6 ways to escape to nature in Adelaide

Running through the city, the iconic Karrawirra Parri (River Torrens) is Adelaide’s own oasis. Lined by River Red Gums and home to a range of birdlife, it offers a true escape from the concrete jungle that surrounds it.

While you could take a walk along its accompanying paths, why not take to the water instead? Earth Adventure runs 90-minute kayak tours every weekend perfect for those looking for unique things to do in Adelaide.

A must on your list of places to go in Adelaide is the Botanic Gardens. This mid-city oasis spans over 50 acres filled with stunning landscapes and historic architecture.

For those looking for a deeper connection to this beautiful place, Bookabee offers casual walks with an Aboriginal guide who will share the significance of the site and its contents to our first nations people. Uncover native plants and their traditional uses as well as hearing tales and wisdom passed down through generations.

Bike About will help you explore the parklands of the CBD with a gentle yet extensive electric bike tour in Adelaide. Starting on the outskirts of the city, you’ll stop at some of the city's iconic landmarks such as Adelaide Oval, Old Adelaide Gaol, Adelaide University and The Art Gallery before continuing along the Karrawirra Parri (River Torrens) where you’ll break for lunch.

Not just any lunch, you’ll tuck into a delicious charcuterie board and paired wines and then head off on a stroll through the Botanic Gardens. The 20km roundtrip will have you amazed that there could be so much greenery in one of Australia’s capital cities.

Committed to your daily workout? Then take it outdoors in Pakapakanthi (Victoria Park) and fill your lungs with fresh air as you put your body through its paces. Start with a circuit or two of the running loop, then hit the fitness stations.

As you exercise your lower and upper body in turn, let the sights and sounds of nature provide a soundtrack far more stimulating than techno beats blasting at full volume.

It is no secret that olive oil is packed with health-giving compounds; less well-known is the fact that in the 1800s the City of Adelaide planted thousands of olive trees in the city’s parks, exporting the resulting olive oil all the way to London.

Take a walk through the gnarled survivors in the heritage-listed olive grove near Melbourne Street shops, where the sound of the breeze rippling through the silver leaves sends a shiver of pleasure up your spine. You can even get a free permit to harvest some of the olives yourself.

Given the proven mental health benefits of companion animals – not to mention the simple joy they bring – we are all for pet-friendly paths. The 8km North Adelaide Scenic Dog Walking Trail is a surefire winner for both you and your four-legged friend and an easy option for those looking for a little bit of wellness in Adelaide.

Starting at North Adelaide Dog Park on Robe Terrace, this circuit winds through green parks and pathways past the zoo and Pinky Flat before winding its way back via Wellington Square.