Greener Pastures: 6 Top Suburbs for a Tree Change in South Australia

South Australia is home to a wealth of stunning country towns, enticing tree-changers searching for more space and a slower pace of life. Here are six of our favourite places we currently have our eyes on.

Clare

In the heart of the Clare Valley wine region, Clare is bounded by spectacular natural scenery punctuated by vineyards, gorgeous gardens and national parks. It provides residents with a close-knit community and access to good amenities including supermarkets, public and private schools and a variety of specialty stores. Nature-based activities abound – from cycling the Riesling Trail to wildlife spotting in the Gleeson Wetlands and exploring the photogenic, bubble gum-hued Lake Bumbunga. Well known restaurants including Umbria Rustic Italian, Terroir Auburn and Slate Restaurant at Pikes Wines has also made the region a sought-after dining destination.

Tanunda

The Barossa is currently one of Australia’s top regions for a tree change. Famed for its scenic vineyards – the Barossa is home to some 80 cellar doors – it combines a rich history with a strong community vibe that is luring everyone from young families to downsizers and retirees. The village is lined with cafes, restaurants and boutique shops, while Saturday morning farmers markets can be found right next door in Angaston. Sports ovals, golf courses and an aquatic centre keep locals active, along with the 40km Barossa Trail linking the towns from Gawler to Angaston. Tanunda is an easy one-hour commute from Adelaide’s CBD.

Renmark

Within the stunning South Australian Riverland, Renmark is a picturesque town on the banks of the Murray River. It provides locals with plenty of opportunities to get out on the water, with river cruises, water skiing and wakeboarding. There are heritage walks and cycling trails, taking in the beautiful esplanade, and a jam-packed events calendar that spans the gamut from open gardens to multimedia installations and motor sports. A bourgeoning food scene includes local coffee roasters, award-winning wineries (try Angove’s and Mallee Estate Wines) and delicious restaurants. With excellent recreation facilities, quality schools and welcoming community, Renmark is luring tree-changers of all stages of life.

Mount Gambier

Straddling the border of Victoria, Mount Gambier is the second largest city in South Australia, allowing city dwellers to dip their toes into rural living. People are drawn to its family-friendly lifestyle, striking geological formations and distinctive architectural buildings and heritage homes. From snorkelling the Piccaninnie Ponds to picnics at Umpherston Sinkhole and a dive into Little Blue Lake, locals are kept busy and wonderfully immersed in nature. You’ll find a solid mix of primary and secondary schools, spacious properties and a burgeoning food scene that comprises the acclaimed Coonawarra wine region.

Murray Bridge

With Adelaide’s city centre less than an hours’ drive away, Murray Bridge offers peaceful living for lifestyle-driven buyers seeking the best of both worlds. It has pretty Sturt Reserve at its heart, giving locals myriad opportunities for outdoor adventure, such as boating, water skiing, rowing, fishing and swimming. Aside from the water, you can stretch your legs on sections of the epic Lavender Federation Trail in the Mount Lofty Ranges or breathe easy on shorter day walks through Kinchina Conservation Park. A combination of playgrounds, community clubs and both state and private schools make the area sought-after by growing families.

Stirling

This idyllic Adelaide Hills township is defined by its rolling green hills and quaint village charm. Just 20 minutes from the CBD, you’d be hard-pressed to find a country setting so close to the city centre. The town grew to prominence during the mid-1800s, when Adelaide’s wealthy residents built their summer houses here to escape the heat. Today, it’s known for its generous parcels of land that afford complete privacy with whimsical gardens and historic cottages and homesteads. It has a popular monthly market, where you can pick up everything from local produce to collectibles and art, and a flourishing food scene that includes the award-wining Stirling Hotel. Follow the walking trails through Woorabinda Bushland Reserves, tee off at The Stirling Golf Club and shop Stirling’s beautiful independent boutiques.