As lockdown measures begin to ease in South Australia, new statistics suggest that most of us are well on our way to rediscovering our wanderlust. Data from Avis Australia revealed a 156% increase in domestic demand for rental car bookings compared to the start of Australia’s lockdown period. And with international border restrictions still in place, it is more than likely that this year will be focused on (safely) hitting the road to go exploring – rather than hitting up the airport.

For those looking to get back on the road, Avis Australia has launched its Avis Safety Pledge, which sets out the relentless commitment to keep every one of its customers and employees safe. Customers can also book with confidence this winter as Avis Australia will waiver all cancellation fees for bookings before 1st September 2020.

To inspire drivers looking forward to getting behind the wheel, Avis Australia has pulled together its top drives across South Australia, with must-see stop offs along the way and fun activities to truly immerse yourself in the adventure that can be had in our own backyard.

Epicurean Way road trip

This road trip is one for the wine lovers, seamlessly linking four top vine regions including McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, Barossa and Clare Valley in a perfect trip. Aside from the beautiful wineries, the area offers a myriad of delicious local produce and spectacular scenery. Some of the top must-visit wineries along the way include Penfolds, Jacob's Creek and St Hugo. However, don’t forget to agree on your designated driver for the day!

The Great Southern Journey

For those looking for a sprinkle of adventure, The Southern Ocean Drive Road could hit the spot. The trip runs from Mount Gambier, through the stunning Blue Lake and Umpherston Sinkhole to arrive at Coonawarra.

South Australia’s bright pink lakes

The unbelievable pink lakes scattered across South Australia are a must-see for their beauty and are sure to rack up the likes on Instagram. Travelling from Adelaide, the lakes (Lake MacDonnell, Lake Eyre, Lake Bumbunga, Lake Hart and Lake Albert) are located varying hours in distance. Their high salinity levels combined with algae and pink bacteria known as halobacterium turn them bright pink. The less water in the lake, the more concentrated the salt and the brighter the colour.

Adelaide to The Prairie Hotel

For all the foodies, this drive is obligatory. The Prairie Hotel is such an incredible culinary experience that even celebs including Sir David Attenborough, Kate Winslet and Rachel Ward have made the trip. The lookout to the Flinders Ranges is also within distance for those wanting to get more than just delicious food out of the trip.