A road trip to the Barossa Valley is something we at Vitora think that everyone with a love for Australia’s great outdoors combined with a passion for wine and fresh produce should do… at least once in a LifeTime!
Whether you’re a day- or weekend-tripper from Adelaide, or you’re coming from further afield, the Barossa is an adventure waiting to happen. Offering exquisite scenery, breathtaking landscapes and rolling hills ready to be explored, the Barossa is of course ultra-renowned for its vineyards and abundance of cellar doors, wonderful restaurants, organic produce and accommodation for every budget. So, if you’re with us – pump up those Vitora’s and get set for an incredible ride!
Some basic directions
Only 70km north-east of Adelaide, the road trip to Tanunda in the heart of the Barossa is a breeze, typically taking about an hour (or thereabouts, depending on the traffic) via the National Highway (M20). You will definitely need to factor in some driving and km’s between wineries and other landmarks and other hubs – which are all part of the “must-do” Barossa experience. The Barossa towns of Nuriootpa and Angaston are within easy reach of Tanunda via the Barossa Valley Way.
What is there to do once we get there?
So much to do, so little time! We’d definitely suggest making a weekend of it (or more!) if you can, to really allow yourself to soak up the Barossa spirt and everything else that makes it one of Australia’s best-loved destinations. Here are a few pointers to get you started in mapping out your itinerary:
Vineyards and cellar doors: With a multitude of wineries and 80-plus cellar doors – including well-known names such as Jacobs Creek, St Hallett’s, Penfolds, Yalumba, Wolf Blass just for starters – the real question is how many can you fit into one day or weekend? If you want to stay on after a wine-tasting, many wineries have superb restaurants and eateries on site where you can kick back and enjoy some of Barossa’s fresh produce – often set amongst the vineyards allowing you to make the most of some truly amazing views! And an important reminder: if you’re enjoying the wine, make sure you have a designated non-drinking driver!
Barossa Farmers Market: Held on Saturdays from 7.30 – 11.30am, this famous market can be found in in Vintners Sheds, Angaston. It’s the “go to” place for the freshest Barossa fruit, vegetables, meat, freshly baked speciality breads and pastries and more.
Jam Factory: An artists’ studio and gallery within the Seppeltsfield estate – Jam Factory is a centre of art activity and showcases both local and international exhibitions.
Corrobboree Dream Art Gallery: Situated in Tanunda, this gallery houses authentic Aboriginal works of fine art for viewing and purchase.
Barossa Valley Brewing: So wine isn’t everyone’s cup of tea – which is ok in the Barossa because there are other options! Barossa Valley Brewing in Tanunda is one such pretty amazing place, with craft beers and ciders brewed on site. Cheers!
Barossa Valley Cheese Company: Experience delicious artisan cheese from this “cheesecellar” in Angaston – where you can sample, buy, eat or just look and appreciate these tasty works of art.
Maggie Beer Farm Shop: A trip to the Barossa really isn’t complete without a visit to the iconic Maggie Beer Farm shop in Nuriootpa. With plenty to taste and daily cooking demonstrations on site (and even a “Gin School” – but you may need to book for this) – this experience is something not to be missed!
Mengler Hill Lookout and Sculpture Park: A great vantage point to take in some remarkable Barossa views and intriguing sculptures by local artists. Take a deep breath and enjoy!
Walking Tours and Hiking Trails: As you’d expect with so much wide-open space and beautiful scenery, there are a number of walking tours and hiking trails to be explored including the Barossa Cultural Walking Tour (run from Krondorf Creek Farm), Angaston Heritage Walk, and Barossa Goldfields Walking Trail — just to name a few.
What about accommodation?
From self-catering cottages and hotels to boutique guesthouses, country houses and vineyard stays, the Barossa has it all. If camping or caravanning is more your thing – there are holiday parks and powered and unpowered sites. Unless your trip is very spontaneous, we’ d suggest you book ahead!
Anything else I need to know?
Wine, culture, fresh produce and the chance to get away from it all… the Barossa is a valley like no other. It has a Mediterranean climate (dry summers and cool, wet winters) – and is a great place to visit year-round (make the most of seasonal produce while you’re there). The bottom line is that this is a Trip of a LifeTime that’s really close to home – but the truth is you can’t do it anywhere else in the world!
Well, that about wraps things up for this trip from us at Team Vitora. Don’t forget to check those tyres while they’re cool, before you set off and safe travels!
