South Australia is the country’s fourth-largest state, spanning a total land area of 983,482 square kilometres. The state first split off from New South Wales in 1834, and has a current population of 1.7 million residents.

In contrast to other states, South Australia was never a penal colony, and was completely settled by free European settlers from the 1830s.

Covering some of the country’s most arid parts, this beautiful region is filled with gorgeous coastline, turquoise beaches, internationally-renowned wineries and some of the finest produce.

Capital city Adelaide is well-known for its arts, music and dining scene. In fact, it’s been hailed as the “Festival State”, thanks to a calendar that’s packed to the brim with arts and gastronomic festivals.

The surrounding Adelaide Hills is not to be missed, with its quaint historical villages. And the areas of Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Clare Valley will attract many a wine-connoisseur with their world-class vineyards.

For nature enthusiasts, head to Kangaroo Island for its abundant wildlife, the sparkling Limestone Coast with its many sinkholes, crater lakes and beaches, and Flinders Range for its magnificent mountains.