Explore McLaren Vale Like a Local

If you’re looking to explore, here are a few of our favourite local spots — from great coffee to cellar doors and everything in between 🍷

(Check-in details will be sent to you tomorrow.)

☕ Cafés & Coffee

• Brace Girdles (McLaren Vale) – Great coffee, decadent desserts, and handmade chocolates.
• The Manna (McLaren Vale) – Relaxed atmosphere and delicious brunch options — try the loaded croissant.
• Golden Fleece (Willunga) – Charming country café vibe — the Fleece Stack with roti is a must-try.

🍽️ Places to Eat

• The Salopian Inn – An intimate dining experience just minutes away from the Villas, featuring exceptional food and an impressive in-house cellar. (Highly recommend the Feed Me option!)
• Vasarelli – Classic Italian dining with generous serves and warm hospitality.
• Pizza Tecca – Wood-fired pizzas and a vibrant outdoor setting.
• Darrys Verandah Restaurant – Fine dining at the famous d’Arenberg Cube — bookings essential.
• Joe’s at Sabella – A new local favourite set in a beautifully restored church. (Locals’ Night Wednesday — free BYO!)
• Langs – Casual Asian fusion with dine-in and takeaway options.
• Prefer a night in? Uber Eats also delivers locally.

🍷 Wineries We Love

With over 100 cellar doors in McLaren Vale, you’ll never run out of options to explore.

• Samuel’s Gorge – Stunning views over the Onkaparinga Gorge and a beautiful range of reds.
• Chapel Hill – Historic 1865 chapel turned cellar door with charming stained-glass windows.
• Coriole – Exceptional wine and friendly service — book ahead as it gets busy.
• Lino Ramble – Boutique cellar door offering small-batch wines with a creative twist.
• Maxwell Wines – Explore the hedge maze, taste mead, and enjoy a unique cellar experience.
• Primo Estate – Italian-inspired wines and award-winning olive oils.
• Alpha Box & Dice – Eclectic Mediterranean wines in a laid-back atmosphere — dogs welcome!

🍺 Breweries (If Wine’s Not Your Thing)

• Swell Brewing Co. – Craft beers and casual bar-style food in a great location close to the wineries.
• Penny Red’s – Relaxed local brewery with wood-fired pizza and Friday night quiz fun.
• Vale Restaurant & Bar – Panoramic views over Blewitt Springs with great beer and modern cuisine.

🌾 Things to Do

• The d’Arenberg Cube – An iconic McLaren Vale landmark that combines art, architecture, and wine tasting.
• Onkaparinga Gorge National Park – Perfect for hikes, picnics, and photo opportunities.
• Willunga Farmers Market – Every Saturday until 12 pm; a local favourite for produce and artisan goods (don’t miss the toasties!).
• Shiraz Trail – Hire e-bikes from the Visitor Centre or SA eBikes and ride through the vines (you might “accidentally” stop at a winery or two).
• Skydive the Vines – Land right in the vines at Richard Hamilton Wines — a personal favourite since I’m an avid skydiver myself!
• Local Beaches – Moana, Port Willunga, and Maslin’s Beach (southern end is clothing-optional 😉).

🍇 Enjoy Exploring!

There’s truly something here for everyone.
If you find a new favourite, we’d love to hear about it for next time ❤️