Best off-grid accommodation in South Australia

Once a forgotten train carriage, now a quiet, one-of-a-kind stay on the wild West Coast.

Set just minutes from the rock pools of Greenly Beach, this off-grid hideaway was lovingly restored by a local couple who saw beauty in the bones. Inside, timber walls glow warm with afternoon light, vintage furniture mixes with modern touches, and the fire waits patiently for cooler nights. Whether you’re walking the coastline, dipping into the ocean or simply watching the stars come out through the window, The Greenly Carriage makes slowing down feel easy.

It doesn’t get much more off-grid than a private island. The boat pulls away from the Eyre Peninsula mainland and the world falls quiet. Before you know it, your feet hit the ground of Louth Island — salt on your lips, wind in your hair and nothing but wide sky and scrubland ahead. This is Rumi — part restoration project, part retreat.

The old shearing shed still stands, weathered and wise. But where sheep once grazed, fairy penguins nest and native grasses reclaim the hills. Spend the day wandering the island’s wild edges or sitting down to a meal made from whatever the sea offered up that morning. Then pour a glass and watch dusk turn the ocean silver, before heading to bed with the windows open to the wind.

Who said going off-grid meant roughing it? A seamless connection between sustainability and luxury, at Oceanview Eco Villas you can kick back in complete comfort while doing your bit for the environment. Perched cliff-top on a secluded and private 500-acre property on the stunning Kangaroo Island coastline, these brand-new villas are just a short stroll to the beach. A fully hosted experience, your hosts Tim and Tamsin will ensure your every need is catered for including gourmet meals. And this property has serious eco-cred; designed by leading eco specialists, the property is completely off-the grid and solar-powered, and every element has been carefully considered, down to luxe furnishings made from recycled materials. All that’s left to do is kick back in 5-star comfort with the reassuring feeling that your stay is having a minimal impact on the environment.

Wind your clock back to river time and wake up on a floating eco pod. The ultimate riverside escape tucked on the banks of the Murray River, The Cube is one of the most immersive ways to experience life on the river, just outside Murray Bridge. An hour’s drive away from Adelaide, The Cube sleeps two people and features all the creature comforts including a queen bed, ensuite and kitchenette complete with breakfast supplies, making it the perfect place to base yourself for adventures along the Murray River. Kick back on a sunlounge on the deck and watch as boats cruise by, take to the water in your very own kayak or cosy up by the fire pit with a glass of red in hand.

You might be familiar with CABN in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula, but did you know that this South Australian company has expanded its off-grid offerings with boutique accommodation on Kangaroo Island? On the eastern tip of the island, you'll find five eco-cabins overlooking Antechamber Bay, each with the added luxury that comes with the CABN X name. Treat yourself to a little self-care with the indoor sauna, curl up by the crackling fireplace and soak away your worries in the outdoor bathtub, while the sounds of the bush and ocean below create the ultimate calming playlist. Writers tip: CABN X's are within view of one another, but don't worry - they're cleverly positioned for the ultimate private escape.

Beach views? How about right on the beach! With the Southern Ocean as your front yard, Camel Beach House is the ultimate coastal escape. Tucked on the golden sands of Mount Camel Beach, here you’ll wake to the sounds waves gently lapping on the shore just beyond your window. This eco off-grid property is solar powered and rain-water reliant, while the design has embraced passive heating and cooling principals and incorporates energy efficient appliances. The design is inspired by a classic fisherman’s cottage, although we’re not sure a humble angler’s dwelling has ever been so luxurious! With two queen size beds and plenty of space to lounge around, it’s the perfect destination to get away with friends.

Ever wanted to stay in a tiny home named after a flower? This eco-pod is named and styled around the 'Ironstone Mulla Mulla' - a shrub with a blush-coloured bloom that is native to the Eyre Peninsula. Located near Streaky Bay, Mulla Mulla is true to its name, with a subtle colour palette of soft pinks, natural wood and brushed nickel creating an abode that blends seamlessly into its surrounds. With over 300 acres of private land to explore, including a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna, Mulla Mulla offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, family and friends in complete seclusion and luxury.