What are the Best Things to do in McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu this Winter? Check out a few of our favourites in this guide, including some new places to eat, drink and stay.
To Drink – Yeo Haus
Seaside haven Port Elliot, just a bit further down the stunning coastline from McLaren Vale, has plenty to draw you in.
One of those impossibly cool locations is Yeo Haus, that started life as a local surf brand, and as its popularity grew, so did its offerings, making it quite the one stop shop these days. Its newest offering is the Yeo Haus Refreshment Centre, offering everything from great coffee to their very own Yeo Haus craft beer, and gin. And don’t miss their night time activities, including DJs, burgers and drinks, all making this the perfect place to cosy up this winter by the sea.
— 5/10 Elliot Street, Port Elliot
— www.yeohaus.com
To Eat – McLaren Vale Hotel
The McLaren Vale Hotel has been on the main street for many years, but since its fairly recent upgrades a few years ago, the place is making a name for itself. One if its current drawcards is the appearance of guest Chef Paul Wilson, reimagining some seriously classic pub fare as the colder months draw in. Since moving to Australia from the UK 25 years ago, Paul has worked his magic in fine dining venues like Icebergs in Bondi Beach and the Botanical Hotel in South Yarra, among others. With a nickname like the ‘Pub Whisperer’ for his ability to elevate traditional pub menus, locals and visitors to McLaren Vale are reaping the benefits.
— 208 Main Rd, McLaren Vale
— mclarenvalehotel.com.au
To Shop – Ciclo
If you’re trying to be more responsible with your fashion choices, then head to new fashion boutique Ciclo in Strathalbyn. Meaning ‘cycle’ in Italian, Ciclo want to bridge the gap between new and used apparel – by selling both under one roof. They are part of the slow fashion movement, which encompasses ethical practices together with eco-friendly fabrics, and long lasting high-quality design with the goal to recirculate pieces for years to come. To aid in the re-circulation, they offer a buyback system, meaning people can return used Ciclo goods for a store credit, and they can be re-sold and loved again.
— 6/4 Donald Street, Strathalbyn
— www.ciclostore.com.au
To Do – Whale Watching
South Australia, including many stretches of the Fleurieu Peninsula coastline, present the ideal spot to witness the yearly whale migration. This year, join the Winter Whale Fest festivities from 1-30 June in Victor Harbor, just over half an hour south of McLaren Vale. Home to the South Australian Whale Centre, Victor Harbor is a great seaside town to explore, with lots to do for the whole family. Whale Fest includes an exciting range of events, from diving with leafy seadragons, boat tours, film screenings, and even a fun run, if you want to get moving. Otherwise, take it as an opportunity to find one of our amazing beaches to watch these majestic animals slowly make their way along the coast. Pack some binoculars, a blanket, a great picnic and a bottle of wine, then settle in. Check the SA Whale Centre socials to see where whales have been spotted to guide you.
— @winter_whale_fest
— @winterwhalefest
— winterwhalefest.com.au
To Stay – Hillenvale
Hillenvale is a spectacular, rugged property right on the doorstep of both McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills. Home to a large original homestead, as well as this cute, original Coach House. The perfect, cosy couple’s retreat, the Coach House has been immacualtely renovated to create an ideal escape for a winter get away. With only vineyards and the occasional farm animals to disturb you in this quiet location, you can head out and explore everything on offer on the Fleurieu, then come home to this cosy cottage. With a wood heater in the comfy lounge, and a well appointed kitchen, make the most of local bakeries, cheesemongers, fresh produce and markets to collect everything you need, alongside a few great bottles of wine. You won’t want to leave!
— 194 Cut Hill Rd, Kangarilla
— @hillenvalesouthaustralia
UPCOMING EVENTS
Porchetta Party – Sunday 29th September
Our Porchetta Party is the kind of lunch Sundays were made for: good friends, great tunes, awesome wines and four delicious courses of amazing food, culminating in the slow roasted, crispy, Italian style Porchetta prepared by our chef Todd Steele.
WHEN 12pm, Sunday 29th September, 2024
WHERE 246 Seaview Rd, McLaren Vale
COST $150pp (all dietaries catered for)
BOOK oliverstaranga.com/bookings
OTT Tunes Playlist – Winter 2024
Our warehouse team have put together an old school winter playlist to soundtrack your cosy nights in. Best accompanied with a glass of your favourite wine, download this great mix now, and put your feet up by the fire!