A Day Trip to McLaren Vale Wine Region 

Situated a short 45-minute drive south of Adelaide, you will find the famous wine region of Mclaren Vale. Producing wine since 1838, it is now home to 80 cellar doors. McLaren Vale provides an ideal day trip location on your next Weekend Escape in Adelaide. 

There are numerous options for wine tours in McLaren Vale from private tours to hop-on-hop-off shuttle buses. However, if you are looking for a unique experience, here at SA Weekend Escapes we have selected 5 wineries which can all be reached on foot. so Explore the wonderful countryside on your own self-guided tour! Remember to book your wine tastings in advance to secure your spot. 

d’Arenberg The Cube

Start your Daytrip in McLaren Vale at the famous d’Arenberg, we recommend hopping in an uber from the city to this first location and from here you can leisurely stroll to all our recommended wineries. 

The unique and modern design of this building unusually placed amongst the earthy tones of the countryside really makes this building stand out. The Cube opened in late 2017 and stemmed from an idea by owner Chester Osbourne, his design was inspired by the complexities and puzzles of wine making. The building consists of 5 levels, each taking you on a sensory journey. The ground floor is an alternate realities museum, there is also a 360 degree video room and on the top level you will find the wine tasting room with panoramic views of the McLaren Vale region. 

S.C Pannell 

Admire the stunning scenery as you stroll a comfortable 20 minutes to the next stop on your day trip in McLaren Vale. S.C Pannell is a multi-award winning winery including international wine maker of the year. Stephen and his wife Fiona established the wine label in 2004 producing wines which suit the regions Mediterranean climate and lifestyle. They went on to purchase the brands own cellar door in 2014. The property is truly spectacular with a gorgeous deck area where you can sit and enjoy a glass of one of their iconic red blends whilst looking out to the idyllic views of the vineyards and beyond.

Maxwells

Continue your self-guided tour just a 10-minute walk from S.C Pannell at Maxwells Winery. Established in 1979, Maxwells is now a 5 star winery, meadery and restaurant. Maxwells was one of the first wineries in the region to have its own restaurant on site which was recently named AGFG 2021 award winner. Treat yourselves to a delicious lunch paired with some of their top-quality wines. During your visit make sure you try Maxwells famous Mead, the production of wine from honey was first introduced to the country by Maxwells Father and they are now the largest producer of mead in the southern hemisphere. 

Alpha Box and Dice

Located a few steps from Maxwells, Alpha Box and Dice is next on the list for your day trip in McLaren Vale. A quirky and unique cellar door which began in 2008 as more of an experimental approach to wine making, this has now become a popular spot for wine lovers. Known as the Alphabet of wine, every bottle is named after a letter in the alphabet and each letter signifies an individual wine making project. This is a boutique winery creating small batch wines with bold and inventive new flavours as well as modern interpretations on classics.  

Angove Family Winemakers 

The final stop on your tour of McLaren Vale wineries is Angove Family Winemakers, founded in 1886 by Dr William Thomas Angove who emigrated with his family from Cornwall England and initially began exploring wine making to create tonics for his medical practice. Angove is now a fifth-generation family business and are leaders in organic wine production. Nestled amongst the vines you will find a tranquil outside deck providing front row views of the vineyards. Angove also offer incredible platters with a mix of meat, cheese, chutney, and pate. This is the perfect place to relax and finish off your day trip in McLaren Vale, you will find yourself wanting to stay all afternoon! 

SA Weekend Escapes’ Top Hotel Pick

KT Apartments is a newly opened apartment complex located in Kent Town, Adelaide. These luxury self-contained apartments each have two bedrooms with one or two bathrooms, a spacious living area and a large balcony. This is an ideal spot to explore Adelaide and its surrounding suburbs providing a luxurious and stylish base to return to after a day exploring.

More things to do in Adelaide

We have got your day trip covered but if you are looking for more inspiration for things to do in Adelaide check out our ultimate guide.