24 hours in the Barossa Valley
Let’s face it, we could spend a week in the Barossa and never run out of things to see, do or drink. But, if time isn’t on your side, here’s our go-to hitlist when it comes to seeing the best of the Barossa.
Where to breakfast
We started our day in Tanunda High St, grabbing an excellent coffee and fresh muffin on the go from popular local Darling’s Cafe. It was a quick stop for us as the open road and the cellar doors that lined it were starting to call, but if you want to ready yourself for a big day ahead there’s also the option to take a seat inside for something more hearty. They source from what’s locally available and in season - check the blackboard on the day for what’s available.
Image credit: Darling's Cafe Barossa
Where to begin
To start, there’s the iconic Château Tanunda, a 2-3 minute drive (or 10-12 minute leg stretch) from Darling’s Cafe. Book into their cellar door to immerse yourself in the history of the Barossa and its classic wines; if you're lucky enough to try a drop of their Everest shiraz, you'll have reached the pinnacle of Barossa goodness.
If you’re looking for something more intimate and contemporary, try giving Yelland and Papps an email. Standout first generation winemakers with a focus on minimal intervention and organic production, whilst their cellar door has formally closed, exclusive tastings in their barrel room are sometimes still available by appointment.
Image credit: El Estanco
Where to lunch
El Estanco in Greenock specialises in adding Latin American flair to local Barossan sourced ingredients, perfect to wash down with a glass of local grenache.
Otherwise, if you’re looking for something on the go, check out Apex Bakery, first opened in 1924 and home to traditional wood-fired breads and some of the best pies you’ll find in the Valley.
Where to wander
Head to Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park for a restorative nature bath - there’s a selection of walking trails that you can choose from depending on what you’re looking for. Our pick (if you’ve got the time) is to check out the Wallawa Hike, featuring panoramic views of the Barossa.
Where to head next
We can’t think of many (or any) cellar doors that boast an extensive vinyl collection as Lindsay Wine Estates. Take a tasting flight soundtracked by one of the 8000+ albums that form Matt Lindsay’s collection, then head to stretch out on the front lawn surrounded by the vines that form their fortified block. And pssst… if you’re fortunate enough to visit on a Sunday lunch time you may find artisanal wood fired pizzas being slung from a recently installed oven on the patio out back.
Where to finish
Five star rated and family owned, Z Wines on Tanunda High Street specialises in good times for all, with even a kids corner that’s perfect to keep little ones preoccupied whilst you concentrate on what’s in your glass. Treat yourself to a grazing platter heroing local producers and the German heritage of the area (with some stellar mettwurst) - kids aren’t forgotten about here either, with children’s grazing boards that have been curated by sister-owners Janelle and Kristen’s daughters.Their cellar door also provides a platform for up-and-coming local talent to perform; if you’re looking for a soundtrack to your perfect Barossa evening, you’ve found it.
Where to dine
Ahhhh… you’re not ready to head back for an early night? Excellent - we’ve prepared a rundown of the top BYO restaurants in Adelaide for you to head with that bottle (or two) you’ve picked up on the road today. And after that? Well, the night is young, mofo. We’ll leave you to it.
Needing a few more bottles from Barossa Valley in your life? See our latest and greatest here.