Thinking about a weekend getaway from Adelaide? Look no further! Pack your esky, turn up the tunes, and explore any of these eight epic routes fueled by a Drive mate rental car. Whether you prefer efficient hatchbacks or rugged 4WDs, Drive mate is your Aussie car rental partner we are here for you. Now without further delay let's hit the road in style! 

1. McLaren Vale & Second Valley

Wind through rolling vineyards, smelling the heady scent of Shiraz grapes, before hitting the golden sands of Second Valley. Take a surfboard ride the waves or enjoy the peace and quiet on the beach.
Refuel with a platter of locally-sourced cheeses and a glass of award-winning McLaren Vale wine.

Drive mate tip: Rent a convertible from Drive mate for maximum coastal hair and vineyard vibes!

2. Hahndorf: A Taste of Germany in Adelaide

Immerse yourself in Bavarian charm just a hop and skip from Adelaide. Explore Hahndorf, Australia's oldest German settlement, is a feast for the senses. Sample freshly baked pretzels, sip on a mug of Hofbräu, and browse shops overflowing with cuckoo clocks and German architecture.

Drive mate tip: There are many activities you can do at Hahndorf there is something to do for everyone, remember weekdays have lesser crowd as compared to to weekends.

3. Innes National Park: Yorke Peninsula's Jewel

​Experience Yorke Peninsula's wild side at Innes National Park. Swim in turquoise rock pools, surf pristine beaches, and marvel at the ruins of the Cape Spencer Lighthouse. Spot playful dolphins from the sand dunes and watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues. Drive mate's cheap rental cars won't let you get bogged down by hefty prices!

Drive mate tip: Don't miss the annual Saltwater Classic 2024 in April for world-class waves and good vibes!

4. Kangaroo Island: Wildlife Wonders and Rugged Beauty 

Get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, and fur seals on a Kangaroo Island adventure. Hike dramatic cliffs overlooking roaring Southern Ocean waves, explore Remarkable Rocks and Flinders Chase National Park, and don't forget to witness the sunset. Drive mate's reliable car rentals will handle the island's rough roads with ease.

Drive mate tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season!

5. Barossa Valley & Clare Valley: 

Indulge your inner wine connoisseur with a Barossa Valley and Clare Valley tour. Sip world-renowned Shiraz and crisp Rieslings as you, wander through the rolling vineyards, and enjoy gourmet lunches featuring local produce. Please remember not to drink if you are the designated driver on your visit. 

Drive mate tip: Book a winery tour or hire a bike for a scenic pedal through the vines!

6. Flinders Ranges: The Outback Awaits

Embrace the ancient serenity of the Flinders Ranges, where ochre cliffs rise from the desert like sandstone giants. Hike amidst dramatic gorges, and witness First Nation rock art whispering stories of our nation's past. At the end of the day camp under a canopy of stars. Drive mate's rugged Utes will conquer the outback tracks with ease!

Drive mate tip: Visit Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheater carved by millennia of erosion, for a truly awe-inspiring experience.

7. Eyre Peninsula: Seafood Extravaganza and Wildlife Encounters 

Dive into a seafood lovers' paradise on the Eyre Peninsula. Feast on fresh oysters, swim with playful sea lions and spot colossal sharks breaching from the deep. You may even go the other way if you are looking for a hiking adventure,  visit the rugged cliffs of Coffin Bay National Park and be mesmerized by the vibrant turquoise waters of the Great Australian Bight. Drive mate's reliable vehicles will handle the long stretches of road with comfort and efficiency.

Also read - Top 5 Campsites Near Adelaide you can explore with Drive mate!

8. Gawler Ranges: Off-Road Adventure and First Nation Heritage 

Escape the beaten track and delve into the rugged beauty of the Gawler Ranges. Traverse ancient landscapes dotted with weathered rock formations and immerse yourself in rich history as you explore Australia by road. Visit the stunning Wilpena Pound, hike through the Para Wirra National Park, and discover ancient rock art sites that whisper stories of the land's custodians. Drive mate's off-road rental cars will handle the challenging terrain with ease, making this a true adventure for the intrepid explorer.

Drive mate tip: The best time to visit is from March to October. Pack your sense of wonder and be prepared to be humbled by the vastness and ancient beauty of the Gawler Ranges. 


Summary of destinations for short and extended road trips from Adelaide:

- McLaren Vale & Second Valley - Indulge in wine, surf, and stunning coastal scenery.

-  Hahndorf - Experience a taste of Germany with delicious food, quaint shops, and charming architecture.

- Kangaroo Island - Encounter Aussie wildlife, explore dramatic landscapes, and witness the magic of the island's natural beauty.

- Innes National Park - Discover hidden coves, surf pristine waves, and soak up the rugged beauty of the Yorke Peninsula.

- Barossa Valley & Clare Valley - Sip your way through world-renowned wines, indulge in gourmet experiences, and revel in the rolling vineyard landscapes.

Also read - Own the Road, Not the Car: Drive mate Flex Plus: Freedom Redefined

Why Choose Drive mate for Your Adelaide Road Trip?

When it comes to car hire in Adelaide and across Australia, Drive mate is your ultimate car rental partner. 

A wide range of vehicles:
From fuel-efficient hatchbacks to spacious SUVs and rugged Utes, we have the perfect rental car for you.

Competitive prices:
Rent cars on an hourly, daily or monthly basis for a more flexible car sharing experience. Ditch those outrageous premiums from big-brand car rental mobs.

Flexible rental options: Choose from short-term rentals for weekend getaways to long-term leases for extended adventures.

Convenient locations: Pick up your car at Adelaide Airport or in the city center, and hit the road with ease.

24/7 customer support: We're always here to help if you need assistance on your journey.

So, what are you waiting for? Buckle up with Drive mate, your Aussie car hire partner, and embark on an unforgettable road trip adventure! Explore our diverse country, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, book a car from Drive mate & get ready to hit the road!

P.S. Don't forget to tag us in your road trip photos on facebook and Instagram using #Drivemateau We love seeing your adventures!