For visitors to South Australia, a road trip from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island via the McLaren Vale wine region is an experience that is not to be missed.
Less than an hour from Adelaide, the McLaren Vale wine region features vineyards stretching out like patchworks across rolling hills. Its many wineries beckon you to explore them before heading to the open spaces, pristine environment, nature, and artisan producers of Kangaroo Island.
We are lucky to call both regions home, with our Battle of Bosworth winery in McLaren Vale and Springs Road Wines on stunning Kangaroo Island.
We’ve crafted this itinerary for wine and nature lovers, including our favourite things to do in both regions. It’s perfect for those eager to experience the rich wine heritage of McLaren Vale and the captivating beauty of Kangaroo Island. Spend four days filled with vineyard tours, tastings, and unforgettable sights.
Day 1: Adelaide to McLaren Vale
Morning:
Start your journey from Adelaide, a mere 40-minute drive to McLaren Vale. Begin your day with a breakfast in our neighbourhood of Willunga at one of our favourite cafes, like The Green Room. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, a stop at the Willunga Farmers Market is a must-do.
After breakfast, take a tour of Willunga’s cellar doors. An experience with us at Battle of Bosworth goes without saying; then stop at our neighbour Down The Rabbit Hole before heading just a few minutes away to McLaren Vale.
Lunch:
Indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of McLaren Vale’s fabulous winery restaurants. The Salopian Inn and The Currant Shed are two of our favourites.
Afternoon:
Explore the McLaren Vale wine trail. If you’re a Shiraz fan, take the McLaren Vale Shiraz trail on foot or by bike. If you lean towards certified organic wines like ours, visit Gemtree, Yangarra and Paxton Wines to learn about sustainable viticulture practices and taste unique blends that reflect the terroir. Or explore the region’s smaller boutique wineries like, Bekkers Wine or Berg Herring.
Evening:
Retreat to your chosen accommodation in McLaren Vale. For a true wine country experience, consider staying at a vineyard retreat or a cozy bed and breakfast.
Day 2: Discover the tastes of Kangaroo Island
Morning:
Depart McLaren Vale and head to Cape Jervis for the ferry crossing to Kangaroo Island. Enjoy the scenic journey across the Backstairs Passage, watching for dolphins or even the odd whale in winter.
Midday:
Arrive on Kangaroo Island, pick up a coffee at a café in Penneshaw, then head towards Pennington Bay, one of the Island’s most beautiful beaches, before challenging yourself with the 500-stair Prospect Hill, where you can get spectacular 360-degree views of the Island. Head into American River to sample oysters fresh from the sea at KI Oysters or dine poolside overlooking the peaceful bay at Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge.
Afternoon:
Get your holiday off to a delicious start with an afternoon wandering the Cygnet River Cellar Door trail, which includes our cellar door, Springs Road Wines, Kangaroo Island Spirits for award-winning gins, our neighbours The Islander Estate Vineyards, and a unique sheep-to-garment experience at Kangaroo Island Wool. Pick up your favourite wines and local produce as you go.
Evening:
Spend the evening relaxing with your supplies by the fire or watching the sunset on the deck.
Day 3: Kangaroo Island Wildlife experience.
Morning:
Delve into Kangaroo Island’s unique attractions with a visit to the South Coast. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park to witness sea lions in their natural habitat. Stop at Raptor Domain to attend one of their fantastic bird shows and hear about their conservation efforts.
Lunch:
Head along the South Coast, stopping at Vivonne Bay (voted the most beautiful beach in Australia) and stopping for a famous Whiting Burger at the Vivonne Bay Store.
Afternoon:
After lunch, set off for iconic west-end attractions such as Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch. Stretch your legs with one of the many walks on offer in Flinders Chase National Park. If you have the time, head north & return to Kingscote via Kangaroo Island’s northern beaches, including Western River Cover, Snellings Beach & the famous Stokes Bay.
Evening:
Dine in one of the many restaurants featuring Kangaroo Island’s local produce and wine. If you are in the mood for something spectacular, we recommend The Enchanted Fig Tree (Snellings Beach), or Sunset Food & Wine (Dudley Peninsula), check websites for seasonal opening times.
Day 4: Farewell Kangaroo Island
Morning:
Before departing Kangaroo Island, savour your final moments with a sunrise stroll on the beach and breakfast at a local café (Emu Bay Lavender is a great breakfast spot after a walk on Emu Bay beach).
Midday:
Catch the ferry back to Cape Jervis and drive back to Adelaide. Reflect on your wine adventure through McLaren Vale and Kangaroo Island, filled with great wines, spectacular scenery, and unforgettable experiences.