Holiday houses & accommodation in McLaren Vale

Getting to Your McLaren Vale Accommodation

The nearest airport to the McLaren Vale region is in the city of Adelaide. You can fly directly to Adelaide from most Australian cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, plus a number of international destinations. Once you arrive in Adelaide, you can take a taxi, train or bus to your accommodation in McLaren Vale. The train journey takes you past some of the region's scenic wineries to Seaford Station, where you'll take a connecting bus to McLaren Vale.

Having your own transport is the most convenient way to explore the McLaren Vale region. Hire a car in Adelaide, or bring your own. McLaren Vale is situated about 33km south of Adelaide, and it's an easy drive along the A2 and M2 highways through the scenic Australian bush. Budget some extra time for the drive to your holiday house, as the route can be fairly windy at times.

Explore McLaren Vale's Wineries

The McLaren Vale area is home to some of the oldest vines in Australia, and offers over 80 cellar doors where you can sample the local wines. There are guided tours that will personally chauffeur you around the region, so you can enjoy yourself without the risk of drink driving. Hither & Yon is one of the top cellars in the region, with the building beginning life in 1860 as the local butcher shop. Enjoy a wine tasting and cheese platter while snuggled up next to the roaring fire in the main lounge.

Shottesbrooke Winery is a modern vineyard that offers a full-day experience where you can learn about every aspect of the winemaking process. If you prefer other options, choose a wine tasting or enjoy lunch in the attached restaurant, the Current Shed. All meals are served paired with Shottesbrooke's impressive selection of wines.

Battle of Bosworth Wines is based on family-owned land, with facilities that have been updated with a fresh and modern look. The winemaker uses old-school methods to create some of the best Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay varieties in the region. Enjoy a platter of local cheeses and cured meats with your wine tasting, as you gaze out at the sweeping views of the vineyards.

What to See and Do in McLaren Vale

A good place to start your visit is the McLaren Vale Information Centre. You'll find a cellar door featuring local wines, a cafe offering delicious treats, and a playground. There's also an ever-changing exhibition of local artists, as well as a market where you can purchase handmade crafts. This is a great stop if you have young children with some energy to expend.

Taste some of the fine local produce at one of the many restaurants in McLaren Vale. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include Star of Greece, Blessed Cheese, and The Almond Train. You can purchase products to take home with you from many of these cafes and restaurants. If you want to have a more in-depth experience of the region's cuisine, attend a cooking class at Chapel Hill Winery under the guidance of their esteemed kitchen staff.

Events to Check Out During Your McLaren Vale Holiday

The McLaren Vale Spring Affair is held over the long weekend in October every year. This popular event draws crowds from all over Australia, so make sure to book your accommodation well in advance. The weekend is filled with live music shows, activities for the whole family, wine tastings, and dishes prepared by top local chefs. During the Spring Affair, several local wineries host special events including competitions, music performances, and behind-the-scenes tours of the winemaking process. Try your hand at crushing grapes in the traditional way, and learn how to make your own bottle of wine.

The Festival of Wirra Wirra is held at the Wirra Wirra Vineyards at the end of August. The event brings together some of Australia's best rock musicians, and even a few international acts, for a day filled with music and the celebration of wine. While you enjoy the live performances, take a cellar tour and try some delicious local food from a variety of gourmet food trucks. The event includes wine tasting from some of the best wineries in the region.

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