Langhorne Creek Wine Region Daytrip with Lunch from Adelaide

If you’re headed to Adelaide and want to experience Australia’s wine scene beyond the well-trodden paths of the Barossa or McLaren Vale, a Langhorne Creek daytrip might just be your perfect match. Although still flying under the radar compared to its more famous neighbors, this small-group tour offers a thoughtful glimpse into one of South Australia’s emerging wine regions. From its historic wineries to scenic drives through rolling vineyards and charming villages, this trip promises an authentic and relaxed day out.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small-group size ensures a more personalized experience, where guides can share their knowledge without the busload chaos. Second, the inclusive price covers tastings, a delicious lunch, and most importantly, the chance to explore four unique wineries. Third, the scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills and picturesque villages like Strathalbyn adds a lovely touch of regional charm.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour runs for about eight hours, so it’s a full day, but if you’re after a laid-back, intimate wine experience, it’s well worth the time. This tour especially suits wine lovers craving a more personal, off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines tastings with a bit of sightseeing and regional flavor.

Key Points

• Intimate experience with a small-group of up to 10 travelers ensures personalized guidance.
• Visit four wineries, including historic Bleasdale Vineyards, and taste up to four different wines.
• Includes a substantial lunch at Lake Breeze Wines with a complimentary glass, highlighting regional cuisine.
• Scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills and charming villages adds to the day’s appeal.
• Expert guides, like Danny, are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Value for money with all tastings, lunch, and transport covered in one upfront fee.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with pickup from your Adelaide or Glenelg hotel. This convenience means you won’t have to worry about navigating—your transport is sorted. The journey to Langhorne Creek takes about an hour, giving you time to settle in and start soaking up the scenery. Traveling in a small group of just 10 people makes for a comfortable ride and encourages friendly conversations with fellow wine enthusiasts.

First Stop: Bleasdale Vineyards

Your first visit is to Bleasdale Vineyards, a winery listed with the National Trust, which hints at its historical significance. Here, your guide will take you on a tour of the winery, showcasing their historical basket press from 1862—a highlight for anyone interested in winemaking heritage. The tasting session involves sampling some of their best offerings, and you’ll have ample time to appreciate their wine collection and maybe snap a few photos of the picturesque vineyard landscape.

Second Stop: Cleggett Winery (Weekend Opens Only)

Next, on weekends, you’ll visit Cleggett Winery, a family-run operation known for its unique wines. The standout for many visitors is tasting Shalistin, the world’s only white Cabinet Sauvignon, and Malian, a Bronze Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines exemplify how Langhorne Creek is producing some distinctive offerings that challenge the expectations of regional wines. Although the winery is only open on weekends, if your trip aligns, it’s an authentic stop that reveals the creative edge of local winemakers.

The Highlight: Lunch at Lake Breeze Wines

Midday, you’ll pause at Lake Breeze Wines for a leisurely lunch. This is not just about refueling—it’s about savoring regional flavors in a setting that matches the quality of the wines. The menu features seasonal soups, homemade pies, and regional platters, with a glass of wine included to enhance the experience. Many reviews highlight the lunch as a standout feature, describing it as “delicious” and well worth the time. It’s an ideal chance to relax, chat about the morning’s tastings, and enjoy the landscape.

Afternoon Tastings and Exploration

Post-lunch, the tour continues at other esteemed wineries like Bremerton Wines and Angus Plains. Bremerton Wines, with its 45-minute tasting session, is praised for offering a great value experience that includes a variety of wines to sample. Similarly, Angus Plains provides more tasting opportunities, allowing you to compare different styles and discover your favorites.

Scenic Return Through the Hills and Villages

Once your wine adventures wind down, the journey back to Adelaide is through the Southern Lofty Ranges. The drive is scenic, offering sweeping views of the hills, and passes through charming villages like Strathalbyn, Meadows, and Clarendon. Many travelers comment on how the landscape alone makes the trip worthwhile, with stunning vistas and picture-perfect country lanes.

Final Drop-Off and Reflection

The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel, typically around 5 pm. It’s a relaxed end to a day packed with tastings, scenery, and regional charm. Reviewers often note how the experience feels intimate and well-paced, thanks to the small-group format and attentive guide.

Why This Tour Works

This daytrip offers genuine value by combining education, tasting, scenery, and authentic regional character. The fact that it includes hotel pick-up and drop-off takes the hassle out of logistics, and the lunch offers both sustenance and a chance to reflect on the morning’s highlights.

The small-group size, praised in reviews, means you get more interaction with the guide—Danny, in particular, is highlighted for his knowledge and engaging storytelling. This detailed attention turns a simple wine tour into an enriching experience where you learn about the region’s history, wine styles, and local culture.

A notable point is the quality of wines offered—some of which are quite unique—making this a worthwhile stop for those seeking something different from the mainstream wine regions. The inclusion of historic wineries like Bleasdale adds a layer of heritage that wine lovers appreciate.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• The tour runs for approximately eight hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Since tastings are included, no need to carry cash for wine purchases, but it’s always nice to buy a bottle or two at the wineries.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours within wineries, especially Bleasdale.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, as much of the day involves outdoor exposure.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 18, so plan accordingly.
• Confirm your pickup point when booking and be ready by 9:00 am to start the day on time.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from select Adelaide Hotels, making it convenient to start your day.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit four wineries: Bleasdale Vineyards, Cleggett Winery (weekends only), Lake Breeze Wines, Bremerton Wines, and possibly Angus Plains.

What’s included in the price?
The tour cost covers all tastings, a substantial lunch with a glass of wine, round-trip transport, and bottled water.

Is this tour suitable for non-wine drinkers?
While primarily a wine tasting experience, the scenic drives and regional scenery make it enjoyable even if you’re not into wine. But note, the minimum age is 18.

How long is the drive from Adelaide?
The drive to Langhorne Creek is about an hour each way, providing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most of the wineries are accessible, but it’s best to check with the tour provider directly to confirm specific needs.

Do I need to make reservations for the wineries?
No, the tour handles all logistics, and tastings are included as part of the package.

What is the capacity of the tour?
It’s limited to 10 people, ensuring a more intimate, engaging experience.

Final Thoughts

This Langhorne Creek wine region daytrip delivers a balanced mix of authentic wine tasting, regional scenery, and relaxed exploration. The small-group format, guided by knowledgeable hosts like Danny, makes it feel more like a friendly outing than a commercial tour. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and scenic drive enhances the value, making this a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts, couples, or small groups looking for a genuinely personalized experience.

If you’re after a quieter, less commercialized wine adventure with a focus on quality, history, and regional charm, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a more leisurely pace and want to avoid the crowds often associated with larger tours.

Summary

In essence, this tour offers a carefully curated experience that balances wine education, scenic beauty, and regional authenticity. The consistent praise for guides and the high-quality wines makes it stand out as a fantastic value. Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or just someone eager to discover a lesser-known part of South Australia, this trip provides a memorable, enriching day away from the city.