Solo Adventure to Kangaroo Island

A Day of Contrasts on Kangaroo Island

Today was a whirlwind of experiences that truly captured the essence of Kangaroo Island. From the peaceful trails to the adrenaline-pumping dunes, and finishing with a culinary delight, it was a day that showcased the island's diverse offerings. It’s days like these that remind me why I set out on this solo adventure in the first place – to immerse myself fully in new experiences and share them with you all.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Glossy Black in Penneshaw. I’d heard whispers about this place being a local favorite, and it certainly lived up to the hype. As many might know, I have a soft spot for birdwatching, so I was thrilled to learn that Kangaroo Island has a special subspecies of the endangered Glossy Black-cockatoo. It's fascinating to see the efforts being made to help the population recover, especially after the devastating bushfires. Knowing that these birds prefer woodlands dominated by Drooping She-oak added an extra layer of appreciation as I enjoyed my breakfast, thinking about the local wildlife thriving around me.


Discover the rich flavors of South Australia at Glossy Black - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a stunning riverside setting.

Fueled up, I set off to tackle a portion of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. The trail offers a variety of landscapes, and I was eager to experience its natural beauty firsthand. The October weather was perfect for hiking, with a cool breeze and clear skies making the trek even more enjoyable. The trail itself was a mix of undulating country, and while some sections were a bit challenging, the stunning views were more than worth the effort. I made sure to wear my hiking boots, a decision I was very grateful for, as the terrain was quite varied.


Discover the stunning landscapes of Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

As I walked, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my usual life in Zurich. Trading my financial charts for natural landmarks was a welcome change of pace. I thought about Mei and Wei, picturing them exploring alongside me. Perhaps next time, I mused, we could tackle a shorter section of the trail together. The thought of sharing this experience with them filled me with warmth, a reminder of the simple joys of family amidst my solo journey.

Nature's beauty is a reminder of the simple joys in life, a welcome contrast to the complexities of the world we often inhabit.

After a fulfilling morning of hiking, hunger struck, and I made my way to Amanda's Takeaway in Kingscote. This place came highly recommended for its classic fast food and local flavors, and I was keen to give it a try. I opted for their famous fish and chips, a local favorite that didn't disappoint. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying lunch. I took my meal to a nearby park and enjoyed it while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere of Kingscote.


Discover delicious takeaway delights at Amanda's Takeaway in Kingscote - where flavor meets convenience!

With my energy levels replenished, it was time for a complete change of pace. I headed to Little Sahara Adventure Centre, ready to embrace my inner child. This naturally occurring inland dune field promised thrills and spills, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. I decided to rent a sandboard and tackle the massive dunes. It had been a while since I'd done anything quite so adventurous, and I felt a surge of excitement as I climbed to the top of the tallest dune, which stands at an impressive 70 meters.


Explore the breathtaking sand dunes, thrilling activities, and natural beauty at Little Sahara Adventure Centre on Kangaroo Island.

The sensation of gliding down the dunes was exhilarating, a rush of pure, unadulterated fun. I may have wiped out a few times, sending sand everywhere, but that only added to the laughter and enjoyment. Looking around, I saw families and groups of friends all reveling in the unique landscape, creating memories that would last a lifetime. It was a reminder that sometimes, it's important to let go of inhibitions and embrace the simple pleasures of life.

Before dinner, I had a chance to pop into Kangaroo Island Creative Co in Penneshaw. It was a great place to see the local artistry. The shop had a wide array of handcrafted goods, including art, homewares and souvenirs. I was particularly drawn to the hand-poured soy wax candles, thinking they’d make a great gift for Mei. It’s always nice to support local artisans and find unique treasures that capture the essence of a place.


Discover Kangaroo Island Creative Co, your go-to destination for unique gifts, local art, and handcrafted treasures in Penneshaw.

As evening approached, my stomach started rumbling again, and I made my way to Mooncake Kangaroo Island • Asian Food with Ocean Views for dinner. This Asian food restaurant with ocean views promised a unique culinary experience, and I was excited to try it. The restaurant is run by Chef Kate Sumner, and the menu features fresh, traditional Asian cuisine. I decided on dumplings and prawn toast and savored every bite while enjoying the ocean views. The explosion of flavors was a delightful contrast to the more traditional fare I'd been enjoying, and it was the perfect way to end a day of diverse experiences.


Experience exquisite Asian fusion cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Mooncake Kangaroo Island - a must-visit for food lovers.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Kangaroo Island has to offer. From the tranquility of the Wilderness Trail to the adrenaline rush of Little Sahara and the Asian-inspired cuisine at Mooncake, every moment was a new discovery. It’s a place that caters to all tastes and preferences, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore its hidden gems.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Cape Willoughby Lighthouse and the surrounding Conservation Park. I’m looking forward to seeing the rugged coastline and learning more about the island's maritime history. Before that, I will have breakfast at Dragon's Rest and lunch at Seadragon Cafe. And perhaps I will end the day with a glass of wine at The Islander Estate Vineyards. Until then, goodnight from Kangaroo Island.