Most of South Australia's life radiates gently from arty capital, Adelaide, dwindling as it hits the bone dry land beyond, where temperatures regularly hover around 48 degrees. Underneath this unforgiving, stoney land are mineral veins on which tiny townships suckle, and beyond that are the hazy colours of the Flinders Ranges. But around Adelaide the land is lush - perfect for wine growing, and beyond that the sea is packed with tuna and lobsters, creating the perfect conditions for a foodie heaven. Our Guru's recommendations for the best places to stay in South Australia range from chic city boutique hotels in Adelaide to rambling old farmsteads in South Australia's wine country.

Once upon a time Adelaide's, main appeals were its graceful religious architecture and the fact that it was set up as a free colony, rather than a penal colony. But these days Adelaide is known for a lot more - the arts and festival scene is exuberant, the foodie scene thrives on its position - by the wine regions of the Clare Valley and McLaren Vale, and there's a multicultural wave gradually stretching the city's traditionally conservative nature.

What Not to Miss

• Less than a quarter of an hour's drive away on the freeway and you're in one of the rural towns of the Adelaide Hills or charming old Port Adelaide. Both these regions are worth exploring, as is Glenelg, the beachy bit.
• But first you should explore the centre of town. Don't miss the Central Market, the Art Gallery, the South Australian Museum or the Botanic Gardens. And it's definitely worth visiting Adelaide during festival time - which is almost always - as the city really comes alive and venues pop up all over the place.
• A little bit more driving and you'll hit McLaren Vale and the Clare and Barossa Valleys, home to some of Australia's best known wine brands, such as Penfolds, Peter Lehmann and Seppelt, as well as numerous tiny wineries. Most allow tastings and some have very decent restaurants as well. These regions are famous for their big reds, especially Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignons, but they also grow Chardonnay and Semillion vines. The red vines especially are known for being some of the oldest in the world - they came as Rhone Valley cuttings and have now outlived their parent plants which were decimated by disease in the 19th Century.
• After that most people drive on to the Limestone Coast, along the Murray River, and Kangaroo Island. The flat land of the Limestone Coast is backed by surf beaches and secret bays, and below the ground you'll find a strange warren of underground caves. Kangaroo Island is a wonderfully unspoiled place, rich with biodiversity, but of course especially rich in kangaroos.
• If you drive north from Adelaide you'll hit the desert and the colourful town of Coober Pedy, arguably the world's opal capital, where miners built their houses, and other buildings, underground where it's cooler.
• And then it's on to the Flinders Ranges, row upon row of jagged peaks rising up behind Port Augusta. These mountains change colour during the day, from a morning violet to an evening red ochre.

The Hotel Guru has sifted through all the best places in South Australia and come up with the following short list, which should have something for all tastes and budgets whether you're looking for an outback adventure or city luxe.

The best places to stay in South Australia

For Adelaide

• The Clarion Hotel Soho is right in the centre of town, with all the mod. cons., chic design and a regularly changing art exhibition on display. As well as being close to everything the Clarion Hotel has a roof top pool with views over the skyline.
• The Franklin is a quirky, seven room boutique hotel in the heart of the city. As well as being small and perfectly designed, The Franklin offers guests free use of its bicycles. And all for around £80 per night.
• Thorngrove Manor Hotel in the Adelaide Hills, is a luxurious, five room hotel, perfect for romance and privacy. It's done up to look like and old castle with antiques and four poster beds and tapestries, and offers every luxury you can imagine you might need.

For Kangaroo Island

• LIfetime Private Retreats offers four seaside luxury villas, with fully inclusive dining packages or self catering - you choose.

For great value

• The Wilpena Pound Resort is the perfect choice if you want to visit the Flinders Range. There is a wide range of accommodation, plus pool and restaurant. Rooms start from just £100 room only, and self catering options are even less.

For Outback Luxury

• Look no further than Arkaba Station, a vast sheep farm turned private wildlife sanctuary with five individually designed rooms, overlooking the Elder Ranges. There's no internet or phone signal, so it's the perfect place for total relaxation.

For the winelands

• The Louise is situated in the heart of the Barossa Valley. Come here for luxury, glorious views and superb food - and of course the wine.
• Kingsford Homestead, on the edge of the Barossa Valley, offers seven exquisite rooms, swimming pool and great food.

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option this holiday - don't hesitate to visit our online partner, Booking.com for a diverse selection of properties to suit holidays of all types.

Travel Information

• Fly to Adelaide Airport, located 5.7km (3.5 miles) from Adelaide with a wide selection of domestic and International flights including to Asia and the Middle East.
• Alternatively, catch a train to South Australia with rail links to Adelaide from Sydney and Melbourne amongst other destinations.
• If you want to rent a car to South Australia, click here for prices and booking with our online partner, Rental Cars.
• Best time to visit - the Spring months from September to November for less chance of rainfall and pleasant temperatures.

Still not sure where to book?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in South Australia,
• Expand your search to include our recommendations in New South Wales or Queensland
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in South Australia