Vino Voyage: A Journey Through Adelaide’s Wine Regions
In July 2016, Adelaide popped the cork on some serious wine cred by joining the Great Wine Capitals of the world. But hey, it’s no surprise since we have distinctive wine regions like Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, and McLaren Vale.
These majestic regions are vino wonderlands, fusing scenery straight out of a Hans Heysen painting with world-class blends that even the sternest wine critic can’t say no to.
You have to see for yourself, though, so we’ll be your trusty guide. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or an eager explorer, we will provide you with a grape escape in and near Adelaide!
Adelaide Hills
Route from Adelaide CBD to Adelaide Hills
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 31 kilometers via Greenhill Rd/B26 or B27
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 51 minutes
Boasting over 60 jaw-dropping wineries blessed by cool climates, like Shaw + Smith, Hahndorf Hill Winery, and The Lanes Vineyard, the Adelaide Hills sets the bar sky-high for wine experiences.
The region is known globally for its impeccable Pinot Noir, a medium-bodied drink with soft tannins and berry-heavy flavors perfect with roasted poultry, salmon, and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
When you’re not sipping divine vino, this place throws down off-the-wine-path action. You can gaze upon the Piccadilly Valley by kicking back at the Mount Lofty House, see koalas at Cleland Wildlife Park, or pick strawberries at Beerenberg Farm.
For a touch of European flair, Hahndorf awaits with its German-inspired buildings, food, shops, and culture. You can also visit Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, offering 97 hectares of misty winter landscapes and vibrant summer scenes in Fern Gully.
| Tips: Explore Adelaide Hills’ tourist spots via bike to appreciate their beauty at your own pace. Plan your Adelaide Hills visit for 2 to 3 days to fully experience the region’s offerings. Adelaide Hills has a maximum temp of 29°C (84.2°F) in summer and 15°C to 16°C (59°F to 60.8°F) in winter. Summer is ideal for visits, as it sees temperatures from 16.7°C to 28.6°C (62°F to 83.5°F) and minimal rainfall. |
Barossa Valley
Route from Adelaide CBD to Barossa Valley
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 74.8 kilometers via M2
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 59 minutes
Barossa Valley has been producing top-notch wines for over 7 generations, a testament to the region’s timeless winemaking prowess and legacy. The top varieties here are the earthy Shiraz, fruity Grenache, and bold Cabernet Sauvignon.
When it comes to the wineries and vineyards, some of the big names here are the modern Z Wine and the 19th-century-styled Chateau Tanunda.
Beyond wine, the region’s European heritage brings a rich culinary scene with bakeries, smokehouses, and acclaimed dining spots like The Atrium at Hentley Farm and El Estanco.
And when you’re not sipping or dining, you can take in the sweeping views at Mengler Hill Lookout, catch live performances at Barossa Art Center, or indulge in the exquisite chocolates from Barossa Valley Chocolate Company.
| Tips: The best way to enjoy the enthralling views at Barossa Valley is by joining a hot-air balloon tour offering 360˚ views of vineyards, creeks, valleys, and the Gulf St. Vincent. Summers can get warm, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable attire. Exploring the Barossa is most convenient by car. However, local tour operators, taxis, and bike rental services are also available. For avid walkers, Seppeltsfield Road will provide opportunities to stroll between cellar doors and restaurants. |
Clare Valley
Route from Adelaide to Clare Valley
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 142.4 kilometers via M2 and Horrocks Hwy/Main N Rd/B82
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 1 hour and 52 minutes
When it comes to wine, Clare Valley flips the script. While other regions around Adelaide flaunt bold reds, this spot shines with its crisp whites, especially its world-class Riesling.
But don’t sleep on their highly-rated Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon too!
Here, you can sip through some fantastic wineries and vineyards, such as Greg Cooley Wines, Shut the Gate Wines, and Sussex Squire Wines. These are also Instaworthy spots with green hills, gum trees, and charming stone cottage cellar doors.
As for non-wine-related activities, Clare Valley dishes out thrilling adventures. Tourists can get lost in the garden labyrinth of Mintaro Maze, check the artistic silo scenes at Eudunda, or take a trip back in time at the historic Redruth Gaol, an old prison.
And if you want to know more about the region’s history, head to the Burra Mine Site, a heritage area packing an open-air museum with remnants of Clare Valley’s glorious mining days.
| Tips: Bring sturdy walking shoes for vineyard strolls and hikes. Clare Valley offers picturesque trails and hikes, including the Sculpture Walk at Bundaleer Forest and the Riesling Trail. If you have specific wineries in mind, consider booking tastings in advance. It ensures you don’t miss out on unique offerings, especially during busy periods. |
Coonawarra
Route from Adelaide to Coonawarra
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 373.9 kilometers via National Highway A8 and Riddoch Hwy/A66
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 4 hours and 1 minute
Nestled on the Limestone Coast, the small but mighty Coonawarra earns its stripes with grape growers owing to its luscious terra rossa soil.
The region is known worldwide for its Cabernet Sauvignon, so much so that it’s often referred to as the ‘red center’ of South Australia. Casuals and enthusiasts will also enjoy Coonawarra’s Shiraz, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Riesling.
You have over 25 stellar cellars to explore here, including Ottelia, Brand’s Laira, and Zema Estate. You can visit these spots by taking the 5-kilometer Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail, an easy walk that takes around 3 hours to complete.
If you’re into photography, don’t miss the Coonawarra Railway Siding, a South Aussie historic icon that has become the darling of photographers far and wide. Take snaps during sunset, sunrise, or a starry night for jaw-dropping shots!
| Tips: Coonawarra is a long drive from Adelaide, so it would work in your favor if you have a place to stay. We recommend the Coonawarra Bush Holiday Park, with over 170 acres of heritage bushland near the wineries. Harvest season in Coonawarra usually happens from late February to early April. It’s a great time to visit and see winemaking in action. |
McLaren Vale
Route from Adelaide to McLaren Vale
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 40.1 kilometers via M2
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 40 minutes
In the world of South Australian wine, McLaren Vale struts its stuff as the OG birthplace, flexing a Mediterranean climate that sets the perfect stage for the region’s palate-pleasing blends.
McLaren Vale is a superstar when it comes to crafting ultra-premium, red and dark-fruit-flavored Shiraz and Grenache while also excelling in Spanish and Italian varieties like the citrusy Fiano, crisp Vermentino, dark Tempranillo, and tart Sangiovese.
Around 80 cellar doors are waiting to be explored here, from the quirky d’Arenberg (you have to see the outlandish shape of the structures here) to the chic Down The Rabbit Hole Wines.
For activities and adventures, you can hit up the Willunga Hill Lookout for killer views, pedal your way through the Shiraz Trail, or swing by the Willunga Farmers Market for some artisanal, fresh, and local foodie delights.
| Tips: Don’t miss McLaren Vale’s beaches. You can get into some snorkeling action and see the depths of the Star of Greece shipwreck at Port Willunga or cast a line and catch waves at Sellicks Beach. Check the calendar for local events. McLaren Vale hosts food and wine festivals, concerts, and community markets throughout the year. If you need a spot to stay, we recommend spots near and in vineyards or cellars, such as The Vineyard, Serafino, and McLaren Eye. |
Langhorne Creek
Route from Adelaide to Langhorne Creek
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 64.3 kilometers via Wellington Rd and National Highway M1
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 57 minutes
Langhorne Creek isn’t just another wine spot; it’s home to some of the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vines globally. The region owes most of its success to its fertile flood plains that pump out South Australia’s primo wine grapes.
As for wineries and vineyards, you can sip the good stuff here while floating above vineyards in a slick shipping container at Kimbolton Wines or have a taste of history at Bremerton Wines, perched in a revamped stable dating way back to 1866.
Foodies and vino fans can also wine and dine at Lake Breeze Wines—Halliday’s 2022 Best Value Winery of the Year and a spot run by a family that has been growing grapes for over 130 years!
| Tips: Head here during mid-November to enjoy the Handpicked Festival, an event where you can vibe and drink with locals and tourists in vineyards and picnic lawns—all while listening to banging tunes. If you’re up for some souvenir shopping, snag that famous horseradish at Newman’s Horseradish Farm. Langhorne Creek has high-quality accommodations with fair prices. We recommend staying in Alice’s Bed and Breakfast, Stables B&B, and Angas Cottage. |
Riverland
Route from Adelaide to Riverland
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 171.6 kilometers via M2 and National Highway A20
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 1 hour and 59 minutes
The Riverland, holding the title of Australia’s top winegrape region in terms of tonnage, has a red, sandy, and loamy soil—perfect for varieties like citrusy Chardonnay, rich Shiraz, smooth Merlot, robust Cabernet Sauvignon, and dark Petit Verdot.
Riverland Wine Centre, Sixty-Eight Rose Wines, and Angove Family Winemakers are among the notable wineries in this terroir-driven area—each offering distinct wine experiences.
For those who want a non-vino voyage, you can cruise down the River Murray with River Murray Houseboats or lose yourself in the wild at the Murray River National Park. There’s also the Murray River Trail that’s best for zen walks and riverside picnics.
If you’re more of a history buff, you should check out the Loxton Historical Village, a tourist spot with an open-air museum providing a dose of history and a peek into the good ol’ days of Riverside.
| Tips: Hit up 23rd St Distillery if you’re into craft gin. Stay, dine, and drink at the Overland Corner Hotel, which was built in 1856 and has a free caravan parking and camping site. |
Eden Valley
Route from Adelaide to Eden Valley
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 71.1 kilometers via B10
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 1 hour and 11 minutes
Eden Valley has a rich wine heritage dating back to 1847, boasting some of the globe’s oldest Shiraz and Riesling vineyards. It experiences cool temperatures during the growing season, resulting in premium wines best savored right from the cellar door.
In terms of prized variety, the town’s Cabernet Sauvignon, which has ripe cassis-accented fruit flavors and green leaf and dark berry characters, takes the cake.
In addition to the stellar Cab Sav, Eden Valley has must-try Riesling, Shiraz, and Chardonnay varietals.
The wineries here aren’t the grandest in SA, but they offer an intimate and picturesque experience. From Fernfield Wines to Rileys of Eden Valley, casuals and connoisseurs will find spots ideal for those seeking a more personal wine-tasting journey.
| Tips: Bring your picnic essentials. Eden Valley has a scenic lookout (literally named “Scenic Lookout”) equipped with tables. The view here consists of green plains, hills, and trees. Discover the captivating historical sculptures that adorn the Eden Valley main street. Art enthusiasts can snag local artwork by visiting the Lillefield Gallery. Prepare for cooler temperatures, especially in winter, with lows around 4°C to 5°C (39°F to 41°F). Bring appropriate clothing to stay warm. |
Kangaroo Island
Route from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island
Distance From the Adelaide CBD: 210.3 km via Main S Rd and B23
Travel Time From the Adelaide CBD: 3 hours and 43 minutes
Kangaroo Island isn’t just a summer hotspot, it’s also a growing name in the Australian wine industry. This region’s claim to fame is its trio of Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
When it comes to top-notch sips, Bay of Shoals Wines, The Islander Estate Vineyards, and Dudley Wines are our faves, providing wine experiences that balance flavor, adventure, and scenic views.
But, of course, there’s more to this island than wine. There’s the scenic Emu Bay Lavender Farm with its stunning acre of lavender fields and Vivone Bay, a serene spot with pleasant temperatures, beautiful coastlines, and crystal-clear waters.
For adventure seekers, Kangaroo Island’s marine eco-tourism scene is a hit, especially the dolphin swims and seal encounters. You can even beeline to rougher paths by joining a thrilling quad bike tour (just watch out for kangaroos and wallabies).
| Tips: Check the ferry schedule for departure times and plan to arrive at Cape Jervis at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process. Pack accordingly for changing weather conditions. Kangaroo Island can experience sudden temperature changes and strong winds, so bring layers and windproof clothing. Consider renting a car or joining guided tours to navigate the island. Car hire services are available, but book in advance, especially during peak seasons. |
