Why Willunga is Australia’s #1 Food & Wine Town

Willunga has been named Australia’s #1 Food & Wine Town by Australian Traveller and ranked No. 7 in Australia’s 100 Best Towns to Travel To.

Set at the gateway to McLaren Vale wine country, Willunga is one of the most loved townships in McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast. Known for its farmers market, heritage streets, local produce, cellar doors, cafés, pubs, galleries and strong community feel, Willunga is a must-visit for anyone who loves food, wine and country-town charm.

“For me, McLaren Vale is the perfect wine region, blending coast, countryside and character. Willunga is the cute town that captures it all.”
Imogen Eveson, Print Editor, Australian Traveller

The land

Grown here. Poured here. Loved everywhere.

Willunga is shaped by rich produce, local growers and a strong connection to the land. Vineyards line the road into town, and everything here, the food, wine, community and slower pace feels deeply rooted in the place it comes from.

This is where country charm meets one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions.

Willunga Farmers Market

Fresh from the source.

Willunga Farmers Market is South Australia’s first farmers market and one of the best ways to experience the town’s food culture. Held every Saturday morning from 8am to 12 noon at Willunga High School, the market brings together growers, makers, producers and locals, rain or shine.

Expect fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, cheese, bread, flowers, pantry goods and plenty of local conversation. Allow time to wander, talk to the growers and soak up the atmosphere.

Where to eat in Willunga

Willunga knows how to feed you.

For a small town, Willunga serves up a seriously good food scene. It is fresh, local and full of character.

Start with coffee at Wild Flour Willunga, sweet treats at Tealicious Cakes or a classic country pie from Willunga Bakery. The Green Room offers plant-based goodness and wholesome flavours, while Moongarden and Russell’s Pizza bring relaxed, wood oven dining to town. Willa Coffee Shop, the Golden Fleece, and the General Store offer excellent food options.

For pub classics and local atmosphere, stop by The Old Bush Inn, Willunga Hotel or The Alma Hotel. For food with a strong local produce focus, add The Farm Willunga, Vigna Bottin, Tread Lightly and Our Place to your list. (Image SATC)

Where to drink in Willunga

Where the vines lead you in.

Vineyards line the road into Willunga, where cosy cellar doors, breweries and local pours are all within easy reach.

Visit Hither & Yon or Battle of Bosworth for a tasting experience close to town, or settle in with a craft beer tasting paddle at Shifty Lizard or South Coast Brewery. Whether you are here for wine, beer or a slow afternoon with friends, Willunga makes it easy to sip your way through the region.

This is what Australia’s #1 Food & Wine Town looks like.

Art, shopping and heritage

A town with creative soul.

Willunga has a creative spirit woven through its streets. High Street is the heart of town, with historic buildings, brass heritage inserts, galleries, boutiques and local finds that invite you to slow down and look a little closer.

Browse Willunga Glass Studio and Off the Slate Gallery, find fashion at I Am Tall Poppy and Coco & Raj, or uncover something unique at Kookery Whatever at Willunga and Any 3 Pieces.

Things to do in Willunga

Take your time.

Heritage streets, local shops, country charm and scenic trails make Willunga easy to explore slowly. Wander the main street, follow the history, browse local stores or head out towards the surrounding hills, vineyards and countryside.

Willunga is more than a food and wine stop. It is a place to wander, discover and stay a little longer.

Events in Willunga

Something on every season.

Willunga has a strong year-round events calendar, with food, sport, music, community and heritage all playing a part.

In January, the Tour Down Under brings cycling energy to the region. Other annual highlights include the Chilli Festival, Jigsaw Mania, Almond Blossom Festival, Fleurieu Folk Festival and Willunga Hill Climb.

Check current event dates before you visit, as event timing may change from year to year.

Stay in Willunga

Good for the soul.

Willunga’s warmth comes from its people, places and country-town charm, where food, wine and community come together to make you feel better for visiting.

It is more than a day trip. Stay a little longer at charming accommodation options and experience the town at a slower pace.

Plan your visit to Willunga

Visit Willunga for fresh local produce, award-winning food and wine, country-town charm, heritage streets, creative spaces and a strong sense of community.

Come for the market. Stay for lunch. Follow the vines. Wander the streets. Then see for yourself why Willunga has been named Australia’s #1 Food & Wine Town.

FAQ's

Why is Willunga famous?
Willunga is known for its farmers market, local produce, heritage streets, food and wine experiences, creative spaces and strong community feel.

Where is Willunga?
Willunga is located in McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast, South Australia, in the  McLaren Vale wine region and within easy reach of the coast.

When is Willunga Farmers Market open?
Willunga Farmers Market is held every Saturday from 8am to 12 noon at Willunga High School.

Is Willunga good for a day trip?
Yes. Willunga is ideal for a day trip with cafés, pubs, cellar doors, breweries, local shops, galleries, heritage streets and scenic countryside nearby.

Can you stay overnight in Willunga?
Yes. Willunga has a range of accommodation options, making it a great base for exploring McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast.

Are you ready to go?!

(Updated May 2026)