Following an indulgent breakfast at the hotel, set off to McLaren Vale, under an hour’s drive from Adelaide. Your first stop is the beachside town of Port Noarlunga, where the Onkaparinga River meets Gulf St Vincent – named for the patron saint of wine! Grab a coffee and discover antiques, bric-a-brac and quirky boutiques, then continue to the famous d’Arenberg Cube, set in a breathtaking five-storey building that appears to float among the vines. Inside, you’ll find a tasting room, casual eatery and art gallery. Make sure to take a bathroom break inside the cube! Delve into an immersive and interactive winemaking session, where you’ll get your hands dirty and craft a wine blend to take home.
Next, delight in a shared feast-style family lunch and a glass of prosecco at Hither & Yon. During lunch, meet co-owner and multi-award-winning winemaker, Mal, who will share their knowledge of regenerative agriculture. Recharge over your lunch of regional produce and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the main street of historic and vibrant Willunga. The last stop of the day is a guided walk on the Eco Trail at Gemtree Wines, a biodynamic wine trailblazer. Finish off the day in their tasting room with a flight of certified organic wines. After an unforgettable day of exploring the McLaren Vale return to Sofitel Adelaide in the early evening.
Following a fulfilling early buffet breakfast in the hotel, meet your knowledgeable guide in the lobby and embark on a scenic journey to the Adelaide Hills. Enjoy free time to explore the vibrant artisan village of Hahndorf, renowned as Australia’s oldest German settlement. Browse the eclectic range of stores offering everything from toys, antiques and books to cuckoo clocks and handcrafted leather wares, and take your tastebuds on a tour through bakeries, lolly makers and Bavarian-style pubs.
Your next stop is at the sixth-generation Beerenberg Farm, where you’ll sample an array of delectable jams, chutneys and gourmet relishes, alongside freshly made scones, cream and your choice of tea or coffee. Lunch today is a sumptuous canapes and wine-tasting experience, officially known as The Gathering, at the prestigious Lane Vineyard. As the day draws to a close, your gourmet experience comes to an end. After lunch, bid farewell to this gorgeous South Australian wine region as you are returned to the Sofitel Adelaide or transferred to the airport for your onward journey.