The flight from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island is a snippy 25 minutes. I arrived at the tiny local airport where my bags were speedily dropped in front of me and before I knew it I'd spotted my name on a card. My guide Mark was from Kangaroo Island Odysseys, a company who take you right to the heart of the action in a comfortable 4x4. And there was no time to stop as we headed straight out to begin our first day of exploration.
I chose to take a 2 day and 2 night tour of the island, giving my ample time to take in the stunning scenery and the wide array of wildlife, from koalas to Echidnas and of course, the odd kangaroo.
Seals kissing at Seal bay
A popular stopping point is Seal Bay Conservation Park where you'll be greeted by a colony of around 600 wild Australian Sea-Lions. Visitors can get up close to the seals when they're taken down onto the beach - but be warned, if the wind blows in your direction you're more than likely to get a whiff of seal scent - not the nicest smell in the world.
Vivonne Bay - voted one of the world's best beaches.
I wasn't expecting a great deal for lunch as we were out in the wilderness, but it didn't disappoint. This gourmet picnic consisted of freshly prepared local food, served alongside plenty of local wines, and was a welcome sight after my hard morning's trek.
Don't miss Flinder's Chase National Park and the remarkable rocks (which certainly live up to their name). The island is also home to Vivonne Bay, recently voted Australia's best beach - no mean feat considering some of the great beaches I'd seen previously.
A wild Koala watching the day go by
For my first night I stayed in the eco-friendly Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat, a collection of cosy wooden apartments where you're treated to Wallabies occasionally creeping up to peer through your window... The final night was spent in the stunning Stranraer Homestead with hosts Graham and Lyn Wheaton. The fully restored colonial homestead offers grand rooms and some of the best dining you're likely to come across - all cooked in the kitchen by Lyn herself. I dined with my fellow guests and all 8 of us were treated to a midnight safari around the estate to see if we could spot some kangaroos and other wildlife. It all made for a fun and memorable evening.
Book a night in the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat
