Things To Do in The Barossa

With some 75 wineries offering free cellar-door tastings, daily tours charting the winemaking process, or both, you won't be stuck for places to visit. All wineries are well signposted and most are open every day. Below are just a few of my favorite places, but don't be shy about stopping whenever you come across a winery that takes your fancy. A tip: Try a sparkling red; it's the perfect red to drink in the hot Australian summer.

The Riesling Trail -- An hour's drive to the north of Angaston is the Clare Valley, another of Australia's great wine-producing areas. But whereas the Barossa is famous for its reds, the Clare is best known for its whites, in particular, Riesling. The best way to explore the area is along the Riesling Trail, a 27km (16.5-mile) walking and cycling track that follows an unused railway line between Clare and Auburn that passes several cellar doors and historic attractions. There are three loop trails along the way for those that want to park and ride. Parking is available at Clare, Sevenhill, Watervale, and Auburn. Bike hire is available from Clare Valley Cycle Hire (tel. 08/8842 2782) and costs A$17 for 4 hours and A$25 for all day (9am-5pm); baby seats are available for A$6. Free trail maps are available from tourist information centers, or visit www.southaustraliantrails.com.

Special Find: Fresh from the Farm -- If you're here on a Saturday morning, drop into the Barossa Farmers Markets in the Vintners Sheds at Angaston. A "food only" market, the warehouse is packed with stalls laden with all the fresh produce associated with the heritage and traditions of the region, from fresh fruit and vegetables to meats, preserves, and breads. It's open each Saturday morning from 7:30 to 11:30am. Get there early rather than later though, as food sells out fast. It's a great place to breakfast, as coffee carts sell fresh espresso, and the fresh breads and pastries are divine.