Our Travel Editor Spent A Night At Monarto Safari Resort, And Yes It Was 100% Worth The Hype

I was lucky enough to live out my Lion King fantasies with a stay at Monarto Safari Resort last month, and let me tell you, I've been insufferable talking about it non-stop to anyone who'd listen ever since. Just a quick hour outside of Adelaide in its own private little safari world, this luxurious new resort is about as glam as it gets and yet, still felt perfect for my darling sticky-fingered toddler who loves creating as much chaos as possible.

Image credit: Renée Ardon-Coppinger | Supplied

I've been asked often if it's actually worth the hype, and it's a big fat absolutely in my books. From the second you arrive, it's all light-filled spaces and insane savannah views where it'll only take you a second or two to make your first wildlife spotting. It's almost surreal to be surrounded by these majestic creatures so closely, with the zebras and giraffes grazing out poolside while you dip, and echoes of lions prideful roars as the dusty sun sets. It's truly magic and so damn grounding to feel a part of nature, while only being a leisurely hour drive away from the city.

Because you're secluded, it also means you can truly slow down the holiday pace, taking your time to meander through the day. If you're an early riser, you must kick off the morn with a sunrise safari (don't worry, the sunset safaris are equally as brilliant, just make sure to book one in in advance!), head back for one of the best breakfast spreads I've ever come across, then decide if it's time for a dip or perhaps a cocktail out on your private deck while you marvel at all the majesty surrounding you. If you really want to make it a deluxe occasion, treat yourself with a cheeky pamper at Marula Day Spa—the Whisper of the Wild two-hour deluxe escape package is *groundshakingly* good. 

Image credit: Renée Ardon-Coppinger | Supplied

When hunger calls, Kutjera Restaurant & Bar awaits downstairs for lunch or dinner serving up some of South Australia's most impressive bites I've had over that way. The space is opulent and moody, but minus the stuffiness you find in some hotel restaurants, with light flooding through every cosy nook and booth, meaning you can capture the glow of sunset out in the distance. For us, the seafood dishes were stand out, and when we faced the inevitable fussy, over-tired toddler ready for bed, they offered to send up the dessert order directly to our room, meaning I didn't dare have to miss out on the chocolate fondant (another must).

Image credit: Monarto Safari Resort | Supplied

There's also 20 plush new luxury safari tents guests that look absolutely ridiculous for those wildlife-loving visitors, so you're loaded up for options when it comes to mind-boggling experiences whichever way you stay. Our tips: make sure to book to book in a pool view room (you'll grab the most glorious animal views that way) as well as the sunset safari tour. Word on the street is you'll catch more close-up animal encounters that way...

THE DETAILS

Monarto Safari Resort 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto South Australia