proudly presented by FruChocs

Stop 6: Magic Reindeer Food & Christmas Snacks proudly presented by Pick A Local! Pick SA! – Collect your FREE take-home carrot thanks to Nicol Carrots!

Stop 7: Storytelling with Mrs Claus proudly presented by SACARE

Stop 8: Candy Cane & Gingerbread Man Selfie Station

Stop 9: Interactive Colour Play

Stop 10: Snow Queen Selfie Station proudly presented by Fleurieu Milk Company –  Collect your FREE mini milk!

Meet your favourite Christmas characters including:

• Frosty the Snowman
• Chrissy the Christmas Fairy
• Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer
• Santa’s Elves
• The North Pole Christmas Penguin and of course…SANTA CLAUS!

Downstairs, kids can meet the guinea pigs who live in the most incredible miniature replica of Hahndorf village lovingly built by the owner himself. It is calm, cute and interactive making it an easy win for animal-loving kids while parents get a moment to relax and enjoy the space. Visiting the mini village and meeting the guinea pigs costs $5 per person. All funds are set aside for a future lift to make the café fully accessible for everyone.

Upstairs, you will find all the café favourites with a twist. Coffee, snacks and treats are served alongside one of the funniest, pun-filled menus you will ever see. Expect plenty of guinea pig wordplay that will have the kids reading and giggling and the adults chuckling too.

Sessions are hands-on and welcoming, with staff guiding children on how to gently hold and care for the animals. It is a sweet way for kids to learn about empathy and animal care. Even better, the café gives NDIS participants meaningful opportunities to get involved in café operations, food handling, customer service and animal care, making it a space that is all about community, inclusion and heart.

It is a family-run, feel-good spot where creativity, community and cuddly guinea pigs come together for a memorable day out in Hahndorf.

Location: 91A Mount Barker Rd, Hahndorf SA 5245
Opening Hours: Weekdays: 11am to 2pm, Weekends: 10am to 3pm
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We’ve visited plenty of family-friendly spots across South Australia, but O’Leary Walker genuinely stands out. The reasons could fill a whole post, but here are our top two.

First, the space. The lawn is huge, lush, and perfect for kids to run, kick a ball, or just go a little wild while you relax with a glass of wine. There are lawn games like Cornhole and giant Jenga, and the views across the rolling hills are so gorgeous you’ll find yourself lingering long after the kids are done playing. Bring a picnic rug, take a deep breath, and just enjoy the moment.

Second, the kids’ experience. The Children’s Tasting Platter ($10) is fun and thoughtful, with three Bickford’s cordials, cheese cubes, house-made grissini, an Adixions Chocolate Owl, and a little activity pack to keep little hands busy. Four-legged friends are also welcome, with the new Dog Tasting Platter from The Woofery offering locally made treats so everyone in the family can join in the fun.

And although the kid-friendly vibes are definitely vibing, adults aren’t left behind. From premium wine flights to the full table-service restaurant, there’s plenty to get excited about. We loved sipping the 2025 Watervale Riesling, pairing it with the lemongrass chicken and duck wontons or the katsu chicken finger sandwich, and ending the day with a glass of The Sleeper Shiraz while taking in the valley views.

The platters at O’Leary Walker are another highlight. Stacked with the best local cheeses, meats, fresh fruit, and house-made goodies, hand on heart, this is one of the best we’ve ever had. The local truffle honey… honestly, I wanted to bathe in it. And the house-made duck pâtĂ©? Absolutely next level. Every bite tastes like the Clare Valley itself – fresh, seasonal, and packed with flavour. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, sneaking bites between tastings, or grazing while the kids play, these platters are impossible to resist.

The verandah and outdoor spaces are perfect for taking your time. Watch the kids or dogs play, soak up the sweeping views, and enjoy another round of tasting or a platter if you’re peckish. The food here isn’t just good, it’s memorable, and it pairs beautifully with every wine you try.

By the time you leave, you’ll have experienced the best of the Clare Valley. Delicious wine, incredible food, and plenty of space for the kids (and dogs) to play. You’ll leave with happy hearts, full bellies, and probably a few bottles of wine for the road.

Location: 7093 Horrocks Highway, Leasingham (Clare Valley), SA 5452
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 4:00pm | Sun 11:00am – 4:00 pm daily
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The Clare Valley is famous for its wine and for good reason. But beyond the cellar doors, this charming region is full of rolling hills, country vibes, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. And with right in the heart of it all, it’s the perfect base to truly soak up everything this beautiful region has to offer.

And while the adults may be here for the riesling, the kids? They’ll think this adventure is entirely about them from the second you check in. There’s a bouncing pillow (yes, the adults tried it, very funny), plus the biggest pump track we’ve ever seen at a holiday park. Two pools, including a heated one, plus the basketball court, painted on hopscotch, and a big tub of sporting equipment (cricket sets, balls, racquets and more) provide the kids with even more opportunities to be active and outdoors. Everywhere you look, kids are running, jumping, riding and exploring and parents can actually relax a little knowing there’s so much to keep them entertained.

The splash park deserves a paragraph of its own. EPIC is the only word that does it justice. Two waterslides, a giant tipping bucket, a squirting kangaroo and koala, interactive jets and water play galore. If you’ve got aqua-loving kids (like me), this is their version of paradise.

The main camp kitchen is right near the pool and sports area, creating a central hub where families naturally gather. Travellers cook, chat, and share stories while the kids play nearby. There’s also plenty of grassy space for picnics, and if your crew wants a bit more adventure, you can hire e-bikes, pedal bikes or karts to explore the park and even hop on the Riesling Trail, a gorgeous way to see the region without moving the car.

We stayed in a Deluxe 2-Bedroom cabin – sleeps 4, which was perfect for families. Spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, it had everything you could need: a fully equipped kitchen for cooking meals, all linen and towels supplied (so no hauling your own), an electric blanket on the main bed (hello, cosy nights!), and block-out double blinds for lazy mornings. The cabin was perfectly positioned between the playground and splash park, which meant the kids could dash from one activity to the next. For families or travellers on a budget, there’s also plenty of space for caravans and tents, as well as smaller cabins, making the park accessible and affordable for all kinds of visitors.

Despite the not-so-perfect weather, the kids didn’t care. They still loved every element of the park, from pools to splash park to bouncing pillow. When it rained, the Discovery Kids Activity Booklets from reception kept them happily occupied with puzzles and colouring while we sipped Clare Valley Shiraz and enjoyed wood-oven pizzas from Mr Micks, who parks his mobile pizza setup onsite on Friday evenings. A little rain never felt like a letdown here.

If you’re planning a Clare Valley getaway, or maybe just making your way through SA, make sure is on your list. It’s the kind of place where kids make instant friends, families come together, and everyone leaves a little tired, a little messy, but very happy. Wine country is great, but this is where the whole family can truly soak up the country charm… and a little chaos too.

(Use code KIDSINADL25 at check out for 15% discount until Nov 2026 t&c apply)

Location: 8511 Horrocks Hwy, Clare SA 5453
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This content was created in partnership with Discovery Parks

Once we settled into the beer garden, it was easy to see why this place is such a winner for families. There’s plenty of open grassy space for the kids to run around, a few lawn games to keep them busy, highchairs available, plenty of seating for large groups, and a cute little fishpond. Meanwhile, the adults can kick back with a tasting paddle or a pint, soaking up the sun and enjoying a rare moment of calm while the kids entertain themselves.

Now, the food. Honestly, it was a bit of a revelation for a brewery. The fried chicken tenders disappeared so fast we barely remember seeing them hit the table, and the popcorn cauliflower was next-level good; crispy, full of flavour and that chilli, coriander and bang bang sauce was the kind you keep dipping into long after you’re “done.” The PBC burger is apparently a local legend, and we get it… it’s juicy, messy, and exactly what a burger should be. The grilled American reuben sandwich hit all the right notes, pastrami, sauerkraut, pickles, swiss cheese, it’s basically a hug in sandwich form. The kids weren’t left out either. Our eight-year-old demolished the crumbed snapper like the food critic he is, and our six-year-old’s hotdog with chips (one of four solid kids options at $16 each) was so huge we genuinely didn’t think she’d get through it… but she proved us wrong.

Beer-wise, Pikes has something for everyone. We went for a tasting paddle so we could try a few of their beers, then Dad settled in with a pint of the IPA while Mum enjoyed a refreshing hard lemonade. There’s also a small wine list and non-alcoholic options, and the kids were happily with their fruit boxes.

The Tap Room itself is on the smaller side, with just a few tables inside, but it’s worth popping in, especially if the weather isn’t playing nice. You can sit and watch the brewers at work while enjoying your drink, which is a little bit of behind-the-scenes magic. There’s heaps of car parking too, which is a lifesaver because this place can get busy, and the venue is dog friendly, so your furry friends can come along for the fun.

If you’re heading to the Clare Valley, make sure Pikes Beer Company earns a spot on your itinerary. It’s one of those easy, genuinely enjoyable family stops where everyone finds something they like. Just make sure you book ahead. This place fills up fast, and for good reason.

Location: 233 Polish Hill Rd, Polish Hill River SA 5453
Opening Times: Open Daily 10am to 4pm
Phone: 
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Roonka Adventure Park has a place for everyone. Traditional campers can pitch a tent under the stars, families can enjoy a comfy stay in the two-bedroom Lodge, and big groups can take over the bunkhouse rooms or even the whole site for a weekend of adventure. There are powered and unpowered sites for caravans and motorhomes, glamping bell tents set up and ready to go, and cozy bunkhouse rooms perfect for school groups, sports teams, or extended families. No matter where you stay, you will have access to camp kitchens, BBQs, hot showers, and all the facilities you need, plus the billabong, trails, and outdoor fun right on your doorstep. Adventure, comfort, and nature tick all the boxes.

We stayed in the Lodge, a gorgeous two-bedroom retreat that sleeps six. The master bedroom is calm and spacious, with reverse-cycle air conditioning, modern furnishings, a walk-in robe, and two single beds that can be pushed together. The second bedroom features two bunk beds, perfect for kids or teens. The bathroom is bright and modern, and the fully equipped kitchen makes meal prep a breeze. The open-plan living and dining area is ideal for family dinners or games night, with comfy couches, a flat-screen TV, and large windows that bring the outdoors in.

The Lodge’s expansive deck quickly became our favourite spot, whether we were sipping morning coffee, enjoying evening drinks, or just soaking up the view as the campsite came alive. As night falls, the stillness of the river, the calls of kookaburras, and star-filled skies make it impossible not to unwind.

An obvious highlight, especially in summer, is the water activities. The calm billabong at Roonka is perfect for kids learning to kayak or canoe. We really valued how safe it felt, making it ideal for younger kids and beginners. The gentle waters let them try new skills while feeling completely at ease. Life jackets and all the hire gear are ready to go, so you can focus on the important stuff, like having fun!

Speaking of fun, the riverslide is Fun with a capital F and great for the whole family. You have to try it at least once, no matter your age. Just do it! The double flying fox, zipping from one side of the billabong to the other, is a guaranteed hit. I’ll give you 100 dollars if your kids don’t purposely fall off, haha. And if you want to slow the pace a little, there are kayaks and canoes for hire from the boat shed which you can use to explore the peaceful backwaters of the Murray River. Three weeks later, we are still debating which was the favourite… kayaks, riverslide, or flying fox, and honestly, it is a debate that is not going away anytime soon.

Roonka is not just about getting wet. We spent a good hour at the playground with a picnic lunch, and the kids loved every minute. The Echidna Trail totally surprised us; they were glued to it, spotting birds and plants, and unfortunately no echidnas, which would have absolutely made my year. Next time, fingers crossed!

For a bit of adventure, the bouldering wall is perfect for budding rock climbers and adventurous spirits, while GAGA Ball adds fast-paced, high-energy fun for everyone. Orienteering and the Photo Hunt get the kids exploring the property using basic map-reading skills, spotting markers, and matching photos along the way. Wildlife is everywhere, and it is honestly one of the best bits. We saw so many kangaroos, and the walking trails are easy enough for little legs but still fun for bigger kids and adults. There is heaps of space to wander, explore, or just sit and enjoy the quiet, making it a brilliant mix of challenges, teamwork, and just plain fun.

Sometimes the simplest moments are the best. Watching the kids try something new, listening to the sounds of the river, or just soaking in the calm are memories that stick. Even when it is not summer, there is always something to do, see, or explore. iPads…? What’s an iPad?

Roonka River Adventure Park
209B Boy Scout Road
BLANCHETOWN SA

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