The Ultimate Road Trip Guide From Adelaide to South Australia’s Wine Country
When I first touched down in Adelaide, I knew that South Australia’s renowned wine country would be a key part of my adventure. Having always been a lover of good wine and beautiful landscapes, the idea of driving through lush vineyards, stopping by family-run wineries, and sampling world-class wines sounded like the perfect escape. So, with a full tank of gas, a map in hand, and a sense of excitement, I set out on a road trip from Adelaide to the heart of South Australia’s wine country. This guide captures the highlights, tips, and must-visit spots along the way to help you make the most of your journey.
Starting the Journey: Setting Off From Adelaide
Adelaide, known as the gateway to some of the world’s finest wine regions, is a perfect starting point for any road trip. The city itself is vibrant, with great cafes, art galleries, and parks, but what lies beyond is what really got me excited.
I picked up a rental car in the city—Adelaide has plenty of options for car rentals, but I opted for one located near my hotel in the city center for convenience. The staff were friendly, and they gave me some excellent tips on routes to take and places to stop along the way. With my bags packed and GPS set, I started the roughly one-hour drive to my first destination: the famous Barossa Valley.
First Stop: The Barossa Valley (Approx. 1 Hour from Adelaide)
The Barossa Valley is arguably the most famous wine region in Australia, known for its Shiraz and robust reds. As I drove towards the Barossa, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the changing landscape. Rolling hills and golden fields dotted with rows upon rows of vines stretched as far as the eye could see. It was the kind of picturesque scenery that made me want to stop every five minutes just to take it all in.
I decided to stop at Seppeltsfield Winery, one of the oldest and most iconic wineries in the Barossa. The drive up to Seppeltsfield alone is worth the trip, with towering palm trees lining the road, leading you straight to the heart of the estate. Upon arriving, I took a tour of the historic cellars and even had the chance to taste a port from the year of my birth—a unique experience that this winery offers.
The Barossa is also home to smaller boutique wineries, and I made a point of stopping at Yelland & Papps for a more intimate tasting experience. The owners were incredibly welcoming, and their hand-crafted wines were exceptional. The Shiraz and Grenache were especially memorable, offering the deep, rich flavors that the region is famous for.
Driving Tip: Make sure to leave plenty of time for exploring the Barossa. With over 150 wineries, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of the region. Don’t rush—take time to enjoy the scenery, chat with winemakers, and savor every glass of wine.
Exploring the Adelaide Hills (Approx. 40 Minutes from Adelaide)
From the Barossa, I made my way to the Adelaide Hills, a cool-climate wine region that offers something quite different from the Barossa’s bold reds. The Adelaide Hills are known for their Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir. The drive from Barossa to the Adelaide Hills takes about 40 minutes and winds through scenic country roads, passing through quaint towns like Hahndorf, a charming German village that’s worth a stop in its own right.
I couldn’t resist pulling over in Hahndorf for a coffee and a stroll down the main street. The village has a rich German heritage, and this is reflected in the architecture, food, and general atmosphere. After a quick bite at a local bakery (try the pretzels—they’re incredible), I continued on my way to one of the most famous wineries in the Adelaide Hills: Shaw + Smith.
Shaw + Smith is renowned for its cool-climate wines, and I was particularly excited to try their Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, which are both award-winning. The cellar door is sleek and modern, and the tastings are done with a lot of care and attention. The staff guided me through each wine, explaining the nuances and what makes their wines stand out. I left with a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc—crisp, refreshing, and perfect for a warm day.
For a more boutique experience, I made a stop at Bird in Hand, another highly regarded winery in the region. The cellar door is set among beautiful grounds, and the wines are just as impressive. I particularly enjoyed their sparkling Pinot Noir, which had a lovely effervescence and fruity notes.
Driving Tip: The Adelaide Hills is only a short drive from the city, making it an ideal destination if you’re looking for a day trip. However, if you’re planning on doing tastings at multiple wineries, it’s a good idea to pace yourself and consider having a designated driver.
McLaren Vale: The Ultimate Wine and Ocean Combo (Approx. 45 Minutes from Adelaide)
From the Adelaide Hills, my next destination was McLaren Vale, a region known for its diverse wine styles and proximity to the coast. The drive from the Adelaide Hills to McLaren Vale is around 45 minutes, and as you get closer, you can almost smell the ocean air mixing with the scent of eucalyptus trees and grapevines.
McLaren Vale is renowned for its Grenache, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon, but I was particularly excited to explore its innovative and sustainable wine practices. My first stop was d’Arenberg, one of the region’s most iconic wineries. The d’Arenberg Cube, a five-story building designed like a Rubik’s Cube, is a sight to behold. Inside, it’s part art gallery, part tasting room, offering a sensory experience that goes beyond just wine. The views from the top are stunning, and the wines—especially their Dead Arm Shiraz—are as bold and intriguing as the architecture.
Another standout winery in McLaren Vale is Alpha Box & Dice, which takes a more experimental approach to winemaking. Each wine is named after a letter of the alphabet, with quirky names like “Tarot” and “Blood of Jupiter.” The tasting was a fun experience, and the wines themselves were unique and thought-provoking. If you’re a wine enthusiast looking for something a little different, this is the place to go.
After a day of wine tasting, I couldn’t resist a quick stop at Port Willunga Beach, just a short drive from the heart of McLaren Vale. The golden sands and crystal-clear waters were a perfect way to relax and refresh before heading back on the road.
Driving Tip: McLaren Vale is incredibly close to the coast, so if you’re looking for a break from wine tasting, head to one of the nearby beaches for some sun and surf. Just be sure to bring your swimsuit!
Clare Valley: A Riesling Lover’s Paradise (Approx. 2 Hours from Adelaide)
For the final leg of my road trip, I ventured further north to the Clare Valley, a region that is synonymous with Riesling. The Clare Valley is about a two-hour drive from Adelaide, but the journey is well worth it if you’re a fan of crisp, aromatic white wines.
My first stop was Jim Barry Wines, one of the most respected names in the Clare Valley. The drive through the valley is peaceful, with vineyards and farms stretching out in every direction. Jim Barry’s The Lodge Hill Riesling was an absolute highlight of my trip, offering the perfect balance of acidity and fruitiness. The cellar door staff were incredibly knowledgeable, and I learned a lot about the unique growing conditions that make Clare Valley Riesling so special.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, I visited Shut the Gate Wines, a small, boutique winery known for its innovative blends and relaxed atmosphere. The tastings here were informal and laid-back, which was a nice contrast to some of the larger wineries. I particularly enjoyed their “Rosie’s Patch” Riesling, which had a lovely floral aroma and a crisp finish.
If you have time, I recommend taking a bike ride along the Riesling Trail, a scenic cycling path that winds through the valley, passing by vineyards and cellar doors. It’s a great way to explore the region while staying active.
Driving Tip: The Clare Valley is a bit further from Adelaide, so consider staying overnight if you want to take your time exploring. There are plenty of charming B&Bs and boutique accommodations in the area.
A Road Trip to Remember
Driving through South Australia’s wine country was one of the most memorable road trips I’ve ever taken. The diversity of the wine regions—from the bold reds of the Barossa to the crisp Rieslings of the Clare Valley—combined with the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, made it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking to escape the city for a few days, this road trip offers something for everyone.
When I first touched down in Adelaide, I knew that South Australia’s renowned wine country would be a key part of my adventure. Having always been a lover of good wine and beautiful landscapes, the idea of driving through lush vineyards, stopping by family-run wineries, and sampling world-class wines sounded like the perfect escape. So,…