Things to Do in Barossa Valley

Just a stone throw from Adelaide is a world of delicious wines. Barossa Wines are famous across the globe for their bold taste and unique climate. So why not visit the region while you’re in South Australia?

The Barossa is a patchwork quilt of farming fields, vintage vineyards, and charming towns. Known predominantly for its wonderful wineries, visitors come from far and wide to sample its famous flavours and to tuck into the local goods. Covering just 25km, the Valley is a hotbed of culture, producing over 20% of Australia’s wine.

  • Origins

    Before the European invasion of South Australia, local Aboriginal communities used burning techniques across the valley. The fire helped to regenerate vegetation and drive animals away from the undergrowth. This regular burning had another effect, it helped create incredibly nutrient rich soil. Almost immediately Europeans saw the potential for a winery region here.

    The name Barossa Valley, came from Colonel William Light, South Australia’s first surveyor, in 1837. It was named after Spain’s ‘Barrosa’ region in Andalusia. The original spelling was the same as Spain’s, but due to an error in the registration process, the spelling Barossa was born.

  • Take a sip

    Barossa Valley is home to some of Australia’s top wineries, including household names such as Jacob’s Creek, Penfolds, Wolf Blass, and Seppeltsfield. Experience them all for yourself on a day or weekend tour, tasting your way across the valley. Professional wine experts will guide you through your tastings and teach you about the wine making process and history of each vineyard. Be sure to try a signature wine paired with some delicious local foods available in winery restaurants.

    Scattered between these top tier wineries is a delightful collection of little towns, many with an old-timey German vibe. Dating back to the German settlers in the mid-1800s, these tows provide visitors with the chance to step back in time and experience the fascinating past of the region. There are still numerous remnants of the colonisation of the Barossa Valley, including Gothic steeples that jut skywards, and traditional stone cottages, not to mention the selection of eateries serving favourites like wurst and sauerkraut.

  • Around the Valley

    Take a break from the array of wineries to experience the other amazing attractions on offer.

    Visit the villages nestled between the wineries, such as Bridgewater, Aldgate, Stirling, and Crafers, all of which have an incredible history and charm. These picture-perfect spots are great for kicking back and relaxing, as you watch the world go by. Visit historic towns, such as the wonderful Tanunda, set in the heart of the Barossa Valley. See sights such as historic squares, Lutheran churches, as well as one of the best lookouts in the region.

    Mengler’s Hill Lookout captures a breathtaking view of the Valley, guaranteeing a perfect photo opportunity. One of the most visited towns within this region is the renowned Handorf. A slice of European life, this town was settled in 1839 and is bursting with historic buildings, charming shops, and a wide selection of museums and galleries.

There’s so much on offer in the Barossa Valley, and plenty of fantastic experiences to be had.