The 2023 South Australian Tourism Awards finalists have been revealed, shining the spotlight on some of the state’s best tourism operators.
Supported by the State Government through the South Australian Tourism Commission, the Awards are delivered annually by Tourism Industry Council South Australia (TiCSA) and recognise business excellence and outstanding achievement in the state’s tourism industry.
Spanning over 30 different categories, the 80 finalists represent a cross-section of the South Australian tourism industry including accommodation providers, tour operators, festivals & events and more.
Among these finalists, four contenders are chasing a Tourism Awards Hall of Fame induction, having secured victory in their respective categories for the past two years.
Nestled between Deep Creek National Park and Talisker Conservation Park, Naiko Retreat is up for its second consecutive award for best self contained accommodation. Majestically perched on a cliff, overlooking a pristine and secluded beach on the the Fleurieu Peninsula coastline, the luxury eco-retreat allows guests to disconnect from daily life, turn down the volume and declutter their minds.
Also vying for the Hall ofd Fame is a truly magical place in the Southern Flinders Ranges. With over 200km of the region’s best 4×4 tracks, ranging from mild to wild, Bendleby Ranges offers everything from adventure to camping and glamping, with a huge range of accommodation options and activities to get guests back to nature.
In the category of Best Cultural Tourism operator for the second time running, The Cedars at Hahndorf, home of renowned Australian artist, Sir Hans Henson, continues to gain acknowledgement as one of the country’s most intact and best preserved historic homes.
Visitors can tour the beautiful historic house and heritage listed studios and view over 200 original art works, as well as delight in the changing seasons of the expansive Artist’s garden and explore superb vistas of the magnificent gums across 60 hectares of bushland property.
Woodhouse Activity Centre is also backing up its nomination for the Most Unique Accommodation – specialising in experience-based stays, offering quality, screen-free family fun on the 54-acre bushland property in the Adelaide Hills. The diverse accommodation options range from rustic chalets, bunkhouses and a two-storey heritage-listed mansion, to camping or caravan adventures in the expansive camping fields. Woodhouse offers so many amazing and adventurous challenges, including the “OG” Ninja Warrior Course, where you can crawl, climb, swing and splash your way through over 30 obstacles on Woody’s Challenge Hill.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison said it was wonderful to see such a high calibre of tourism offerings across South Australia.
“Congratulations to all of the 2023 South Australian Tourism Award finalists, who demonstrate the incredible range and quality of businesses across the tourism sector, including accommodation, tours, events, and more.
“Our state’s impressive tourism offerings help motivate visitors from all over to commit to a trip to South Australia, helping boost visitation as we work to grow our visitor economy to $12.8 billion by 2030.”
Winners and medallists in all categories will be officially announced at the 2023 South Australian Tourism Awards Gala Dinner, set to take place on Friday, 3 November, at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
