by Southern Ocean Retreats | Jan 31, 2017 | Special offers
We recently launched our new web site and visitors
will notice a dramatic change in layout and content.
Comprehensive property descriptions and pictures of each room make choosing the right place for you easier than ever and we have incorporated a ‘Book Now’ button for 24hr convenience.
Ridge Top Retreat
However, the new site is so much more than a place to book accommodation as we have tried to create a reference source for information on Deep Creek Conservation Park and the region in general.
For example, we have included a list of suggested itineraries both in and around the park. All of the key walks are listed and maps and brochures are available in a downloadable pdf format.
For those wanting to explore the adjoining region we have also included some of the key attractions of the Fleurieu Peninsula as well as the best places to eat.
Still unsure as to how to fill your days? Don’t worry. We’ve highlighted a range of activities from adrenalin filled adventure pursuits to the reflective calm of outdoor art, photography and bird watching.
To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Ridgetop Retreats and the launch of our newsletter we would like to offer past guests a 3 for 2 offer. Book a Ridgetop Retreat between Sunday and Thursday during non-school holiday periods until 30 March, 2017 and receive 3 nights for the price of 2.
As a past visitor you would appreciate that this is a wonderful opportunity to explore the many attractions that Deep Creek offers at your leisure. To take advantage of this offer simply call us on Tel 8598 4169 so that we can check for availability.
We would love to get your feedback on the new site or if you know someone who would like to subscribe to our newsletter let us know.
Jane and Barry
Southern Ocean Retreats
by Southern Ocean Retreats | Jan 31, 2017 | What's on in the district
Earlier this year the Second Valley Heritage Trail was
launched as part of South Australia’s History Festival. This
is a self-guided tour and a trail brochure is available from
the Second Valley Progress Association.
The walk commences at the picturesque Leonards Mill in the
heart of historic Randelsea.
Highlights include the lookout over Second Valley and the
Statue of Fanny Lipson (find out why she was important). It
then follows Finniss Vale Drive with sweeping views across
the valley towards the coast. The trail concludes along the
spectacular geological feature that overlooks the bay and
jetty. This is an easy and rewarding walk. It gives you a
wonderful insight into early settlement life as well as the
beautiful scenery for which this area is renowned.
by Southern Ocean Retreats | Jan 31, 2017 | The Deep Creek Gazette
Sixteen years after the Ridgetop Retreats first opened we look
back with the Architect, Max Pritchard. It took a leap of
faith to build something radically different from the usual.
A retreat that was fresh, contemporary and relevant to its environment.
Check out this short interview with Max Pritchard in which he reflects
on the award winning design (apologies for the sound quality).
by Southern Ocean Retreats | Jan 31, 2017 | Creature feature
Did you know there is a thriving dolphin population along the coastal waters of
Deep Creek Conservation Park? The Bottlenose dolphin is a common sight and
a good indicator of the health of our marine life.
On a recent outing to Boat Harbour we encountered a pod of in excess of 40
dolphins mulling around the Cove. Whilst looking for food they were putting on a
surfing show that would put Kelly Slater to shame.
The Boat Harbour Cove is a particularly promising venue to spot dolphins. The
bench overlooking it on the Heysen Trail is a fantastic vantage point to take in
the panoramic views towards the Pages Islands.
Volunteers and scientists have formed effective alliances at Victor Harbour and
Kangaroo Island to collect valuable information on dolphins. However, there is a
bit of a gap along the South West Fleurieu Coast from Tunkalilla Beach and
Deep Creek through to Fisheries Beach.
Whilst there is plenty of general knowledge available on the Bottlenose dolphin
which appears in many parts of the world less is known about their presence in
South Australian waters. Marine scientists from Flinders University have
examined DNA samples which suggest that there may be a sub-specie of the
Bottlenose dolphin living in the Southern waters of Australia.
If you have the pleasure of encountering dolphins during a walk in Deep Creek
why not pause for a moment. Take note of the size of the group, their behaviour
and perhaps pass the information on together with any images to Kangaroo
Island Victor Harbour dolphin watch.
This volunteer project is based on the
citizen science concept. Information collected can contribute to forming a more
comprehensive picture of this fascinating marine mammal.
