Exploring the Wilderness of Kangaroo Island: A Solo Adventure

Reaching New Heights on Kangaroo Island

Today was all about perspective, both literally and figuratively. I wanted to see Kangaroo Island from its highest points, to soak in the vastness of its landscapes and to reflect on my journey so far. It was a day filled with rewarding climbs, delicious food, and the simple joy of discovering unique local treasures.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Millie Mae's Pantry in Penneshaw. This charming garden café is known for its commitment to Kangaroo Island's local produce, and it was the perfect spot to fuel up for the day's adventures. I savored a delicious breakfast, surrounded by a cozy courtyard shaded by a mulberry tree. The coffee was creamy and the staff were friendly. It's these little moments of genuine hospitality that make traveling solo so rewarding. I made sure to grab a couple of local artisan products from their shop, a lovely reminder of the island's charm.


Experience delightful cuisine and local charm at Millie Mae's Pantry, your go-to spot in Penneshaw for food, coffee, and unique gifts.

First on the agenda was Prospect Hill, the highest point on Kangaroo Island. I knew this would be a challenge, as it involves climbing over 500 steps to reach the summit. The steps were upgraded in 2019. As I started my ascent, the views began to unfold, revealing the stunning panorama of Pelican Lagoon and Pennington Bay. It was easy to see why Matthew Flinders, the explorer, chose this spot to survey the island back in 1802. He named it Prospect Hill because from the summit he was able to sight a portion of the south coast of Kangaroo Island. The climb was definitely a workout, but the rewarding views were worth every step.


Explore Prospect Hill, a serene tourist attraction in South Australia with breathtaking views, endless walking trails, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for nature lovers.

Reaching the top, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the island. The panoramic views stretched out in every direction, showcasing the diverse landscapes that make Kangaroo Island so special. The blues of the ocean contrasted with the greens and golds of the hills and valleys. I spent some time at the summit, taking in the scenery and reading the interpretive signs that detailed the history and significance of the area. It was a moment of quiet contemplation, a chance to appreciate the natural wonders around me. I could even spot a large Western Grey Kangaroo munching on the field below.

Sometimes, the best views come after the hardest climbs.

After descending Prospect Hill, my stomach started rumbling, reminding me it was time for lunch. I drove to Kingscote, the island's largest town, in search of So Sando. This upbeat café is known for its tasty sandwiches with an Asian twist, and I was eager to try their offerings. I opted for one of their crowd favorites, The Cubanos, a sandwich filled with homemade mojo pork, leg ham and Swiss cheese. It was a flavor explosion in my mouth, the perfect combination of savory and tangy. The coffee was excellent, and the staff were super friendly, making the whole experience even better. So Sando definitely lived up to its reputation as one of the best cafes on Kangaroo Island.


Discover So Sando in Kingscote – where delightful cuisine meets warm hospitality in South Australia.

With renewed energy, I set off to my next destination: Mt Thisby Lookout. This lookout, also named by Matthew Flinders after Dr. Thisby, promised more breathtaking views of the coastline and turquoise waters. The ascent to Mt. Thisby was another climb, this time up newly built steps with rest stops along the way. The descriptive panels at the top were very informative, teaching me more about the island's wildlife and history. The views from the summit were truly spectacular, offering a different perspective of the island than Prospect Hill. I could see the rugged coastline stretching out before me, the turquoise waters sparkling in the sunlight. It was a perfect spot for photography, and I spent some time capturing the beauty of the scenery.


Discover the stunning vistas and tranquility of Mt Thisby Lookout in South Australia, a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. I had heard about Thermal Theory, a local business on Kangaroo Island that specializes in warm and comfortable clothing. Knowing how chilly the evenings can get, especially near the coast, I decided to check out their shop in Kingscote. Thermal Theory is known for its premium 550gsm, heavyweight dual layer fleece trackies and jumpers, perfect for cold nights camping or caravanning. I ended up buying one of their Sherpa-lined hoodies, made from a cotton blend outer shell for wind protection and a super soft brushed Sherpa inner core for ultimate comfort. It was the perfect souvenir, a practical item that would remind me of my time on Kangaroo Island whenever I wore it. Plus, I love supporting local businesses, especially those that are 100% Australian owned and operated.


Discover unique fashion and local styles at Thermal Theory, Australia's premier clothing destination for tourists and fashion lovers alike.

For dinner, I treated myself to a meal at Fire and Smoke KI in Penneshaw. This restaurant offers an extensive menu, including local seafood and traditional hand-rolled brick oven pizzas. I decided to try one of their pizzas, topped with fresh local ingredients. The pizza was delicious, the perfect way to end a day of exploring and adventuring. As I savored my meal, I reflected on the day's experiences. I am glad I was able to support the local economy through my restaurant and shop choices today.


Discover exquisite flavors at Fire and Smoke Ki in Penneshaw - A must-visit restaurant showcasing local South Australian cuisine.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Kangaroo Island's stunning coastline, with visits to Bales Bay Lookout and Hanson Bay Beach. I'm looking forward to discovering more hidden gems and experiencing the island's natural beauty firsthand. I might even stop by the Aurora Ozone Hotel bar for a drink in the evening. Until then, I'll snuggle up in my new Thermal Theory hoodie and dream of the panoramic views I witnessed today.