The Barossa is just an hour and a titch away from Adelaide — and if you go the scenic route through Woodside, Mount Torrens and Lobethal, then you are in for one hell of a relaxing drive. The Barossa is famous for wineries and divine restaurants serving up the best of the best that the region has to offer. But, if you could only do one activity, one accomodation and one winery in a day, here’s our tip!
Where to stay
Brockenchack Wines is home to “Australia’s best tasting wine,” says owner Trev. He’s not far off the truth because their wine is indeed, sensational… and their accommodation is on par. With three options to choose from — Luxury Vineyard B&B, The Studio and newly renovated and magnificently presented Luxury Retreat — there is something for every kind of Adelady. The studio is fit for couples and ideal if you want to get a little romantic with your kindred spirit. The apartment includes the king-sized bed, fireplace, sitting area, a kitchen and bathroom. It’s cosy and screaming for loved-up couples to enjoy its facilities.
The Luxury Vineyard B&B is surrounded by vines which change colour depending on the time of the year. This country-style homestead includes two king-sized bedrooms, two fireplaces back-to-back, a massive kitchen overlooking gorgeous vines, and a perfectly manicured garden setting. Oh, and I almost forgot, it also includes an outdoor spa! Imagine kicking back in this hot tub, bubbles in hand and looking out to this autumnal backdrop!
Onto the main event — The Retreat! This baby has been recently renovated and is much, much nicer than my own home. I wish I lived here! From the architecture to the interior design to the size of the living, kitchen and bedroom areas and the views… it’s ALL amazing! No detail has been forgotten — they even have two outdoor baths and showers overlooking endless rolling hills, and only a few cows who may see you in the nud. The Retreat has three bedrooms, coffee, barbecue facilities and it’s a B&B so, yes, breakfast is included. Homemade bread, bacon, eggs, cereals, yoghurt, fruit and milk… everything you need is supplied!
Where to wine and dine
Kies Family Wines, you had me at Halloumi burger! This gem is a family-owned and operated winery in the heart of the Barossa. Serving up great wine, amazing fresh food and views for days, Kies is full of fun and personality. You can hang out with Bronson, the winemaker, and do a tour of the winery and he’ll show you where the magic happens.
All the vats are named after Kies family members… he’s even left Number 22 for his future baby! Isn’t that divine? You can come to Kies and sit outside while enjoying one of their tasty platters full of local produce. Or, why not stay for lunch? Their feed-me option includes a platter, a wine flight, two incredible dishes (Drunken Chicken, and Salt and Pepper Squid) and chips and salad — all made for sharing. The whole family is just so lovely and you really feel that kindness as soon as you step inside.
Where to get adrenaline pumping
Barossa Helicopters has been flying for donkey’s years and this family lives and breathes helicopters. Without a doubt, the best way to see this gorgeous region is from above, right? Sisters, Bridgett and Billie, have a combined 35 years of flying between them and they love nothing more than following in their dad’s footsteps and taking guests on tours of the southern Barossa region.
Helicopter flights aren’t just for the rich and the famous either. Flights start from quick four-minute tours to full day experiences where you get picked up and dropped off at some of your fave wineries in the area. Their pink and yellow helicopters seat a max of three people and you feel super safe and comfy inside them… they even have aircon! You don’t have to go interstate or overseas to experience the joys of flying, you can do it right here in the best state on earth… South Australia!
So there you go… if you tick off Kies Winery, Brockenshack Wines and Barossa Helicopters from your Barossa bucket list, I know you’ll have the BEST time ever. Happy holidaying!
Hayley x
Look after your #1
Yourself! The Barossa may be famous for its food and wine but it’s also the perfect place to recharge and Barossa Wellness is the ideal place to do that! The amazing team offer transformational health and wellness retreats, health programs, yoga, meditation, mindfulness and incredible experiences. Their Wellness Walks take you through the magnificent Barossa and culminates with yoga on top of a hill looking out over next-level views! Then, just when you thought it couldn’t get any better… Ali The Barossa Chef prepares a gorgeous picnic full of freshly made healthy brunch goodies and steaming hot chai. Oh, this is exactly what the doctor ordered!
See, South Australia rewards wonder. We LOVE where we live!
Now go forth and enjoy x
