McLaren Vale is just 45 minutes from Adelaide and is a hidden gem. It’s known for its top-notch wineries, beautiful coastal views, outdoor fun, and a lively food and art scene. But what makes it special? What secret spots and must-do activities await visitors?
There are scenic drives with vineyards and cliffs, and biking on the Coast to Vines Trail. You can also see rescued kangaroos and try local food and drinks. Whether you want to relax on the beach or enjoy fine dining, McLaren Vale has it all.
Key Takeaways
- Explore over 80 world-class wineries and indulge in exceptional wine tasting experiences
- Embark on scenic drives and hikes showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty
- Discover outdoor adventures, from biking the Coast to Vines Trail to kayaking on the local waterways
- Immerse yourself in the thriving food and art scene, from farmers markets to behind-the-scenes winery experiences
- Enjoy a range of accommodations, from luxury beach-side resorts to charming boutique cottages
Scenic Drives and Viewpoints
Exploring the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast is best done by car. Drive through the beautiful countryside and stop in historic towns like Clarendon and Kangarilla. Don’t miss Geoff Merrill Wines and Horndale Distillery for a taste of the local flavors.
Route 31 Coastal Drive
The Route 31 Coastal Drive is a must for coastal lovers. It runs from O’Sullivan Beach to Sellicks Beach, offering stunning views. You’ll see coastal villages and can enjoy various activities along the way.
Watch the Sun Rise or Set
For amazing views, visit Willunga Hill Lookout at sunrise. Or watch the sunset at Onkaparinga River Mouth or Port Willunga beach. These spots are perfect for enjoying the beauty of the Fleurieu Peninsula.
“The Fleurieu Peninsula is a true gem, with its stunning coastline, charming towns, and world-class wineries. A scenic drive through this region is an absolute must-do for any visitor.”
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re looking for an exciting outdoor adventure in McLaren Vale, South Australia, the Coast to Vines Rail Trail, or Shiraz Trail, is perfect. This 32-kilometer bike trail goes from Marino, through McLaren Vale, to Willunga. You’ll see beautiful coastal and vineyard views.
The Coast to Vines Rail Trail is great for both avid cyclists and those who like a casual bike ride. You can bike or walk along the trail. If you don’t have a bike, the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre can help. They offer bike rentals, including traditional and electric bikes.
As you move along the trail, you’ll see lots of cellar doors, parks, reserves, and beaches. It’s a great way to enjoy the beauty and culture of Marino, McLaren Vale, and Willunga.
| Segment | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Marino to McLaren Vale | 16 km | Coastal views, parks, reserves |
| McLaren Vale to Willunga | 16 km | Vineyards, cellar doors, Shiraz Trail |
So, whether you love cycling or just want a fun outdoor adventure, the Coast to Vines Rail Trail is a top spot in McLaren Vale. Bring your bike or rent one, and get ready to see amazing scenery and learn about the area’s history.
Winery and Food Experiences
Discover the famous wineries and food of McLaren Vale on a guided tour. Chook’s Little Winery Tours offer private tours with the owners. Adelaide’s Top Food and Wine Tours have options like the McLaren Vale Cheese and Wine Trail or the McLaren Vale Winery Experience. For a full day, Integrity Tours and Charter offer half-day and full-day tours, including the McLaren Vale South Coast Experience and the Wine and Wildlife Fleurieu Discovery Tour.
Bottle Feed Kangaroos
Woodstock winery in McLaren Vale is known for its wildlife sanctuary. Here, visitors can bottle feed friendly grey kangaroos and wallabies at 11:30 am every day.
Behind the Scenes Winery Experiences
Several wineries in McLaren Vale offer behind-the-scenes tours. Shottesbrooke’s “Explore, Wine & Dine” lets guests see the vineyards and winery. Then, enjoy a tasting and lunch at The Currant Shed, an award-winning restaurant. Wirra Wirra, d’Arenberg, and Maxwell Wines also offer unique, behind-the-scenes tours.
“The McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast feature some of the most outstanding wineries and cellar doors in Australia.”
Art, Culture, and Markets
Dive into the lively art and culture of McLaren Vale. This area is known for its art galleries, exhibitions, and street sculptures. Visit the Port Noarlunga Arts Centre to see the latest art and learn about the local art scene.
Have an Art Attack
Explore the local art trail to find amazing art pieces. See Salvador Dali sculptures and paintings at the d’Arenberg Cube. Also, check out the diverse art at Red Poles and Dogridge Gallery.
Watch glass-blowing at Willunga Glass Studio. Or, see the exhibitions and artist-in-residence program at Sauerbier House in Port Noarlunga.
Willunga Farmers Market
Make sure to visit the famous Willunga Farmers Market every Saturday from 8 am to 12:30 pm. It has over 80 stalls with fresh produce from the Fleurieu Peninsula. It’s a top spot for tasting the region’s best foods.
Enjoy the freshest fruits, vegetables, and regional Fleurieu goodies. Feel the lively vibe of this community event.
McLaren Vale, South Australia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Just 45 minutes from Adelaide, McLaren Vale is a famous wine region in South Australia. It’s full of activities for visitors. You can enjoy wineries, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures. There’s also a great food scene and art and culture.
The Fleurieu Peninsula is home to McLaren Vale and is easy to get to from Adelaide. It stretches from Christies Beach to Goolwa Beach and up to Wellington. Visitors have over 23 activities to pick from.
For those who love the outdoors, there are beautiful hiking trails like the Shiraz Trail. This trail goes through the countryside and past local wineries. You can also bike along the Coast to Vines Trail Adventure. And, you can drive on some beaches to enjoy the views.
For culture lovers, the Willunga Farmers Market is a must-see. It’s full of life and fresh local produce. You can also learn about the area’s art and history at the Alternate Realities Museum. Or, try a wine-tasting at award-winning wineries like Woodstock Wines Estate.
McLaren Vale has everything from scenic drives to outdoor adventures. It’s perfect for those who love wine and food experiences or cultural attractions. Plan your trip to see what this amazing region offers.
“The Fleurieu Peninsula is a true gem, offering a diverse range of experiences that will leave you captivated and inspired.”
Local Produce and Dining
Explore McLaren Vale’s tastes with a local produce regional platter. Places like Agostino Wines, Wirra Wirra, Paxton Wines, J&J Wines, Oxenberry, Hugo Wines, and Dowie Doole serve platters full of cheese, meats, and seasonal items.
Heavenly High Tea
For a special treat, visit Tealicious Cakes in Willunga for a divine high tea. You’ll get to enjoy sandwiches, quiches, desserts, pink lemonade, and tea or coffee. It’s all in a beautiful spot.
| Willunga Farmers Market | Coast to Vines Rail Trail |
|---|---|
| More than 80 stalls offer seasonal and regional produce every Saturday from 8am to 12.30pm. | This 32-kilometer trail is perfect for biking. It goes from Marino through McLaren Vale to Willunga. |
“The Willunga Farmers Market has over 80 stalls. It’s a lively place for fresh produce every Saturday.”
Beverages and Cafes
Savor Local Spirits and Beer
McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu Coast are known for their craft distillers and brewers. They offer a wide range of local spirits and beer. You can explore the beer and spirits trail to try exciting IPAs, lagers, gins, and more from top producers.
Your Coffee Savior
Looking for a quick coffee or a place to relax? McLaren Vale and nearby have great cafes for coffee lovers. Check out State of Mind Coffee, Long Shot, de Rose Kitchen, The Golden Fleece Café, The Tin Shed, Stump Hill Café, and The Flour Store for a unique experience.
| Café Name | Specialty | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| State of Mind Coffee | Locally-roasted coffee, seasonal menu | Sustainable, botanic |
| Long Shot | Breakfast, brunch, lunch | Artsy, relaxed |
| de Rose Kitchen | House-made gnocchi, Greek-inspired dishes | Rustic, cozy |
| The Golden Fleece Café | Seasonal, local produce-driven menu | Coastal, vineyard vistas |
| The Tin Shed | Brunch, lycra-friendly | Retro, casual |
| Stump Hill Café | Specialty coffee, organic fare | Sustainable, botanic |
| The Flour Store | Bakery, cafe, community hub | Artisan, relaxed |
“The café scene in McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu Coast is truly thriving, offering a diverse range of vibes and specialties to satisfy any coffee lover’s cravings.”
Accommodation and Beach Dining
McLaren Vale, along the Fleurieu Coast, offers a wide range of places to stay. You can find cozy vineyard retreats, romantic spots, and family-friendly options. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a great place to stay or a beautiful spot for beach dining.
Rest Your Head
Explore the region’s beautiful accommodation options, from luxurious vineyard villas to cozy coastal cottages. Enjoy the peaceful setting of an nature-themed eco-lodge or relax at a family-friendly resort. With so many choices, you’ll easily find the ideal spot to enjoy the coast and vineyards of McLaren Vale.
Dine with a Beach View
Enjoy delicious food with amazing ocean views. Star of Greece in Port Willunga has stunning clifftop seats and top-notch beach dining. The Port Willy Kiosk offers fresh seafood and burgers right on the beach. For more beachside dining, try Silver Sands Beach Club and Pearl in Aldinga Beach for great coastal food and views of the Fleurieu coast.
Discover the best of accommodation and beach dining in McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu Coast. Whether you want a peaceful retreat or an exciting seaside adventure, there’s something for every family-friendly and couples traveler.
Unique Experiences
Discover the special side of McLaren Vale with these unique adventures. Fly high over the scenic vineyards, pick fresh produce, and enjoy delicious brunch.
Take to the Skies
See McLaren Vale from above with a scenic flight. Adelaide Biplanes offers flights in vintage planes with open cockpits. You’ll love the stunning views of the area.
For a thrill, try Skydive the Southern Vines. You’ll jump over the beautiful vineyards and land at Richard Hamilton Wines.
Pick Your Own
Experience farm-to-table by picking your own food in McLaren Vale. At McCarthy’s Orchard, pick apples, pears, nashi, cherries, and grapes. Or, find fresh mushrooms at Maxwell Wines.
When in Need of a Hearty Brunch
McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu Coast have great cafes for brunch. Cantina 61 in Moana is a top spot. They serve amazing brunch dishes that will hit the spot.
“The open-cockpit biplane flight over the vineyards was an unforgettable experience. Seeing McLaren Vale from above was truly breathtaking.”
Conclusion
McLaren Vale is a top spot in South Australia, known for its amazing wineries, beautiful coast, and lively food and art scene. It’s perfect for those who love relaxing on the beach, trying new foods, or diving into culture. This place has something for everyone.
There are many fun things to do here, like driving along Route 31 and the Coast to Vines Trail. You can also go on tours of wineries and even feed kangaroos. Food lovers will enjoy the local produce, cool restaurants, and bustling farmers markets.
Art fans can check out the vibrant galleries and the d’Arenberg Cube, a unique art space. With easy access from Adelaide, many places to stay, and lots of events, McLaren Vale is ideal for exploring South Australia’s food, wine, and nature. So, why not start planning your trip to this magical area?
