The Perfect Gather Round AFL Weekend in South Australia, Footy, Food & Drinks
The Perfect Gather Round AFL Weekend in SA: 10 to 14 April
Introduction:
Get ready for an unforgettable AFL Gather Round weekend! From thrilling footy matches to gourmet dining experiences, South Australia has it all. This itinerary will help you make the most of your time, with highlights including a luxurious lunch at the Two Hat The Kitchen at Bec Hardy on Friday, 11 April. Let's dive into the excitement!
Day 1: Thursday, 10 April - Kickoff
Morning:
- Arrival in Adelaide: Check into your accommodation at the JW Marriott Adelaide. This luxurious hotel is perfectly located in the heart of the city, offering stunning views and premium amenities.
- Explore Adelaide: Spend the morning exploring Adelaide's vibrant city center. Visit the Adelaide Central Market for a taste of local produce and artisanal goods.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Peel Street: Enjoy a delicious lunch at Peel Street, known for its fresh, seasonal dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
- Visit Adelaide Oval: Take a guided tour of Adelaide Oval, one of Australia's most iconic sports venues. Learn about its rich history and get a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium.
Evening:
- AFL Match: Kick off the Gather Round with the opening match between Adelaide and Geelong at Adelaide Oval. Soak in the electric atmosphere and cheer for your team!
Day 2: Friday, 11 April - Gourmet Delights and Footy
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Adelaide's charming cafes. Try a classic Aussie breakfast or something more adventurous.
Mid-Morning:
- Explore McLaren Vale: Take a scenic drive to McLaren Vale, one of South Australia's premier wine regions. Enjoy the picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.
Lunch:
- Lunch at The Kitchen at Bec Hardy: Indulge in a luxurious lunch at The Kitchen at Bec Hardy, a Two Hat venue set in a converted winemaking shed. Enjoy a seasonal, shared feed me menu crafted from local, sustainable produce, paired with exquisite wines from the Bec Hardy and Pertaringa ranges. The rustic yet elegant setting provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
Afternoon:
- Wine Tasting: After lunch, visit some of McLaren Vale's best cellar doors for wine tastings:
- d'Arenberg Cube: Experience the iconic d'Arenberg Cube, a five-story architectural marvel with a wine sensory room, virtual fermenter, and stunning views.
- Down The Rabbit Hole: Enjoy a unique wine tasting inside a vintage double-decker bus and relax on the lawn with a grazing board.
- Alpha Box & Dice: Explore the heritage-listed barn and enjoy a premium tasting of their diverse wine collection.
- Hither & Yon: Visit this quirky cellar door set in a historic butcher's shop for an intimate wine tasting experience.
Evening:
- AFL Match: Head back to Adelaide for the evening match between Collingwood and Sydney at Adelaide Oval. Enjoy the thrilling contest under the lights.
Day 3: Saturday, 12 April - Footy and Fun
Morning:
- Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at JW Marriott Adelaide, preparing for a day full of footy action.
Mid-Morning:
- AFL Matches: Head to Adelaide Oval for a double-header. Watch Carlton take on West Coast Eagles in the early afternoon, followed by Essendon versus Melbourne in the evening. Both matches promise to be exciting and action-packed.
Lunch:
- Lunch at the Oval: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls at Adelaide Oval. Enjoy classic footy fare like pies, hot dogs, and chips.
Evening:
- Rooftop Bars: After the matches, explore some of Adelaide's best rooftop bars:
- 2KW Bar and Restaurant: Perched high above North Terrace, 2KW offers amazing views, crafted cocktails, and a sophisticated yet vibrant atmosphere.
- Hennessy Rooftop Bar: Located atop the Mayfair Hotel, this elegant bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and a premium selection of drinks.
- Rocket Rooftop: Enjoy a relaxed environment with premium cocktails and a unique open-air space above Rocket Bar.
- Merrymaker Rooftop Bar: Adelaide's highest rooftop bar, offering sweeping views and a tapas menu inspired by local produce.
- Dinner at FishBank: Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner at FishBank. Located in the heart of the CBD, FishBank serves the freshest, sustainably sourced seafood from Australian waterways. Enjoy a wide range of seafood options, from oysters and sashimi to fish and chips, in a beautifully refurbished heritage building.
Day 4: Sunday, 13 April - Final Matches and Farewell
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your final day with breakfast at another local café. Enjoy a relaxed morning before heading to the matches.
Mid-Morning:
- AFL Matches: Travel to Barossa Park for the match between North Melbourne and Gold Coast SUNS. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Barossa Valley while watching the game.
Lunch:
- Lunch at Barossa Park: Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch at Barossa Park, featuring local produce and wines from the Barossa Valley.
Afternoon:
- AFL Matches: Head back to Adelaide for the final match of the Gather Round at Adelaide Oval, where Port Adelaide will face Hawthorn. End your weekend on a high note with this thrilling contest.
Conclusion:
The Gather Round AFL weekend offers the perfect blend of sports, gourmet food, and local experiences. From the excitement of the matches to the indulgence of a luxurious lunch at The Kitchen at Bec Hardy, you'll create unforgettable memories in South Australia. Cheers to a perfect footy weekend!