Clarendon and Kangarilla | McLaren Vale

Nestled in the surrounding hills these two charming towns and surrounding area boast tranquil natural beauty, ample historic character and even a winery or two.

Clarendon

Clarendon is one of the states finest historic towns. The built heritage is worth discovering, with the former police station and courthouse, Oddfellows Hall, former church, Clarendon Winery complex, original school and Clarendon Weir all of particular interest. Largely built between the late 1850s and the 1870s, these buildings have been constructed of local stone that is mellow and warm in colour.

The winding Onkaparinga River runs through Clarendon, which for thousands of years slowly carved its way through the surrounding foothills, creating spectacular gorges and fertile wetlands you can catch tadpoles and look for skinks in the river. For lunch visit the main street bakery for true country pies and pasties and then finish off the day with a drink at The Royal Oak Hotel; or the Old Clarendon Inn is another popular venue where local bands often play during the week.

Kangarilla

The small historic town of Kangarilla is popular for its winemaking ability. Located 15 minutes north-east of McLaren Vale, Kangarilla is worth the drive, home to several highly reputed wineries and vineyards. Pop into Yangarra Estate Vineyard where you can arrange a tour of the winery and barrel tastings. Surrounded by many small farms, here youll enjoy the countryside and fresh air cook a barbeque amid the gum trees.

Blewitt Springs

Now a rural country town, the area around Blewitt Springs was once a good food and water source for the local Indigenous Kaurna people due to the availability of natural springs. Major settlement of the district occurred with the placement of soldier settlers after World War 1, who planted orchards and vineyards. Walk through the stunning Onkaparinga Gorge to experience the serene natural environment,local wildlife and unspoiled bushland.