A Slower Season, A Richer Experience
Winter in South Australia is a time to slow down, savour the moment, and rediscover the charm of familiar places. In McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast, the cooler months uncover a quieter kind of magic—think peaceful beaches, misty vineyards, hearty meals, and inviting cellar doors all within easy reach of Adelaide.
Feast on Winter Flavours
Winter is comfort food season, and there's no better place to indulge than McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast.
August brings the Fleurieu Food Festival, a month-long celebration of local flavours, passionate producers, and unique venues. Join vineyard feasts, chef-led experiences, and farm-fresh workshops that showcase the region's best seasonal produce.
For family-friendly dining, tuck into gourmet platters and wood-fired pizzas at Beach Road Wines or The Vine Shed Venue Stroll through the Willunga Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for fresh bread, local cheese, and steaming hot food that warms your hands as you wander.
Top it all off with sweet treats from Espy Bakehouse, CJ’s Bakery, or Bracegirdle’s, or cosy up with a hot chocolate from Goodness Coffee Co. in Aldinga.
Warm Up with Wine, Gin, Fortifieds & More
Winter is sipping season. Sink into a leather chair by the fire with a bold Shiraz at Beresford, Chapel Hill, or Mitolo Wines.
Explore fortified favourites at Kay Brothers, Yangarra, or Battle of Bosworth, or try something unexpected—like traditional mead at Maxwell Wines, or a chocolatey stout from Kick Back Brewing.
For spirit lovers, Settlers Spirits and Never Never Distilling Co. deliver gin tastings and cocktails with serious seasonal flair.
(Image credit Yangarra)
Coastal Calm: Winter by the Sea
Leave the crowds behind and embrace the quiet beauty of winter by the coast. Catch sunset over the limestone cliffs of Sellicks Beach, or take a slow wander along the sands of Maslin Beach.
Try something new with the Witton Bluff Base Trail—a scenic 30-minute boardwalk linking Port Noarlunga to the tip of the bluff. Even better, stage two will connect to Christies Beach by mid-2025.
Pet-Friendly Escapes
Travelling with a furry friend? You’re in luck. Many cafés and cellar doors across the region welcome pets.
Grab a puppuccino at Boy and Bloom South, stretch out on the lawns at Mollydooker Wines, or enjoy dog-friendly dining at Stump Hill Café and Harry’s Deli.
Nature Walks, Trails & Outdoor Fun
Winter’s crisp air is perfect for exploring. Wander the trails of Onkaparinga River National Park and spot local wildlife—or take things up a notch with rock climbing or abseiling.
Hire an e-bike and cruise scenic trails like the Shiraz Trail, McLaren Flat Loop, or Willunga to Aldinga, with plenty of food and photo stops along the way.
Stay Cozy: Unique Winter Stays
From vineyard villas to rustic retreats, winter accommodation options are all about comfort and charm.
Soak in the view from your hilltop hideaway, warm your toes by the fire, or treat yourself to a winter stay package that makes it easy to unwind after a day of adventure.
No matter the season, McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast always delivers—but in winter, it truly shines.
🌧️ Plan your escape now and discover South Australia's ultimate coastal and wine country winter retreat.
