One Of Australia's Premier Wine Regions Is A Foodie Paradise With National Parks Nearby

Australia is a sun-kissed land of pristine beaches, wide-open spaces, and iconic wildlife such as kangaroos, crocodiles, and koalas. Nicknamed the "Lucky Country" because of its ideal weather and wealth of natural resources, this massive continent nation also produces some of the best wines on the planet. From bold, peppery Shirazes to crisp, fruity Chardonnays, the Land Down Under is a dream spot for a wine vacation, and this includes the legendary Barossa Valley. 

Situated just north of the city of Adelaide in the state of South Australia, the Barossa Valley is home to over 170 wineries. Like this foodie destination in New South Wales, this region of charming small towns and gentle rolling hills is also one of the country's gastronomical hotspots, with a wealth of eateries where you can pair great wine with great food. It's also a terrific destination for nature lovers, as the valley is within striking distance of three national parks, as well as several other outdoor reserves. While the Barossa Valley offers plenty of things to explore, perhaps its greatest selling point is its accessibility. It's only a one-hour drive from Adelaide, making it a perfect day trip for those who wish to base themselves in the city.

The Barossa Valley was originally settled by German and English immigrants in the 1840s, who quickly realized its potential as grape-growing country. Jacob's Creek was the first winery to plant vines back in 1847 and is still going strong today. While the valley cultivates over 40 varieties of grapes, 84% are reds, with Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, and especially Shiraz taking up the lion's share of acreage. These full-bodied grapes do well in the hot, Mediterranean climate the valley enjoys, with the Murray River providing much-needed irrigation to the region's many vineyards.

When it comes to tastings and tours, the array of choices are dizzying. Penfolds Barossa Valley Cellar Door offers regular tastings, as well as the opportunity for guests to create their own blends from one of Australia's most recognizable wineries. Situated next to Jacob's Creek, St. Hugo features a lounge serving specially crafted wine flights in a restored ironstone building. Two Hands offers a Vineyard Experience where you can learn about the winemaking process from ground to glass, while guests can sip Tawny Port from a 100-year-old barrel at the historic Seppeltsfield Estate. And for a unique experience, Artisans of Barossa is a co-op made up of nine family-run brands where you can support the kind of small, independent wineries that put the valley on the wine map in the first place.

Of course, we can't talk about wine without food, and this is where the Barossa Valley also shines. For the best in flame-grilled steaks, burgers, and other "honest food," sit down for a meal at Char Barossa; Bar:Musque features a range of tapas as well as locally-produced gin, while the very popular Harvest Kitchen provides a shared dining experience at the Jacob's Creek Visitor Center.

While you could spend all of your time eating and drinking your way up and down the Barossa Valley, it also serves as a great jumping-off spot for exploring some of the outdoor wonders South Australia has in spades. Situated along a stoney river gorge, the Onkaparinga National Park features hiking trails and camping. Cleland National Park is situated just 20 minutes from Adelaide's city center and is home to wildlife such as emus, koalas, and kangaroos. Further up the road is the Wapma Thura-Southern Flinders Ranges National Park, which is well worth the three-hour drive. Established in 2021, this protected area was previously made up of several smaller reserves and features forests, gorges, and rugged hills.

The region is home to scores of smaller reserves as well, including Para Wirra Conservation Park, Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park, and Morialta Conservation Park, famous for its stunning waterfalls. All of these parks are within about an hour's drive from Barossa Valley, making them great side trips.

While the Barossa Valley is great any time of the year, summer (January to March) can be punishingly hot, while fall is warm and manageable — the perfect time to stroll outdoors among the vines. Winter can get downright chilly, which may be the ideal conditions for sipping a rich glass of red next to a cozy fire. For more of Australia's sun-splashed glory, take a drive along its Great Ocean Road.