Nestled in the south of Adelaide on South Australia’s stunning Fleurieu Peninsula, McLaren Vale is worth visiting. If you’re wondering what to do in McLaren Vale, the short answer is: a lot, from sipping world-class wine at the cellar doors to hiking along the rugged coastline. McLaren Vale is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected wine regions, dating back to 1838.
At CABN, we’ve spent years helping guests disconnect from city noise and reconnect with nature in beautifully designed off-grid cabins across South Australia, including in McLaren Vale. We’ve seen firsthand why this region draws artists, foodies, surfers, hikers, and wine enthusiasts from every corner of the world.
From iconically designed McLaren Vale cellar doors to coastal walks with pristine beaches, here’s a guide to fill your itinerary, whether you’re planning what to do in McLaren Vale this weekend, today, or a future escape.
#1. Sip at McLaren Vale cellar doors
No list of what to do in McLaren Vale is complete without mentioning its celebrated cellar doors. The region boasts over 80 cellar doors, each offering something a little different.
Start with Chapel Hill Wine, set in an old stone chapel surrounded by rolling vineyards. Known for its elegant complex reds, it’s a must for anyone who loves a full-bodied Shiraz or expressive Grenache.
Then head over to Primo Estate, where Italian winemaking meets South Australian soil. Their tasting room experience is intimate and always includes a pour of their flagship Joseph wines; try pairing it with their estate-made olive oil.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Blending Bench at d’Arenberg, where you can step into a winemaker’s shoes and craft your own blend. This will go on to be one of those rare experiences you’ll brag about for years.
#2. Taste wine, meet local legends
Beyond the cellar doors, McLaren Vale offers a deeper dive into winemaking culture. You may join small-group wine tastings led by passionate locals who share stories behind each vintage and vineyard.
A highlight is the tasting rooms at Samuel’s Gorge, perched above the Onkaparinga Gorge, with breathtaking views of the rolling hills and rugged coastline beyond.
For a more rustic experience, check out wineries like Battle of Bosworth. They focus on organic farming and have a charming simplicity that lets the wine shine.
#3. Feast at award-winning restaurants
Still wondering what to do in McLaren Vale today beyond just sipping wine? This is for foodies, or those who just need a place to refill after a long day exploring the Fleurieu Peninsula. The region is home to a string of award-winning restaurants.
Maxwell Restaurant, for example, offers a fine-dining experience that showcases regional produce in dishes as fresh as the morning ocean breeze. The Salopian Inn is another option and a favourite among locals and tourists. They’re known for their local, seasonal menus and impressive gin collection (over 200 on the list!).
Don’t skip out on picnics among the vines or coastal seafood shacks. These casual meals often become guests’ favourite memories.
#4. Explore the Fleurieu Peninsula’s great outdoors
When you need a break from the glass (or two) of wine, step into the great outdoors.
The Onkaparinga River National Park is a prime spot for hikers and wildlife watchers. You’ll find rugged cliff trails, river flats, and the occasional kangaroo or echidna if you’re lucky.
Meanwhile, Port Noarlunga, just a short drive away, offers some of South Australia’s most accessible and pristine beaches. You can go snorkelling around the reef or walk along the jetty at sunset for a dose of that famous, breathtaking coastline magic.
If you’re up for more adventure, the pristine coastline of nearby Kangaroo Island is just a ferry ride away, making it easy to add another natural wonder to your itinerary.
#5. Stay off-grid among the rolling vineyards
After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to recharge than at a CABN in McLaren Vale. Located 45 Minutes south (and 42 Kilometres) from Adelaide CBD, our off-grid cabins in McLaren Vale are hidden amongst the rolling vineyards, an actual stone’s throw from cellar doors and trailheads.
Each cabin is designed to blend into the landscape and let you fully disconnect; no noisy neighbours or buzzing city lights, but local wildlife within your view and sometimes at your doorstep. You might hear kookaburras laughing in the morning or spot a koala napping nearby.
With features like outdoor baths, floor-to-ceiling windows framing the views of the Fleurieu Peninsula, and cosy nooks for a late-night glass of wine, CABN lets you slow down and savour every moment. As soon as you’re here, you can also book an exclusive CABN McLaren Vale Tour for a 9 am exploration with a guide, right from your accommodation in McLaren Vale or Kuitpo Forest.
#6. Discover local art and hidden gems
McLaren Vale isn’t only about food and wine. Art galleries and roadside sculptures appear everywhere, reflecting the region’s creative spirit.
Drop by Red Poles to see local exhibitions or catch live music in their garden. Or, spend an afternoon exploring the quirky Willunga Farmers Market (every Saturday), which offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and the occasional surprise performance.
Quick itinerary: What to do in McLaren Vale this weekend
- Visit McLaren Vale cellar doors for wine tastings
- Book a Blending Bench session and craft your own wine
- Hike through Onkaparinga River National Park
- Indulge in lunch at an award-winning restaurant
- Relax on the sands of Port Noarlunga
- Browse art at Red Poles
- Unwind in a CABN cabin with a glass of wine in hand as the sun set over the vineyard
Frequently Asked Questions
Is McLaren Vale worth visiting?
Absolutely. With its mix of top-tier wine, award-winning restaurants, rich arts scene, and proximity to both mountains and the sea, McLaren Vale offers something for every type of traveller.
Is Barossa or McLaren Vale better?
Both are world-class, but McLaren Vale feels more coastal, with a focus on boutique wineries, local produce and up to 10 cabin accommodations for visitors. Barossa leans more towards traditional, structured, and nature-immersed experiences, with CABN accommodation available at Septeffield. It really depends on your vibe. We’d say, visit both!
What can you do in McLaren Vale if you’re not into wine?
There’s plenty: hiking, coastal walks, art galleries, farm markets, and gourmet food experiences. Plus, wildlife encounters and the chance to explore nearby Kangaroo Island.
