Just 90 minutes from the heart of Adelaide, the 49km multi-day Southern Ocean Walk meanders along the breathtaking Fleurieu Peninsula and is deemed one of the best walking tours in Australia.
The Southern Ocean adventure begins at Cape Jervis – the starting point of the iconic 1200km Heysen Trail – and culminates at King Beach, just outside of Victor Harbour. Day one of the trail takes hikers 13km along shimmering shorelines, across open grasslands, and through dense forests filled with eucalypts and wattles. Stops along the way are encouraged, with breathtaking views out over Backstairs Passage and Blowhole Beach being highlights of this leg of the journey.
Recover from the day’s activities at Deep Creek Homestead, the centrally located home base for the duration of the tour. Transfers back to the homestead are provided each day, with pre-dinner drinks from small-batch McLaren Vale producers waiting for you on arrival. Sip on a bold shiraz and soak away the day with a rejuvenating foot bath, before enjoying a homecooked three-course dinner that highlights locally-sourced produce.
Day two picks up where day one ended, with a 13km journey from Cobbler Hill through Deep Creek Conservation Park. Park up midway for lunch, served to the relaxing soundtrack of rushing water at a magnificent hidden waterfall. Post-lunch, it’s a gradual climb to the top of Tapanappa Ridge where friendly mobs of Western Grey kangaroos pose for photos, and the panoramic view of the Southern Ocean caps off an inspiring six and a half hour hiking day.
At just 9km, day three’s hike is the shortest of them all. Starting at Tapanappa Ridge, the sweeping views of Kangaroo Island gradually make way for thick forests of pink gums. On the other end, the scenery once again opens up to the coast at Tunkalilla Beach. Keep an eye on the sky on this leg of the walk, and you might spot one of the 118 different bird species that call the park home.
The final day on the Southern Ocean walk takes hikers 14kms from Newland Conservation Park, through to the shores of Waitpinga Beach. Enjoy the sand between your toes before making your way back up to the top of the Newland Cliffs. The tour ends with a gradual descent to King Beach, just outside Victor Harbour.
Wander further in South Australia
For more great nature walks, check out guide to the best walks near Adelaide or step up your step count on one of South Australia’s best multi-day walks.
