Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens, or tail-wagging best friends, wine country offers more than just a glass of Shiraz. Great Wine Capital Adelaide, South Australia offers lots of places to explore, relax, and connect with nature, with local producers, and with each other.
Barossa Valley
Take the Barossa Valley, for example. While adults indulge in bold reds and heritage wines, kids can enjoy juice tasting paddles and fairy bread at places like Z Wine. Whistler Wines goes a step further with lawn games, picnic packs, and even a resident wine dog named Cooper. It’s wine tasting with a side of cricket and treasure hunts.
McLaren Vale
Down south in McLaren Vale, the vibe is laid-back and playful. At Down the Rabbit Hole, families lounge on picnic rugs while live music fills the air. Woodstock Wine offers a unique twist – kids can feed kangaroos in the on-site wildlife sanctuary before grabbing a slice of wood-fired pizza. And for dog lovers, cellar doors like DogRidge and Lazy Ballerina roll out the welcome mat with water bowls, treats, and plenty of space to roam.
Clare Valley
In the Clare Valley, the Riesling Trail isn’t just for cyclists – it’s stroller-friendly and dotted with cellar doors that cater to all ages. Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest winery in the region, has lawn games and a play area, while O’Leary Walker Wines serves up tasting paddles for kids alongside gourmet platters for grown-ups. Dogs are welcome too, especially at spots like Shut the Gate and Jeanneret Wines, where shady trees and relaxed vibes make for a perfect pit stop.
Coonawarra
Further southeast, Coonawarra proves that Cabernet country can be just as family-friendly. DiGiorgio Family Wines offers juice tastings and vintage pies, while Bellwether Wines adds a touch of adventure with glamping tents and nature play areas. The Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail connects cellar doors with picnic spots and playgrounds, making it easy to explore without hopping in and out of the car.
The Adelaide Hills and Langhorne Creek regions are getting in on the action too. Howard Vineyard is a dog-friendly gem just outside the city, and Kimbolton Wines offers cordial flights and colouring sheets for kids – because why should adults have all the fun?
Travelling with kids and pets in wine country does require a little planning. Not all wineries allow dogs indoors, and some experiences are seasonal. But with a picnic rug, a few toys, and a sense of adventure, South Australia’s wine regions become a playground for all ages.
So next time you’re heading out for a tasting, don’t leave anyone behind. From juice flights to kangaroo encounters, wine country is ready to welcome your whole crew – paws, prams and all.
Photo: Whistler Wines, Barossa, South Australian Tourism Commission