The best way to explore South Australia’s Clare Valley is on two wheels.
The Riesling Trail is a picturesque 33km long riding track that runs between Auburn and Clare, passing through gorgeous towns and villages and, of course, some of Clare’s most renowned wineries. And if you don’t have a bike, we know someone who does.
Clare Valley Cycle Hire offers bikes for every kind of biker and they give you direct access to the famous Riesling Trail. “Anyone can come and hire our bikes — we see 80-year-olds riding, families with kids and babies, plus we even offer electric bikes for those not keen on peddling,” say husband and wife owners, Mick and Chris.
With more than 70 mountain bikes for hire, including buggies, tandems and electric bikes, you can deck out the whole family in complimentary helmets and get them up on two wheels. And because the track used to be a railway line it’s relatively flat, making it accessible for all levels of fitness… even for unfit mums, like me!
Named after the wine variety that Clare is famous for, the Riesling Trail makes its way past some of Clare’s best wineries and cellar doors. Sevenhill Cellars, Tim Adams Wines, Mr Mick, Shut The Gate, Annie’s Lane and O’Leary Walker are just a taste of what’s on the trail. You’ll also pass family-friendly attractions like the Sevenhill Playground, so you and the kids are bound to have a wheelie good time!
Speaking of good times… if you’re after a romantic weekend away, then Mick and Chris speak your language. Located in the heart of the Clare Valley, and just a teeny walk from Clare Valley Cycle Hire, is the couple’s award-winning luxury accommodation, Brice Hill Country Lodge.
Picture :: Blue Goana Digital
Perfect for couples, this stunning property is set on six acres of country style gardens. It’s bordered by vineyards and is just a five-minute drive from the main street, making it the ideal base when exploring the region.
All four self-contained suites are decked out with a spacious ensuite bathroom with a large spa bath, plus a kitchen, fireplace, flat screen TV, barbecue, heating and aircon and, of course, a coffee machine. You won’t want to leave, ever!
Picture :: Blue Goana Digital
Also included in your stay is free brekky. I wouldn’t say no to fruit juice, tea, coffee, breakfast cereals, milk, yoghurt, local organic muesli and, on occasion, honey from Brice Hill bees — especially when you can sit out on your deck and enjoy the view of the inground swimming pool, gazebo and magnificent gardens.
Picture :: Blue Goana Digital
So, wine not romance your favourite person and whisk them away to Clare Valley for a weekend of wining, dining, riding and snuggling?
For something different
With a backdrop of natural bushland, the one-bedroom beauties at the Riesling Trail and Clare Valley Cottages are conveniently located just an hour and a half from Adelaide on the Riesling Trail.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway for two, a home away from home, unwinding in the spa or exploring the nearby wineries and restaurants, they have a cosy cottage for you. Named after flowers, all cottages are beautifully decorated and set amongst nature so you can cosy up inside by the fire, or laze about outside in the sunshine.
Hayley xx
:: Riesling Trail and Clare Valley Cottages :: WEBSITE :: INSTAGRAM ::
