Imagine spending a night in a beautifully crafted tiny house with sweeping views of a spectacular pink salt lake in South Australia. For about $627, you and a partner get to enjoy a 19-hour adventure that includes a private Korean BBQ dinner, a campfire under the stars, and a guided walk across Lake Bumbunga. This experience isn’t just about a cozy stay; it’s about enjoying natural beauty, authentic local flavors, and some true star-gazing.
What really draws us in are the personal touches—like the purple wine welcome drink served on your deck, which sets a relaxed, celebratory tone, and the chance to roast marshmallows around a campfire after a hearty dinner. The stunning views of the pink lake at sunset and the clear night sky with its Milky Way are plentiful reasons to consider this experience.
A possible consideration is that you need to arrange your own transportation to Lochiel, which is about 90 minutes north of Adelaide. Also, the experience might be less suitable if you have mobility issues or require wheelchair access, as the tour isn’t designed with those needs in mind.
This experience suits travelers who love natural beauty, intimate settings, and authentic local touches. If you’re looking for a romantic retreat, or simply want to escape the crowds and see something truly unique, this tiny house stay could be exactly what you need.
Key Points
- Unique setting: Tiny house overlooking the stunning pink salt lake, Lake Bumbunga.
- Authentic experiences: Korean BBQ dinner, campfire with marshmallows, billy tea, and star-talk.
- Personal touches: Purple wine welcome drink, photos taken by your host.
- Active morning: Guided walking tour of the pink lake.
- Limited accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility challenges.
- Transportation needed: Drive from Adelaide takes approximately 90 minutes.
The Experience in Detail
When we first learned about this experience, it was the combination of stunning scenery, personalized hospitality, and authentic local flavors that caught our eye. The journey begins with a roughly 90-minute drive north from Adelaide along the Pt Wakefield Highway, heading into the charming village of Lochiel. Keep an eye out for the fun detail—your host warns that you’ll see a galah on the fence post as a little signal you’ve arrived.
Once at the tiny houses—custom-built and designed for comfort—you’re greeted with a purple wine welcome drink on your deck, right opposite the mesmerizing pink salt lake. We loved the way this immediately set a relaxed and cheerful tone for the evening. The views from your private deck are nothing short of postcard-worthy, especially during sunset when the pink hues deepen and the lake reflects the changing sky.
The accommodation itself is described as a gorgeous tiny house, well-suited for a couple or solo traveler. The interior is cozy yet functional, offering a comfortable place to unwind after a day of travel and exploration. Imagine settling in with a glass of wine and watching the sky turn darker over the salt lake — it’s a peaceful, intimate setting that feels a world away from city life.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Highlight: Korean BBQ Dinner
One of the most distinctive features of this experience is the private Korean BBQ dinner served inside your tiny house. The fact that it’s hosted inside means you can really relax, savor the flavors, and enjoy the company of your host. The meal is described as ‘sumptuous,’ and includes a bottle of local wine, which elevates the experience without pushing the price too far.
This dinner isn’t just about the food — it’s about the atmosphere of enjoying a hearty, flavorful meal with a view of the lake just outside. The setting strikes a perfect balance between comfort and authenticity, giving you a taste of Korean cuisine in the middle of South Australia’s natural landscape.
Nighttime Magic: Campfire and Star-Gazing
Once the dishes are cleared away, the real magic begins. The host sets up a campfire at the fire-pit, where you can roast marshmallows, sip billy tea, and swap stories. The Aussie campfire experience is simple but memorable, especially as you look up to see the star-filled sky.
The highlight of the night is the hosted star-talk, which includes telescopic viewing of the Milky Way. We loved how knowledgeable the guide was—pointing out constellations and sharing stories about the stars. The quietness of the night, combined with the incredible clarity of the sky, makes this a highlight for anyone interested in astronomy or simply in a peaceful moment under the cosmos.
The Next Morning: Walk and Breakfast
If you’re an early riser, the experience includes a guided walk across Lake Bumbunga, where you’ll see the lake’s vibrant colors firsthand. The host provides images taken during the walk, perfect for sharing on social media or just for keeping as a memory. The walk isn’t strenuous, but it offers a chance to take in the lush pinks and purples of the salt lake and learn about its formation.
After the walk, you’ll return to your tiny house for a light breakfast—simple, satisfying fare that makes a great start to the day. The entire experience is designed to leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and with plenty of beautiful photos.
Practical Considerations and Value
While the price of $627 per group (up to two people) may seem high at first glance, it includes a lot: overnight accommodation, dinner with wine, a guided walk, star-gazing, photos, and some local hospitality. For couples or solo travelers looking for a romantic, scenic escape, this can be a very worthwhile investment.
Transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Lochiel. The drive is straightforward but consider timing—arriving around 3 PM allows plenty of daylight for exploring the lake and settling in before sunset. The experience is designed for private groups, making it ideal for couples, honeymooners, or small groups seeking intimacy and personalization.
The limited mobility accessibility is an important factor. The tour isn’t suited for anyone with mobility impairments, so if that’s a concern, consider whether the walkings and the terrain match your needs.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Enjoy This?
This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, intimacy, and authentic local experiences. If you love star-gazing, enjoy good food, and want to see one of Australia’s most beautiful salt lakes without a crowd, this is a fantastic choice. It’s also ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway or an unusual overnight adventure away from typical tourist spots.
Final Thoughts
A stay in a tiny house overlooking the pink salt lake offers a rare chance to connect with nature and enjoy personalized hospitality. The combination of a private dinner, campfire, and star-gazing creates a memorable, peaceful retreat that feels both special and authentic.
While it’s not suited for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or seeking a more active or larger group experience—it’s a wonderful option for couples or solo travelers looking for a quiet, scenic escape. The views of Lake Bumbunga, especially during sunset and at night, are truly striking, making this a worthwhile splurge for those valuing natural beauty and authentic experiences.
FAQ
Is transportation to Lochiel included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to drive from Adelaide yourself, which takes about 90 minutes. The site is on the left side of the highway opposite the pink lake.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing for the evening, a camera, snacks, and water. Evenings can get chilly, especially in autumn and winter.
What’s the best time to visit?
The experience is available year-round, but check the weather and fire bans if visiting between November and April. The pink lake’s color varies with season and weather, so consider timing if vibrant color is your goal.
Can I stay longer than one night?
The tour is designed as a 19-hour experience, with check-in around 3 PM and check-out by 10 AM the following morning.
Is the experience suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s primarily designed for adults with mobility, as it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility challenges.
What’s included in the price?
The price includes the overnight stay, Korean BBQ dinner with wine, campfire with marshmallows, star-talk, guided walk, photos, and a light breakfast.
In all, this tiny house stay offers a peaceful, scenic, and genuinely special way to experience South Australia’s natural wonders—perfect for those seeking a romantic or quiet retreat with authentic local flavor.
You can check availability for your dates here: