Adelaide is a city with a wealth of outdoor activities and adventures to offer, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top things to do in the great outdoors in Adelaide:

1. Hike or bike the Adelaide Hills. The Adelaide Hills are a beautiful region just a short drive from the city center, offering plenty of trails for hiking and biking. One popular option is the Heysen Trail, a 1,200-kilometer long-distance walking trail that runs from the Adelaide Hills to the Flinders Ranges. The trail offers a variety of terrain, from easy walks through rolling hills to more challenging hikes through rugged countryside. For a shorter and easier option, the Mount Lofty Summit Walk is a 3-kilometer return hike that takes you to the highest peak in the Adelaide Hills, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding region.
2. Go wine tasting in the Barossa Valley. The Barossa Valley, just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, is one of the world’s premier wine regions, known for its full-bodied red wines made from Shiraz grapes. The region is home to more than 150 wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours. There are also a number of excellent restaurants in the area serving local produce and wine.
3. Hit the beach. Adelaide has a number of beautiful beaches to choose from, including Glenelg, Henley Beach, and Semaphore. Glenelg is the most popular and easily accessible beach, with a wide stretch of sand, a jetty, and a lively promenade with cafes and restaurants. Henley Beach is a quieter option, with a more laid-back atmosphere and a popular surf spot. Semaphore is a family-friendly beach with a playground and a historic amusement park.
4. Explore the Adelaide Botanic Garden. The Adelaide Botanic Garden is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, covering more than 50 hectares and featuring a wide variety of plant species from around the world. The garden includes a number of themed areas, including a tropical rainforest, an Australian native plant section, and a Mediterranean garden. There are also a number of walking trails, a lake, and a children’s playground.
5. Go on a wildlife tour. South Australia is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and there are a number of tour operators offering guided tours to see some of the region’s most iconic species. You can go on a dolphin-watching tour from Glenelg or see kangaroos, wallabies, and other native animals at Cleland Wildlife Park in the Adelaide Hills. You can also take a day trip to Kangaroo Island, just off the coast of South Australia, to see seals, sea lions, and penguins.
6. Play a round of golf. Adelaide is home to a number of excellent golf courses, including the Royal Adelaide Golf Club, one of the top ranked courses in the country. The city is also home to the prestigious Australian Golf Open, which is held annually at the Royal Adelaide Golf Club.
7. Go fishing. South Australia has a long coastline and a number of rivers and streams, making it a great destination for fishing. You can go deep sea fishing off the coast of Adelaide or try your hand at freshwater fishing in the Adelaide Hills. There are a number of tour operators offering guided fishing tours, or you can rent a boat and go out on your own.
8. Take a hot air balloon ride. For a truly unique outdoor experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Adelaide Hills. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the stunning countryside and the city below.

In conclusion, Adelaide and the surrounding region of South Australia offer a wide variety of outdoor activities and adventures for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking in the Adelaide Hills, to wine tasting in the Barossa Valley, to exploring the city’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone. The Adelaide Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and there are plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife, whether on a tour or on your own. Golfers will find a number of excellent courses to play, and fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in both salt and freshwater. For a truly memorable experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Adelaide Hills. With so much to see and do, Adelaide is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get outside and explore the great outdoors.