Discover These 7 Winter Activities in the Clare Valley

The Clare Valley is one of South Australia’s most beloved wine regions. And sure, it looks stunning bathed in summer sunshine, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a warm-weather-only destination. Clare Valley is a year-round dream, and winter might just be its cosiest, most charming season. Read on to find some of the best winter activities in the Clare Valley for your upcoming escape.

Clare Valley in Winter

Sitting a little further north than its Barossa cousin, the Clare Valley has slightly milder winter temperatures. But don’t let put you off. Getting out and exploring the valley and its various gems is not only possible during the colder months, we advise it! Lace up and tackle the famous Riesling Trail by bike or even on foot, weaving through stunning scenery (without the summer crowds).

And when you’ve worked up an appetite, duck into one of the valley’s fantastic restaurants or friendly cafes and warm up with a long, hearty lunch paired with a crisp local Riesling.

Then, beyond the wine and food, the Clare Valley is dotted with charming towns just waiting to be explored. From the heritage streetscapes of Clare to the quaint village feel of Sevenhill, there’s a quiet, unhurried pace to winter here that’s hard to find anywhere else. Perfect for exploring as a couple, alone or with kids, there are plenty of winter activities to entertain everyone.

7 Winter Activities in the Clare Valley

So pack an extra layer and discover just how good the Clare Valley can be when the temperature drops.

Hit the Riesling Trail

Winter is a great time to cycle the iconic Clare Valley Riesling Trail! One of South Australia’s most celebrated rail trails, it’s the first of its kind in the state.

Stretching 35 kilometres from Auburn in the south to Barinia just north of Clare, the trail follows a former railway line through vineyards, bushland and rolling farmland, passing through the towns of Watervale, Sevenhill and Clare along the way. The path is almost entirely flat, too, so don’t worry about your ability level! Bike hire is available in both Auburn and Clare if you need it. On the way, stop in at cellar doors, grab a coffee in town and don’t forget your camera because the winter scenery along this trail is something else entirely.

Burra Heritage Passport

An entire day in itself, the Burra Heritage Passport is a fantastic place to start if you want to get a good understanding of the region. And what better time of year to explore Clare Valley’s heritage than in winter?

In fact, a rainy winter day is the perfect excuse to head to explore. The Burra Heritage Passport gives you a key to unlock 11 National Heritage listed sites across an 11 kilometre self-guided trail through one of Australia’s most remarkably intact historic towns. You get given a map, an in-depth information booklet and the key to unlock padlocked historic sites completely at your leisure, from the eerie Redruth Gaol to the old miners’ dugouts carved into the banks of Burra Creek, where thousands of copper miners once lived in the 1840s. By the way, the key is valid for up to two days, giving you plenty of time to take it all in at your own pace.

Walk the Watervale Wetlands

Head to the Watervale Wetlands with the kids for a bit of fresh air and for one of the Clare Valley’s most peaceful winter walks. Winter rainfall draws out lush greenery and an abundance of birdlife. Wrap up warm and wander through, and when you’re done, you’ll have earned yourself a very well-deserved coffee (or glass of Riesling!).

Explore Wineries

There are more than 50 cellar doors scattered across the valley, making the Clare Valley one of Australia’s great wine regions! And winter is a fabulous time to explore. Without the summer crowds, the charming cellar doors here are way more intimate.

Sevenhill Cellars is a must, one of the oldest and most atmospheric wineries in the country, while Skillogalee is a boutique family-owned favourite hidden in the hills with a restaurant on site that makes it dangerously easy to spend an entire afternoon there.

Drive to the Historic Towns

Dine by the Fire

Clare Valley’s restaurant scene truly comes into its own in winter, because what’s better than a delicious meal when it’s cold outside? Head to Slate Restaurant at Pikes Wines in Sevenhill, where a modern Australian menu celebrates the best of local and seasonal produce, paired perfectly with Pikes estate wines. Otherwise, venture to Ragu & Co on Main Street in Clare, where exposed brick, wine barrels and wooden beams set the scene for authentic Italian cuisine. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day!

And for something truly cosy, Conners Restaurant and Bar at the Clare Country Club is hard to beat, with an open log fire crackling in the bar. Sample a seasonally inspired menu showcasing fresh local produce, and a wine list made up exclusively of Clare Valley drops.

Try Olive Oils at Bonina Olive Grove

For something a little different, seek out Bonina Olive Grove in Auburn; a charming family-run property with over 800 olive trees producing locally grown extra virgin olive oil. This spot was founded by Hungarian-born Les, whose love affair with the Clare Valley spans decades! There’s history behind every bottle. While the on-site farmgate is currently undergoing renovations, you can pick up their produce at the Clare Valley Wine, Food & Tourism Centre just 3km south of Clare. Keep an eye out for the reopening!

Where to Stay in the Clare Valley

Looking for somewhere to base yourself?

Clare Country Club is a wonderfully cosy option for a winter weekend, set amongst the hills just minutes from Clare’s town centre and the valley’s best wineries. This spot has comfortable accommodation, a golf course, pool, spa and tennis court on site, plus Conners Restaurant and Bar serving up seasonal local produce with a fire in the bar.

Find out more here.