TREV'S SEVEN BEST
SA’s stunning parks and gardens
Enjoy a day out in our state’s wonderful green spaces.
01 Carrick Hill
Springfield
Formerly the residence of prominent South Australians Edward and Ursula Hayward, Carrick Hill was bequeathed to the State Government in 1983. Flip open a picnic hamper on the well-tended grounds. Kids will enjoy Storybook Trail, featuring classics like Charlotte’s Web and The Jungle Book.
02 Botanic Park
Adelaide
The mighty exposed roots and sprawling canopies of the Moreton Bay fig trees add a fairytale feel to this magnificent park. There’s plenty of shade for picnics, and extensive lawned areas for kids’ playtime.
03 Himeji Garden
Adelaide
Hidden behind trees in the South Park Lands, Adelaide Himeji Garden is an island of tranquillity on the edge of the CBD. From the lily pond and granite lanterns, to the timber and thatch teahouse beside the ‘kare senzui’ dry garden, each feature in this magical hideaway holds spiritual significance in Japanese culture.
04 Mount Lofty Botanic Garden
Crafers
Sweeping down the side of the garden’s namesake mountain, this Adelaide Hills icon is divided into zones, including Fern Gully and Rhododendron Gully. A picnic among the elms, oaks and maples at the bottom of the hill will prepare you for an energetic walk to the pretty dwarf conifers at the top.
05 Crater Lakes
Mount Gambier
Nestled in a volcanic crater across the road from Blue Lake/Warwar, Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi has an adventure playground and a free wildlife park. The adjacent Browne Lake/Kroweratwari dried up years ago to become a spacious lawned area and is home to an 18-hole disc-golf course.
06 Hazelwood Park
Hazelwood Park
Picturesquely located among mighty eucalypts and expansive lawned areas, the George Bolton Swimming Centre is the park’s centrepiece. Straddling tree-lined First Creek, Hazelwood Park features barbecues, a fantastic playground and a duck pond.
07 Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden
Port Augusta
On the western shore of Spencer Gulf’s northern reaches, this colourful garden displays a collection of plants that thrive in arid environments. There are sections dedicated to various outback regions, as well as bush foods and the Arid Explorer’s Children’s Garden. Take a break at the licensed café, overlooking Eremophila Garden.
IMAGES: RAA; SATC/Josh Geelen.
