Only a 45-minute drive from Adelaide, McLaren Vale is South Australia’s wine region and home to over 190 wine producers.
It is best known for Shiraz but carries a wide range of dry red wines like Grenache and Mourvedre, and other white wine and its Mediterranean varieties.
Its undulating hills and valleys are bounded by the western coastline of the Gulf St Vincent and the Mount Lofty Ranges to its east.
Wine and art lovers alike should come in the fall and summer, when the weather is warm enough to enjoy.
Attractions
Walk, cycle or go on horseback as you soak in the taste, sights and sounds at the iconic Shiraz Trail – a 32-kilometer old railway line running between McLaren Vale and Willunga.
The d’Arenberg Cube is an iconic five-storey architectural masterpiece that offers visitors an unforgettable pairing of art, wine and dining.
Go aboard the Almond Train, another tourist highlight in the region. Sample their large range of flavoured almonds, cashews, olives and other local produce in a 1920s train carriage.
If you fancy some art, visit Red Poles. The art gallery features South Australian artists and updates their shows every six weeks.
Stay
Experience a relaxing farmstay at Pedler Cottage Bed & Breakfast and enjoy the local wildlife found in the nearby wetlands.
For a little indulgence, stay at Casavino Luxury Villas. Enjoy spa baths and private patios that boast scenic garden views.
Stay at award-winning Wine and Roses Bed & Breakfast, where guests receive complimentary wine and cheese on arrival, and find chocolates, fresh fruit and flowers in their rooms.
Rent a cabin at Woodstock Wine Estate, where they can accommodate up to 8 guests. Head over to their cellar door for a guided tour of their vineyard.
Dine
The Currant Shed, known as “The Shed” to locals, is opened daily for lunch and praised for its exceptional service and modern Australian cuisine.
Dine at d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant and try their exquisite degustation lunch menu – featuring the freshest local seasonal produce and an extensive wine list.
Enjoy aromatic Italian and Australian coffee blends at Oxenberry Farm café. Their Oxenburger, a premium beef burger infused with Shiraz Grenache wine, is a must-try too.
Head to Russell’s Pizza for some mouthwatering wood-fire oven pizza and wine. Opened only on Friday and Saturday evenings, reservations are a must as it has limited seating.
