Visit Eyre Peninsula, Australia

Hills smothered in wild flowers edged by a craggy coast, the Eyre Peninsula stretches from the vast landscape of the South Australian Outback to the ocean.

To the north are the Gawler Ranges, rich with wildlife, while at the natural harbour of Port Lincoln sea lions and dolphins roam. Overlooking the Great Australian Bight to the west, Baird Bay is abundant with sea lions and from June to October, with migrating southern right whales.

Regular flights from Adelaide arrive at Port Lincoln, the hub of many off-the-beaten track encounters on small-group 4x4 vehicle tours.

Swimming with sea lions

Sitting in the middle of a channel and guarding the approaches to Baird Bay, Jones Island hosts a colony of Australian sea lions. Take to the shallow waters and you will soon be joined by a handful of these wondrous creatures, which swim up close and make elegant tumble turns, stare inquisitively into your mask and tickle you with their whiskers. This amazing encounter is possible for those staying at Baird Bay Lodge, or as part of a Gawler Ranges Safari.