Swag under the outback sky or retreat to some of SA’s best rural escapes
From the coast to the vines, the red dirt to rugged ranges, South Australia truly has it all. Whether you’re up for a bit of four-wheel driving, keen to soak up some outback magic, or just want to kick back on a farm full of history, we’ve got you covered. We’ve pulled together some of the best station and farm stays – from Penola to the Outback – so you can experience SA the way it’s meant to be.
Bendleby Ranges – Southern Flinders Ranges
If you’re chasing a getaway that’s as rugged as it is relaxing, Bendleby Ranges in the Southern Flinders is calling your name. Still a working sheep station, this multi award-winning adventure spot has some of the best 4WD tracks in the Flinders, as well as epic hiking trails, breathtaking views, and wide-open spaces where you can truly switch off.
Whether you’re pitching a tent under a billion stars, parking the van, or settling into a cozy cottage, there’s a spot for everyone. If you’re planning a getaway celebration with a big group, the Shearers Quarters can handle it. Or if you’re after something more homely, Crotta Homestead, Gumdale and Acacia Cottages are all oozing with country charm and luxury comforts. Even your four-legged mates are welcome!
Charlie and Kylie Luckcraft are celebrating 25 years since bringing tourism to Bendleby, and they’ve perfectly nailed the balance between adventure and relaxation – confirmed by five star reviews and their most recent recognition as one of Australia’s top adventure tourism destinations.
Bungaree Station – Clare Valley
Bungaree Station isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a step back in time. Established in 1841, this historic Clare Valley property was once a bustling hub – the headquarters of one of Australia’s most successful sheep flocks, with its own store, school, council chambers, blacksmith, and church. Today, it remains a working farm, immaculately preserved and offering guests heritage-listed accomodation and on-property tours.
Couples will enjoy staying in the cosy Stallion Box or Swaggies Hut, while cottages such as the Council Chambers and Manager’s House are perfect for families and small groups. Alternatively, for larger groups seeking a rustic but comfortable “camping” experience, the Shearers Quarters can accommodate up to 25 people.
Guests can start the day feeding kangaroos, sheep, and deer or delve into the property’s history, wandering the 4.5km walking trail, before spending an evening in front of the fire, toasting marshmallows and enjoying local wines.
Day visitors can enjoy self-guided or private 4WD tours, with a stop at the old Station Store for farm-fresh produce, local goods, and espresso coffee.
Coonatto Station – Flinders Ranges
Coonatto Station has been welcoming travellers since right back in the the 1840s, and it’s easy to see why This 14,000-acre sheep and cattle station in the Flinders Ranges has been in the Lock family since 1912, and offers guests a mix of outback adventure and laid-back country hospitality.
Whether you’re after a cozy stay with all the comforts or a true-blue camping experience, Coonatto has you covered. The shearers’ quarters sleep up to ten guests, complete with a full kitchen, comfy lounge, and outdoor BBQ area – perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. Or if you prefer sleeping under the stars, there are five private campsites, each exclusively yours to enjoy.
For those keen to explore, the self-drive 2WD tour takes you through stunning landscapes, with the Coonatto Hill Track climbing 488m for jaw-dropping views of Mount Remarkable and Mount Brown. Hike, cycle, or just soak in the peace –Coonatto Station is the ultimate outback escape.
Flinders Bush Retreats – Flinders Ranges
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Flinders Ranges near Hawker, Flinders Bush Retreats offers a true outback escape on a 13,000-acre sheep station run by the McInnis family.
From camping under the stars to boutique fully self-contained luxury, Flinders Bush Retreats has you covered. Mt Scott Homestead is like home away from home, with a wood fire to cosy up to after a day of exploring, or for weary explorers, a freestanding bath with an unbelievable view of Willow Creek and Mt Scott is a stand-out feature of the early 1900’s homestead. For larger groups, “The Quarters” can accommodate up to 10 people, with all the modern luxuries. Or if glamping’s more your style, a secluded eco-tent surrounded by some of the oldest hills in the Flinders Ranges, is an incredible experience for nature lovers who don’t feel the need to “rough it”.
Spend your days on the Willow Plains exploring the rugged beauty of Willow Waters Gorge, tackling 4WD tracks, or discovering the quaint outback towns of Hawker, Quorn, Blinman and Parachilna.
However you chose to sleep at Flinders Bush Retreats, the sunsets and starry skies will not disappoint!
Moolooloo Station – Flinders Ranges
In the heart of the Flinders, Moolooloo Station offers something for every explorer. Whether you want to roll your swag out around a campfire under the stars, grab a group of friends and set up in the well-equipped shearer’s quarters or base yourself in the cosy Blinman Hut for some bushwalking or four wheel driving. The newest offering for station guests is the freshly-renovated Stuart homestead. The old stone homestead, which was once the base for one of SA’s greatest explorers, John McDouall Stuart, sleeps five people, with a fully-equipped kitchen and bathroom – for modern-day explorers.
Moolooloo is a 60,000 hectare working sheep station, owned by Reece and Tarina Warren, who love sharing the unique outback and all her beauty with visitors. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, there’s plenty to explore, including a drive through the historic Nuccaleena Mine Ruins or a trek up to look outs at Knob Hill and Sunset Boulevard. Four wheel drivers can explore some of the most spectacular scenery the Flinders has to offer at Moolooloo’s Ferguson Gorge. And if you want a break from firing up the bbq, Parachilna’s iconic Prairie Hotel and the Blinman Pub are both just half an hour drives through the beautiful Flinders.
Check out a video of Moolooloo Station here. And find out more or make a booking here.
Nine Mile Station – Broken Hill
Nine Mile Station is the quintessential Aussie outback station stay. A working sheep station just a ten-minute drive from Broken Hill – at Nine Mile, you can explore New South Wales’ wild west during the day and kick back around a campfire under the stars after dark.
Located only a few hundred metres from the bitumen, Nine Mile is easily accessible for caravans and campers, offering a safe and secure patch of outback to pull up for the night, or settle in for a few days.
Whether you’re a camper, a glamper or you’d prefer an air-conditioned room in the station shearer’s quarters, the Lawrence family can accommodate. The campground offers affordable off-grid and powered sites, and guests have the added bonus of access to an amenities block.
There’s plenty to explore at Nine Mile – including a friendly menagerie of goats, sheep, alpacas and Highlander and Gallaway cattle. And you can’t put a price on a yarn over a beer with station-owner Greg!
Just a stone’s throw from the property, visitors can take in a stunning outback sunset from The Living Desert sculptures, check out the abundance of country pubs in bustling Broken Hill, and no trip to the region is complete without a stop off at the classic outback town of Silverton! To make a booking at Nine Mile Station, email [email protected]
Warrawindi Escapes – Limestone Coast
Warrawindi Escapes is a brand-new off-grid farm stay, offering a high-end but down-to-earth getaway just out of Penola in the South East. It’s the real deal – wide open paddocks, fresh air, and the chance to wake up with kangaroos and emus on your doorstep.
The Brolga is designed for couples looking to switch off and slow down. Soak in a spa bath overlooking the paddocks, curl up by the fire, or enjoy a drink under the stars by your own private firepit.
For a getaway with family or friends, The Blue Wren offers two bedrooms, both with ensuites and baths. There’s also the luxurious cedar hot tub where you can soak away no matter what the weather, with stunning views overlooking the farm.
Get hands-on with private farm experiences—cuddle a cow, check the sheep, or watch the wildlife at sunset. Whether you want to explore or just unwind, Warrawindi Escapes gives you the space to do it your way.
Willangi Bush Escapes – Mid North
Willangi Bush Escapes has something for everyone, from bush camping and 4WD adventures to cosy farmhouse stays and unique railway carriage accommodation.
Just 15km north of Peterborough, the 9,500-acre working farm is perfect for four wheel driving, hiking, birdwatching, or simply unwinding under the stars.
Set up camp at one of the private bush campsites, each with its own long-drop loo and plenty of space to enjoy the serenity. Gather around a comfort fire at night and soak in the outback atmosphere and the stars. For an extended comfortable stay, Henry’s Place offers a weekly stay self-contained farmhouse with a full kitchen and fireplaces, while Off The Rails provides a boutique stay in restored railway carriages, blending antique charm in a rural setting with modern comforts within minutes from Peterborough.
With rolling hills, secluded tracks, and stunning outback scenery, Willangi Bush Escapes is the ultimate getaway to switch off, explore, and enjoy the best of SA’s bushland.
Woodburn Homestead – Langhorne Creek
Woodburn Homestead is not only one of South Australia’s premier wedding destinations, this history-rich rural property also offers three winter getaways, combining the perfect blend of luxury and indulgence.
Relax in quintessential Australian accommodation just a short drive from Langhorne Creek’s world-class wineries. Choose from three unique retreats tailored for relaxation and connection. The Couples Retreat offers peaceful mornings and tranquil gardens with a five-course chef’s menu served in the cosy Coach House. The Winter Group Getaway is an ideal choice for milestone celebrations. Up to eight guests can enjoy a two-night stay and a decadent chef-prepared meal in the homestead’s ‘secret cellar’. Or for a getaway with the girls, an exclusive women’s retreat is the perfect luxury escape, with a private wine-tasting, relaxing massage, psychic readings and a holistic healing experience.
This amazing property, steeped in history, has been lovingly restored by the Westphalen family, who intertwine the stories of the original owners in what now stands as a picture-perfect wedding and accommodation venue. Explore Woodburn and book your winter retreat here.
