McLaren Vale Brewery & Distillery Trail

Once you’ve visited McLaren Vale’s wineries, spend a little time discovering the growing craft beer and spirits scene.

Any winemaker worth their salt will tell you that it takes a lot of great beer to make great wine, and these days it takes a few gins as well. Follow this trail and you’ll discover a growing number of distilleries and breweries in McLaren Vale that cater to locals and visitors alike with carefully crafted beverages designed to be sipped and savoured.

McLaren Vale breweries

Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun with an easy-drinking session ale or curl up by the fire with a toasty stout, you’ll find a McLaren Vale brewery that caters to every taste.

Vale Brewing

It took almost fifteen years for Vale Brewing to find a permanent home in the Vale, but the sleek new hilltop taphouse looking out over acres of vines and bushland was worth the wait.

The bar has fourteen taps pouring sessionable Vale ales alongside bolder offerings from the Fox Hat sister brewery, while an onsite microbrewery produces taphouse exclusives like the thirst-quenching margarita sour. The generous 170 ml tasting paddles allow you to really get a sense of the beers, which the in-house chefs also use in dishes like the dense Vale IPA country loaf.

Goodieson

Traditional old-world beer styles are the order of the day at this OG McLaren Vale brewery, which sits next to a pretty creek on the valley floor. The well-shaded deck is a peaceful spot to contemplate life over one of Jeff Goodieson’s brews, which scale back the hops in favour of malt-driven flavour profiles and crisp, clean finishes.

two people clinking their glasses filled with cold brew

Cheers to some of their excellent brews. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

And like many of the region’s best restaurants, Goodieson employs a distinctly seasonal approach that augments the core range with limited edition offerings like a spiced Christmas ale, floral Maibock and tart raspberry sour.

Goodieson Brewery upholds local brewing traditions. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

Swell

Easy-drinking beers and screens showing big wave surfing make it feel like summer year-round at this cavernous two-storey shed in the heart of wine country. The enormous lawns out front mean there’s plenty of room for the kids to blow off steam, or you can sit inside and watch the team hard at work in the onsite brewery.

Sixteen taps pour everything from hazy IPAs to dangerously boozy barrel-aged stouts, and the occasional weekend brewery tours let you see how they’re made before tucking into a menu of pub grub with a surprisingly good vegetarian selection.

the lush greenery outside Swell Brewing Co. Taphouse & Brewery vineyard

Pop into their beautifully landscaped vineyard. (Image: Isaac Forman)

Kick Back

Generations of Adelaideans have grown up holidaying in the relaxed seaside town of Aldinga and this brewery channels the vibe of those lazy beach days perfectly.

a bartender squeezing citrus fruit into a cold brew

Savour the citrusy goodness of their cold brews.

Sixteen taps provide plenty of room for house brews like the juicy Welcome Stranger hazy and Mid Coast session IPA alongside favourites from other local breweries, and the kitchen turns regional produce into pub classics, colourful bowls and seafood plates. But the main attraction here is the dog- and kid-friendly beer garden that’s bathed in sunlight and regularly hosts local musos.

a bartender filling two glasses with tap beer

Tap cool booze for quick buzz.

Shifty Lizard

If you’re flat out like a lizard drinking and trying to fit in everything there is to do in the Vale, this relaxed brewstillery in a former butcher’s shop on Willunga’s main street offers an easy two-for-one.

On the beer side, IPAs reign supreme and even the signature Stouty McStoutFace stout has a liberal dose of hops to balance out the chocolatey roasted flavours, while the gins run the spectrum from classic London Dry to more floral offerings that showcase native botanicals.

a hand of the bartender tapping a cold beer in glass

Choose from the cold beer on tap. (Image: Shifty Lizard Brewing Co.)

Distilleries in McLaren Vale

From world-beating gin to single malt whiskey, these McLaren Vale distilleries are sure to lift your spirits.

Never Never Distilling Co.

The spectacular views from this hilltop distillery bring the crowds in on weekends, but it’s the immaculately crafted gins that keep them there.

Taste some of their best wines while overlooking the scenic brewery trail. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

A long list of accolades including Global Distiller of The Year, Champion Australian Distillery and World’s Best London Dry Gin are proof they know what they’re doing, and the seriously refined cocktails are every bit as impressive as the tasting flights.

a wide selection of wines at Never Never Distilling Co.

Pick from their wide selection of wines. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Take a tour if you want to learn more about the three distillation processes used in the signature Triple Juniper Gin, or make a day of it by visiting the adjoining cellar door and Roman-style street food vendor.

two people sharing salami pinsa and drinks on the table at Never Never Distilling Co.

Grab a bite of salami pinsa to pair with your drinks. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Settlers Spirits

With a dozen varieties running the gamut from a racy orange and chilli number to citrus-forward yuzu and tea-infused breakfast gin, this boutique distillery has the most expansive gin tasting in McLaren Vale.

The local gin specialists at Settlers Spirits meticulously follow a high-quality brewing process. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

The light-filled bar offers four themed tasting flights that cater to just about every taste imaginable, but if you can’t find what you want on pour you can always sign up to become a distiller for the day and create your own personal blend of botanicals to take home.

a guy holding a bottle of gin from Settlers Spirits

Don’t forget to bring home a bottle of Shiraz gin. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

Penny’s Hill

CBD distillery Prohibition’s first regional offshoot is merely the first part of an ambitious plan to turn the Penny’s Hill winery into a multifaceted tourism complex with food, drinks and even a petting zoo.

For now, the weekends-only tasting room in a restored 1855 coach house offers flights of Prohibition and McLaren Vale gin labels Mad Men and Vimy alongside cheese platters that feature a cheddar infused with Prohibition gin, but regular special events like gin and yoga days give a glimpse of what the future might hold.

McLaren Vale Distillery

With a name like Jock Harvey, it’s no surprise the McLaren Vale Distillery owner has some Scottish heritage. Fortunately for him, the ocean breezes blowing through this premium winemaking region also happen to be perfect for whisky production.

a close-up shot of MV Distillery brew amidst the vineyard backdrop

The McLaren Vale Distillery is known for crafting their own local brews and spirits. (Image: Jack Fenby)

His elegant small-batch single malts reflect serious attention to detail – most releases specify the style of wine used to season the barrel as well as the winery it came from – and he can even point out some of those collaborators between the fields of grape and grain flanking the distillery door.

a bottle of McLaren Vale whiskey with a wine glass on the side

The MVD whiskey is a must-try. (Image: Jack Fenby)

Want to beat a hangover? Check out our top Mclaren Vale cafes for breakfast and brunch.

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

A brewery and distillery trail through McLaren Vale