Luxury accommodation in McLaren Vale to splurge on now

Originally written by Alexis Buxton-Collins with updates by Megan Arkinstall

From secluded hilltop retreats to off-grid cabins and a beautifully restored mill, these are the most luxurious places to stay in McLaren Vale.

Wedged between lush rolling hills and the sparkling blue sea, McLaren Vale is Australia’s most naturally beautiful wine region. It’s the kind of place that begs you to toast the sunset after a day spent touring the local wineries and restaurants, and the best spot to do that is at one of the opulent retreats dotted around the idyllic valley.

Whether you’re dreaming of sinking into an outdoor bath while enjoying expansive hilltop views or going off-grid and immersing yourself in the bush, these McLaren Vale luxury accommodation options will make you wish you could stay just a few more days.

1. Beresford Estate Suites and Villas

lush greenery surrounding Beresford Estate Suites and Villas

The shiraz-lined Beresford Estate boasts bucolic views. (Image: Supplied)

Nestled among 28 hectares of vines, this collection of suites and villas on Beresford Estate combines bucolic views, luxury and cosiness. Lining the 35-year-old shiraz vines, the studio plan Reserve Suites are comfortable and elegantly appointed, featuring kitchenettes, lounge areas, spacious bathrooms stocked with Australian-made products, a plush queen bed and a private deck overlooking the vines.

The Grand Reserve Suites are slightly larger, with a private bedroom, bathtub and an outdoor area with a plunge pool with sweeping vineyard views. The Shiraz Villa is another studio suite with a four-poster bed for a romantic vibe, while the Grenache Villa is housed in a historic 19th-century cottage and can sleep six – perfect for a group of friends. Guests receive a tasty selection of breakfast provisions to enjoy each morning.

While the accommodation is near some excellent wineries and dining options, you can meander to the sleek onsite Vale Restaurant, which doubles as a microbrewery. Or spend an afternoon in the Tasting Room with a cheese platter and some award-winning Beresford Estate wines, inside by the fireplace or on the deck in the sunshine.

Address: 252 Blewitt Springs Rd, McLaren Flat

2. Rare Earth Retreats

an outdoor tub at Rare Earth Retreats, McLaren Vale

Relax in the outdoor tub while admiring vineyard views. (Image: Supplied)

Opened in November 2024, Rare Earth Retreats is McLaren Vale’s newest stay, offering a luxury, off-grid experience with an exceptionally chic design. Each of the three retreats is inspired by the elements of stone, clay and slate and powered entirely by the sun, fed completely by rainwater and celebrates local craftsmanship. The South Australian artists from creative hub JamFactory designed and crafted the exclusive pieces to fit within these spaces.

The retreats are each fitted with a king bed, kitchen and spacious bathroom, indoor and outdoor fireplace, outdoor bath, and private decks with sweeping views of McLaren Vale. Breakfast provisions are included, with in-house massages, facials and private yoga classes are also available.

Address: 23 Coppermine Rd, McLaren Vale

3. Hillenvale

a look inside the living room at Hillenvale, Kangarilla

Relax in this cosy and sleek stone cottage. (Image: Jonathan van der Knaap)

At the junction of Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale, this rugged and secluded property is home to a charming stone cottage that makes for a cosy couple’s retreat. Set on a hillside, with views of the surrounding landscape where kangaroos and sheep roam freely, you’ll feel as though you’ve truly escaped to the country. The cottage features a full ‘country kitchen’, lounge, fireplace and outdoor deck, and is styled in a calming neutral palette with exquisite furnishings.

Also on the property, a vine-covered 1859-built homestead is undergoing a meticulous restoration and will be available to book soon. The homestead boasts five bedrooms, a kitchen and dining room, a lounge, a study and a wine cellar, so will be an idyllic stay for families and groups.

Address: 194 Cut Hill Rd, Kangarilla

4. Shadow Creek

the living room interior of Shadow Creek, McLaren Vale

The eight-hectare Shadow Creek property is perfect for families. (Image: Sabine Verhack Photography)

In the heart of McLaren Vale, this stay is perched on a crest of the eight-hectare Shadow Creek vineyard property. From every window, you’ll spy vineyards, rolling hills and even ocean views but not another soul – because you’re the only guests.

The two-person suite has a king bed, a double shower and a deep soaking bath, a living area with a double fireplace, a full kitchen and a deck with a barbecue, from where you can take in those vistas. Guests receive a delicious grazing plate filled with local goodies.

The winery’s cellar door is set to open early 2025 and is nestled among gums on Turraparri Creek, which runs through the property. Guests can visit for a tasting, arrange a massage on the deck, have a gourmet picnic in the vineyard or be whisked away by helicopter to lunch somewhere in the Vale.

Address: Cnr Edwards Rd and Jackson Hill Rd, McLaren Vale

5. The Vineyard Retreat

the exterior lounge deck at The Vineyard Retreat in McLaren Vale

Spend your next luxury escape in The Vineyard Retreat.

The Vineyard McLaren Vale is a six-hectare working vineyard with six accommodation options to stay in, each with its own unique character.

There are two chic tiny homes set on the edge of the shiraz block, with a studio layout featuring a king bed, wood fireplace and underfloor heating. And four luxuriously appointed guesthouses, including The Ardmore which sleeps two people and has views out to the Chapel Hill ridgeline, and The Highland which sleeps four in two bedrooms and boasts a wraparound balcony.

All stays include a complimentary mini-bar and breakfast provisions. There is also a range of experiences to book through The Vineyard including a scenic helicopter flight with lunch and a guided wine and gourmet tour of McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills.

Address: 165 Whitings Rd, Blewitt Springs

6. Vale194

Retreat into this rustic abode. (Image: Harry Vick)

Smack bang in the heart of McLaren Vale, on Main Street, these five self-contained cottages ooze charm with a bluestone exterior but are ultra-modern inside. Behind a rustic wooden gate, the two-storey, three-bedroom stays boast spacious kitchens, dining and lounge areas, and full laundries. They have heated floors for the cooler months and cute outdoor courtyards with barbecues for warm evenings.

An ideal option for families or groups of friends, Vale194 is within walking distance of the town’s restaurants and wine bars, and next to the entrance of the Shiraz Trail, a flat bike path that runs from McLaren Vale to Willunga, connecting cellar doors.

Address: 1-5/194 Main Rd McLaren Vale

7. Weemilah Luxury Retreat

Perched 200 metres above the valley floor at the southern end of the Vale, this off-grid sanctuary looks out over the entire region. The large open plan living area has slate floors, a wood-burning stove and floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise the views, while the two king bedrooms each have an en suite and private deck so you can enjoy the surrounds in solitude.

There’s plenty of wildlife on the 52-acre property thanks to 15000 native trees and shrubs, and the epic views get even better when seen through a curtain of mist rising from the deep outdoor soaking tub or on a helicopter tour led by one of the property’s owners, who can drop you off for lunch at one of McLaren Vale’s best restaurants.

Address: 187 Delabole Rd, Willunga

8. Hotel California Road

Huge bath looking out a large glass window at Hotel California Road in McLaren Vale.

Relax in the freestanding bath with a glass of vino. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Josie Withers)

From the outside, this luxurious micro-hotel looks like a chaotic Jenga tower made from shipping containers stacked on top of one another, but inside it’s a different story.

Each of the three 50 square metre king suites is immaculately appointed with a futuristic floating king bed, a soaking tub (with a wine glass holder) flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows and a large deck just metres from the vines.

The adults-only policy makes it the perfect spot for a relaxing escape and if you don’t feel like driving to the local wineries, the Inkwell cellar door is directly above the suites so it’s easy to wander back after a leisurely tasting and raid the well-stocked minibar.

Address: 377 California Rd, Tatachilla

9. Ukiyo House

Ukiyo House makes liberal use of natural materials including charred shou sugi ban timber. (Image: Jenah Piwanski)

With a semicircle of limestone cliffs ringing a perfect aquamarine bay and one of McLaren Vale’s best restaurants, Port Willunga is understandably busy in summer. Not that you’d know it if you’re staying at this blissful hideaway just 300 metres away.

The immaculately appointed single-bedroom house is an oasis of tranquillity that makes liberal use of natural materials including charred shou sugi ban timber, rammed earth walls and Venetian plastering.

Kayaks and beach equipment make it easy to explore the beach, but the modern kitchen is equipped with everything down to scales and measuring cups and a welcome pack of local gin, wine, granola and almonds alongside a candle with the retreat’s signature scent (bergamot and pine) mean it’s just as tempting to stay in and relax and enjoy the serenity.

Address: 37 Martin St, Port Willunga

10. CABN X

CABN X is a step up from most of the off-grid offerings around Australia.

Down a dirt road from the Gemtree cellar door on McLaren Vale’s quieter western side, these two cabins are a serious step up from most of the off-grid offerings popping up around the country.

While one is clad in blond timber and the other opts for a darker palette, each has a spacious bedroom, kitchen and bathroom with mirrors that unfrost at the touch of a button, as well as a sauna looking out over the surrounding vineyards.

Even better is the giant outdoor bath that’s roomy enough for two people to sit comfortably while being serenaded by native birds, while the moon window above the bed means you can fall asleep looking up at the stars.

Address: 796 Main Road, McLaren Vale

11. The Old Chaff Mill Retreat

The Old Chaff Mill Retreat in McLaren Vale

The Old Chaff Mill Retreat is truly a place of rest and relaxation. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Old meets new at this lovingly restored 1872 chaff mill on an organic, biodynamic property set amid lush vineyards, and olive and almond groves.

Comprising two buildings, The Granary and The Millery, these two palatial suites (one is 90 square metres, the other 120) are built with thick stone walls and soundproof doors, and packed with antique fittings such as a chandelier made from a two-metre long pine winnower that harks back to the venue’s original use.

Nowadays, it’s well and truly a place of rest and relaxation thanks to features such as loft bedrooms, outdoor baths and record players, as well as an onsite day spa offering a range of treatments.

Address: 371 Plains Rd, Sellicks Hill

12. The Jetty

Interior of The Jetty Port Willunga with water views

The apartments are bathed in light. (Image: The Jetty Port Willunga)

When it comes to beach views, you can’t beat these four waterfront apartments in Port Willunga. Fortunately, it’s easy to share them, thanks to large open-plan dining areas designed for entertaining and downstairs apartments that have two bedrooms each.

Address: 16 Esplanade, Port Willunga

13. Altamira

Altamira is surrounded by grapes and gums.

Surrounded by grapes and gums in the rolling hills near McLaren Vale’s northern border, this spacious property is perfect for larger groups.

Three bedrooms with en suites and a studio apartment with its own kitchen and living area are connected by a spacious shared entertaining area decorated in a sophisticated mid-century style.

Floor-to-ceiling windows maximise views out over the surrounding shiraz vines, but no matter your tipple, the wraparound verandah is the go-to spot for sundowners before heading back inside to tackle one of the many board games supplied by the owners.

Address: 351 Chapel Hill Rd, McLaren Vale

From breathtaking beachside villas to rustic cottages and off-grid glamping, find the best McLaren Vale accommodation option for your next trip.

Visitors to Australia’s most beautiful wine region are spoilt for choice with wineries catering to every imaginable taste and enough breweries, distilleries and fine dining restaurants to keep even the most discerning consumer occupied for weeks. And it’s no surprise that McLaren Vale’s accommodation options are equally diverse.

Whether you want to splurge on a luxury retreat just metres from the beach, lie back and be pampered at a cosy bed and breakfast or check into a good value motel for a budget break, you’ll find plenty of great spots to rest your head. And when you wake up in the morning, you’ll find everything you need right on your doorstep in this compact region.

Luxury accommodation

Opulent reds, mindblowing degustations and sumptuous stays; McLaren Vale knows how to do luxury right.

Ukiyo House

Clean mid-century design meets the laidback vibe of an Aussie beach shack at this immaculately appointed hideaway that incorporates Japanese, Indian and Scandinavian elements. A flourishing garden and well-appointed kitchen make it tempting to spend an entire weekend in, but if you somehow tire of switching between a king bed draped with French flax linens and the wraparound deck, you can stretch your legs on a short stroll to gorgeous Port Willunga beach.

Clean mid-century design meets the laidback vibe of an Aussie beach shack at Ukiyo House. (Image: Jenah Piwanski)

CABN X

You don’t even need to close the doors to shut out the rest of the world at these two off-grid cabins. Flanked by vineyards on three sides (and a seldom-used dirt road on the other), the property is an oasis of calm and the only neighbours you’re likely to see are sheep grazing between the vines and native birds and microbats that have made their homes in nearby trees.

The CABN X pods are the perfect spot to unwind.

That makes it the perfect place to switch off and unwind for a few days – simply soak up the tranquil atmosphere in the outdoor tub or enjoy the views from the glass-fronted sauna, crack open a bottle of sparkling and sink back into the outrageously comfortable bed.

Unwind in your private sauna.

Beresford Estate

The best way to avoid arguments over who’s going to be the designated driver is to make sure you can walk home from your last stop. Fortunately, it’s just a short stroll from this winery’s modern tasting pavilion (which also offers beer and spirits flights) to the 15 luxury suites filled with local artworks.

Book one of Bresford Estate’s Grand Reserve suites and you’ll also get a private plunge pool. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Book one of the Grand Reserve suites and you’ll also get a private plunge pool on a deck that looks up to a hilltop brewery and restaurant, and if you don’t feel like walking all the way up you can always get room service delivered.

Bed down in one of the roomy suites. (Image: Beresford Estate)

Hotels and motels

Whether you need to hire out the whole venue for a family reunion or a single room for a romantic weekend, these comfortable options won’t break the bank.

Serafino

A peaceful onsite lake, enormous lawns and centuries-old gum trees shading the vines make this welcoming winery a popular wedding venue. The 30 rooms include a number of family rooms with a king and two singles, as well as several self-contained units and roomy spa suites. And because it’s located on the edge of McLaren Vale township, you’ll find dozens of wineries, restaurants and bars within a five-minute drive.

McLaren Vale Motel & Apartments

Situated opposite the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre, this spot is the most centrally located accommodation in McLaren Vale and the well-connected staff are almost as knowledgeable as the experts across the road when it comes to recommending local activities. There are a number of drinking and dining options within easy walking distance, and the 44 ground-level rooms include five two-bedroom units as well as several family rooms and studio apartments.

Airbnbs

Your one-stop shop for the most Insta-friendly accommodation in McLaren Vale.

Reef House 1

One of McLaren Vale’s great drawcards is its proximity to both beach and wineries, and this modernist beach house lets you experience the best of both worlds.

This modernist beach house lets you experience the best of both worlds being close to the beach and wineries.

It’s so close to Aldinga Beach that you could throw a line in from the balcony, but just a couple of minutes’ drive from the heart of the Vale.

Views of Aldinga Beach at the Reef House

Soak up the views of Aldinga Beach from your balcony.

The four large bedrooms are perfect for group getaways and the airy open living area and roomy balcony make hosting dinner parties a breeze, while the heated magnesium pool is a drawcard year round.

Soak in the heated magnesium pool.

Marlene

If you’ve ever dreamed of spending a few days in a log cabin, this charming spot filled with timber both inside and out is for you. Simply pop Folklore on repeat and check out the two upper-floor bedrooms that open out onto a deck overlooking the surrounding vineyards (there’s even a telescope if you want to look further afield).

Marlene is a cosy log cabin you must see.

Friendly owners Nicholas and Amanda can help you plan the perfect weekend itinerary, and if you ask nicely you might even get a personal bike tour of the region.

Sage

A soothing neutral colour scheme and warm limestone walls give this renovated two-bedroom cottage a relaxed atmosphere and make it feel like a secluded hideaway, despite the fact that McLaren Vale’s main street is just a few minutes away.

This cottage is incredibly homey and comfortable.

There’s plenty of space for entertaining in the open living area and spacious kitchen filled with timber surfaces, while the outdoor fire pit with redwood benches is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of red after dinner.

Sage is the ideal location for entertaining.

Bed and breakfast

For when you want a truly intimate weekend away.

Karawatha Cottages

Nestled in the shadow of the Mount Lofty Ranges, these delightful cottages have been built with a light touch to emphasise the natural beauty nearby. All three cottages are furnished with a mix of upcycled antiques and fittings built from found timber, and reusable containers for toiletries and provisions help to eliminate single-use plastic (the generous breakfast hamper includes organic jam made from the onsite orchard).

Karawatha Cottages has three cellar doors within 500 metres. (Image: Karawatha Cottages)

But perhaps the biggest drawcard is its proximity to local wineries – you can walk to three cellar doors within 500 metres, and several longer trails connect additional wineries and restaurants into an all-day itinerary.

Peppercorns

There’s no shortage of green spaces to disappear into at this cute little cottage surrounded by well-tended gardens, and if you want to venture further afield you’ll find plenty of spots to walk, cycle or even paddle a canoe nearby. Of course, any action-packed day should start with a good feed, so make sure to take advantage of the full English breakfast provided in the light-filled conservatory each morning.

There’s no shortage of green spaces to disappear into at this cute little cottage.

Wine & Roses

The four comfortable options here come in two distinct styles; the self-contained Cottage and Studio suites both sport handmade four-poster beds, while The Retreat and Contemporary suites have a decidedly more modern look. But they all have crackling open fireplaces and roomy two-person baths that beg to be used. The supplied decanter of port makes both options even more inviting, and the provisions also include well-stocked hampers for cooked or continental breakfasts and a bottle of local wine.

Glamping and camping

Unplug and check in to tent life for a few days.

Antenly

If you’re looking for off-grid accommodation in McLaren Vale, these safari-style tents are your best bet. Intimate enough for a romantic getaway, each tent includes a sofa and minibar (with a complimentary bottle of wine), while the spacious outdoor deck means there’s still plenty of room to spread out if you need a little alone time.

Glamping in the vines

Set on a quiet dead-end road with no traffic, these five-metre-tall canvas bell tents present McLaren Vale at its rural best. The secluded location makes it easy to greet the day by listening to birdsong from the comfortable queen bed and bid it farewell from a picnic rug as you watch the setting sun light the sky on fire. And when it gets dark, simply pull up a seat by the fire pit and lose count of the myriad stars glittering in the night sky.

Pink Gum Campground

Set in dappled pink gum woodland near the impressive gorge carved by the Onkaparinga River, this bush campsite consists of eleven cleared sites with plenty of room to set your tents up beside the car. A network of trails wanders from the camp out through open forest and down into the gorge; keep your eyes open and you might spot kangaroos, koalas, echidnas or even bandicoots, especially in the early morning.