The Barossa Valley is Australia’s high-achieving haven for foodies and gastronomes. Carrying almost a quarter of the country’s wine reputation on a relatively compact stretch of rolling hillsides, the region actually consists of a cluster of towns (Nuriootpa, Tanunda, Rowland Flat and Lyndoch) surrounded by over 50 vineyards. But whether you know your Shiraz from your Semillon, there’s plenty to explore, enjoy and educate. Here’s how to get started …
Getting there
The Barossa is an easily accessible 1 hour and 20 minute drive from the centre of Adelaide via the Port Wakefield Road and Northern Expressway to Tanunda, although many travellers take the slow way round via the scenic route of North East Road through Chain of Ponds to Williamstown. Or take the daily bus service from LinkSA, connecting to the Barossa via the Gawler Railway Station.
Top things to do in the Barossa Valley
Overflowing with more than 170 wineries, South Australia’s most killer drops are best discovered through a mixed bag of Barossa Valley wine tours and experiences. Afterwards, shake off dusty morning-after brain with our list of fun things to do in the Barossa Valley that don’t include (too much) wine; from a hot air balloon ride to natural perfume workshops.
Travellers timing their visit to coincide with the annual Barossa Vintage Festival better gird their stomachs with the five-day celebration serving up a smorgasbord of events each tailored to tell the story of the Barossa region through the power of taste, sight and sound. Think high teas, long lunches, live music and, of course, wine tasting galore. But those who miss the large-scale festivities can still revel in all the charm of local life at the regular Barossa Farmers Market, run every Saturday at Vintners Sheds, Angaston.
Best places to stay in the Barossa Valley
Plenty of accommodation options beckon in the Barossa Valley, from nature escapes to quaint steps back into simpler times to luxurious retreats. Discover a broad collection of homely stays, deluxe hotels and magnificent retreats, making Barossa Valley accommodation as complex as the wine it’s famous for. Or, turn up the glam with a stay at one of the finest Barossa Valley luxury accommodation offerings.
Where to eat and drink in Barossa Valley
With exceptional dining reimagined at the speed of light, there’s always something interesting to sample at the best Barossa Valley restaurants. OF course, the number one reason to visit the area is to taste its famous wine offerings, so be sure to also create an itinerary of the most exquisite Barossa wineries.
