Wonderful Willunga

WONDERFUL WILLUNGA  - Words and Images by Jess Zarnow from Dressed in Copper

When exploring the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast, you can’t miss the historic town of Willunga. 

Any day is a great day to explore this little slice of paradise but if you have a Saturday up your sleeve then in my opinion it’s the best time to visit. Make sure you come down nice and early, bring an esky or cooler bag with you, some decent shoes and plan to shop. 

Start early at the Willunga Farmers Market. The market opens at 8 o’clock and it’s the best time to get there. You’ll be treated to everything from sourdough bread, hot coffee, organic veggies, locally made cheeses, honey, breakfast and baked goods. Yum! 

Once you’re finished filling up your basket, have a wander up to the main street and get exploring. There’s plenty of little shops to pique your interest, with everything from home wares, handmade products, kids items and vintage wares. My pick of the main street- the Kookery store. They sell all kinds of fun home wares and foodie items, as well as some amazing tonics and accompaniments to Gin. 

Shopping up a storm can make you very hungry, so you’ll be glad to know that you’re looked after in terms of food in the town. 

The Golden Fleece Cafe makes one of the best bacon and egg rolls I’ve ever eaten, as well as a great coffee. De Rose Kitchen is a quaint gem with a menu focused on seasonal produce and local fare. If you're after a pub meal then there is three in town- my favourite is the Willunga Hotel (middle pub). A  great schnitzel, brilliant beers and local wine list are a few things I love. 

If you are a lover of cupcakes and high tea delights then Tealicious is calling your name. When you see their cupcake cabinet you’ll understand why. 

Kids in tow? Head to the Rose Garden playground where they can burn off some energy. In spring, it’s surrounded by Almond Blossoms and the warmer months, roses, so be sure to bring the camera for some family snaps and don’t forget to use #valeandcoast. For the kids full of adrenaline, head to the skate park and dirt bike jumps just over from the playground. For the inquisitive kids and those that love nature, jump in the car and drive to the outskirts of town to Jungle In Willunga. The local nursery has a jungle walk, fairy garden and an awesome climbing net- perfect for big and little kids. 

If you’re a lover of the outdoors, then head for a stroll along the Shiraz Trail. It stretches from Willunga to McLaren Vale and is one of the most picturesque walks around the region. Bike riders are more than welcome too - you can even hire an electric bicycle in town or head to the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre (in McLaren Vale). The trail weaves between gumtrees and vineyards and it’s worth doing for the view alone. Head down before dusk and see the kangaroos feasting in the vineyards only a few metres from the trail - absolute bliss. 

If this hasn’t convinced you to head south, then I don’t know what will. So pack your market basket and come stay a while. 

Discover more villages to visit and don’t forget to tag us in your captures using #valeandcoast