Trains operate on up to 140 days a year and are manned by volunteers from the Australian Railway Historical Society, who are also responsible for maintenance of the rail line and the heritage locomotives and carriages.

The most popular services are…..

The Cockle Train

Commences its run each day at Goolwa station, in the historic Wharf Precinct alongside the River Murray. After crossing the main Goolwa to Victor road the line heads off across the plains to Middleton, picking up or dropping off passengers on request, and then to Port Elliot where it reaches the Encounter Bay coast. The station here is operated by the local National Trust and features a small historical museum.

After leaving Port Elliot the train climbs to the top of the coastal cliffs and passengers then experiemce some of the most picturesque coastal scenery on the Fleurieu Peninsula, with nothing separating you from the beach below and a perfect view of the Southern Ocean – in winter the home of Southern Right Whale

After a 30 minute journey the train edges into Victor Harbor station, right in the centre of the town and surrounded with its iconic pine trees. Here, the locomotive is detached from the carriages and turned on our specially retained 30m long electric turntable before rejoining the carriages for the return journey to Goolwa.

The number of trains operated varies through the year. The Cockle train does not have reserved seats, passengers can buy tickets at any of our stations for one-way journeys in either direction along the line or for a bargain priced round trip. Trains wait for about 30 minutes at both Goolwa and Victor and roundtrip passengers can extend this period by returning on a later train.

For more information, current ticket prices and The Cockle Train Timetable visit

The Highlander

A short journey from Mt Barker to Strathalbyn and return on either the hertigage steam or diesel locomotive, with each leg taking about one hour, grab this fantastic trip most Sundays. The journey commences from Mount Barker station – a pleasant 20 minute drive from 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ along the South Eastern Freeway.

Leaving Mt Barker mid morning, the train first climbs up to the crest of the line and then winds down the eastern escarpment of the southern Mt Lofty Ranges, passing through several long abandoned station sites which bear testimony to the importance of this branch line a century ago.

Crossing the Angas River you then enter the historic township of Strathalbyn where many Scottish migrants settled in the early 1800s, influencing the early architecture which is still evident today. The town is well worth a visit to explore its well stocked antique shops and cafes.

You can return to Mount Barker after a short break or catch the afternoon train back and spend a few hours in Strath. Either way the bakery is a must we say!

For more information, current ticket prices and timetables visit

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, 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, South Australia
Opening Times: Thursday to Mondays
Phone: 0474 015 349
Find them on  or 

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:
Find Sanbis Retreats on and

Woodstock is a beautiful family owned estate in McLaren Vale and it ticks more boxes than most wineries to be honest. It’s the first winery we think of in McLaren Vale – probably because we have been coming here since we were kids ourselves.

The wines are great, yes, but this place goes beyond the normal cellar door to include some child-friendly surprises as well, and recently there have been some beautiful upgrades. The cellar door has moved into a much larger space (previously The Coterie) and now provides ample room to sit in comfortable lounges or in small groups at high tables for seated guided tastings. The outlook to the garden in every direction is exquisite. This does mean the food offering has significantly changed at Woodstock. In The Stocks Tasting Room, you can simply do guided, seated tastings, and also enjoy a light snack such as a cheese platter. The lawns are where its at on weekends for food, with a Gin Long Canteen pop up that will leave your tastebuds exploding! AND how about the new onsite Trilby’s Chocolate Door?

The hours for lunch on the lawns change a bit seasonally and the team from Gin Long Canteen will look after you well. Shaded lawns and picnic rugs in the warmer months and cosy tables in the winter pavillion when its cooler. The menu features favourite dishes from Gin Long’s flagship restaurant in North 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, along with some exciting new additions. Designed for sharing and perfect alongside a glass of Woodstock wine. It’s casual and delicious.

Now the grounds are nothing short of expansive and spectacular. Shady grassed areas and dozens of tucked-away spots, all perfect for whiling away a few hours. The kids loved running around the lawn playing hide-and-seek behind the trees and the playground has been moved and it’s just perfect. Outdoor games, a gorgeous big water tank mural and flourishing kitchen garden reward families who explore the grounds (with a glass of wine in hand, of course). 

While you enjoy a sip of their delicious Grenache (or maybe if you are a sweet tooth go and check out Trilby’s! Your kids will have plenty of entertainment options at the winery. The highlight, we think, should be the Woodstock Wildlife Sanctuary. If just for that, it is worth a trip. Book it to ensure your place, start with this and then move to the cellar door. Nestled on approximately 3 hectares of natural vegetation, the sanctuary houses a group of rescued Western Grey Kangaroos, some wallabies and a couple of friendly emu’s named Maverick and lets say Goose (it was definitely from Top Gun, it’s got to be Goose right?)

For a small fee that remains at $5 for all ages, you can hand feed and pat the kangaroos. The animals are very used to people. Leave your strollers and prams at the gate, and know that kids under 18yo do need to be accompanied by a paying adult. The tranquil surroundings are scattered with soaring eucalyptus trees, and if you look up, you may even spot a koala – a treat we have been lucky enough to witness. It’s all pretty amazing!

After the kangaroo feeding settle in for a delightful wine tasting while watching the kids have a blast on the playground. Seated tastings are available every day from 11am to 4pm for a fee of $15, which includes a sampling of six wines.

We can’t wait to return in Spring and enjoy the new upgraded outdoor areas.

Woodstock also have some brilliant annual events worth keeping an eye on – we particularly love their annual Family Fun Day (June long weekend) and no doubt they have something in store for Father’s Day in a few weeks time.

Woodstock Wine Estate is bursting with pride, a love of the land, and an immense joy of sharing it with others. Be prepared to fall in love with it just as we do time after time.

Our tip: Book a kangaroo feeding session followed by a tasting. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early so you don’t hold the group up. Then, let the kids loose on the playground and lawns while you enjoy a wine tasting or simply a bottle of wine and cheese platter under a shady tree!

Location: 215 Douglas Gully Rd, McLaren Flat SA 5171
Cellar Door Opening Hours: Daily 11am – 4pm
Find them on or

We have them all below, but here are some of our Top Themed Playgrounds;

• Thorndon Reserve (Birds)
• Largs Foreshore (Ice Cream)
• Stanley Street Reserve (Bees)
• Jubilee Playground Port Noarlunga (Pirates)
• Kapunda Playground (Trains)
• Morialta Adventure Playground (Nature)
• Barossa Adventure Station (Trains)
• GT Fisher Victor Harbor (Trains)
• Jack Watkins Reserve Playground (Trains)

Scroll down for all the pics and info you will need to tackle your next adventure.

Animal Themed Playgrounds

Thorndon Reserve, Paradise

Australia’s Best Playground as voted in 2023, the incredible bird themed playground has some of the most unique and wonderful equipment in South Australia. The kids will love climbing through the huge structures and this is one of those play spaces where you can easily spend the day.

Read all about this great spot here!

Cormorant Drive Reserve, Hallett Cove

A giant Diprotodon (pre-historic wombat) is the star attraction at this playground down south, a nod to fossils of the extinct giant that was found in the area. Great fun to learn about and even better fun to climb.

Read all about it here!

Sturt Reserve, Murray Bridge

Home to the world (well….SA at least) famous Bunyip, this attraction at Sturt River Reserve has scared kids for generations and delighted parents equally as much. The Bunyip is currently in really good condition and is primed to scare the shite out of anyone under the age of 10 and quite a few older than that. An all round ripper of a playground which is fully fenced, fully shaded and absolutely enormous. Don’t forget the pump tracks, rage cages (its a sport thing…not where you leave angry kids) and a fantastic skate park.

Read more about it here

Sea Turtle Park Playground, Port Noarlunga South

Turtle Park Playground is the latest in Hickinbotham and Land SA’s housing developments vision to create playgrounds as the hub of these new communities. This one is suited for the younger kids under 6.

Read more about it here

Keith Stephenson Reserve, Mount Barker

A wonderfully updated playground (in 2024) which focusses on the local wildlife, this fully fenced playground is great for the under 10s and is highlighted by a giant climbable turtle.

Check it out here!

Stanley Street Reserve, Glengowie

This bee themed playground down south is up there for the cutest playground in 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝. Let your little ones explore and learn all about the world of bees, while having some fun on the unbee-lievable equipment.

Check it out here!

Greenslade Playground, Paradise

A lovely little playground in the north east, home to what I wrongly identified as a Dinosaur on facebook a while back (thankfully the internet politely advised me of the error of my ways), this dragon themed spot is a fave with the locals and has some fab equipment to boot. Check it out here!

Boat Playgrounds

St Kilda Adventure Playground

One of 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝â€™s playground icons, the adventure playground is also home to the famous pirate ship which 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ kids have enjoyed for what seems like forever. Every kid has at some point, stood on that ship and looked out to sea and imagined they were sailing the seven seas looking for treasure. The playground itself is probably 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝â€™s biggest and maybe most famous. A bit of a trek out north but totally worth it and a rite of passage (along with schoolies and doing something stupid to end up on Sh*t91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝) for all South Aussies.

For more on this fantastic spot click here

Mary Ann Reserve Playground, Mannum

Located on the beautiful riverbanks of Mannum lies this fully fenced playground. Not only does this playground have a boat for your little ones to play on, you are right at the heart of the river bank where house boats dock and boats are at full force during the summer months. Our little ones even loved watching the ferry cross the river while they were playing. With toilets close by and a shade sail, this is the perfect playground to add to your road trip list.

For more on this fantastic spot click here

AA Bailey Reserve, Clarence Gardens

We love this huge plagryound at Clarence Gardens, which has so much to offer kids of all ages, least of all the pirate loving tikes who will gain their sea legs on the really cool pirate ship. The pirate ship here may be a bit smaller, but the playground is an absolute fave. It is basically 2 big playgrounds in one, with nature play, toddler age equipment plus climbing equipment that caters to the older kids

more info here

Jubilee Adventure Playground, Port Noarlunga

One of the biggest and best playgrounds in the deep south, the �wooden’ playground at Porties includes a huge wooden fort inspired throughout with boating themes, to give you the impression of being on a massive wooden boat. The kids will love running around and being fully fenced (the fort part….the other nature section isn’t sadly) you can let the kids run around knowing they (probably) can’t get out.

More pics and info here

Moana Seaside Park

A brand new addition to the pirate playground landscape, opening in June 2020 is this ripper of a playground way down south at Moana! The highlight of this playground is the brightly coloured pirate ship with added escape slide for those who don’t want to walk the plank. A very popular new addition for the locals, we loved our recent visit!

Read more here

Angus Neil Reserve, Seacliff

Beaches = Pirates. So it makes sense that one of the best beachside playgrounds along our southern coast has a sweet little nature inspired pirate ship. This is a ripper playground and one of the best party playgrounds going around too, so if you want to book a party for your pirate loving tykes, give this a look.

More info here

Bandon Reserve Marino

With some spectacular views along our southern coast, Bandon Reserve landed a nautical makeover in 2021, which makes for a picture perfect pit stop as you head down for a day at the beach. With great climbing equipment and of course a boat to explore, this is a ripper.

More pics and info here

Train Themed Playgrounds

GT Fisher Playground, Victor Harbor

The OG train playground, with the huge steam train being parked in this playground as long as I can remember (lets just say 30 odd years). Now massively renovated to include one of the best nature playgrounds in the state, the train remains (slightly modified for safety compared to years gone by) for kids to climb all over and imagine being an engineer!

All the pics and info here

Tolley Reserve Playground, Nuriootpa

Tolley Reserve, or Nuriootpa Train Playground is a large open space for kids of all ages and abilities. It makes the perfect stop on a day out at the Barossa Valley so that the kids can play and run off some energy! The full size old train has been there for years and is an icon in the area.

All the pics and info here

Victoria Square, Kadina

One of our fave regional playgrounds, this place is massive and suits all ages. Including a huge fully fenced (and shaded) playground for the younger crew, as well as a very high treetop climbing set up (it is really high!), add to that the Apex Express, a huge train full of space for the kids to climb on the explore.

More on this ripper here

Tailem Bend Playground

Train fans this one is for you! That might even equally apply to the train enthusiast parents as well, because this one is a beauty! A fully fenced, humungous playspace in the heart of Tailem Bend, this one not only caters to train fans but includes a great range of play equipment for all ages. When we popped in for a visit, there were lots of local families enjoying what is obviously THE place to be for families in Tailem Bend.

Plan your day trip here

Jack Watkins Reserve, Kilburn has had a multi million dollar upgrade, and has officially opened in September 2025. Expect to find an incredibly creative TRAIN THEME here, with a lot of inclusive thought across some elements. The smaller kids will adore the train-themed fun, including train, carriages and ticket booths. There are facilities galore! With two sets of toilets, multiple water refill stations, BBQs, and more sheltered seating and tables than we’ve ever seen at a park!

 Find out more here

Barossa Adventure Station

Another brand new playground is this belter up at Angaston, which draws on the old train station land where it was developed. Kids can slide down the huge tube slide from the tower into the train carriage themed area down on the lower level. Great fun! So much more to do, including bike tracks and a skate park. One of our fave day trip playground destinations which will take you through the stunning 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ Hills.

Plan your day here

Crozier Reserve Daw Park

We love a hidden gem and for the little train lovers down south, this one at Daw Park is a fully fenced beauty. Light on equipment but big on peace and serenity, this ideal toddler playground includes a small train which is perfect for imagination play.

Read more here.

Kapunda Lions Park Playground

What a gem of a regional playground this one is! Fully fenced and spacious, with plenty of natural and artificial shade, plus one of the best trains (full sized we might add) we have seen in quite some time. Leo is an old steam engine from the copper mining days of the town, and your train loving kids will be all over this one. 

Read more here.

Kadina Playground

Some people think this is the best playground on the Yorke Peninsula, and we’d have to agree it would certainly be up there! This park also has a FULL SIZE TRAIN with a ramp to jump in the back. All aboard the Apex Express!

 

Read more here.

Croydon Playground

This playground is a little gem with its own little train, perfect for those young train enthusiasts. The kids will love this park as it’s right next to the Croydon Train Station and the kids can view the train coming and going frequently- right up close! Don’t worry- the playground is fully fenced and now has toilets! 

Check it out here.

Dinosaur Playgrounds

Greenglade Playground, Paradise

Do you have a Dinosaur loving kid? Greenslade Playground at Paradise is a lovely little spot with a really cool dinosaur that you (or the kids…but don’t let me stop you!) can climb all over and through a little dino-tunnel! How cool!

All the pics and info here

Hazelwood Park Playground, Burnside

The Womat Waterhole playground also features a dinosaur dig sandpit where you can bring our your inner paleantologist and dig for dinosaur bones.

All the pics and info here

Cormorant Drive Reserve Playground, Hallett Cove

This reserve has an interesting history with a Diprotodon (Giant Wombat) fossil remains found here in 1992. This Australian megafauna was the world’s largest marsupial and lived between 15,000-10,000 years ago.

Check it out here

Naracoorte Caves Fossil Hunters Playground

The Naracoorte Caves are a world famous natural wonder right here on our doorstep, but did you know they also have a (probably) world famous nature playground as well? We visited last year and it is just sensational. Fossil themed naturally, kids will love exploring and digging their way around this sensational facility. On your trip to the caves, allow time to explore this spot.

 More info here.

Adventure/Nature Playgrounds

Morialta Conservation Park Playground

Maybe 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝â€™s premier nature playground, Morialta is a sensational spot for 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ families located in the eastern suburbs, which forms part of the larger conservation park (stunning family walks…more on those here!), a perfect day out at Morialta will have the kids running around and exploring the magnificent scenery and playing on all the wonderful play equipment which blends seamlessly into the environment….except the 3 storey tube slide…you can’t hide that!

Read more on this 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ fave here

St Kilda Adventure Park

An Adelaie icon for what feels like generations, St Kilda Adventure Playground has had a few upgrades over the years and is still a fabulous spot for a day out with the family. Plenty of space, all the facilities you would want and some incredible play equipment.

Read more on this 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ fave here.

Mitcham Reserve

This has always been a rather spectacular spot due to the beautiful scenery, nearby creeks (and awesome coffee shops around Mitcham), but after a massive redevelopment in about 2018, it is even more special now. Constructed using beautiful wooden materials of different shapes and sizes, the kids will feel like they have been transported to some sort of medieval kingdom with the highlight being the huge tower and tube slide (we know, not many tube slides in ye olde times but a bit of poetic licence here). This is the perfect playground picnic spot too, with so much grass and shade from the trees.

Just love this one and you can find out more here!

Marshmallow Park

If you have a kid that has gone on any excursion to the city with kindy in the past few years, chances are they ate lunch here so the teachers could rest. A fully fenced sandpit with lots of water and play equipment, pack extra clothes for this one. Located on Glen Osmond Road in the city, it really is a fantastic playground and one of our faves for the little kids, with some great natural elements to climb on and interact with, plus some really cool standard playground equipment. If your kid loves to get messy, this is the park for them.

Read more here!

Largs Foreshore

An ice cream themed playground by the beach? How good is this! So unique it really fits in its own category, this 2024 built playspace out at Largs Foreshore is your wildest dreams come true. Full of ice cream themed equipment, your kids will love it!

Read more here

Glenthorne Adventure Playground

Opened in late 2023 in our brand new Glenthorne National Park, the nature playground is absolutely sensational, with several playspaces offering an abundance of nature themed play, as well as some great climbing towers and slides.

Get all the info here.

Lobethal Bushland Park

Set amongst family friendly walking trails, this 2023 built playground offers play areas for little and big kids alike, allowing some fabulous play amongst the beautiful scenery of the nature reserve.

Get all the info here.

Hope Valley Reservoir Playground

A playground set amongst the beauty of one of our largest reservoirs? How good is that! Nature themed play aplenty here and explore the reservoir afterwards.

Get all the info here.

Bowman Park Port Pirie

Located up at Port Pirie (near Crystal Brook to be exact), this is such an incredible playground built by the very talented team at . A short detour off the highway, it is well worth the trip. This was really a local project with materials and talented local trades used to bring this to life!

More info and pics here.

Jervois Street Reserve

One of the best playgrounds in 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, is this ripper at South Plympton. It is fully fenced to lock in those scallywag tearaway little kids, it has an older kids playground with flying fox and other climbing/sporting stuff to do, but it is the nature play which brings us here today. With fantastic wood and stone pieces to climb on, plus every parents favourite playground feature….sand and water play, the little ones will have a blast. So much more to do that hasn’t been listed here.

read more on our review here

Belair Adventure Playground

This is THE quintessential nature playground in 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝. Located in Belair National Park (so obviously a bucketload of nature everywhere you look), it is a bit more dated compared to the others listed but some things get better with age…..not saying this has gotten better with age unfortunately (it hasn’t really changed since I first went 30 odd years ago), but it is still a sensational spot. Apart from the playground you get to experience all that the national park has to offer, which is always a perfect family day out (or weekend if you want to camp). The playground has all the classic features you remember from school excursions in the 80s, the huge wooden fort, the cement tunnel network to hide in….bliss. For some reason this playground always reminds me of giant arrowroot bush biscuits, which I think was the school snack of choice for excursions a long, long time ago.

Anyway, more info and pics here!

This stunning playground is just about everything we love about a day out in our beautiful 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ 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 – 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ 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.

Max’s skill, knowledge and passion are immediately obvious the moment you step inside. This is true bean to bar chocolate making, with every step of the process carefully crafted on site. The cacao beans are thoughtfully sourced for both flavour and ethics, then transformed into beautifully balanced chocolates that showcase depth, texture and aroma. The scents alone are worth the visit, rich, warm and comforting. Simply pop into the chocolate door (can we call it that?) and you’ll be welcomed with genuinely personal service.

Max loves sharing his process, explaining flavour profiles, techniques and tasting tips in a way that feels relaxed, generous and never rushed. And then there’s the packaging, beautifully custom designed and seriously aesthetic. If aesthetics were a competition, these guys just blew it out of the water.

Set against a gorgeous McLaren Vale backdrop, Trilby’s Chocolates feel special without being intimidating. I guarantee you it is a place you’ll want to bring visiting friends, grandparents, kids (yes, they’re very welcome) and out-of-towners who want a true South Australian food experience. You can also , which is dangerous knowledge once you’ve tasted what’s on offer. Do yourself a favour and give them a follow on socials too. This is a high-quality, proudly South Australian product made with intention and an experience that’s only just beginning. Now, with Easter and Mother’s Day around the corner you are well and truly sorted… you’re welcome

What a fabulous unique celebration of small things, done well. Very well.

Find it at: 215 Douglas Gully Road, Blewitt Springs, South Australia 5171

Website:

and

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 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ Hills.

Lenswood is around 40 minutes drive from 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝. Not far from other 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ 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

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122 Harris Road, Lenswood | P : 0436389578

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.

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This content was created in partnership with Halcyon Hardwicke Bay