Less than two hours from Adelaide, the Clare Valley wine region is one of South Australia’s most charming and underrated destinations. Known for its rolling hills, award-winning wines, and some of the best Cellar Door experiences in the country, Clare is the kind of place that leaves you feeling both refreshed and inspired.
Whether you’re here for the wine, the food, or just a weekend escape, the Clare Valley delivers in all the right ways. Ready to soak it all in? Here are our top 10 Clare Valley things to do to help you make the most of this unforgettable region.
1. Visit Kilikanoon Wines
If there’s one cellar door in the Clare Valley you absolutely can’t miss, it’s Kilikanoon Wines (even if we do say so ourselves!). Located in the picturesque Skilly Valley surrounded by hills and vineyards, our rustic stone cottage Cellar Door has tons of character and history dating back to the 1860’s! Whether you want to sit inside by the cosy fire or breathe in the vineyard views on Tregea Terrace, our friendly team will make you feel right at home. As a dog friendly venue, your four-legged furry friends are also welcome.
At Kilikanoon, we are driven by a deep connection to our exceptional terroir and old-vine vineyards, some of the oldest in the country. Our wines are celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and the unique characteristics they derive from Clare Valley’s terroir with standouts like Clare Valley Riesling, Shiraz, and Grenache leading the way, and recognised on the world stage. We’re more than the titles, though, it’s the warmth and story behind every bottle that stays with you.
Tip: Book ahead for a curated tasting flight and don’t leave without trying the iconic Oracle Shiraz, it’s Clare Valley magic in a glass. Book your visit here.
2. Ride (or walk) the Riesling Trail
You don’t need Lycra to enjoy one of the top Clare Valley cycling trails. The Riesling Trail is a stunning 35km path that runs from Auburn to Barinia, passing stone cottages, gum trees, wineries and the brand new gin distillery! Whether you hire a bike in Clare or wander on foot, the trail invites you to slow down, take in the views, and enjoy the region at your own pace.
Visit Clare Valley Cycle Hire to hire a bike.
3. Lunch at Skillogalee Restaurant & Winery
Nestled among old vines and shady gums in the Skilly Hills just down the road from Kilikanoon’s Cellar Door, Skillogalee Winery Restaurant is the definition of a long lunch spot. Pair a glass of their Clare Valley wines with food that’s seasonal and soulful.
4. Visit Pikes for Wine, Lunch and Beer
A family business, Pikes produce award-winning wines with character and personality. They also brew their own beer and have a Chef hatted restaurant, Slate, onsite. Options abound between their wine tastings, delicious lunch at Slate, or for a more leisurely experience, book in at the beer garden, where there is plenty of space for the adults to relax with a beer, while the kids play on the lawn and discover the fishpond.
5. Discover the History at Sevenhill Cellars
Founded in 1851, Sevenhill Cellars history is woven into the region itself. It's the oldest winery in the area and the only one established by Jesuit priests. Wander through the underground cellars, explore the beautiful church, and reflect in the crypt, it’s both a spiritual and sensory experience.
6. Explore Mintaro and the Historic Martindale Hall
Looking for a fun detour from the wine trail, head to Mintaro, a bluestone beauty and one of the oldest Clare Valley attractions. Pop into local galleries, step inside Martindale Hall, a stately mansion straight out of a period drama, and then enjoy a proper pub lunch at the Magpie & Stump.
7. Delve into mining history in Burra with your own key
Only half an hour from Clare, discover the fascinating mining heritage of Burra with the iconic Burra Heritage Passport, your key to unlocking the town’s history. Established in 1979, this is one of the longest continually running heritage experiences of its kind in Australia.
Burra, founded in the 1840s, boasts an impressive legacy, and the Heritage Passport Key allows you to immerse yourself in this unique past. Discover more here.
8. Get cultured
There is a vibrant arts community in the Clare Valley and surrounding towns. The visual arts - artists, galleries and exhibitions - plus the performing arts, including shows and special events, as well as other arts such as cinema and literature, are all happening in the region.
Visit the Clare Valley tourism website for local art galleries.
9. Take a Nature Break at Spring Gully Conservation Park
If you’re keen to immerse yourself in the local wildlife, Spring Gully Conservation Park offers scenic bushwalks, wildlife sightings, and postcard-worthy views. The Spring Gully Conservation Park walks are peaceful and best enjoyed with a picnic and time to breathe. It’s especially magical in spring, when wildflowers are in bloom.
10. Dining Hotspots
Clare Valley has a range of excellent restaurants, but we think the best ones to end your day at are Indii of Clare for its renowned Indian food, and Ragu & Co for an authentic Italian spread (so good it’s been awarded the Ospitalita Italiana accreditation by the Italian government!).
11. Gin Tasting with a View
The new Clare Valley Distillery boasts an enviable location directly on the Riesling Trail. Open Friday through Monday each week, make sure to pop in and enjoy a cheeky G&T or cocktail (they’ve also got beer and wine) while indulging in some lawn games or just soaking in the views.
We look forward to seeing you in Clare!
