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On January 18, Health Department chief Brendan Murphy revealed that despite a vaccine, international travel may not be possible until 2022. While it may dash hopes to those wishing to visit family and friends abroad, it continues to put special highlight on our incredible offerings Down Under. Following my most recent trip to South Australia – mere months after bushfires tore through bushland and homes – I quickly learned there’s no place like South Australia.
From its mountainous Flinders Rangers to Adelaide’s food scene, there is a holiday to be had all year-round. And if you’re looking to leave mainland Australia, if only for a weekend, Kangaroo Island is an escapists dream. Just a short 30 minute flight from Adelaide (or 45 minutes by ferry), Kangaroo Island is nestled just off the south coast and boasts wide open paddocks, picturesque beaches and views unique to our Australian backyard.
The island is big enough to allow for endless days of road trips and adventures – each corner boasting a new experience (you can plan your itinerary here) – but small enough to become well-acquainted with the locals. You’ll need a place to call home while you explore the region. These stunning stays are tried and tested by GRAZIA and editor approved.
Hamilton & Dune
Hamilton & Dune is situated just metres from the calm waters of Emu Bay Beach. The family-owned business boasts two separate beach homes, Hamilton House and Dune House, each sharing a unique design style and quiet escapism.
Built in the 1960’s and completely renovated in 2018, Hamilton House retains its family history and period details. It is easy to see that the space has been well-loved and is instantly welcoming. The unique three-bedroom accommodation is best on display when entertaining with an expansive living space and outdoor deck that looks onto the foreshore. I spent my morning nestled in a blanket on the outdoor lounges, watching the nearby horses taking a dip in the ocean.
Nearby, Dune House sits further in bushland and is described as an “opportunity of a lifetime”, and it’s easy to see why. Driven by architecture and interior design, the circular house boasts unique views with every turn. In addition to the most innate details, the house attracts Australian wildlife while the beach is a short walk away.
Oceanview Eco Villas
There is something utterly special about opening the bedroom blinds to be staring out over the Indian Ocean; to take a bath and be introduced to wombats passing by. And to know that your experience is completely off the grid.
Created by hosts, Tim and Tamsin Wendt, Oceanview Eco Villas is one of the newest accommodation offerings on Kangaroo Island. Located on a remote corner of the island, Nepean Bay, the sweeping 500-acre property is perched on the edge of stunning cliff faces and features two villas. The spaces are built with the environment in mind (down to the carpet, literally), are completely off the grid and lend a five-star experience unique to Oceanview.
Sit back, get acquainted with the locals (kangaroos), turn on the bluetooth speaks and allow Tim and Tamsin to cook you a luxurious three-course meal. Each villa features two bedrooms – couples retreat anyone?
Lifetime Private Retreats
Forming the backdrop to GRAZIA fashion shoot ‘The Last Day Of Harvest’, Lifetime Private Retreats at Snelling Beach is one of the island’s most iconic stays. Described as a “wilderness sanctuary”, a trip to this small pocket of the world nearly feels like a small overseas adventure. The area boasts four different spaces for the ultimate ‘home-away-from-home’ – the Sky House, Cliff House, Beach Retreat and the new Pebbly Beach Retreat.
Like many stays on Kangaroo Island, Lifetime Private Retreats has been lovingly renovated and run by family, in this case, three generations of the Holden and Hannaford family whose origins have evolved from leading restaurants, special events and entertaining.
Each space is unique and can accommodate a range of different needs and people. And yes, you’re just a short walk from the beach or bushland.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON KANGAROO ISLAND, VISIT HERE.
GRAZIA travelled to South Australia before the COVID-19 pandemic. It is advised to stay up-to-date on government regulations and travel restrictions before making bookings interstate.
