Flinders Ranges and peninsulas top a poll of RAA members

The Flinders Ranges and three peninsulas have topped a poll of RAA members asking about their favourite regions to holiday in South Australia.

The Flinders Ranges and Outback has topped a poll of RAA members on the most popular travel destinations in South Australia.

The vast region with its majestic landscapes was closely followed by the three peninsulas with their beach getaways – the Fleurieu, Yorke and Eyre peninsulas.

The Barossa Valley rounded out the top five.

RAA Travel general manager Gina Norman said the results were interesting given the world famous Barossa Valley wine region just made the top five destinations.

She said the iconic region’s proximity to Adelaide meant it was maybe more attractive as a day trip than an extended holiday.

Razorback Lookout in the Flinders Ranges. Picture: Elise Cook - SA Tourism Commission

“In contrast, the Flinders Ranges is popular for those who want to get away to a region which offers an experience for everyone, including the spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and outdoor activities such as hiking,’’ Ms Norman said.

“Flinders also offers something for every budget from outback camping to resorts.

“Fleurieu Peninsula was already popular, especially for short stays, because it offered great beachside accommodation.

“However the food and wine industry has developed significantly in the past 10 years to now offer world class eating and drinking experiences with great restaurants, wineries, cheese makers and craft beers.

The Fleurieu Peninsula is ideal for short-stay beachside accommodation.

“Yorke Peninsula is fabulous when you have more time for your adventure. It’s perfectly placed, far away enough from the hustle of day to day life, while still being an easy driving destination.

“Yorkes has fabulous swimming, fishing and camping and wonderful beaches such as Hardwicke Bay with its crystal-clear water and beachside shacks, along with family favourite destinations such as Moonta and the ever-expanding Wallaroo.’’

RAA’s travel survey showed self-drive holidays were the most popular for domestic destinations and with falling oil prices holiday-makers taking to SA’s roads should see some cheaper petrol prices compared to this time last year.

The RAA said Adelaide’s unleaded petrol prices last December averaged 137c a litre. However, with wholesale prices falling as low as 115c this month, it says motorists should be able to fill up for less than the same period last year if they time the price cycle right.