Weekend wine down
The sun’s a little warmer, the leaves are a littler greener and a spring mini-break beckons – ’tis the season, after all. Hit the road for the weekend and taste a little more of South Australia with our three wine getaway guides.
There’s a new energy that comes with spring. You can feel it in the air and see it in the garden. If you’re like us, you might also get inspired to hit the road and explore somewhere new.
To celebrate 2021 being the Year of South Australian Wine, we’ve listed three of our top spots to take your four wheels (and 10,000 taste buds) for a weekend adventure combined with a stellar local drop.
Since road trip companions might include furry friends, little ones, grandparents and – most importantly – a designated driver, we’ve included a range of activities for everyone.
Riverland
The Riverland is the country’s largest wine-producing region, boasting about 21,000 hectares of vineyards, and a third of the crush produced nationally. Hats off to you Riverland, and your 1000 hard working growers.
Nowadays, it’s popular with all sorts of visitors, from foodies and wine aficionados to thrill-seekers, making the most of the fun to be had on the water and surrounds.
Float along the river and take it easy with the family, let the kids run amok with water activities or stick to land and sip a local vino or beer.
Wilkadene Cottage
It can be hard to find accommodation to suit your whole travelling tribe, but Wilkadene Cottage fits the bill. The historic cottage is full of character, surrounded by nothing but nature.
Conveniently, it’s just a hop, skip and a jump from Woolshed Brewery – one of the Riverland’s must-visit destinations.
It’s also only 15 minutes from Renmark, and a short stroll to the riverbank for water-lovers. You can have a hit of tennis on the property’s court and bring your furry friends with you, as these guys are pet friendly.
Kayaks and fishing gear are available to hire, should you wish to take to the water or sink a line. Book online.
Pike River Luxury Villas
Looking for a little opulence on your weekend away? With one and two-bedroom options, Pike River Luxury Villas are great options for a romantic escape with your loved one, or a weekend away with friends. Two of their villas can even be connected by a shared deck, so you and seven mates or family members can enjoy a riverside retreat.
With speccy views everywhere you look, and luxe facilities the likes of in-deck spas, you might not want to leave the comfort of your accommodation.
Rivergum Cruises Sunset Cruise
If you haven’t booked a houseboat to call home for the weekend, you can still make the most of the sunset from the calm waters of the Murray thanks to Rivergum Cruises.
This two-hour voyage is a holiday snappers delight, so have the digital camera at the ready as you glide along while the sun says good night.
There’s even a bar on board so you can indulge in a nightcap.
919 Wines
Self-confessed lovers of “good boys and girls on a leash”, the folks at 919 welcome all kinds of visitors, including furry family members. Stop by their quaint cellar door or outside tasting space for a sip of their local wines and fortifieds.
They welcome picnics, and they often host food pop-up events. Make sure to check what’s on offer before you visit so you don’t miss a special event.
Langhorne Creek
Just under an hour’s drive from its sister southern wine region, McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek is one of the country’s oldest wine regions, stretching between the Adelaide Hills and Lake Alexandrina.
While the area produces a range of red and white wines, Langhorne Creek is best known for its cabernet sauvignon.
Wander the small township, travel to nearby Strathalbyn to rummage through their popular antique shops, then make your way to a winery (or three).