The Riesling Trail In Clare Valley: Everything You Need To Know

Discover Clare Valley’s Riesling Trail, a captivating route that weaves through scenic landscapes and connects fabulous wineries, restaurants, and cellar doors.

If you’re headed to the Clare Valley and considering the Riesling Trail, we have two words for you: DO IT! This 33km trail from Barinia to Auburn is one of the very best ways to see the beauty of the region, visiting wineries, cellar doors, restaurants and pubs long the way. You can choose to walk, run, or cycle the various sections of this old railway line, breaking up the activity with wine flights, degustation lunches and lazy afternoons in the winery gardens.

Below, we’re sharing everything you need to know about the Riesling Trail, including where to stay, what to eat, where to hire bikes and when to go.

How to walk the Riesling Trail

Walking the Riesling Trail is a peaceful way to soak in the gorgeous scenery of Clare Valley, while exploring the attractions this area has to offer. The full length takes around 9 hours – without including winery stops – so we recommend picking your favourite sections and treading those trails over multiple days.

The path ventures along a former railway track, so it’s largely flat and therefore suitable for both prams and wheelchairs, as well as walkers of all ages and abilities. Make sure you wear suitable shoes and bring plenty of water and sun protection – the trail can get very hot, especially in summer.

The Riesling Trail isn’t one-size-fits-all… whether you want to trace the entire distance from Barinia to Auburn (or reverse), or simply choose your favourite wineries and attractions and walk between them, there are plenty of ways to approach the trail to suit your needs and desires.

a scenic landscape of Clare Valley's Riesling Trail — It takes around nine hours to walk the Riesling Trail. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/ Adam Bruzzone)

How to ride the Riesling Trail

If you’d prefer to whizz along the Riesling Trail on two wheels, a bike is just the ticket. In our opinion, a mountain bike or e-bike is the very best way to explore the area, as you cover more ground than walking but you still get the immersive nature experience along the way.

biking around Clare Valley's Riesling Trail — Soak in the gorgeous scenery of Clare Valley. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/ Adam Bruzzone)

Less experienced riders or those travelling with young kids can stick to the central rail route which runs directly from Clare to Auburn and enjoy a relatively flat, well-maintained track that ensures a relaxing ride.

If you want to take a walk on the wild side, you have the option to explore more challenging loops that venture out in both directions and provide access to some of the smaller towns and cellar doors in the area. Note: some of these loops include road riding, so we recommend checking them out in the car before you ride, especially if you’re inexperienced riding in light traffic.

the entrance to Clare Valley's Riesling Trail — The Riesling Trail stretches 35 kilometres from Auburn to Clare and Barinia. (Image: Jonathan van der Knaap)

Where to stay

For those wanting to explore the Riesling Trail, look for accommodation that runs along the central corridor of the Clare Valley area for easy access to the cycling and walking paths. Some of our favourite options include the Stanley Grammar Country House , an old schoolhouse which has been converted into a luxe B&B, the friendly and affordable Clare Valley Caravan Park , and The Heritage Garden , which is a few minutes drive from the designated trail car park at Sevenhill.

Some other great accommodation options include the Brice Hill Country Lodge , as well as the Riesling Trail Cottages , which both offer bike hire on site.

bicycles parked outside Sevenhill Cellars — There’s a designated trail car park at Sevenhill.

When to go

The best time to walk, run or cycle the Clare Valley Riesling Trail is autumn (March-May) and spring (September – November). The summer months can be hot and busy, while some wineries and attractions are closed during winter. In autumn, you’ll enjoy a beautiful landscape of reds, golds and oranges, while the spring sees gardens in full bloom, especially the jaw-dropping yellow canola fields which are at their best in late September.

Weekends and school holiday periods bring a busier atmosphere to the region, so you can expect more attractions and events during these times.

an aerial view of Sevenhill Cellars — Rolling hills, green fields and lush vineyards abound in this fertile area. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

What to see

The Riesling Trail is popular as it connects many of the fantastic wineries, restaurants and cellar doors in the area. So you don’t bite off more than you can chew (or drink more than you can stomach!), we recommend choosing 3-4 wineries to visit each day if you’re travelling by bike.

a cyclist arriving at Skillogalee Winery — Stop by Skillogalee Winery along the trail. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

If you’re starting at Auburn, you could visit Grossett , then head along the trail to Leasingham where you have a variety of options including O’Leary Walker , Claymore , and clos Clare close by. Closer to Clare, you’ll find Tim Adams , Shut the Gate and Sevenhill , which are all worth a visit.

a cyclist exploring clos Clare — Find clos Clare in the famed Florita Vineyard of Watervale. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Along the trail, take the time to enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, which has been described as the ‘Tuscany of Australia’. Rolling hills, green fields and lush vineyards abound in this fertile area.

an aerial view of the Sevenhill Cellars — Sevenhill Cellars is set amidst the rolling vineyards and green pastures. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Where to eat

If you’re looking for great food options along the Riesling Trail, we’ve got you covered. From relaxed fine dining to takeaway eats, there are plenty of options to keep you fueled as you walk, run or cycle along the beautiful trails of Clare Valley.

two cyclists strolling along Sevenhill Cellars — Explore the wineries along the trail on two wheels. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

The Watervale Hotel is a no-brainer for lunch. Close to the trail in Watervale, this charming pub serves up some of the best meals in the area, with a menu that ranges from gourmet snacks (stuffed olives, house-made sausage, charcuterie) to a multi-course degustation experience.

the act of preserving meat through smoking at Watervale Hotel — Watervale Hotel is renowned for cooking meat on their Asado-style barbecue. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Mr. Mick is another great option closer to Clare, dishing out crowd-pleasing classics like arancini and squid as well as hearty mains and Sunday pizzas. If you’re after a more elevated dining experience, try the fab restaurant at O’Leary Walker for sophisticated share plates, or take the loop out to Paulett Wines’ Bush DeVine Restaurant in Polish Hill for a top-notch long lunch.

a couple admiring the view from Paulett Wines’ Bush DeVine Restaurant in Polish Hill — Take in lush mountain views from Paulett Wines’ Bush DeVine Restaurant. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Where to hire bikes

If you’re after Riesling Trail bike hire, you’re spoilt for choice. Starting up north, we recommend Scoot the Valley , which has a wide range of bikes including speedy e-bikes, retro push bikes and everything in between. Another great option is Riesling Trail Bike Hire , which conveniently hires from four locations along the trail. Slightly further south you have Clare Valley Cycle Hire , which also has a good selection of bikes to suit all ages, abilities and preferences.

a bicycle at Skillogalee Winery — Pick a good bike that will accompany you throughout the trail. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Looking for more things to do in the area? Follow our guide on the Adelaide Hills

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

The ultimate guide to the Clare Valley Riesling Trail