Transport
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Kangaroo Island
Spring Road Fire
Celebrate Kangaroo Island's boldest flavours at Gutsy
Winter on Kangaroo Island is bold by nature — and so is the way it eats. This three-day escape leans into big, expressive flavours and the makers behind them, where smoke, spice and seasonal produce come together with ease. Settle in for long lunches by the fire, distillery stops with a little bite, and dinners that reward both appetite and curiosity. It’s a winter break shaped by the island’s raw beauty and warm hospitality — made for those who like their food full-flavoured, their experiences genuine, and their time well spent.
Day 1 - Arrival and coastal indulgence
Make your way to Kangaroo Island by ferry, arriving in Penneshaw as the coastline comes into view. Just a short 10-minute walk from the terminal, Cove Landing Marina Apartments offers a convenient base — with early winter check-in making a walk-on ferry option an easy way to get started.
After settling in, head to Kingscote and warm up at Bay of Shoals Estate. Settle beside the fire and enjoy their winter experience, complete with a steaming pot of mussels and a guided tasting of six wines overlooking the bay.
In the afternoon, swap the vineyard for the ocean with Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari. Spot dolphins, seals and coastal wildlife on a brisk winter adventure, with a seasonal discount adding even more reason to rug up and head out.
As the day winds down, shape your evening to suit your style. Join the False Cape Wines degustation as part of the Gutsy festival, or ease into a slower night under star-filled skies at your accommodation.
If you’re looking to elevate the experience, consider a stay at Island Alive and their Forest Alchemy offering — a guided barefoot journey through the bush, followed by a private cycle of sauna, cold plunge and wood-fired hot tub, before finishing with a three-course meal.
Alternatively, Koopalanda Dreaming offers a ‘Bread and Brew’ winter ritual paired with a fuel voucher — a cosy, down-to-earth way to settle into island life.
For extended stays, take advantage of winter offers at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, Ozone Hotel, Seafront Hotel or CABN X, with Stay and Pay deals and added extras available across the season.
Verify T&C’s of the offer by visiting the products listed below.
Day 2 - Flavours of the island
After a full first day, ease into a slower morning and take in the quiet rhythm of the island.
For a true taste of Kangaroo Island, plan your day around local events like an Ocean Bounty experience with KI Oysters — where fresh, local produce takes centre stage.
Continue the flavour trail at Kangaroo Island Spirits, where tastings are inspired by the elements. Expect bold gins, whiskies and liqueurs that reflect the mood of the day — from bright and fresh to something a little more stormy.
If you’re travelling outside event weekends, Emu Ridge Distillery offers a more relaxed alternative with their Ruby & Jack’s Mystery Challenge — a fun, family-friendly way to explore the island’s artisan side.
As the sun sets, return to your accommodation and settle in for a quiet evening, where clear winter skies and calm surroundings invite you to truly switch off.
Day 3 - Wildlife, wine and winding down
Start the day with a visit to Emu Ridge Distillery, whether to take part in the Mystery Challenge or simply pick up locally made products to bring a piece of the island home with you.
If you’re visiting on the first weekend of August, make your way to Dudley Wines for their Sunday Vibes event — the perfect blend of great wine, good company and sweeping coastal views.
Alternatively, head to Seal Bay Conservation Park to see Australian sea lions resting among the dunes, a rare chance to witness wildlife up close in their natural habitat during the quieter winter months.
Or take the scenic route and tick off some of Kangaroo Island’s iconic sights at your own pace — from rugged coastlines to hidden corners best discovered slowly.
If you’ve opted for a three-night stay, enjoy one final evening on the island, soaking up the stillness before the journey home.
