Kate Ritchie’s top 10 guide to the Barossa

It’s no secret that I had a ball when I visited the Barossa last year (you can read all about it here). And if you’re thinking about an Autumn or Winter escape, the Barossa might just have your name written all over it. Here are my top ten tips for making the most of a visit to this SA gem. 1. Choose your partner in crime – While a girl’s getaway to SA would be a lot of fun, it really is the perfect spot for a romantic escape. My husband Stuart is up for the challenge to eat and drink our way around the Barossa but first things first…

2. Don’t skip Adelaide – While your thirsty side might be tempted to head straight to the wine regions, skipping the State’s capital would be a mistake. Adelaide is so hot right now. Be sure to spend a night in the city of Adelaide to ‘top or tail’ your trip.

3. Get your markets on – Spending a morning at Adelaide Central Market (closed Mondays and Sundays) and stocking up a picnic hamper with some of the best produce the country has to offer is an absolute must. It is cheese heaven so I suggest a smelly variety and a fresh baguette!

4. Hit the road – There’s something relaxing about hitting the road and heading to wine country, especially when the open road is surrounded by lush fields with gorgeous splashes of yellow canola. Next stop, the Barossa!

5. Do something unique – ‘Make Your Own Blend‘ at the Penfolds cellar door. And while you’re there, try their chardonnay. You may think Penfolds = red but their whites are incredible too!

6. Choose accommodation that has luxury written all over it – It’s well worth picking digs that scream luxury and romance, you are in wine country after all. Case in point: Barossa Pavilion. Indulge in a spa bath while watching the sun set from your room. Absolutely stunning! Sunrise is pretty spectacular too…

7. Plan ahead a book a special dinner or two: Book dinner at Ferment Asian, Tanunda – a tip which comes highly recommended.

8. Say hello to wineries galore – Think Penfolds was our only winery experience? Think again. Another favourite was Seppeltsfield Wines. Purchase a fortified wine at and make sure you do the tour. The romance and history of the place is breathtaking.

9. Enjoy the local produce – Pick and eat the flowers growing by the creek at Hentley Farm (the chef does… I promise!) and check out their super sophisticated cellar door.

10. Be sure to book a return trip! Next time I hope to fit in lunch at Hentley Farm, some 5-star luxury at The Louise as well as the Kingsford Homestead AND some serious Riesling tasting in the Eden Valley!

Kate and Stuart travelled to South Australia courtesy of South Australia Tourism Commission and lastminute.com.au.

SA is on sale! Book your getaway here.

Read more about Kate’s trip to Adelaide and the Barossa here.

Who would you take on a trip to the Barossa?