4-Day Itinerary of the Southern Flinders Ranges
Suggested Itinerary
4 days from Adelaide
Try this leisurely 4-day itinerary based in Melrose, the cycling hub of the Southern Flinders Ranges. Ride or walk through stunning National Parks, enjoy local wineries and discover the local history and art galleries of the surrounding townships.
Aussie Travel Code Tip: Be the kind of visitor you would like to meet in your own hometown. Be respectful of other riders and the beautiful environments we enjoy.
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Day 1 - Adelaide to Melrose via the amazing country bakeries of the Southern Flinders Ranges
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Day 2 - Ride the world-class cycling trails in Melrose and Mount Remarkable National Park
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Day 3 - Experience the Southern Flinders Wineries and Local Galleries
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Day 4 - Head home via the historic rail museums in Booleroo and Peterborough
Day 1 - Adelaide to Melrose
Melrose is an easy 3-hour drive from Adelaide along the National Highway A1. If time allows, take the scenic route along the B82 through the Clare Valley, Yacka and Laura.
Families will love making a stop at the Stone Hut Aviary to meet the amazing friendly birds, or continue on for another 10 minutes to Wirrabara. Check out the stunning silo art, pick up a delicious lunch from one of the very popular bakeries and browse the shops along the charming main street.
Continue north for another 15 minutes to Melrose, a picturesque country town at the base of Mount Remarkable. Find a range of accommodation and take your pick of dining options, from two lovely old pubs to several cafes and bakeries along the main street.
Day 2 - Cycling in Melrose
Melrose is best known as the cycling hub of the Flinders Ranges. Access world-class cycling trails in Mount Remarkable National Park and on privately owned properties that are generously offered by locals. Check out our list of Cycling Trails to browse a non-exhaustive list of our amazing local tracks.
If you're looking for a personal recommendation, drop in to Over the Edge bike shop on the main street of Melrose. The team can also help you get equipped before you hit the trails; book in for a service, hire a bike or get a lesson from their skills clinic.
Day 3 - Southern Flinders Wineries and Local Galleries
Keen cyclists will easily spend at least another day or two on the local trails, but if you’re ready for a change of pace, visit the local wineries and art galleries.
Around Melrose, try award-winning Bundaleer Wines at the North Star Hotel, or enjoy the relaxed cellar door experience at Bartagunyah Estate nestled within the foothills of Mount Remarkable National Park. Make the 10-minute drive to Bangor to taste Blesing’s Garden wines at Glenholme Vineyards and visit The Old Survey Art Gallery. If you are ready to walk off the wine tastings, take a stroll along one of the nearby walking trails; the Alligator Gorge lookout walk is an easy 20-minute trail with spectacular views.
Continue on to Laura to browse the eclectic collections at The Laura Emporium Gallery and Museum. Check the events calendar for exhibitions at the Laura Courthouse Gallery, and stay for dinner to enjoy the beautiful meals and warm hospitality of the North Laura Hotel.
Day 4 - Melrose to Adelaide via Booleroo and Peterborough
Agriculture and machinery buffs will love the richly told history in the museums and collections across the Southern Flinders Ranges.
See one of the world’s most extensive collections of working historical machinery at the Booleroo Steam and Traction Preservation Society. This volunteer-run organisation meticulously maintains all of the machinery and offers viewings of the collection by appointment. It’s a very impressive display for those who love to learn about the heritage of Australia’s early agricultural innovation.
From Booleroo, head over to Peterborough for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring South Australia’s fascinating steam rail history. Enjoy the immersive experiences at the Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre, and see fantastic historical displays at the Peterborough Printing Works and the Town Carriage Museum.
From Peterborough, the scenic drive back to Adelaide will take around 3 hours along the A32 Highway.