Things to do in Barossa Valley, South Australia
A heaven for all the gastronomic enthusiasts and wine lovers, Barossa valley’s location amidst breathtaking natural beauty, and the laid back lifestyle of the place makes it a must-visit spot for all the souls running away from the eccentricities of a modern world. With the time standing still, the valley has nothing but the best to offer to the wanderers arriving at its doorstep.
Overview of Barossa Valley :
A 912 sq. km. valley, home to roughly 20,000 people, it is a major tourist attraction with settlements dating back to early 19th century. A globally known wine-producing region, the valley is equally famous for other historical marvels it displays within the existing cluster of towns (Nuriootpa, Tanunda, Angaston, Gawler, Lyndoch, Greenock, Williamstown, Kapunda etc.) each having unique experiences for the visitors.
Location & Transportation:Â
60 km north-east of the Adelaide city center (1-hour drive)in the state of South Australia, Barossa valley is formed by the North Para river, and the Barossa Valley Way. Daily Public Transport services (Bus & Metro) linking Adelaide to either some or all townships in the valley are available along with direct routes (via Northern Expressway, Main North Road etc.) to Lyndoch or Tanunda from Adelaide airport. Once in the valley, pedestrian and bike trails are the preferred mode for exploring the valley.
History of Barossa Valley :
Originally inhabited by Peramangk aborigines, the first expedition in the area by Colonel Light in 1837, led to the naming of adjacent ranges as ‘Barossa ranges’ commemorating victory in the ‘Battle of Barrossa.’ Subsequently, the valley was named the same. The early settlers were mainly Germans and English miners from Prussian Silesia and Cornish region, respectively, searching primarily for a fortune in the new land. Lyndoch (established 1837) is the oldest town in the valley with mesmerizing antiques and historical mementos. Kapunda, Australia’s first mining town with Celtic heritage was a major copper mining center in the 1850-60s. Gawler (established 1839), South Australia’s first country town has a rich history reflected by the preserved architectural evidences.
Know Barossa Valley :
Primarily known for ‘Shiraz‘ (Barossa red wine), and other traditional grape and wine varieties, the valley offers a unique and amazing culinary escapade through its vast hectares of vineyard and fresh local produce. Burning passion, tradition and culture of dining and drinking of ‘Barossa people’ has resulted in several milestones in the industry over the generations.
Amazing Barossa :
Kapunda was home to Sir Sidney Kidman, world’s largest private landowner!
The Food Forest in Gawler produces 160 varieties of organic products!
Seppeltsfield winery releases a 100-year old wine every year since 1978!
Attractions :
Knowing Barossa completely involves an excursion to each of the unique hamlets. The Heritage Trail in Tanunda wraps up the town’s past in a single journey, whereas, visits to Barossa Chateau and Chateau Yaldara in Lyndoch is a must for every explorer. Map Kernow in Kapunda and Clock Tower & Historic Main Street Walking Tour in Gawler are other heritage attractions of Barossa Valley. Community Art Gallery (Gawler), Jam Factory (Seppeltsfield), Wilhelm Circa 1857 (Nuriootpa), Barossa Bushgardens, Murals in Williamstown, Collingrove in Angaston etc. are other places to visit in the valley, besides the state-of-the-art wineries and farms. Barossa Gourmet Weekend and Barossa Vintage Festival are other cultural events unique to the Barossa Flavor.
Ever visited heaven for wine lovers i.e. Barossa Valley? Enjoyed the excursion and the unique culinary escapades? Please share the amazing experience here or comment below.
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