From off-grid cabins amid untamed nature to luxury clifftop retreats, the Fleurieu Peninsula is home to some of the most unique places to stay in South Australia.
The Fleurieu Peninsula, like a multi-talented performer, truly has it all. Think white sandy beaches, verdant vines, gourmet produce, hiking trails, and beyond. Naturally, when choosing where to stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula, you want accommodation to be as unforgettable as the region itself. With a list that won’t disappoint, discover the best 10 places to stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
TIMBA RTREET, THE RANGE
Feeling the urge to unplug from your devices and plug into nature? If you're looking for places to stay in McLaren Vale, TIMBA by rtreet is a chic, new offering which has the vibe of an oversized treehouse. The four-bedroom estate sleeps up to eight guests and is situated on a 50 hectare property, overlooking McLaren Vale vineyards and out to sea. You’ll have no choice but to indulge in the peaceful retreat as you lounge by the chalet-style pool and spa or snuggle beneath the hemp linen bedding in a king-sized bedroom.
PAGO, MIDDLETON
Built within heritage listed stables and the private garden of the Middleton Mill, Pago features a luxury private pool and four king sized bedrooms each with their own ensuite. An Adults only retreat, journey to the hidden oasis in the quaint seaside town of Middleton and float away from everyday worries. Featuring a 20 meter magnesium pool and heated spa, feel as though you’ve been transported to Mallorca in this stonewalled peaceful retreat.
NAIKO RETREAT, DEEP CREEK
The cutting-edge, eco-chic retreat Naiko is perched above a sheep farm and nestled between two national parks. The spaceship inspired chalet is a wellness hub for guest pampering with an exterior that makes it look like it’s straight out of a Bond film. Secluded on private land, the design and positioning offer total privacy aside from the odd sheep here and there. Sleeping up to six guests with three large bedrooms and ensuites - it doesn't get much better than this for group accommodation in the Fleurieu Peninsula.
THE OLD CHAFF MILL ORGANIC VINEYARD RETREAT, SELLICKS HILL
Relax into your plush armchair and get lost in history and the rolling views of vineyards at The Old Chaff Mill. With the stone building dating back to mid-19th century, this recently renovated property’s rich history hasn’t been forgotten with touches throughout, including a lit-floor display of historic artefacts beneath a breakfast table to old mortar inscriptions on the walls. Set within an organic shiraz vineyard and almond grove, the building’s been split into two self-contained luxury suites. There’s a day spa on-site too and it’s just a pebble’s throw from a drive-on beach.
ESCA AT NEST & NATURE, INMAN VALLEY
Looking for places to stay in the Fleurieu Peninsula? ESCA at Nest & Nature - an hour-and-a-half drive from the CBD - encompasses two stylish hilltop suites, boasting views down the valley to the jewel-blue sea. Suites can house up to two guests each, with high-quality furnishings and sustainable materials adding to their eco-luxe feel. Located off-grid, they’re perfect for savouring sunsets, sampling local delicacies, exploring bushwalking trails or just recharging in complete privacy.
BEACH HUTS, MIDDLETON
The brightly coloured Beach Huts in Middleton evoke a sense of yesteryear. Once used by beachgoers for changing their attire or storing belongings, Beach Huts Middleton now offer memorable accommodation within quaint cottage gardens. Enjoy a hit of tennis on its full-sized court, stroll to the local surf beach or sate your hunger at the scrummy Blues Restaurant on-site. Adding to the fun, the 13 huts are named after iconic beach spots, including Henley, Bondi, and Sorrento.
KINGS BEACH RETREATS, WAITPINGA
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a pad with panoramic views, then Kings Beach Retreats is a dream come true. Offering three wilderness havens, each with their own all-weather conservatories and specky views of the deep blue and some rugged cliffs. Headland House suits extended gatherings, while the Sea and Sand Retreats are ideal for couples or smaller families. Designed by renowned architect, the late Ian Hannaford, the accommodation also features artworks by his brother, Robert Hannaford.
CABN, MCLAREN FLAT, THE RANGE & KUITPO FOREST
Known for their minimalist, off-grid tiny homes that are nestled amongst nature, enjoy a stay in one CABN’S property that you can find dotted across the Fleurieu Peninsula. With properties located in the Kuitpo Forest, The Range and McLaren Flat, don’t be fooled by the size as every tiny home is complete with the essentials and luxury finishings. While some are pet-friendly, the CABN X varieties – like ‘Giles’ in vineyard-dotted McLaren Flat – include a sauna or outdoor tub.
GRASS TREE GULLY, DEEP CREEK
This hillside weatherboard cabin, Grass Tree Gully is hidden among grass trees and neighbours Deep Creek National Park. From its large deck, you can take in awe-inspiring views through two hectare of private bush and out to the sea and Kangaroo Island – perfect for slow mornings watching the sunrise. The secluded retreat is the perfect Fleurieu Peninsula accommodation complete with two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and open-plan living space for you to enjoy privately and at your own pace.
LOST RETREATS, MOUNT OSMOND, MOUNT JAGGED & WILLUNGA SOUTH
Time to get lost – in nature and adventure. Lost Retreats are the brainchild of architect Damien Chwalisz and his pal, Steve Brooks. The duo are all about leaving a light footprint on the earth. Their three dwellings have been created from repurposed, sustainable, and recycled materials. Take your pick from the Skyline Retreat in Mount Osmond, Hilltop Retreat in Willunga South, or Lakeside Retreat in Mount Jagged and lose track of time.
DIVE DEEPER INTO THE FLEURIEU…
While you’re deciding on where to book, check out our top 5 things to do in the Fleurieu Peninsula. Plus, let holiday mode take over and leave the planning to us with our three-day Fleurieu itinerary.