The Barossa is one of Australia’s major wine-producing areas with 45 wineries producing about a quarter of Australia’s total vintage.
The valley is easy to explore: just 30km long by 14 km wide. The centre of the Barossa is the area bounded by the valley’s three main towns, Angaston, Nurioopta and Tanunda; although it extends further south towards Lyndoch.
Tanunda is the cultural heart of the Barossa and it is perhaps the most centrally located of the towns in the Barossa and is home to some good pubs and camping grounds. Most of the Barossa is situated within easy cycling distance from Tanunda.
North of Tanunda, Nurioopta is the more modern commercial centre of the valley while Angaston, 6km east of Nurioopta, retains a more historic ambience.
Coming & going
The Barossa Valley is close enough to Adelaide to make an easy day-trip. If you’re driving follow the Sturt Highway and take the Nurioopta turn-off. However a car won’t be much use if you want to indulge in wine tasting when you get there and you may decide to travel to the Barossa by bus or to take a day tour.
Oz Experience buses visit the Barossa Valley on their Adelaide to Alice Springs route.
Another option is the day tour offered by Groovy Grape. For $90 Groovy Grape’s trips take in a few wineries and include a barbecue lunch. Tours run seven days a week and depart Adelaide city centre at 7.30am.
Local transport
Although driving is usually the best way to get around rural areas like the Barossa, it’s not a good idea since you’re not going to appreciate it without stopping for a drink or three – especially since the local police are extremely vigilant when it comes to drink driving.
A better idea is to rent a bicycle from one of the bicycle rental companies in Tanunda. The valley is small enough to make cycling the most enjoyable way to get around. Bike About hire bikes from Tanunda Caravan Park. Bikes cost $50–115 for a weekend.
Eating & drinking
Sampling the region’s wine is the main reason to visit the Barossa. The best way to do this is to rent a bicycle and cycle from one winery to the next, stopping for a picnic lunch en route. You can pick up picnic supplies at the supermarkets at any of the towns in the valley and many of the wineries have picnic areas where you can enjoy their wine.
If you prefer beer to wine, both Angaston and Tanunda have excellent pubs.
