Sometimes you just need to hit pause. Not plan a three-week trip overseas. Not pack for airports and delays. Just pause, breathe and reconnect.
That’s what a staycation in Adelaide is all about. And with South Australia’s wine regions, rolling hills, and whisper-quiet retreats within arm’s reach, you don’t need to go far to feel far away.
This isn’t your typical “just chill at home” weekend. We’re talking slow mornings in the Adelaide Hills, bushwalks that clear your head, wines with a view, and cabins tucked so deep in nature.
Where to Start: The Hills Are Calling
If you’ve only got one weekend to spare, the Adelaide Hills are your best bet. It’s close enough to the city to avoid a road trip headache, but far enough to leave the traffic and to-do lists behind.
Think about waking up to birdsong, sipping coffee on a private deck with sweeping views, and finishing the day in an outdoor bath under a sky full of stars. That’s a real itinerary when you book a cabin like CABN Adelaide Hills. It’s off-grid, eco-conscious, and designed for doing absolutely nothing (and loving it).
If you ever want to stretch your legs, you’ve got plenty of nearby walking trails, Mount Lofty hikes, cellar doors, and sleepy towns like Stirling and Hahndorf to wander through. No pressure or schedule. Just choose your own pace.
For Couples: The Romantic Retreat You Didn’t Know You Needed
Let’s talk about that romantic getaway you’ve been meaning to plan. The one where you’re not distracted by emails, reservations, or city noise. A staycation in Adelaide lets couples escape and gives you the chance to just… be together.
Think slow-cooked dinners, a bottle of red from a local vineyard, and a fire crackling nearby. Prefer a place with a bit of flair? Look at spots like the Sticky Rice Villas or the Mount Lofty area for boutique touches and spa vibes. Or go low-key luxe with CABN Hahndorf—a minimalist cabin that’s made for slowing down together.
Bonus points is that your stay includes a freestanding bath, a deck with panoramic views of the bush, a king-sized bed (sometimes, queen + a bunk bed for extra persons), and more. Extra bonus if you leave your phones on airplane mode.
From Piccadilly Valley to Lenswood: Hidden Attractions Worth the Detour
If you’ve already done the usual Hills hotspots, try going deeper. Places like Piccadilly Valley and Lenswood Pavilions fly under the radar, but they have that untouched charm. They’re where you can experience foggy mornings, winding roads, and orchard stops that turn into lazy afternoon picnics.
It’s also where you’ll find some of the most peaceful private sanctuaries in South Australia. CABN has cabins that go right into the bush, where the only thing you hear at night is wind rustling through gum trees.
These aren’t resort stays. They’re “we made a fire, played cards, and slept better than we have in months” stays.
From Barossa Valley to McLaren Vale: Sip, Stay, Repeat
Wine lovers, listen up.
The Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale regions are both within easy reach of Adelaide. Each is packed with cellar doors, vineyard lunches, and stunning scenery. Barossa leans traditional and indulgent. McLaren Vale is more coastal, casual, and perfect for a summer road trip.
Both destinations pair beautifully with a stay in a CABN South Australia location, should you need accommodation. Imagine sipping shiraz in the afternoon, then retiring to your private sanctuary in the bush with a glass in hand and nothing but cicadas in the background.
That’s the kind of local luxury living we’re talking about.
Things to Do During Your Staycation in Adelaide
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with mates, here’s how to make the most of a staycation in Adelaide:
- Visit wineries in the Adelaide Hills wine region, Barossa Valley, or McLaren Vale
- Walk up Mt Lofty and catch panoramic sunrise views
- Drive to Hahndorf and explore its German heritage (plus check out CABN Hahndorf for a place to stay)
- Take your partner for ten-pin bowling, mini golf at Holey Moley, or a drive-in movie at Gepps Cross
- Chill in the Botanic Gardens, walk along the Torrens, or play pool at Empire
- Visit the Adelaide Central Market, then escape to a CABN retreat to unwind
Why CABN? And Why Now?
It’s easy to forget what quiet feels like. Or how stars look when there’s no light pollution. CABN gives you a chance to remember. More than just a place to sleep, each cabin is a sustainable private sanctuary designed for digital detoxing and deep rest.
All locations are off-grid, solar-powered, and intentionally positioned for stunning views and genuine peace. Whether it’s a hot tub soak beneath the trees or a glass of wine beside the fire, these are moments that restore.
And unlike hotels, there’s no crowd, no checkout queue, no interruptive room service. It’s just you, nature, and who (and what) you came with.
Where to Stay: CABNs Within Easy Reach of Adelaide
If you’re craving an escape without the hassle of long-distance travel, CABN offers a collection of off-grid stays less than three hours from Adelaide, each one thoughtfully placed to immerse you in nature, while keeping you close to home.
CABN Hahndorf
Only 25 minutes from the Adelaide CBD, CABN Hahndorf is nestled within a natural amphitheatre just minutes from the historic village. Expect crisp mornings, native wildlife, and proximity to local favourites like Ambleside Distillers and The Haus Restaurant.
CABN X Hahndorf
Also located at The Cedars property in the Adelaide Hills, CABN X is a more elevated experience, with outdoor baths, floor-to-ceiling windows, and walking trails on your doorstep. A serene sanctuary just 30 minutes from the city.
CABN Kuitpo Forest
Tucked among towering pines and known for its tranquil seclusion, Kuitpo Forest is under an hour south of Adelaide. Here, you can forest bathe, hike, and truly disconnect.
CABN McLaren Vale
Only 45 minutes from the city, our McLaren Vale cabins are perched among vineyards and rolling hills, making them ideal for wine lovers and beach-goers alike. Take a short drive to Pt Willunga for a coast-and-vine experience.
CABN X McLaren Vale
Positioned for those looking for luxury and stillness, these architecturally-designed cabins offer outdoor baths, private saunas, and curated regional experiences, all just 45 minutes from Adelaide.
CABN Barossa Valley
Just 55 minutes from Adelaide, our Barossa cabins are surrounded by vines and renowned cellar doors. Choose from our minimalist Chloe and Elsie cabins, CABN X Seppeltsfield or the canvas-covered CANVS glamping tents for a more immersive feel.
CABN X Seppeltsfield (Barossa)
Located along the iconic Seppeltsfield Road, these luxury eco-cabins are ideal for a refined escape, complete with sauna, views of the palms, and walking distance to the Seppeltsfield Winery.
CABN CANVS Barossa
Also at Seppeltsfield, these five sustainable canvas-style cabins offer an immersive experience of nature with all the comforts you need. Just over an hour from Adelaide.
CABN Kangaroo Island
For those looking to travel further afield, CABN X on Kangaroo Island offers the ultimate off-grid experience. Located at Cape St Albans, just 20 minutes from Penneshaw, you’ll find panoramic views, luxury amenities, and complete seclusion — all just a short ferry or flight away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best part of Adelaide to stay in?
It depends on your personal idea of staycation. The Adelaide Hills offers the best of both worlds – proximity to the city and total immersion in nature. Areas like Hahndorf, Stirling, and Piccadilly are great picks.
Where can I take my girlfriend in Adelaide for a special occasion?
Book a CABN Hahndorf stay, go wine tasting, walk to Mt Lofty, grab dinner in Stirling, or watch a film at Gepps Cross drive-in. Add a romantic retreat with an outdoor bath, and you’re set.
What to do in Adelaide for fun?
Explore the Central Market, take a winery tour, stroll through the Botanic Gardens, or try indoor mini golf. For nature lovers, a CABN South Australia escape adds serenity to the itinerary.
Where can I find a Japanese Onsen-style escape in Adelaide?
While Adelaide doesn’t have a traditional Japanese onsen, the Sticky Rice Villas in Stirling are inspired by that tranquil style. Prefer something more off-grid? CABN offers nature-first calm without the crowd.
What are some unique staycation experiences near Adelaide’s CBD?
Escape to the picturesque Adelaide Hills, stay in a freestanding bath cabin, enjoy panoramic views, and connect with nature. All within an hour’s drive from Adelaide’s CBD.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re planning a surprise romantic getaway, need a digital detox, or just want a change of scenery, a staycation in Adelaide has it all. And with options like CABN accommodations, local wineries, and panoramic mountain views, you don’t have to compromise on comfort or conscience.
So, pack a weekend bag, leave your laptop at home, and rediscover what rest really feels like—right here in South Australia.
