Visitor Guide to Barossa Valley

Visitors Guide to Barossa Valley

Where is Barossa Valley?

The Barossa Valley is one of the most famous wine regions in South Australia. You can find it about 75 km | 46.5 mi northeast of Adelaide. 

How did Barossa Valley get its name?

Colonel William Light was one of South Australia’s first surveyors, he named the area after  the Battle of Barrosa, where the British triumphed over the French on a Spanish battlefield . However, they misspelt the name, which is why the region is now called Barossa and not Barrosa.

How to get to Barossa Valley from Adelaide?

By plane: Adelaide is the closest airport to Barossa Valley for domestic and international flights. From the airport, it’s a very short drive to Adelaide CBD for a few days of city fun before heading to the wine region. 

By car: Just 75km | 46.5mi from Adelaide, taking one-hour to drive, it is a great choice for a day trip from Adelaide. You can take a guided day tour with transport provided, self-drive or stay a night or two and make the Barossa Valley a highlight on your South Australia road trip.  

Public transport: Take the train from Adelaide Central to Gawler Station, outside of Barossa. From there, you’ll need to take a bus that brings you into the wine region. 

While getting to Barossa Valley by public transport is possible, it will take longer getting there, reducing your time spent tasting!

With a tour: Leave the car behind and join one of the many day trips from Adelaide to Barossa Valley. There are some highly recommended guided tours with hotel transfers from  Adelaide that will select the best of the region to showcase. If you’re looking for a bespoke wine tour where you choose where you want to go we would recommend a private tour for the day.

What’s the best time to visit Barossa Valley?

While all seasons in this wine region have their highlights, the best time to visit Barossa Valley is from April to May which is Autumn in Australia, and the vintage will be in full swing. The evening sun shining through the coloured leaves makes the trees look as if they’re on fire and vine harvest celebrations are on. It’s the perfect time to witness Barossa Valley in its true form.

What to do in the Barossa Valley?

Alongside the fabulous wine and dining on offer, other popular attractions in the Barossa include cycling, visiting the local Farmers Market or taking in the golden light of sunrise or sunset from a hot air balloon. 

How many wineries are in Barossa Valley?

The region has about 150 wineries and more than 80 cellar doors from which you can taste wine, schnapps and locally grown produce. From internationally renowned wineries to family-run boutique vineyards, there’s a wine producer for every taste. Often, the wineries are complemented with high-quality restaurants where wines are matched  to seasonal menus.

Which wineries should you visit in the Barossa Valley?

With so many to choose from, it is hard to narrow the field down. Some of our most highly recommended included Yalumba, Seppelt, Chateau Tanunda, Grant Burge and Peter Lehmen. But to go back to where it all started - we recommend a trip to  Jacobs Creek.

At Jacobs Creek, you not only taste their wine, but you can also try your hand in winemaking! During this special experience, you learn tips and tricks from the winery’s own Master Blender on how to perfectly blend a wine. Then you get to create your own blend which you can take home in a personalised bottle.

How long should you stay in the Barossa Valley?

People visiting the Barossa Valley as part of their city trip tend to go for a day trip from Adelaide. While you can already see a lot of the region in just one day, it’s worth staying for a night or two to fully experience Barossa’s beauty. 

If you’re on a road trip through South Australia, staying in the Barossa Valley for a couple of nights is a Must. The region also just happens to be on route to the Flinders Ranges or the underground town Coober Pedy and can easily be included in your itinerary. 

Have a look at some of our South Australia itineraries that include stays in the Barossa Valley: 

15 Day Grand South Australia Self Drive Tour

7 Day The Very Best of South Australia’s Luxury

10 Day Highlights of South Australia

10 Day Explore South Australia Road Trip

Where to stay in the Barossa Valley?

From romantic historic homesteads to fashionable design hotels, even glam camping (glamping)  overlooking the vineyards, there’s a hotel for every taste and budget. 

The Louise is a luxury accommodation known for its contemporary interior design and award-winning restaurant. If it’s a classical vineyard hotel with brick buildings you’re after, the Shiraz Barossa Estate is the place for you. 

For more Barossa Valley accommodation suggestions, our team is happy to help. 

YES! Barossa Valley is worth visiting?

For anyone who enjoys wine and fabulous local fare, this is perfect. Drink the wine and learn more about how it’s produced in the Barossa Valley! This is an absolute must-do during your holiday in South Australia! 

Ready to Plan Your Trip? See our most popular South Australia self drive itineraries here

From family vacations to luxury romantic getaways, we’re here to help you create the holiday you need right now!