Top 5 Things To Do in McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale is a paradise for food and wine lovers.

Nestled between Adelaide’s beaches and the Mount Loft Ranges, McLaren Vale is home to some of the country’s best wines. The region is only a 45 minute drive south from Adelaide’s CBD! McLaren Vale is filled with other things to do, but tasting a few different wines is essential on your trip to the region.

1. Wine Tasting

There’s a reason why it’s first on the list! Wine tasting is a must while you’re in McLaren Vale. The region has some of the world’s oldest vines and is best known for producing shiraz, along with riesling, grenache, and chardonnay.

There are over 80 cellar doors you could see in the region! While you are spoiled for choice, the best ones to visit for a wine tasting include d’Arenberg Winery, Chapel Hill Winery, and Wirra Wirra Vineyards.

2. Stop by the Visitor Centre

The McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Information Centre is open every day, offering visitors information about the region. Not only does the centre offer vital information, but there is also a cafe for good coffee and snacks, a playground for the kids, and even an art gallery.

You’ll want to make sure the visitor center is one of your first stops when in McLaren Vale!

3. Visit a Farmer’s Market

McLaren Vale is home to some of the oldest farmer’s markets in the country. These markets are filled with stalls that sell handmade crafts, fresh fruits and veggies, and tasty gourmet delicacies. The main one to go to is Willunga Farmers Market, opened every Saturday morning.

4. See the Aboriginal Artwork

There’s a selection of art galleries and museums where you can see the local Aboriginal artwork. Red Poles Gallery is one of the main galleries, featuring beautiful Aboriginal artwork and new exhibitions.

Another local gallery is Micky Barlow, a Kokatha woman who makes stunning Aboriginal contemporary art and woven baskets.

5. Enjoy a Mouthwatering Meal

Hardys Winery in Mclaren Vale

While you’re in McLaren Vale for breakfast, lunch or dinner, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to get a mouthwatering meal. For a local favourite, head down to The Currant Shed or Little Rickshaw. Other amazing places include Pizzateca, The Salopian Inn, and Bracegirdle’s.

Keen to visit McLaren Vale for a trip? Most visitors tend to spend a couple days in the region, but if you don’t have time, a day trip is always a good option! There is a McLaren Vale wine tour as an option to book where you stop by Hahndorf too.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.