A weekend of urban wellness in Adelaide

Fuel your body for the day ahead with a mouth-watering tour through the famous Adelaide Central Market. As you graze on all sorts of goodies, from farm-fresh fruit to coffee to cheese or nuts, you will also learn the stories behind some of the many family businesses that sell their wares here. Food Tours Australia, founded by one of the states noted food experts, Mark Gleeson, host a range of tours that will connect you with local producers.

Having sated one appetite, it is time to stimulate another. Immersing yourself in art is a great way to replenish your creativity and imagination. Stroll over to the Art Gallery of South Australia and be inspired by the masterpieces on display, including one of Australia’s best collections of indigenous art. At the gallery’s entrance, Lindy Lee’s sparkling six-metre sculpture, The Life of Stars, is guaranteed to get your synapses going.

Want a bit more artistic inspiration? The nearby State Library of South Australia also hosts some fascinating exhibitions. Otherwise, stop for a bit of lunch before heading on to your next destination. The River Torrens – Karrawirra Pari is a great place to enjoy the sense of wellbeing that comes from being near water. A stroll along the riverside path is always relaxing; if you are feeling energetic, get out on the water for a spot of kayaking. The section of the river between the weir and Frome Street Bridge is the place to go.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the city’s many outstanding restaurants before turning in early – you will want to be up bright and early tomorrow.

There is something magical about the early morning hours when much of the rest of the world is still slumbering. Make the most of them with a meditation or mindfulness session in one of Adelaide’s beautiful gardens. Never meditated before? No problem – simply sitting in a lush setting, breathing slowly in and out and letting your mind drift, will help combat that wired, tired feeling.

There are plenty of beautiful spots to choose from. Try one of the tranquil gardens tucked inside the Adelaide Botanic Gardens such as the Garden of Health, home to thousands of plant species used by traditional healers across the globe. Just as lovely is the Adelaide Himeji Garden, a classical Japanese garden. Prime perches include a spot overlooking the Dry Garden, where patterns are combed into rocks and sand, and the Lake and Mountain Garden, where goldfish and turtles can be spotted beneath the water’s surface.

Keep the chilled-out mood going with a visit to one of Adelaide’s best wellness centres, Breathe Stretch Float. Whether you treat yourself to a session in the Himalayan salt room or try a sound healing treatment, you will float out of the spa.

Having shaken off the last of your stress, it is now time to embrace the joy. Adelaide’s lively calendar of festivals means there is almost always something to enjoy in town, so see what is happening during your stay. Alongside world-famous events such as the Adelaide Festival, the Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide, the roster includes lively celebrations such as the SALA (South Australia Living Arts) Festival, where spaces such as hair salons are turned into temporary art galleries. If Tasting Australia happens to be on, bring your appetite – there is always plenty of food and drink to try.

Image credits: South Australian Tourism Commission, Earth Adventure, Breathe Stretch Float