Relaxing Your Way Through Australia’s Wine Country

Australia’s wines are beginning to receive recognition for their flavor, and that means that the places that they are produced are beginning to see an influx of visitors. However, Australia’s wine country is not so overwhelmed by tourists that you can’t enjoy it at a leisurely and uncrowded pace. You can travel by bike or car, and there are frequent hot air balloon tours of the five main wine regions. Some balloon tours even end in a vineyard with a glass of fine wine or champagne.

Barossa. This is a world renowned wine producing region. It is also very heavy in European influence. Populated by villages that sport obvious German and English architectural and cultural influences, the charm is undeniable. Barossa is Australia’s best wine producer, and it features European specialty foods so authentic that you’d forget you were in Australia.

Adelaide Hills. One of Australia’s major cities, Adelaide, lends its name to this wine producing region within a short drive. Close enough to the big city to afford the excitement and activities found in a metropolitan area, but far enough away for you to relax and forget the city for a while, Adelaide Hills offers superb wine and gorgeous scenery. It is right near the border with the state of Victoria, which is known for its spectacular countryside.

Clare Valley. Australia’s Reisling Trail is a 27 kilometer delight that offers a fine bike ride with stops at premier cellars. There are 40 cellars in Clare Valley, and most of them are right on the Trail, which can be completed in one day. However, to truly enjoy yourself, you should divide the trip up into two or three days and take advantage of the great food in the restaurants and the hospitality of the hostels.

Limestone Coast. One would assume that this wine region is located along a coast mainly comprised of limestone – and one would be right. The limestone foundation enhances the grapes, which are then turned into wine. The soil is decayed by the limestone, and the resulting nutrients create conditions that are idea for vineyards. And while you visit the Limestone Coast to sample the wines, you can also visit the underground caves that form a system so unique that it is a World Heritage Site.

Fleurieu Peninsula. Stretching from Cape Jarvis north almost to Adelaide, this peninsula is strong in French influences, which provides the base for the excellent wines. The McLaren Vale, an area known for its scenery and 60 cellars, is the main attraction on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The cellar owners are famous for their generous encouragement of wine tastings.