THE SHIRAZ TRAIL

Meander Amidst Vineyards

Stretch your legs, stimulate your senses, discover an amazing variety of flavours and a rich history on a cruisy stroll along McLaren Vale South Australia’s delightful Shiraz Trail.

Meandering south from the viticultural hub of McLaren Vale to the quaint township of Willunga, this approximately 8-kilometre path offers visitors the opportunity to immerse their senses in the many charms of some of Australia’s finest wine country. From the rich, complex flavours of the region’s renowned shiraz varieties to the simple pleasure of inhaling the scent of fresh-cut hay, this popular trail invites you to slow down and savour your beautiful surroundings.

The relatively flat track is flanked by fertile vineyards, lush sheep grazing pastures, historic rail infrastructure and tall stands of pines and eucalypts. If you’ve worked up a thirst, you’ll be delighted to know that the aptly named Shiraz Trail also brings you by some of the region’s finest cellar doors, showcasing world-class wines produced from locally grown grapes. From high-end provedores to High Street cellar doors, the historic village of Willunga offers plentiful rewards for your hiking efforts, capably catering for even the most discerning connoisseur.

Take the stroll on a Saturday morning to get your fill of fresh local produce and artisan treats at the ever-popular Willunga Farmers Market. Stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, olive oils and an assortment of gourmet delights for the perfect picnic to refuel your energy before heading home.

Forming part of the larger Coast to Vines Rail Trail, the Shiraz Trail offers an accessible option for those eager to explore this world-class wine region without the need for a designated driver.

History

McLaren Vale, Willunga and The Shiraz Trail are the traditional lands of the Kaurna people, and hold significant cultural history with several camping sites, burial grounds and Dreaming sites known in the region. In more recent time, European colonisation has influenced the social and natural landscape. McLaren Vale was formally established in 1838, just two years after the colony of South Australia was founded. The region’s viticultural industry dates back to a similar period, with wineries operating within the region as early as 1850, though cellar door sales (as we know them today) didn’t really take off in the area for another century. More recently, olives, almonds, cheese, milk, and cream production have been added to the list of local industries, establishing the region with a reputation for producing fine food and world-class wines.

The Shiraz Trail itself follows the disused rail corridor that formed part of the original Goodwood to Willunga railway line. Historically, this line was a critical part of the region’s infrastructure, offering not only passenger transport but also an important means of getting local produce to city markets. However, this line ceased operations in 1972, and in time, found a new purpose showcasing some of the region’s most spectacular scenery and providing access to some of its outstanding cellar doors. However, it’s former rail days are still celebrated, with the sites of old railway stations marked along the trail by shelters, picnic areas and signage.

At the southern end of the Trail, the small and picturesque township of Willunga was built on a rich history of slate quarrying and agriculture. Willunga still retains much of its former charm, evidenced by gracious old buildings lining its quaint streets, lending it a distinctly European feel.

Highlights

Near the head of the trail, where it intersects the main road at McLaren Vale, you’ll discover a treasure trove of taste sensations at The Almond Train. It’s hard to determine which is the bigger attraction for visitors – the tasty treats on offer or the historic carriage in which they are housed. This quirky tourism icon is located within a 1920s carriage which completed around three million kilometers along the Willunga line during its time of service. Within its slightly modified interior, this cute little shop not only stocks South Australia’s largest almond range – it is also a one-stop shop for locally produced goods, handicrafts and quality souvenirs made with love by McLaren Vale’s enterprising businesses.

The Shiraz Trail ends at the Trailhead Horse Yards and decommissioned WIllunga Station. The adjacent Willunga Park is an idyllic place stop and smell the roses or enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns, while the kids burn off some energy at the playground or skate park. The Farmer’s Market at the Willunga High School draws a regular crowd on Saturday mornings each week, while the larger Quarry Markets add to the events calendar every second Saturday of the month. Along with its bustling market scene, Willunga offers an enchanting collection of cafes and galleries along its slate-lined streets. It’s hidden treasures are well worth exploring.

On your return, The Shiraz Trail Labyrinth, located at the McLaren Vale Station, presents a quiet place to sit and meditate on your experiences and contemplate the bounty of the region.

The Vino

Now that you’ve worked up a thirst exploring the many highlights of the trail, it’s time to get a taste of what you no doubt really came here for – the award-winning wine! And there’s plenty on offer.

Sip on shiraz or sample grenache on the veranda of Oxenberry Wines located on the historic site of McLaren Vale’s first settlers. Or indulge in Italian style reds in the serene lakeside setting of Serafino’s cellar door, tucked away in an idyllic location between ocean and hills.

Get off the beaten trail with a loop detour down McMurtrie Mile. Here you’ll find a welcoming collection of cellar doors, each offering unique tasting experiences. Smell, touch and taste your way through a ‘Tasting of the Senses’ experience at Hugh Hamilton Wines, where six generations have been proudly producing quality wines for 180 years. Or settle in amongst the gums at Wirra Wirra Vineyards, to savour their selection of refreshing cool climate whites and warming reds, including their famous ‘Church Block’ blend.

While you’re in the area, be sure to sample the tasting menu of eclectic cuisine on offer at the Salopian Inn. The seasonal menu is inspired by chef Karina’s culinary journey and features only the freshest local ingredients, sourced with environmental and ethical principles at heart. Their lovingly crafted cuisine is perfectly complemented by an extensive drinks menu, including a fabulous selection of exquisite wines available by the bottle from their historic cellar.

In Willunga, Minko Wines and Hither & Yon located on High Street round out the cellar door offerings, while Three Monkeys Provedore is a great spot to stock up on cheeses and gourmet goodies – for the perfect accompaniment to your tipple of choice.

Accessibility

The relatively flat terrain and bitumen surface of the Shiraz Trail make it a popular choice for walkers, cyclists, and horse-riders alike. Both the trail itself and some of the cellar doors along the way are wheelchair accessible. Dogs on leash are permitted on the trail and there are several watering stations for humans, dogs and horses enroute.

Due to its compact nature and relatively short distance, the Shiraz Trail offers a convenient option for experiencing a taste of what this beautiful region has to offer, without the need to self-drive. Guided tour options are also available through Coast and Co and Small Batch Wine Tours for those seeking a more in-depth understanding of the area.

The Shiraz Trail commences in the centre of the beautiful township of McLaren Vale, located approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Adelaide, South Australia. A combined train and bus service operates between Adelaide and McLaren Vale. Simply take the train from Adelaide Central Train Station to Zone A Seaford Interchange. Once at Seaford Interchange take Public Transport Bus 751, 751W or 752 to McLaren Vale. The journey takes approximately one and a half hours in total. Alternatively, other transport options such as the Adelaide Airbus Flyer, taxis and Ubers may offer more convenient but costly transport solutions.