Did you know that Clare Valley is home to over 40 cellar doors within a compact 40km radius, making it one of Australia’s most concentrated wine regions? This hidden gem, just two hours north of Adelaide, boasts world-class riesling, historic towns, and breathtaking landscapes that rival its more famous South Australian neighbors.
Getting to Clare Valley & Planning Your Journey
Located just 135km north of Adelaide, Clare Valley is easily accessible for a weekend getaway or extended vacation. The most convenient way to reach this wine paradise is to fly into Adelaide Airport and then make the scenic two-hour drive north.
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Once you arrive in Adelaide, renting a car is highly recommended as public transport options to Clare Valley are limited. Having your own vehicle also gives you the freedom to explore the region’s scattered wineries and attractions at your own pace.
For maximum flexibility, secure your rental car in advance:
If you prefer not to drive, the Yorke Peninsula Coach operates services from Adelaide to Clare three days a week, but pre-booking is essential. For a more curated experience, several tour companies offer day trips and multi-day excursions from Adelaide.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Clare Valley enjoys a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience for visitors. The region’s elevation provides cooler temperatures than Adelaide, making it pleasant even during summer months.
Spring (September-November)
Spring brings mild temperatures (15-25°C) and spectacular wildflower displays across the countryside. The vines burst with new growth, and the landscape turns a vibrant green. This shoulder season offers fewer crowds and perfect weather for cycling the Riesling Trail.
Autumn (March-May)
Autumn is harvest season, with comfortable temperatures (12-25°C) and stunning golden and red foliage across the vineyards. This is when you’ll find the Clare Valley at its most picturesque, with the added bonus of harvest festivals and events like the Clare Valley Gourmet Week in May.
Summer (December-February)
Summer brings warm days (25-35°C) but cool evenings thanks to the valley’s elevation. This is high season, with more visitors and longer daylight hours for exploring. Early morning activities are recommended to avoid midday heat.
Winter (June-August)
Winter offers a cozy experience with cool days (8-14°C) and cold nights that are perfect for enjoying red wines by crackling fireplaces. The countryside turns a lush green, and you’ll find fewer tourists and better accommodation deals.
Packing Tip: Regardless of season, bring layers as the temperature can vary significantly between day and night. A light jacket is recommended even in summer for cool evenings.
Getting Around Clare Valley
Clare Valley’s compact size makes it easy to explore, but you’ll need to consider your transportation options to make the most of your visit. The region spans about 40km from Auburn in the south to Clare in the north.
Explore Clare Valley Your Way
Discover guided tours and activities that showcase the best of Clare Valley’s wine and heritage.
Where to Stay in Clare Valley
Clare Valley offers accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury retreats to cozy B&Bs and caravan parks. Many properties feature historic charm, with converted cottages and homesteads that tell the story of the region’s past.
Luxury Stays
For a premium experience, consider Bungaree Station, a heritage-listed property offering self-contained accommodation in restored 1860s buildings. Trestrail Cottage provides secluded luxury on 100 acres of private bushland, while Clare Country Club offers resort-style amenities including a golf course.
Mid-Range Options
Clare Valley Motel offers comfortable rooms with a saltwater pool, while Clare Valley Cabins provides family-friendly bush settings. For something different, try Bukirk Glamping with its luxury bell tents and tiny houses, or the quirky Bed in a Shed surrounded by vineyards.
Budget-Friendly
Discovery Parks Clare Valley offers powered sites and cabins perfect for families, while Burra Caravan and Camping Park features self-contained miners’ cottages. Free camping is available at Eudunda Caravan Park and in Red Banks Conservation Park for those on a tight budget.
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Dining & Local Cuisine in Clare Valley
Clare Valley’s food scene perfectly complements its renowned wines, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce and farm-to-table dining. From winery restaurants to cozy cafes, the region offers diverse culinary experiences that showcase South Australian flavors.
Winery Dining
Many of Clare Valley’s best dining experiences are found at its wineries. Skillogalee offers seasonal dining in a historic settler’s cottage with sweeping views of the vineyards. Paulett Wines’ Bush DeVine Cafe specializes in native ingredients and foraged foods that perfectly pair with their wines. For tapas-style dining, Mr. Mick’s Cellar Door and Kitchen serves up shareable plates designed to complement their wine tastings.
Local Favorites
The recently renovated Watervale Hotel has become one of South Australia’s most exciting food destinations, offering everything from casual dining to six-course degustations. Seed Clare Valley combines a deli, bistro, and rooftop bar serving woodfired pizzas. For high-quality pub fare, The Rising Sun Hotel serves classic tavern dishes alongside fusion creations using local ingredients.
Cafes & Bakeries
Start your day with breakfast at the Little Red Grape bakery or the cozy St Just Cafe in Burra. For picnic supplies, visit the Shut the Gate Provedore Store, which offers local cheeses, preserves, and other gourmet items perfect for an alfresco lunch among the vines.
Local Specialty: Don’t miss trying Clare Valley’s signature wine variety, Riesling, which is known for its distinctive citrus notes and crisp acidity. The region’s cool climate produces some of Australia’s finest examples of this grape.
Top Attractions & Activities in Clare Valley
Clare Valley offers a perfect blend of wine experiences, outdoor adventures, and historical exploration. Here are the must-do activities for your visit:
Wine Experiences
With over 40 cellar doors, wine tasting is the region’s premier activity. Don’t miss Sevenhill Cellars, established in 1851 by Jesuit priests and the oldest winery in the region. Their underground cellars and crypt tours offer a fascinating glimpse into history. Other standout wineries include Pikes Wines, Knappstein Wines (where you can participate in interactive wine blending), and the boutique Good Catholic Girl.
Outdoor Adventures
The Riesling Trail is Clare Valley’s signature outdoor experience, a 35km cycling and walking path connecting Clare and Auburn. Bike hire is available at multiple locations along the trail. For nature lovers, Spring Gully Conservation Park offers walking trails and picnic spots among spring wildflowers. Red Banks Conservation Park contains one of Australia’s richest megafauna fossil sites, where you can look for ancient remains.
Historical Sites
Martindale Hall is a Georgian-style mansion that offers a glimpse into 19th-century colonial life. The historic mining town of Burra preserves its copper mining heritage with abandoned stone buildings and the restored Burra Railway Station. For something whimsical, get lost in the hedges of Mintaro Maze before exploring the charming historic town.
Unique Experiences
Lake Bumbunga, located in Lochiel on the way to Clare Valley, is a stunning pink salt lake that changes color throughout the year from pink to white to blue depending on salinity levels. It’s a perfect photo stop on your journey. Art enthusiasts should visit Studio Meadows to view works by award-winning artist Christopher Meadows, or explore the Arts Collective Clare Valley and Clare Valley Art Gallery.
Create Unforgettable Memories
Book guided experiences and activities to make the most of your Clare Valley visit.
Cultural Events & Festivals
Clare Valley’s calendar is filled with events that celebrate the region’s wine, food, and cultural heritage. Planning your visit around these festivals can add an extra dimension to your Clare Valley experience.
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your Clare Valley adventure with these essential tips and insights:
Safety & Etiquette
Planning Essentials
Local Tip: Many wineries offer shipping services, so you don’t have to worry about carrying bottles while cycling or exceeding luggage limits when flying home. Ask about shipping options when purchasing.
Ready to Experience Clare Valley?
Clare Valley offers a perfect blend of world-class wines, gourmet food, rich history, and natural beauty, all wrapped in the warm hospitality of country South Australia. Whether you’re cycling between cellar doors, exploring historic towns, or simply relaxing with a glass of riesling overlooking the vineyards, this charming region delivers an authentic Australian experience away from the crowds.
With its accessibility from Adelaide and compact size, Clare Valley makes for an ideal weekend getaway or a rewarding stop on a longer South Australian journey. The hardest part might be deciding which of the 40+ cellar doors to visit first!
Plan Your Clare Valley Adventure Today
Start by securing your flights to Adelaide, the gateway to Clare Valley’s treasures.
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