At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
In the rolling hills, an hour and a half from Adelaide, a food and wine paradise awaits you. The Barossa Valley is known as Australia's wine mecca with some of the oldest vineyards in the country. In fact, 20% of all Australian wines are produced here. With picturesque backdrops everywhere you look, it’s no wonder that this valley is a prime holiday destination.
Where should you visit in the Barossa Valley?
Welcome to the Barossa Valley wine region
Approximately 65 kilometres northeast of Adelaide, you will reach the stunning wine region of Barossa Valley. This world-renowned gourmet destination was originally founded by German immigrants in 1842. Therefore, the German influence is evident throughout the wines found here. With over 150 wineries, this part of Australia is bursting with gastronomic delights.
Taste the local speciality
Sampling Shiraz, the local speciality of the Barossa is a must-do during your visit. Dine in one of the award-winning restaurants, go winery hopping and learn about the process of winemaking. Cycle around the fruitful vines or pop by the local farmer's market for some fresh locally grown produce.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit this stunning part of South Australia is during Autumn. This is between March and May and is also during harvest. The colours during this time are spectacular and well worth the visit. Temperatures during this period are generally mild and sunny with cool nights. Ideal for enjoying everything on offer in the beautiful Barossa.
The best wineries and cellar doors
Home to some of the most successful wine brands in Australia, the Barossa has over 150 vineyards and 80 cellar doors to discover. Here, you will find top-class names such as Jacob’s Creek, Wolf Blass, Henschke, Yalumba and Penfold.
Treat your senses to a winery tour
Château Tanunda is an internationally acclaimed winery and one of the most recognisable buildings in Australia. After construction in 1890, it was the biggest building in South Australia and the largest winery in the Southern Hemisphere. Know as the icon of the Barossa, the winery and vineyards are a reminder of the colourful history and spirit of Australia’s most famous wine region.
Discover a historic winery estate
Take a drive along the palm-lines street of Seppeltsfield Road and you will find the bluestone winery of Seppeltsfield. Fino, the onsite restaurant offers progressive regional dining in South Australia and is sure to be an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy the outdoors and savour local ingredients paired with a glass of locally-produced wine on the European-inspired garden terrace.
Would you like to learn more about Australia?
Join one of our live and informative presentations, hosted by one of our travel specialists. And find out how to travel to Australia in a uniquely local way. There are also plenty of opportunities to ask questions!
Register for an online presentationShiraz
The Barossa Valley is recognised worldwide for being one of the best regions for Shiraz than anywhere else. However, this beautiful region is also known for producing quality Cabernet and Grenache.
Variations vary but the Barossa Shiraz is usually recognised as being a full-bodied wine with beautifully ripe and dark fruit flavours. Finished off with wonderfully balanced acidity, it is truly the star of the Barossa. It is among the world’s most recognisable and celebrated Shiraz with richly textured and savoury notes of spice.
The world’s best Shiraz
Torbreck is one of Barossa's most celebrated wineries, which celebrates the Woodcutter's Shiraz. Filled with fresh and bright fruits, it brings opulence and class to the wine. At the London Wine Competition in 2019, the Wild Witch Shiraz from Kellermeister Wines’ 2015 vintage was awarded the World’s Best Shiraz.
Things to see and do
Undoubtedly, there is much more to the Barossa Valley than wine. Stop by the Barossa Reservoir Park and admire a man-made wonder, the Whispering Wall. If you try and whisper, see if it can be heard on the other side. If you're lucky, you may also encounter unique Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas and an assortment of birds.
Get a birds-eye view over the fruitful vines in a hot-air balloon. An experience of a lifetime as you watch the sunrise over the vast meadows and rolling hills. Enjoy the views from Mengler Hill Lookout and take a look around Barossa Sculpture Park. Uncover the history of the Herbig Family Tree, a large, hollow red gum tree.
A region full of Australian gastronomic delights
A visit to The Barossa Valley Chocolate Company is a must-do for all chocoholics. The famous Australian chef and icon, Maggie Beer also has a farm shop in the Barossa. Here, you can find a wide range of delicious products. Every Saturday morning, you can pop by the Barossa Farmers market. Based in the historic Yalumba Vintners shed, the market is oozing with a distinctly German vibe. Enjoy artisan bread, German deli-style meats, food and coffee and meet the producers behind the food.
Towns of the Barossa
Lyndoch
Lyndoch is a town at the southern end of the Barossa Valley which exists primarily as an access point to the many surrounding vineyards. It is also part of Adelaide's increasing commuter belt. Lyndoch's main street is typical of a vineyard tourist destination with unusual shops, a traditional German bakery and cafes serving good coffee and local produce. The district is known as ‘The cool end of the Barossa’.
Tanunda
Tanunda lies at the heart of the Barossa Valley. It is a large, attractive and historic rural settlement with leafy streets, cafes, and restaurants. No matter which way you look there is a vineyard at the end of the street. There are plenty of fun activities for the family to do, including bowling and mini golf at Barossa Bowland, or a visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company.
Nuriootpa
The historic town of Nuriootpa is recognised as the business and commercial heart of the Barossa Valley. It is the tourist and service centre of the Barossa and home to the world-famous Wolf Blass and Penfold’s wineries.
Angaston
Angaston is the perfect place to get a real taste of the Barossa. Brimming with vibrant markets, cafes and restaurants and bordered by some of the region’s best wineries, including Yalumba. Head to The Barossa Valley Cheese Company, the perfect accompaniment to wine. On Saturdays, this is where the popular Barossa Farmers Market takes place.
Marananga
As you approach the town, the sign ‘Marananga – Slow Down’ offers both an instruction and an invitation. Surrender to a slower pace, embrace the luxury of time and space and re-connect with each other over the simple pleasures of amazing wine and food.
The Louise
For an extraordinary regional dining experience, head to the Appellation at The Louise, recognised as world-class dining in South Australia. 85% of the menu comes from within the Barossa Valley, so it is all about fresh ingredients. Devour thoughtfully curated dishes paired with boutique local wines while you watch the sunset over the surrounding vineyard. To top it all off, stay overnight in the luxury lodge which has all the ingredients to leave you rejuvenated.
Where to stay?
Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in the Barossa Valley and beyond. Your travel specialist will match you up with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.
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Why book with us?
- A well-designed holiday, just for you
- Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts
- Carefully recommended activities based on your interests
- A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
- Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
- 30 years of experience in travel to Australia
Let's design your holiday together
We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.
Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 9am until 6pm. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.