1. Visit wineries and cellar doors
The Barossa and Clare Valleys are most well-known for their wines. There are over 100 cellar doors between the two valleys that are open for tastings and tours. You can find some of Australia’s most famous wineries here, such as Jacob’s Creek, Wolf Blass, Penfolds, Seppeltsfield and Sevenhill Cellars. Most people spend their time bouncing between cellar doors enjoying the different varieties of the region.
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2. Sample boutique beer and cider
Despite the region being most famous for its world-class wine, the beer and cider scene is fast becoming more widely known. There are local craft breweries that you can visit for a tasting such as Clare Valley Brewing Co., Barossa Valley Brewing, the Burra Scrumpy Cumpany and Pikes Beer Company.
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3. Enjoy local produce
Both Barossa and Clare Valley are booming foodie destinations. You can find a variety of local produce such as cheese, artisan bread and homemade condiments and preserves. Apex Bakery in Tanunda is where you can find some of the best wood oven bread, while the Barossa Valley Cheese Company is perfect for some dairy goodness. Or you can simply head to Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, a one-stop-shop for all local produce in Barossa.
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4. Pamper yourself
Barossa Valley is all about luxury and pampering. There are a number of high-class spa retreats amongst the vineyards for a relaxing getaway. Endota Spa, Jacobs Creek Retreat, and Blickinstal Retreat are some of the most highly rated and luxurious retreats to spend a day. If you want to indulge in a little self-care without the luxe price tag, head to Vasse Virgin for some beautiful olive oil skincare products or Lyndoch Lavender Farm for some lavender-infused products.
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5. Enjoy some fine dining
While you probably watch your pennies when it comes to eating out during your Big Lap, the fine fare here might just cause you to splurge. The region is characterised by high-quality culinary experiences. Whether you opt for small bites at a cellar door or a romantic dinner at a restaurant in town, you’ll find something to suit you. Some of the best include, 1918 Bistro and Grill, El Estanco and Appellation Restaurant at The Louise. For a special occasion or treat, they won’t disappoint.
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6. Admire old heritage buildings
Many of the small towns in Clare and Barossa Valley are characterised by old stone structures and heritage-listed colonial-era buildings. Mintaro in Clare Valley was the first entire town to be listed as a State Heritage Area in South Australia, while Greenock in Barossa has incredible German influences in the old architecture of the small town.
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7. Enjoy the view from a hot air balloon
By far one of the best experiences in the region is a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the vineyards. The experience is most popular in the Barossa Valley, which offers a completely different perspective of the stunning wine region and surrounding rolling hills.
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8. Embrace The Art Scene
This region is a rich cultural landscape of art galleries, exhibitions and street art. Head down the main street of Nuripoota to stroll past the various murals, check out the Kapunda Artists’ Trail or take the Clare Valley Art Trail.
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9. Pack a Picnic
This is one of Australia’s best regions for packing a picnic and enjoying the beautiful scenery while you eat lunch or afternoon tea. Many of the parks are picnic perfect but it’s the vineyards which offer the most unique experience. Some of the wineries offer picnic basket hampers if you don’t want to pack your own. Try Seppeltsfield Picnic Grounds, Peter Lehmann Wines, Two Hands Wines, Gibson Wines, Hill River Clare Estate or the DIY picnic basket experience at David Franz Cellar Door.
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