Clare Valley Wine Tasting Tour With Lunch from Adelaide

Taking a full-day trip from Adelaide to the Clare Valley offers a fantastic way to experience one of Australia’s oldest wine regions without the hassle of planning. This Clare Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch, operated by Bums On Seats, promises a relaxed, engaging day filled with tastings, historic sights, and a delightful lunch—all in a small-group setting that feels intimate and personalized.

What makes this tour especially attractive? We love the well-curated itinerary that combines wine, history, and local cuisine; the knowledgeable guides who make the region come alive; and the stunning views at each stop that remind you why this area is a wine lover’s paradise. The only potential drawback is that it’s a full-day commitment—not ideal if you prefer shorter, more flexible excursions.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, or those wanting a stress-free outing with good company and excellent wine. It’s also a great choice for visitors eager to explore the Clare Valley’s heritage while sipping some of Australia’s finest vintages.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with wine tastings at at least three wineries
• Tasty lunch in a scenic garden setting paired with local wines
• Historic sites such as Martindale Hall and Sevenhill Cellars
• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Comfortable transport and a knowledgeable guide make for a smooth trip
• Free cancellation adds peace of mind

What to Expect from the Tour Itinerary

This 8-hour journey kicks off early in the morning, departing from Adelaide at 9:00 am, with a focus on providing a relaxed yet comprehensive experience of the Clare Valley’s highlights.

First Stop: Taylors Wines in Auburn

Your adventure begins in the charming town of Auburn, famous for its heritage-listed stone buildings. Here, you’ll enjoy a 45-minute stop that includes tastings at local cellar doors and wandering through antique shops. Tour guides, such as Parry (noted for his deep regional knowledge), often customize the visit based on guest preferences, making this part engaging. Reviewers praise Parry for his personal touch and extensive regional insights, describing the day as “unforgettable.”

This initial stop sets the tone, providing a gentle introduction to the region’s history and a chance to sample wines from small local producers. It’s also an excellent opportunity to soak in the town’s vintage charm and snap some photos of its heritage architecture.

Second Stop: O’Leary Walker Wines

Next, you move to O’Leary Walker Wines, known for its premium, handcrafted wines, especially Shiraz and Riesling. The cellar door offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills, making it hard not to be distracted by the scenery while sampling. Expect to spend about an hour here, tasting wines directly from the cellar, which has earned praise from visitors for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and the high quality of wines on offer.

Third Stop: Lunch at Antidote Kitchen

Around midday, it’s time for a highlight—lunch at Antidote Kitchen. This farm-to-table restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a relaxed setting. What sets this apart is the chance to enjoy your meal with local wines, adding a culinary dimension to the experience. Reviewers note that the menu is thoughtfully curated, reflecting the freshness and quality of the ingredients.

The lunch is not only tasty but also paired thoughtfully with wines. It’s a great chance to unwind and chat with fellow travelers, with some reviews mentioning that the setting’s relaxed atmosphere made the meal more memorable than a typical restaurant experience.

Fourth Stop: Sevenhill Cellars

After lunch, you visit Sevenhill Cellars, run by Jesuit Brothers. As the oldest winery in the Clare Valley, it offers a glimpse into the region’s pioneering spirit. The stone winery and cellar door are picturesque, and the grounds are spacious enough for a leisurely stroll. Visitors often rave about tasting highly regarded wines, both Australian and international award winners, in a historic setting.

Being able to explore St Aloysius Church and the gardens adds a cultural layer, appreciated by those interested in regional heritage. Reviewers frequently mention that this stop enriches the experience, combining history and wine seamlessly.

Fifth Stop: Pikes Wines

The final winery visit is to Pikes Wines, famous for its Riesling—an iconic varietal in the Clare Valley. With free tastings lasting about 45 minutes, this stop is a highlight for Riesling lovers. Expect to sample some of the best expressions of the variety, often praised for their crispness and floral notes. This laid-back tasting provides a perfect way to wind down before heading back to Adelaide.

The Return Journey and Afternoon Tea

As the day winds down, the tour makes a final stop for afternoon tea, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences. The return to Adelaide is comfortable, with plenty of opportunities to chat about your favorite wines and sights.

The Experience: Why It Works

Small Group Dynamics

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the small-group setting (max 26 travelers). This fosters a more personal experience, giving you room to ask questions and get tailored insights from your guide, Parry, who consistently receives praise for his knowledge and friendly demeanor. Guests have described their days as “extra memorable” because of guides like Parry who go above and beyond.

Expert Guide and Local Knowledge

The reviews emphasize how guides use their regional insights to match wineries and tastings to individual palettes. This personalized approach elevates the experience from generic to genuinely engaging. Parry’s ability to craft a day that aligns with guests’ tastes is a standout feature, making many say they’d recommend the tour for this reason alone.

Scenic and Historic Highlights

The inclusion of historic sites such as Martindale Hall (if included as an optional extra or part of the region’s heritage) and Sevenhill’s heritage buildings adds cultural depth. The views from the wineries, the historic architecture, and the well-maintained gardens create a visual feast that complements the wine tastings.

Culinary Experience

Lunch at Antidote Kitchen isn’t just a meal—it’s a highlight that elevates the whole day. Guests appreciate the local ingredients, seasonal menu, and the chance to pair wine with thoughtfully prepared dishes. It’s a good reminder that wine tasting isn’t just about the drink but also about experiencing the region’s produce.

Price and Value

At around $251 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-rounded package. You get visits to at least three wineries, a delicious lunch with wine, historic sites, and scenic views. Considering private tastings, a guided experience, transport, and food, the value is quite high for an organized full-day tour.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and often booked 86 days ahead.
• The 8-hour duration suits most travelers comfortable with a full day, but it might be long for those with limited stamina.
• The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere but means spots fill quickly.
• The tour departs at 9:00 am from Adelaide and returns in the late afternoon, making it easy to plan around.
• Public transport is accessible nearby, but you’ll want a designated driver or just enjoy the guide driving.

This trip is ideal for anyone interested in wine and history, looking for a stress-free day with expert guidance. It suits couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a personalized experience. Perfect for those who enjoy scenic views, cultural sites, and quality wines, but it’s less suited for travelers looking for a flexible or shorter outing.

The Clare Valley Wine Tasting Tour from Adelaide offers a well-balanced blend of wine, history, and culinary delights. With knowledgeable guides like Parry, guests can expect a tailored experience that highlights the region’s best wineries and historic sites, all in a comfortable, small-group setting. The inclusion of a memorable lunch paired with regional wines is a highlight, making this tour excellent value for the price.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply eager to explore South Australia’s wine heritage, this tour provides an enriching, fun, and beautifully scenic day out. It’s an authentic taste of the Clare Valley’s charm, crafted for those who value quality experiences and expert insights.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit at least three wineries during the day, including O’Leary Walker, Sevenhill Cellars, and Pikes Wines.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is part of the tour and is served at Antidote Kitchen, paired with local wines in a scenic garden setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
Most tastings are included in the tour price, but you may wish to purchase additional wines or souvenirs.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included in the tour, with a comfortable vehicle driven by your guide, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s perfect for wine lovers, history buffs, and those who enjoy scenic outings.