The Clare Valley – Views, Bikes & Wines For Days

Located roughly 100km north of Adelaide, between the towns of Auburn and Clare, the Mount Lofty Ranges dissolve into five valleys and it is here that premium wine-grapes thrive. The Clare Valley region is a magnet for lovers of amazing views and for food and wine enthusiasts too with more than 30 winery cellar doors. The local restaurants and cafes enjoy a national reputation for excellence and style. Wine touring with your own vehicle lets you taste, buy, and pack a dozen or two bottles in the boot wherever you go.

The region is also known for being home to one of the most picturesque cycling tracks in Australia.  You can rent a bicycle and follow the 33-kilometre Riesling Trail cross country past orderly vineyards and imposing gum trees.

For history buffs, the region’s copper mining and pioneer heritage is still evident in the well-preserved towns of Kapunda, Mintaro and Burra. South of Clare, iron lacework adorns Kapunda’s wonderful stone buildings, a reminder of past prosperity. The world’s first significant copper mine (1844) was worked here and you can take a self-guided walk-through open cuts and tunnels.

The township of Mintaro is a remarkable colonial village famous for slate, picturesque cottages and nearby Martindale Hall, a stately home, which opens to the public 6 days a week.

To the north, Burra makes a fascinating full day’s outing where you can explore the town’s pioneer streets, old jailhouse, Monster Mine, antique shops and galleries.

Throughout the year, the Clare Valley stages a number of great events, from classic country shows and friendly race meets to gourmet food and wine extravaganzas and right now there are plenty of places to eat, wine to drink and stories to be had around warm log fires after a day of exploring this stunning region.

There are numerous SA Parks member caravan and holiday parks that are located within the Clare Valley such as Discovery Parks Clare, Riverton Caravan Park and Burra Caravan and Camping Park.

You can find a full list of all of the caravan and camping parks located in the Clare Valley here.