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Insider Journeys: Saltbush Farm
Discover more about Saltbush Farm in South Australia's Fleurieu Peninsula from our Founder, who recently visited and hiked the Heysen Trail from the property.
By Walk into Luxury
Property Overview
Salt Bush Farm is perched on the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula, offering a peaceful farm stay with stunning coastal views. Located near Cape Jervis, it provides easy access to the southern section of the Heysen Trail, known for the dramatic Waitpinga Cliffs and Deep Creek National Park. The farm features cozy, well-equipped accommodations with a double-sided fireplace, heated plunge pool, and spacious living areas. Perfect for nature lovers, it’s an ideal base for exploring the South Coast’s natural beauty, with kangaroos and abundant birdlife right outside your door.
What we loved
From the moment we arrived, the warm hospitality of Gabi and Jim, the farm's owners, made us feel instantly at home. The crackling fire was lit, and chilled wine and local beer awaited us—such a perfect welcome after a day of hiking in cooler conditions. The main living area, with its expansive picture windows, offered the best views of the farm and coastline, and we loved cozying up by the double-sided fireplace after a day exploring. Every detail was thoughtfully arranged, ensuring a home-away-from-home comfort.
What surprised us?
We were pleasantly surprised by the abundance of wildlife on the property. Kangaroos roamed nearby, and the birdlife in the surrounding trees was incredible. The farm animals grazing on the hills surrounding us became friends we looked forward to spotting. Despite the stormy winter weather during our visit, we loved the heated circular plunge pool and terrace where we could take in the view. And what a view! On a clear day you can see Kangaroo Island from the property, but we loved watching the storm clouds roll in nestled in warmth by our roaring fireplace.
Recommended experiences
Exploring Deep Creek National Park was a highlight of our stay. With its easy access from the farm, we enjoyed hiking the best of the Heysen Trail on the South Coast Way. There are three sections we covered, and it was a tie for our favourite - Waitpinga Cliffs to Kings Beach passes through Newland Head Conservation Park and has dramatic cliffs offering unparalleled views of the Southern Ocean. The section from Tapanappa Lookout to Trig, passing through Deep Creek gorge was also very special. We loved the contrast of native bushland and birdlife, incredible ocean views and friendly kangaroos at Tapanappa, and the serene setting of Deep Creek waterfall. If you have Kangaroo Island on your travel plan, the proximity to Cape Jervis means it is super easy to combine your Saltbush Farm stay with a day trip or extended stay on Kangaroo Island. Whatever activities you enjoy though, be sure to make time for a glass of wine on the deck or by the firepit at the day’s end. The property is such a special place to just ‘be’.
Dining at Salt Bush Farm
The local produce in the Fleurieu Peninsula is exceptional, and we experienced this first-hand during our stay at Salt Bush. One night we enjoyed a delicious dinner generously prepared by our hosts ready for us to pop in the oven featuring a rack of lamb, roasted sweet potatoes and asparagus sourced from the region with delicious herby sauces and accompaniments. We sat by the fire after our big day hiking and enjoyed it with a beautiful red wine from Olivers Taranga Vineyard in McLaren Vale. I found myself commenting more than once over dinner, “is it just me or does everything just taste better here?”. On the second night our hosts prepared a seafood dinner for us, which was a great chance to relax and ask questions about farm life and the area. Breakfast here is a casual continental affair, with quality local produce including granola, yoghurt, fresh sourdough and fruit. Overall, our dining experience at Saltbush Farm was excellent. The well-equipped kitchen and barbecue area, combined with the local produce supplied by Gabi, makes it easy to enjoy cooking and there is nothing like dining outdoors on the deck overlooking the ocean.
Final thoughts
Salt Bush Farm is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The combination of stunning coastal views, abundant wildlife, and cozy accommodation was perfect. Gabi and Jim’s warm hospitality and attention to detail made us feel like special guests and helped us settle right in from the moment we arrived. Whether you're hiking the Heysen Trail or day tripping to Kangaroo Island, you’ll be thrilled to return here for a glass of wine and dip in your plunge pool at the day's end.
