What are the Best Things to do in McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu this Summer? Check out a few of our favourites in this guide, including some new places to eat, drink and stay.
To Perk Up – Wild Flour
Our neighbours in Willunga are spoilt for choice along their picturesque main street, with amazing shops, restaurants and cafés. One of those excellent options is Wild Flour, a cosy café housed in one of the township’s beautiful historic buildings. This is such a great place to start your day – with delicious coffee, as well as amazing breakfast options that are just bursting with fresh, local produce. Not to mention some seriously decadent treats to indulge any sweet craving, with homemade pastries, cakes and biscuits, all on display. So be sure to make time for a morning stop next time you’re here…
— 44 High Street, Willunga
— @wildflour_willunga
To Shop – Sage House
There’s nothing like picking up something unique and memorable when you’re travelling. Thankfully the team at Sage House in Aldinga, pride themselves on curating local and Australian gifts that are just that. And going one better, they are also focused on conscious gifting, ensuring the items they feature in store, champion sustainable living. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted ceramics, jewellery, art, clothing, beauty or more, Sage House is worth a visit. So take a moment to slow down, and explore this beautiful local gift shop. We know you will find something that will love.
— 206-208 Port Road, Aldinga
— sagehouse.com.au
To Experience – The Ashes: Adelaide Test
Adelaide is gearing up to go cricket mad this December, with The Ashes Test Match against England kicking off on the 17th December. We especially can’t wait for our hometown hero, and wine fan, Travis Head (pictured) to bring his A game to Adelaide Oval. A real highlight this summer for all our cricket tragic wine lovers. With lots of big talk, it’s clear everyone is excited to see who will prevail in this epic contest. And don’t forget that it will also be a great chance to come and explore McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu while you’re in town…. Another great reason to visit our wonderful region and say howzat!
— cricket.com.au/mens-ashes
To Eat – Taco José
One venue that seems to be entirely changing the scene in McLaren Vale is Joe’s at Sabella, run by chef Timmy Forster and partner Lilli Willoughby. Housed in a former Church on McLaren Vale’s main road, Joe’s is fast making a name for itself with an epic menu of classic Italian dishes with a twist, as well as booked out weekly locals nights, including free BYO. Building on their already popular destination, the pair decided to introduce a Taco restaurant for the Summer, called Taco José, and it’s already impressing plenty! Having lived and worked as a chef in Mexico, Timmy wanted to showcase truly authentic Mexican fare. So don’t expect to find cheese or Nachos on this menu, do look out for the handmade blue corn chips and tortillas, slow cooked, wood-grilled meats and vegetables, accompanied by classic rice and beans. And if you like a laugh, follow them on socials just for the menu descriptions!
— 133 Main Road, McLaren Vale
— @joes.sabella
To Stay – Rockpool Aldinga
Named for the beautiful natural rockpools on nearby Aldinga Reef Aquatic Reserve, this brand new addition the local acommodation scene is the calm, relaxing escape you’ve been looking for. A bright, open plan lounge room, and well appointed kitchen are at the heart of the home. Plenty of space for everyone to put their feet up and kick back. Both bedrooms are designed for maximum relaxation in deep, moody colours, and sumptous fabrics. As well as the two freshly updated bathrooms, it’s ideal for couples wanting to get away. And the spacious back garden beyond the deck is a wonderfully quiet spot to start or end the day, with coastal plants and lots of fresh, seaside air. Or take a short stroll down to the beach nearby, especially to watch one of the epic sunsets. McLaren Vale is only 15mins away, or try some of the great places to eat and explore nearby.
— Air BnB listing
— @rockpoolaldingabeach
And don’t forget to BOOK YOUR SPOT at Oliver’s Taranga while you’re down here enjoying the best the Fleurieu has to offer!
UPCOMING EVENTS
IHANA @ Oliver’s Taranga
Valtteri is briefly back in Australia this December, and we can’t wait to welcome him back to Oliver’s Taranga! Every ticket will include a twin pack of IHANA Edition #2, an entertaining Q&A with Valtteri & Corrina, as well as wine and nibbles on the night, plus a chance to get a professional photo with the fastest man in McLaren Vale!
WHEN – 4pm, Saturday 13th December, 2025
WHERE – 246 Seaview Rd, McLaren Vale
COST – $160pp (includes twin pack of IHANA)
BOOK – oliverstaranga.com/ihana-at-ot
Summervines: Taranga Terroir Tour + Varney & Friends
McLaren Vale’s Summervines festival brings together an exciting mix of events in the region this Summer. At Oliver’s Taranga, we are offering a special edition Taranga Terroir Tour every day of the 10 day celebration. We are also joining our friends Varney Wines and Coriole for a tasting of our exciting varieties on Sunday 18th January. More great reasons to visit us at the start of next year!
WHEN – 16-26 January, 2026
BOOK – summervines.com.au
OTT Tunes Playlist – Summer 2025/2026
While he’s been driving around in the tractor this Spring, Liam, from our vineyard team, has been busy pulling together a great playlist to get this season started off right, so check out the latest OTT Tunes above.