Incredible Things To Do In Clare Valley Right Now

The Clare Valley is arguably Australia’s most underrated wine region, and this overlooked gem boasts plenty of historic charm, natural beauty, and, of course, delicious riesling.

A mere 90 minutes or so in the car north of Adelaide, the Clare Valley (luckily!) still scoots just under the radar. This laid-back pocket makes an unhurried retreat of Aussie bush and rolling vineyards, stone buildings and intriguing history, cellar doors, good food, bike trails and country hospitality. Here’s how to make the most of it.

1. Eat local fare at Clare Valley’s eateries

The Clare Valley has no shortage of fantastic eateries. If you’re looking for a winery lunch, venture down a sun-dappled back road that leads past vines curving away on the slopes of hills (‘planted to the contour’ in vigneron speak) to the 1860s cottage of Skillogalee ; a winery, restaurant and cellar door. Slate slabs cool the wisteria-draped verandah and there are tables beneath the sprawliest-ever olive. Indulge in fresh black pasta with Port Lincoln sand crab followed by Estate Muscat with vanilla ice cream.

Another food option is to join the savvy locals at Seed Winehouse + Kitchen , where the menu (slow-cooked lamb shank with lemon pepper couscous, or fettuccini Brussel pasta) has a similar farm-to-fork freshness. And the bar has a real buzz.

Skillogalee WInery Clare Valley — Enjoy a delicious outdoor lunch at Skillogalee. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

2. Ride the Riesling Trail

When the sun’s shining and there’s that crackle of heat in the bleached grass, cruising along on a bike is like being a kid again. The 35-kilometre Riesling Trail rail is peppered with postcard views, wineries, cafes and plenty of signage along the looping route; Watervale to Penwortham is rated one of the prettiest sections. You can hire bikes at Auburn, Clare and Sevenhill.

Not down to cycle? No worries! Pack a picnic basket and stroll for a while before tossing down your rug under a shady tree.

The Riesling Trail in the Clare Valley — This 35-kilometre trail traverses the picturesque Clare Valley wine region. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

3. Wander the wineries of Clare Valley

Riesling aficionadas will love clos Clare Wine s in Watervale and Crabtree Wines . Stop by the region’s oldest vineyard, the Jesuit-run Sevenhill , which started in the 1850s and is still going strong. The quirky Mad Bastard Wines specialises in Shiraz. For wine with sweeping scenery, lunch on the deck at Paulett Wines . For art with your wine visit Pikes .

There are approximately 50 wineries in the region, but it’s not all wine. Craft beer and cider are bubbling up. Try the Tonic Ale (with lemon peel and ginger) from Pikes Beer Company .

Sevenhill winery Clare Valley — Sevenhill Winery is the region’s oldest. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

4. Discover Mintaro’s magic

The tiny town of Mintaro has spades of character in its timeworn slate buildings, vast Moreton Bay fig trees and old-world gardens. Visit Mintaro Maze if you have the kids in tow, or delve into the past at the palace in a paddock, Martindale Hall, where the ’70s classic Picnic at Hanging Rock was filmed.

We also recommend sharing a lazy lunch at Reilly’s Wines. Nibble on gourmet platters in the leafy courtyard that boasts vineyard views.

Martindale Hall Clare valley — Built in 1879 – 1880, Martindale Hall has significant heritage value in South Australia. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

5. Explore Flinders’ history in Burra

Burra’s wide streets, stone buildings, and tree-lined creek are a backdrop for country folk in cowboy boots and battered hats, and grey nomads stopping en route to the Flinders Ranges. You can get your urban-fix coffee at St Just Café or enjoy a veritable tea party at colourful Good Golly Miss Polly . For organic juices and wraps head to Burra Fresh, while several shops are piled with collectables, curios, and gifts for those who like to fossick. Art lovers should swing by the Burra Regional Art Gallery , housed within a restored 1860 Post and Telegraph Office.

Burra Regional Art Gallery, Clare Valley — Burra Regional Art Gallery showcases 12 new exhibitions each year. (Image: Josh Geelen)

6. Visit the iconic pink lake of Lake Bumbunga

Just a half-hour drive from the valley will take you to the breathtaking Lake Bumbunga. This picturesque salt lake flies under the tourist radar, yet it’s one of South Australia’s most exquisite natural phenomena. There’s a viewing platform at the edge of the lake so you can admire the lake and snap some envy-worthy photos. Keep an eye out for the “Loch-Eel Monster" sculpture.

Lake Bumbunga pink lake — Lake-Bumbunga is one of Australia’s most intensely pink lakes. (Image: Olivia Reynolds)

7. Stay over

A swag of heritage cottages and houses are dotted all around the Clare. There’s Watervale’s upmarket Stanley Grammar Country House , converted stables at historic Bungaree Station , original miners’ cottages in Burra and even the stylish loft-style Irongate Studio B&B in Mintaro.

Stanley Grammar Country House, Clare Valley — Stanley Grammar Country House is a luxury bed and breakfast accommodation in the heart of the wine region. (Image: Stanley Grammar Country House)

For more insider tips and must-see sights, read our travel guide to Clare Valley.

Thredbo in summer is a nature lover’s dream of show-stopping alpine beauty, cool mountain air and magical moonlit adventure.

For many of us, Thredbo calls to mind shimmering slopes and snow-dusted gums, but come summer, this Alpine resort transforms into a playground of an entirely different kind. A cool mountain retreat despite the season, Thredbo summer hikes are astonishingly beautiful, criss-crossing over dramatic peaks, pristine glacial lakes and abundant flora and fauna.

From approachable tracks for novice walkers to more challenging hikes across the Main Range and even journeys under moonlight, Thredbo puts on an unforgettable show of natural splendour all summer. Lace up your walking boots and take the chairlift from Thredbo village to embark on a self-guided exploration or a tour of the Snowy Mountains’ most compelling landscapes.

These eight unforgettable hiking experiences are only available in summer and offer an alpine adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

1. Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko

There’s something almost mystical about hiking by the light of a full moon. This guided experience begins with a 15-minute chairlift ride, where you’ll admire the Thredbo Valley below, bathed in the fading sun.

Once at the top, you’ll pass rivers, alpine lakes and spot nocturnal wildlife on your way to the Kosciuszko Lookout and Lake Cootapatamba. By the time you reach the summit, sunset is well underway as you watch day give way to night and the alpine landscape magically illuminated by the lunar glow. Enjoy a hot chocolate here before following the path back to Eagles Nest, brightened by the night sky.

This 13-kilometre hike will take place on 3 January, 2 February, and 2 April in 2026.

2. Super Full Moon Hike

Super Full Moon Hike in thredbo — Take in the might of a super full moon.

The only thing that could level up the celestial beauty of a full moon hike would be a super full moon hike . Following the same route, you’ll meet the moon when it is largest and closest to Earth by ascending to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2228 metres. From such a height, it almost feels as though you could reach out and touch its glowing surface.

Given the rarity and splendour of the super full moon, limited spots fill up fast for this awe-inspiring hike, so be sure to book the 5 December in advance.

3. Lunar Eclipse Hike

Thredbo Lunar Eclipse Hike — See dazzling celestial displays.

What could be more extraordinary than witnessing a lunar eclipse from Australia’s highest peak? Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply revel in nature’s beauty, this guided 13-kilometre hike will place you on top of Mount Kosciuszko just as Earth passes between the sun and moon, throwing shade over the lunar surface before transforming it with a deep-red hue.

It’s an epic place to witness one of our galaxy’s most spectacular and rare light shows. Apart from the dazzling celestial display, you’ll also enjoy walking through the moon-bathed landscape, an evening chairlift ride, and a hot chocolate at the summit.

Book now for 3 March.

4. New Moon Hike

New Moon Hike Mt Kosciuszko — Catch the changing skies of a new moon.

A stargazer’s delight, the darkness of a new moon gives the Milky Way full permission to dazzle with its shimmering display. Both astronomers and photographers will relish this opportunity to observe and capture the starry skyscape from the lofty height of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Departing Thredbo Village at dusk and leaving its twinkling lights far below, you’ll arrive at the summit in time to see the sun slip away and the stars appear.

Catch this hike during the new moon lunar phase on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.

5. Thredbo River Track

Embark on a gentle entry into the Snowy Mountain scenery with an amble along the Thredbo River. This self-guided hike hugs the river and wanders along the valley floor, revealing snow gum forests, swimming holes and little waterfalls that make for revitalising cold plunges in the summer heat.

6. Merritts Nature Track

Merritts Nature Track thredbo summer hikes — Stop at swimming holes along the way.

On warm summer days, venturing into the cooler air of Thredbo’s alpine tracks offers relief from the heat. Particularly if you set course for the four-kilometre Merritts Nature Track , where there are opportunities to take a refreshing dip in swimming holes along the way.

The two-to-three-hour self-guided hike meanders through towering ancient trees (dubbed the ‘Pixie Forest’ by locals), takes in stunning mountain vistas and is soundtracked by the melody of birdsong. Stop for a picnic and discover a hidden natural infinity pool, the location of which is given away by the roar of a cascading waterfall.

7. Mt Kosciuszko Summit Tour

Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko's summit. — Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.

While you can easily steer yourself to Australia’s most iconic peak without a guide, following an expert guide to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko will colour your experience with a deeper knowledge of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. The 13-kilometre return trail puts the alpine scenery on display with 360-degree views from the highest spot in the country.

The walk begins at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and takes around four to six hours to complete, but is gentle enough to be embarked upon by all ages.

8. Snowies Alpine Walk Experience

If you’re looking to truly untether from daily life and embark on a real immersion in Thredbo’s stunning alpine scenery, pack your hiking boots for the newest multi-day walk in the mountains. The Snowies Alpine Walk can be tackled over two or three days and includes nightly accommodation in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, daily buffet breakfast, packed lunch and dinner vouchers, plus daily transfers to and from trail heads in a brand-new Defender.

The two-day experience covers 24 kilometres, while the three-day experience almost doubles that at 44 kilometres. Along the way, explore barely trod landscapes, vast high-country plains and uplifting mountain horizons.

Discover the full offering of summer hikes in Thredbo at thredbo.com.au.

7 of the best things to do in the Clare Valley