As we descended into Adelaide, from the plane window we could see the mighty Murray River meandering across the landscape. It felt like the perfect start to our Kangaroo Island Fitness Adventure and a reminder of why women choose guided walking holidays. They make everything feel possible from the moment you arrive.
Our Welcome Drinks at the Stamford Plaza brought the group together easily. Stories flowed. Confidence grew. There was excitement about the days ahead and the chance to walk one of Australia’s most spectacular coastal trails.
With our hiking guides and CREW Leader Mandy leading the way, we travelled from Adelaide to Cape Jervis for the ferry crossing. The water was calm with baby dolphins dancing through the waves, which felt like a little gift from the island before we even arrived.
Our first stop on Kangaroo Island was Emu Bay Lavender Farm for brunch and their famous lavender scones. We loved learning about how the lavender is grown, harvested and transformed into products. It was one of those quiet Teach Train Take moments where you pick up something new without even realising it.
Flinders Chase National Park was next. Light rain drifted in, yet everyone was keen to get moving. We hiked through areas regenerating after the 2019 bushfires and kept our eyes out for a platypus. It set the tone for the week. Curious. Connected. Outdoors. Everything women’s fitness adventures are meant to feel like.
The following day delivered one of the adventure highlights. A stunning 16km hike past Swamp Lagoon to Cape du Couedic Lighthouse. Expansive ocean views rocky cliffs, sandy paths and bursts of wildflowers in every colour. You could hear the delight in the group with every turn of the trail.
Admirals Arch followed, with the wind and ocean showing off their power. Standing beneath the arch was a moment to remember.
The next day brought perfect conditions. Starting at the lighthouse again we followed the coast to the historic storehouse once used by lighthouse families. From there the trail wound through mallee scrub before opening to the Remarkable Rocks glowing under clear blue sky. Cameras came out for so many photos. Then it was off to Seal Bay for a guided visit to the sea lion colony.
Our final hiking day arrived cooler and dramatic with stormy skies building in the distance. We set off from Banksia Campground, hiking through dense bush before the track opened to sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. Then came the surprise. A small punt across the river which brought big laughter and a sense of camaraderie that only comes from being out there together. After 13km we finished at Tea Tree Campground feeling tired in the best possible way.
Before heading home we visited Stokes Bay named Australia’s best beach in 2023. A heavy shower rolled in but it didn’t stop anyone from exploring the hidden beach through the narrow rock passage. A quick stop at the local gin distillery rounded out our trip before returning to the mainland already thinking about the next adventure.
One of our walkers summed it up perfectly.
“I wish we had another day. I’m sad it’s come to an end. It’s been amazing.”
A week of connection, learning, fitness and hiking through nature with a supportive group of women. Exactly what these adventures are designed to give.
