Middleton and McLaren Vale both made their mark at the 2023 national tourism awards, held in Darwin on 15 March.

The iconic Beach Huts Middleton took out the gold medal for 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation.

It was one of two gold wins for South Australia, the other going to the Adelaide Fringe for Excellence in Accessible Tourism.

The state also scored three silver medals and five bronze, with d’Arenberg again putting McLaren Vale on the national tourism map by placing third in Tourist Attractions.

The gold medal is the latest in a long list of accolades for the family-run Beach Huts Middleton, formerly the Old Middleton Grain Store.

Dave and Haylie Palmer, in partnership with Haylie’s parents Graham and Denise Duff, purchased the property in 2002 and have lovingly crafted their unique resort and wedding venue over the last 20 years. 

South Australia will host the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards next year, marking the event’s 40th anniversary.

Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison says the nation’s premier tourism will provide a fantastic opportunity to showcase the state to the best of the nation’s tourism industry.

“Adelaide is a great place to visit and a central hub that makes it easy for visitors to fully explore South Australia. 

“Our city really is the gateway to enjoy stunning and diverse regional landscapes, world-class wine regions that are minutes away from the CBD, pristine beaches and native wildlife.”

Find the full list of 2023 national tourism awards winners on the website.