South Australia has once again proven it’s one of the country’s top travel destinations, with the Barossa Valley and Adelaide Fringe taking out three major national awards, all voted for by Australian travellers.
The results of the Australian Traveller 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards have been revealed, with more than 12,000 readers casting their votes for Australia’s best destinations, experiences and attractions.
And South Australia has plenty to celebrate, securing three wins and nine additional shortlist appearances across the country.
The Barossa Valley was one of the biggest winners, officially named Australia’s Best Wine Region, while its wineries also claimed the title of Best Foodie Experience.
Known for its world-class shiraz, picturesque vineyards and incredible dining experiences, the region continues to cement its place as a must-visit destination for food and wine lovers.
Australian Traveller praised the region’s offerings, writing:
“Big and bold is the name of the game in Barossa, best known for its shiraz… Thread through the valley by bike or view the vineyards from above in a hot-air balloon.”
The publication also described the Barossa’s gourmet appeal, highlighting its artisan producers, multi-course degustations and Mediterranean climate as reasons to plan a foodie getaway.
Meanwhile, Adelaide Fringe was crowned Australia’s Best Cultural or Arts Festival Experience, adding another national accolade to the iconic South Australian event.
Recognised as the largest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere, Adelaide Fringe was praised for its energy and entertainment, with Australian Traveller declaring it “will have your hips swaying, heart pumping and senses buzzing.”
But the celebrations don’t stop there.
Adelaide was shortlisted for Best City to Visit, while Kangaroo Island was recognised in the Best Island Escape category.
The Barossa Valley also received a nomination for Best Country Escape, with Mount Lofty House shortlisted for Best Hotel and the Adelaide Hills in the running for Best Road Trip.
South Australia’s food and wine offerings continued to shine, with the Adelaide Central Market food tour shortlisted for Best Foodie Experience and the Adelaide Hills nominated for Best Wine Region.
Adelaide Fringe also appeared in the Best Festival to Travel for category, while Adelaide Airport was recognised among the country’s best airports to spend time in.
South Australian Minister for Tourism Emily Bourke welcomed the results, particularly as the winners were chosen by travellers themselves.
“What a fantastic endorsement of South Australia, made even more special by the fact the awards were decided by the travelling public. More than 12,000 readers had their say, and South Australia has come away with three wins and nine shortlist appearances across an outstanding range of categories.”
The recognition comes during a significant period for South Australian tourism and hospitality, following the inaugural MICHELIN Guide South Australia 2027 announcement last month.
The Santos Tour Down Under was also recently named Australia’s Best Sporting Event at the Australian Event Awards.
With national recognition continuing to roll in for South Australia’s wineries, restaurants, festivals and visitor experiences, there’s no shortage of reasons for travellers to put the state on their holiday list.
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