VICTOR HARBOR – THE AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLER GUIDE
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The city meets the sea in Victor Harbor, creating a postcard-perfect image. Don’t be misguided by the sleepy appearance of the town as there are plenty of things to see and do. The city is located about 80km south of Adelaide and is a highly popular tourist destination, owed to by its old world seaside charm.
WHERE TO STAY
There is a range of accommodation available, including hotels/motels/resorts, B&B’s, self-contained living and camping facilities. Most accommodation is close-by and easy to get to by either public transport or is in walking distance of the numerous activities available.
The Heritage listed Anchorage Hotel is situated right on the harbor front, allowing patrons to admire the panoramic views of Granite Island, Coorong and Kangaroo Island, whilst sipping from a selection of bevvies from the hotel’s international wine bar. Alternatively, The Middleton Beach Huts are a winner for their cutesy simple shacks
WHAT TO DO
Victor Harbor houses the largest whale-focused marine centre in South Australia. By combining technology with educational talks and fun exhibits, The South Australian Whale Centre aims to promote sustainable whale watching. With exhibitions and various tours available, it’s something the whole family can enjoy.
However one of the first things you’ll notice upon arrival to Victor Harbor is The Bluff. Located a few kilometres west of the town, The Bluff is a 200-metre high granite outcrop, formed over 500 million years. Visitors are encouraged to either climb it or drive to the landform to look out for whales from the 360-degree view.
While many Australians know what it’s like to take a tram ride, few would have experienced a double-decker tram drawn by a single Clydesdale horse, as is in Victor Harbour. The Victor Harbor Tramway commutes passengers along the 630-meter long causeway, connecting Granite Island to the mainland.
Once you’ve jumped off the tram and onto Granite Island, you are able to roam among penguins on a guided tour at the Recreation and Nature Park.
For a better glimpse of local wildlife in their natural environment, consider going on a Big Duck Boat Tour. They depart from Granite Island and take passengers onto the water on a quest to find seals, dolphins, seabirds and whales.
But if action is what you’re looking for, look no further than Greenhills Adventure Park. You’ll easily spend the whole day there, with an explosion of activities available. Waterslides, archery, flying foxes, dry slides, paddle boats, canoes, par 3 golf, mini golf, half court tennis, moon bikes, mazes, go-karts and more.
But if action is what you’re looking for, look no further than Greenhills Adventure Park. You’ll easily spend the whole day there, with an explosion of activities available. Waterslides, archery, flying foxes, dry slides, paddle boats, canoes, par 3 golf, mini golf, half court tennis, moon bikes, mazes, go-karts and more.
WHEN TO TRAVEL
If whale watching is on the agenda, the best time to visit is between June and September. Although it is the coldest time of the year, you’ll have a better chance of spotting whales basking at Encounter Bay during their migration. The South Australian Whale Center recommends July and August as the best months for viewing. But for that quintessential family holiday by the beach, make it a summer getaway.
TRANSPORT
Premier Stateliner buses run to Victor Harbor from Adelaide, while The Cockle Train runs along the stunning Encounter Coast every Sunday.
As previously mentioned, you can’t go past a horse-drawn tram ride in Victor Harbor, especially when it’s the only mode of transport along the causeway joining Granite Island to the mainland.
For more information visit www.tourismvictorharbor.com.au
Premier Stateliner buses run to Victor Harbor from Adelaide, while The Cockle Train runs along the stunning Encounter Coast every Sunday.
As previously mentioned, you can’t go past a horse-drawn tram ride in Victor Harbor, especially when it’s the only mode of transport along the causeway joining Granite Island to the mainland.
For more information visit www.tourismvictorharbor.com.au
