Guide to McLaren Vale
McLaren Vale is home to some of the world’s oldest grape vines, and is the epicentre of the South Australian wine industry.
Situated between the rolling Mount Lofty Ranges and Gulf St Vincent beaches, McLaren Vale sits only 45 minutes from Adelaide. This South Australian gem boasts more than 80 cellar doors and vineyards, top-notch restaurants and beautiful accommodation options. But McLaren Vale isn’t just about the wine; beyond the vines are long stretches of beach, rugged coastline and local wildlife.
Top things to do in McLaren Vale
Walk or cycle the Shiraz Trail
Cycle the Shiraz Trail through rolling vineyards to discover the flavours of the region. Be sure to stop and taste shiraz at cellar doors such as Wirra Wirra, and Primo Estate and Pertaringa Wines, or stop for a flight of beers at Swell Brewing Co.
Taste wine in a work of art
One of the most unique experiences in the region can be found at d’Arenberg winery. Home to The Cube, an avant-garde structure fashioned after an unfinished Rubik’s Cube, complete with a ‘Museum of Alternate Realities’ and top floor tasting room.
Visit a local farmers market
Every Saturday morning more than 80 farmers and artisan food producers set up at the Willunga Farmers Market selling everything from cheeses and chutneys to chocolates, honey, organic fruit and vegetables and flowers.
See local Aboriginal art
Stop by Red Poles Gallery for the latest exhibition of Aboriginal art. The gallery represents local First Nations artists and musicians, and hosts workshops and events like Indigenous arts markets and smoking ceremonies.
Hit the beach
McLaren Vale has long stretches of breathtaking coastline and six sprawling sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Snorkel at Port Noarlunga, cast a line or surf the waves at Sellicks Beach or dive the Star of Greece shipwreck at Port Willunga.
Sleep among the vines
For a spot to lay your head that’s a little different, check into Hotel California Road at Inkwell Wines, made-up of three luxury vineyard suites, complete with a huge soaking tub that overlooks rows of vines.
Paddle the Onkaparinga River
See McLaren Vale by e-bike and stand up paddle board on the Coast to Vines Tour where you’ll ride to the coast before jumping into the water for a paddle on the Onkaparinga. Round off the morning with wine and beer tastings and a delicious lunch.
Explore the Fleurieu Peninsula
The Fleurieu Peninsula has lots of local wildlife, beautiful beaches and excellent surfing, fishing and diving. Don't miss the town of Victor Harbor, where you can snorkel with leafy sea dragons, watch passing whales and ride a horse-drawn cart.
Taste wine on a double decker bus
For a cellar door with a difference, drop in to Down The Rabbit Hole winery for a tasting at the cellar door, a bite to eat at the restaurant (which serves local organic produce) or a glass of wine in the double decker bus.
Snorkel Port Noarlunga Reef
Stretching from the base of the Fleurieu Peninsula to the north-eastern coast of Kangaroo Island, Port Noarlunga Reef Sanctuary Zone is one of the best spots to pop on your snorkel and meet the local marine life.
