We’re lucky to have some pretty incredible places to explore in South Australia, but might just be one of the most unique family stays we’ve had.

Where else can you wake up, make a coffee, step onto your balcony and watch a tower of giraffes enjoying their morning feed? (Yes, that’s what a group of giraffes is called… you’re welcome.) No, you’re not in Africa (although there are definitely moments where it feels like you could be). This incredible safari-style escape is just over an hour from 91������ý and offers families the chance to experience something completely different without needing to jump on a plane.

We recently spent two nights at Monarto Safari Resort with the kids, and while visiting Monarto Safari Park was obviously a highlight, we quickly realised the resort itself was is a HUGE part of the experience. From spotting animals from our room, heading out on an early morning safari, enjoying delicious meals and finding a little time for some mum-only relaxation, every part of the stay gave us something to enjoy.

Our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite

When you’re travelling with kids, having space makes such a difference, and our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite was perfect for our family of four. The kids had their own room with two long single beds, while we had a beautiful king bedroom, plus a separate lounge and dining area. It meant everyone had somewhere to relax after a busy day.

The huge wraparound balcony quickly became our favourite spot. Morning coffee, afternoon drinks and binoculars (provided by the resort) glued to our faces as we watched the comings and goings around the waterhole below.

The kids were always keen for “one more look” before heading back inside, eager to see which animal might wander over next.

Inside, the suite had all the little touches you’d expect from a luxury stay. The bed was incredibly comfortable, the linen was beautiful, the pillows were big and fluffy, and the bathroom was a standout with a huge bath and possibly the best shower we’ve ever had!

It was the kind of room where you wanted to spend time, not just somewhere to sleep.

Dining at Kutjera Restaurant

One of the things we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort was that we never felt like we had to rush off first thing in the morning. The resort itself gave us a reason to slow down and enjoy our stay, and Kutjera Restaurant quickly became part of our daily routine.

Breakfast was a great way to start the day. The buffet had all the favourites… scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans, mushrooms and hash browns, alongside pastries, fresh fruit, yoghurt and plenty of healthier options too. The kids were very impressed with the pancake maker (which was a definite highlight for them), while I was very impressed with the coffee. In fact, it’s easily one of the best coffees I’ve had in months.

After a big day exploring, dinner at Kutjera was perfect! Inspired by African flavours and using South Australian produce, the menu feels a little different from your usual family resort dining. It’s not a massive menu, but we found plenty to choose from. The flame-grilled Scotch fillet was a winner, the Moroccan pork tenderloin was delicious, but my favourite dish was actually an entrée, the Durban Lentil & Tomato Dahl. I could have happily eaten that as a main.

For the kids, the menu keeps things simple with family favourites including chicken schnitzel and chips, fish and chips, spaghetti bolognese and beef sliders.

Relaxing at the resort

While the animals are obviously the main attraction at Monarto Safari Resort, we loved having time to simply enjoy everything the resort had to offer.

The kids were very excited to discover the heated pools and, even though we visited in the middle of winter, that certainly didn’t stop them jumping in! There’s a family pool and an adults-only pool, with plenty of sun lounges and outdoor dining areas nearby, making it easy to settle in while the kids swam. We also loved the huge grassy area, where we spotted a group of kids playing and kicking a ball around while their parents relaxed nearby.

And while it’s definitely family-friendly, don’t picture a resort overrun with kids. Monarto Safari Resort still has that beautiful five-star feel, with plenty of spaces for families to enjoy while also feeling calm and relaxing for adults.

Dawn Wildlife Safari

If there’s one experience we’d recommend adding to your stay, it’s the Dawn Wildlife Safari.

We headed out at 7am on the safari truck and into the exclusive Wild Africa precinct before most people had even started their day. Being out on the open plains as the sun came up was such a cool experience. The light was beautiful, the animals were active, and it was a side of Monarto that very few visitors get to see.

The small group experience meant we could take our time, ask questions and really enjoy the ride as we spotted animals along the way. The highlight for us was seeing the hippos pop up from the water. The kids were completely fascinated, waiting to see when they would appear, and it was such a fun moment watching these huge animals just quietly going about their morning.

But the biggest surprise was how close we got to a cheetah. Seeing one of these incredible animals up close, from the comfort of the safari truck, was something we won’t forget. We also spotted giraffes, Southern White Rhino, ostriches and more along the way, with our guide sharing plenty of interesting facts and stories about the animals we were seeing.

The two-hour safari includes a guided tour on the safari truck, exclusive access to Wild Africa and light refreshments afterwards. It’s an early start, but one we’d definitely recommend adding to your stay.

Exploring Monarto Safari Park

No stay at Monarto Safari Resort would be complete without exploring Monarto Safari Park. Now the largest safari experience outside of Africa, the park spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than 50 species of exotic and native animals.

Having the park right next door makes it so easy with kids. No big drive, no packing everyone back into the car, just step out and start exploring. We recommend allowing at least four to five hours to really enjoy the open spaces, viewing platforms and free Zu-loop bus through the park.

Your stay helps conservation

One more thing we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort is that your visit helps support something bigger. A portion of every resort booking goes towards the Zoos SA Conservation Fund, helping support important conservation programs and the ongoing protection of incredible animals around the world.

So while you’re enjoying a pretty amazing family getaway, you’re also helping play a small part in protecting the wildlife you’ve come to see.

Would we go back?

100% yes!!

If you ever get the chance to experience Monarto Safari Resort, absolutely go for it. It’s one of those stays that gives you a little taste of Africa without needing a passport (or a 14-hour flight with kids!).

A family getaway with hippos, giraffes, incredible food and a little bit of relaxation thrown in? That’s a pretty wild win in our books.

Location: 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto SA 5254
: 1800 016 761

Find them on and

Mount Barker Summit

Find it at: Mount Barker Summit Road, Mount Barker

Did you know Mount Barker had an actual Mountain…..that you can climb? Mount Barker Summit rises 513m above sea level and the summit is easily reached by a range of hiking trails. The Mount Barker Summit walk is one of the 91������ý Hills’ best-kept secrets for families. Just a 40-minute drive from 91������ý, this easy adventure is perfect for little explorers, grandparents and everyone in between.

The short summit trail is only 500 metres return from the car park, making it ideal for younger kids or anyone wanting a quick nature fix. The gently undulating path leads to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the 91������ý Hills, Mount Barker township and beyond. On a clear day, you can even spot the Coorong and Mount Lofty in the distance.

Along the way you’ll find picnic tables and plenty of space to stop for a snack while soaking up the scenery. Kids will love climbing the rocks, spotting birds and native plants, and exploring the small nature play cubby near the lookout. Keep an eye out for the interpretive signs that share the area’s fascinating geological, cultural and environmental history, including its significance to the Peramangk people.

Feeling like a little more adventure? Families with older children can continue on the 1.7-kilometre Scenic Bush Walk, a loop trail that winds through beautiful native bushland with even more lookout points and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Need to know:

• Easy 500m return walk to the summit.
• Free entry.
• Picnic tables available.
• Dogs are permitted on lead.
• Bring hats, sunscreen and water, especially in warmer months.
• The summit car park gates are locked before dusk, so plan your visit earlier in the day.

Located on Mount Barker Summit Road at Mount Barker (about 5mins from the Main Street of Barker and all the coffee shops!), it is open 8:00am until 6:00pm (until 8:00pm during daylight savings) and is a breathtaking spot to visit during winter when there is morning fog about.

For more great family friendly things to do in the 91������ý Hills, click here!

Byethorne Park is a beautiful 91������ý Hills playground located on Woodside Road in Nairne AND it’s had a great little upgrade in 2021 that includes a nature play area and a beautiful great big grassy kick around area, plus there are plans for more upgrades due for completion is late 2026. These include;

• Flying fox (track slider)
• Spinner
• Swing
• Giant treehouse system with slide
• Hammock
• Double embankment slide

The new equipment will be relocated closer to the newer playground and nature play area withthe existing area along the boundary fence will be returned to a natural passive space.

The nature play elements blend beautifully with the existing equipment that includes a climbing spiders web, flying fox, drums, bouncers and lots of interesting play equipment for the kids to discover.

The park features a lovely duck filled lake in the centre. Make sure you know the . The playground is really well maintained and has a covered BBQ area that is close by, so the kids can play while you cook.

It’s a beautiful spot for a BBQ, picnic or just a new spot to take the kids for a good run around in the park. Fab wide open spaces and lots of fresh air, which the hills is so good for! Well worth the drive.

It’s also a popular spot for Rock Drops so keep your eyes peeled!

Stop in at Pallett Cafe, It’s only a couple of minutes from the park.

With the most gorgeous panoramic views of vines and the Gulf St Vincent you will be feeling instantly relaxed on arrival and ready to kick back for an afternoon of grazing, acoustic tunes, wine tasting, lawn games and most importantly DONKEY pats! Yes, meet Pedro and Pinto! You can likely even score a carrot to feed them and the best news? Their donkey run has recently been extended so as they are now closer to the cellar door!

The beautiful knowledgeable staff will have you sorted in no time at all, and this is the perfect spot for families looking to enjoy a day out.

The wines are small batch and distinctive. Made with a whole lot of gentle love and nurturing by award winning winemaker Michael Sexton. They are vibrant and bright and celebrate the authentic naturally occurring characters of each variety and vintage.

The cellar door was undoubtedly designed with families in mind, offering a quality, creative and delicious kids’ lunch option that will keep little people happy. You can’t go wrong with crispy real chicken bites and hand cut fries, served with a cute fun sized chocolate on the side, plus these meals come with a juice box and the serving is big enough for bigger kids too.

Now, don’t expect the kids to sit around for too long – ours couldn’t keep away from the friendly donkey’s, they also danced and played games on the lawns, took Uno out to one of the picnic rugs, enjoyed spotting ducks and also bombed around with other kids for some winery lawn community fun.

When it comes to outdoor space, Main and Cherry Cellar Door truly shines. There’s plenty of room for kids to burn around and be kids, out of the way and with in sight, making it easy for parents to relax with a glass of wine while their little ones play safely. The picturesque grounds are ideal for a laid-back afternoon. Adding to the welcoming vibe, Main and Cherry also hosts a great line-up of acoustic musicians, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for a family outing. Check their for details.

It was only upon departure that we realized they also offer craft beers, so we did the right thing and took a four-pack home to enjoy later!

Main anFor the beer lovers, there is a fun little beer collab of Main and Cherry x Prancing Pony ales. Sold!

Whether you’re there to enjoy the food, music, a guided tasting or simply the great atmosphere, this winery has everything you need for a beautiful quality, memorable day out. Even the coffee was brilliant!

PS They do well presented gift vouchers and we can’t imagine many people not loving this! Buy one

Location: 60 Grants Gully Road, Chandlers Hill, 91������ý, South Australia
Opening Times: Thursday to Mondays
Phone: 0474 015 349
Find them on  or 

This stunning playground is just about everything we love about a day out in our beautiful 91������ý Hills. Coffee, stunning scenery and a fab playground for all ages. Located just below the Bridgewater Mill, the playground is fenced along the road and edges but NOT on the creek bed, which in my opinion is great because it allows kids to take there shoes off and go for a good explore in the creek bed. When we were there it was only about ankle deep with some deeper sections under the bridge, so you’ll need to use your discretion based on your kids abilities and what’s happening in the creek the day you visit. During winter and after a big rain, the creek can get quite deep and fast, so it will change during the year.

We had a great time crossing the stone path, splashing in the water and saying hello to the resident ducks.

The playground itself is not shaded, but there are lots of little nooks and crannies to sit under the shade of either the trees that surround the park or the undercover area. There is also a BBQ area that overlooks the playground with more shady spots to throw down a picnic rug.

Without doubt the #1 highlight of this park for us was the flying fox. Easy enough for my 4 year old to manage herself, we also saw older kids having a ball and younger kids having a try with the help of their parents. Pretty sure Winnie had close to one billion turns on it before she decided she’d like to check out the rest of the park.

Other playground equipment includes a substantial rope climbing frame, swings, rockers and a slide, plus a whole load of serenity.

PLEASE supervise your kids at this park, as I mentioned there is a small creek at the bottom of the play area that is very accessible. It’s a great splashy place to play but you need to keep your eyes on your kids.

What we loved about this park:

• The flying fox
• The equipment – diverse range for young and older kids
• The creek and natural play spaces – splashing, climbing, running, chasing butterflies, cartwheels on the grass – all that good stuff.
• BBQ Area – great spot for a kids birthday party
• Public Toilets
• The location – 91������ý Hills = beautiful!
• The temperature in summer – on a hot day it’s always a few degrees cooler up here and lots of shady spots to sit on a picnic rug
• Parking easy to find
• Bridgewater shops over the road if you need a snack, drink, ice cream

For those wanting to enjoy some local food and drinks (including some lovely wines), consider a stop in at the Bridgewater Mill or Bridgewater Inn both within a few hundred meters walk.

Pick Your Own Apples at isn’t just pick and run type of thing – it really is a fun full day out you can have with the whole family in the beautiful 91������ý Hills.

Lenswood is around 40 minutes drive from 91������ý. Not far from other 91������ý Hills towns like Hahndorf and Woodside. Set on 23 beautiful acres @Lenswood is a 6th generation farm purchased by Emily and Chris Shipway and they have done a brilliant job turning it into a truly family friendly experience.

What’s new @Lenswood Pick Your Own in 2026

There’s even more to do at Lenswood Pick Your Own this season, making it a great day out for families:

• Five vintage tractors for kids to play on
• Thomas the Tank Engine for kids to play on
• A larger sandpit for kids to play in
• New Kid’s Pomology Trail (free!) – a fun scavenger-style trail where children can learn how apples are grown in the orchard. Families can also purchase a Kids Activity Pack for $12, which includes: Free entry on your next visit, Lenswood colouring-in book, Lollypop, Apple juice, Picking stick hire, Certificate of completion and take-home apple-themed crafts

Free Orchard Tours (Weekends)

On weekends, visitors can join one of two free guided orchard tours each day at approximately 10am and 2pm (Please note: tour times may vary slightly from day to day.) The tour covers how apples are grown, how they make their way from the orchard to the supermarket, the history of the farm and Lenswood and an explanation of the farm’s commercial apple trees.

And OH. MY. GOD the apples. If you’ve never crunched into an apple straight off the tree – it’s worth a trip just for that. Doesn’t your mouth just water looking at these photos!

Parking is easy with their large carpark, there are plenty of flat sections of orchard for prams and wheelchairs, there’s onsite facilities including the addition of a family toilet with two toilets in one cubicle and a baby change table, making visits easier for families with young children.

Oh and we haven’t even mentioned the cafe yet! Head in for coffee and treats! They will selling baked goods by the wonderful Lenswood General Store & Post Office. They will also be serving their very own Apple Juice and Paracombe Premium Perry’s sparkling apple juice. Plus, wait for it… they have teamed up with Hokey Pokey Ice Cream selling their newest collaboration – apple themed ice creams, sorbets and some of your other favourites! They will also have a variety of farm themed toys, locally produced items and souvenirs locally made by Busy B’s Embroidery & More! Grab something to eat or drink and sit on the picnic tables under the umbrellas.

2026 Pricing

Entry: Adults (13+ years): $8 | Children (3–12 years): $5 | Children 2 years and under: Free
Apples (pay by weight): 0–8 kg: $5 per kg | 8.1 kg and over: $4 per kg

Opening Days & Hours – 2026

Open 7 days a week, including all public holidays. 9am – 4pm daily (Strictly no entry after 3:30pm)
No bookings required and No time limit on how long you can stay
ANZAC Day, Lenswood Pick Your Own will donate $1 per kilogram of apples sold to the Lobethal RSL.

Find out more on their website

IG | Facebook:
122 Harris Road, Lenswood | P : 0436389578

Sessions run in small, intimate groups, creating a calm, unhurried environment to really enjoy these beautiful animals. In the two-hour Donkey Discovery experience, you’re immersed in a herd of loving donkeys, with an experience designed to create meaningful connections and provide moments you’ll treasure long after you leave. This would make an exceptional and special gift.

Unlike some animal encounters we have participated in where interaction is limited, this is a hands-on experience where the donkeys genuinely enjoy human company. You are encouraged to pat, brush and cuddle the donkeys (yep, like actual big around the neck hugs….just try and pry me off) all while learning about their care and wellbeing. Of course there are some rules like being mindful not to walk directly behind the animals, and like any animal encounter, kids need to be supervised and capable of maintaining a certain level of composure, so as not to startle them with running or quick/loud unexpected movements.

Animal welfare is at the heart of everything they do here, and it shows, these are deeply loved, well-cared-for, HAPPY donkeys who are relaxed, curious and comfortable around families. Hearing how Donkey Discovery has evolved, and learning about each donkey’s personality, adds a beautiful educational layer to the experience; and man do they ever have their own hilarious individual personalities. The kids loved hearing about these and witnessing it. They left feeling like they really knew the animals and had connected with them, it’s very special.

Some other highlights for all of us were walking with the donkeys, watching them play and interact with each other and also the opportunity to snap the cutest photos of them wearing headbands (yes, they genuinely seemed to love it!) Then there was Sunny, a three-week-old baby donkey, who completely stole our hearts. Fluffy, fuzzy and impossibly cute, Sunny was a huge hit and made this 91������ý Hills animal experience feel even more unforgettable.

The two-hour session finishes with a delicious morning or afternoon tea, perfect for families. Expect warm scones, tea and coffee, and incredible homemade biscuits (a mix of ANZAC and Turkish apricot flavours) fittingly named Gallipoli biscuits.

The cost is: Adults $110, Kids (2–14 years) $55 and private family sessions and special event appearances can be arranged and are charged accordingly, on application and subject to availability. An investment well worth every cent.

To book this epic animal experience in South Australia, visit and don’t forget to wear enclosed footwear for walking alongside the donkeys

Email: donkeydiscovery@gmail.com
Mobile (text preferred due to nature of work): 0411 755 873

This content was created in partnership with Donkey Discovery

Missing the yellow cow from the main street of Hahndorf? You’ll find it here, with the cute little Udder Delights Cheese Cellar tucked into this venue, where you can also enjoy great food, craft beer, wine, gin flights and a fun kids menu that can all be enjoyed in this super high quality. family-friendly space. Think umbrellas outdoors, a creek, expansive lawn, a cubby, a slack line for the kids to balance on and just room to explore.

When its cool, there is a delightful fireplace doing a great job of keeping the space warm and cosy, surrounded by couches. The main dining area, ‘The Great Hall’, includes tables, booths, bar tables, and also offers the ‘Grünthal Greenhouse’ for private functions. When it’s sunny out, there are shady trees and umbrellas for days!

The at Grünthal is definitely a big step up from standard brewery fare! There are a great range of small plates, pizzas, and specials on offer. Udder Delights cheeses are well represented, with a delicious cheese fondue, a ‘Too Cheesy’ deep dish pizza, and even the humble toastie is made with Truffle Cheddar. The pizza is next level. The real star of the menu for the kids was the dessert (of course) – an extra special sundae topped with Persian fairy floss.

They haven’t forgotten to cater for dietary options including vegetarian, dairy free, gluten free and vegan either!

For the grown ups, there is an extensive drinks menu including tea, coffee and iced drinks, wines, three varieties of Grünthal Gin, cocktails and mocktails, and of course the extensive and delicious Grünthal beer range, including eBeer – with a new brewing technology that you’ll love hearing about.

Grünthal makes it super easy to cater for groups with a “Feed my Group”, “Feed my Party” and “Feed my Child” selection of items from the main menu.

Grünthal are also offering a traditional Swiss cheese fondue experience this winter. Their rich, silky fondue combines Gruyère and Emmental with white wine, served with warm ciabatta rolls, cornichons, Skara Csabai salami and fresh pear or apple for dipping.

At $68 to share between two, it’s the perfect cosy dining experience for a winter date night, catch-up with friends or a special night out.

And yes, there’s even the famous fondue game… so keep your bread dipping skills sharp!

The kids loved exploring the fantastic lawns on the bank of the Onkaparinga River. There is seating and shade on the raised terrace, and the lawns are accessible by both a ramp and stairs. We can’t think of a better place to lay down a picnic rug and enjoy a sunny afternoon watching the kids play while we had an uninterrupted adult catch up and all of the tasty things!

Before you depart, be sure to choose some gin, beer or wine to take home, and of course some of the many cheeses and trimmings on offer.

The indoor dining area is accessible with plenty of space to manoeuvre around tables and park prams. The female toilets allow enough room to leave a pram outside the cubicle door if required, and the accessible toilet is very roomy and has a full size change table, nappy disposal unit, and grab rails.

Ingenuity Baby Base seats are available to seat your little ones at the table – just another extra touch that makes this family day out so much easier.

Book it in, every one will be happy here!

Grünthal Brew
Location: 827 Mount Barker Rd Verdun
Opening Hours:
Mon to Thurs 10am – 4pm / Fri to Sat 10am – 10pm / Sun & Public Holidays 10am to 5pm
Phone: 08 8388 1588 
Find them on  or 

It’s a great place to spend a day walking the wheelchair accessible and pram friendly trails, riding bikes, having picnic, bird watching or just lazing about in the peaceful environment. We love the different trails available, all very easy and flat, ranging from 15 to 45 minute loops.

There is a designated picnic area with BBQs, tables, benches, shelters, toilets and plenty of seating.

Approximately 150 bird species have been spotted at Laratinga and Interpretive signs have been installed around the walking trails. Each sign along the trail indicates a type of bird species that you could spot at that location. You might even spot a turtle or a frog if you’re lucky. PLEASE don’t feed the ducks though. Bread is unhealthy for birds as it can cause poor nutrition and even make them sick. Feeding birds also encourages unnatural and aggressive behaviour, and favours non-native species.

Mt Barker offers plenty of fab coffee spots in the town centre (occasionally a coffee van will prop in the car park of the wetlands too), with our faves being Sazon and Lady Luck, both on Main Street. Check them out and then head for a walk!

But Beerenberg Café is so much more than its jaw-dropping shakes. The farm has a beautiful story. A rich family history spanning six generations that has woven much of the fabric of this great region’s development. To this day, it remains 100% family owned, with all products made on-site. In the warmer months, strawberry picking at Beerenberg in Hahndorf is a bit of a South Australian rite of passage and yet somehow, we’d never stopped in at the gorgeous cafe… until now. Wow. Fresh, seasonal produce, a thoughtfully crafted menu, and flavour-packed dishes make it a must-visit for anyone heading to the Hills.

Standouts for us included:

• The Farmhouse Vienna – hearty, flavoursome, and everything a brioche roll with two smoked Vienna sausages, Beerenberg New York Deli Relish, chipotle ranch sauce, and beetroot sauerkraut should be. Served with cheese, crispy chips, and Beerenberg Green Tomato & Jalapeno Relish, it’s pure comfort on a plate.
• Strawberry & Burrata Salad – almost too pretty to eat. With peaches, cherry tomatoes, basil, Beerenberg Orange Marmalade, toasted seeds, and pomegranate dressing, this salad is a masterpiece of freshness and colour.

The kids’ menu gets a big thumbs-up from us too. With four options, including a healthy snack that lets little grazers nibble on veggie sticks and fruit, it’s a winner for picky eaters. Nuggets are loved here, sure, but that little jar of Beerenberg tomato sauce with every dish? Chef’s kiss.

And then there’s dessert. Whatever you do, save room. Your tastebuds will thank you (even if your waistline doesn’t).

• The Summer Stack – toasted waffle topped with vanilla ice cream, smashed strawberry, mango & kiwi salsa, and strawberry coulis. Pure bliss.

And of course, no visit is complete without a trip to The Dairy, where ice cream and gelati made from freshly churned local milk are packed with flavour and farm-fresh goodness. Strawberry is a must, but you’ll struggle to choose just one flavour. Not feeling a full meal? Grab a coffee and a scone (thank me later).

Beyond the menu, everything at Beerenberg feels thoughtful and family-friendly. Pram and wheelchair access is seamless, the atmosphere is relaxed, and every dish showcases Beerenberg’s own jams, relishes, and sauces. Kids are well catered for too, with colouring-in activities and an interactive strawberry wall where they can press buttons and learn all about the farm. The staff are incredible, and you can genuinely feel the love oozing out of the café like the sweetest jam on toast.

Honestly, tell your friends, tell your family, tell interstate visitors. Beerenberg is an absolutely brilliant

���dz����پ��Dz�:��Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf SA 5245
Opening Times: Daily 9am to 4pm | Closed Christmas Day Only
Phone: 08 8388 7272
Find them on ���Ի�����������

/