What are the Best Things to do in McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu this Spring? Check out a few of our favourites in this guide, including some new places to eat, drink and stay.
To Perk Up – Beaches Port Elliot
The coastal town of Port Elliot, around half an hour south of McLaren Vale is an idyllic place to get your seaside fix.
And once you’re there, how better to start your day than somewhere like Beaches Port Elliot? With delicious coffee, or why not try their matcha, alongside treats both virtuous and indulgent. Order one of their signature colourful smoothie bowls, or maybe some freshly made sourdough and pastries. Then stop in later in the day for one of their homemade cakes using fruit from the garden, or an overflowing seasonal salad of local produce, it’s worth it!
— 55 North Terrace, Port Elliot
— @beaches.ptelliot
To Shop – Jetty Food Store
While you’re in Port Elliot, why not also stock up on some other great local produce and craft at the Jetty Food Store, just a few doors down. Committed to sourcing local organic and natural options wherever possible, it’s a great place to explore. Filled with lots to tempt you, from fresh fruit and vegetables from local growers, to gluten free breads and pastries, a range of local cheeses, nuts, dips, olive oil and more. All the things you need for that cheese platter at the end of the day! Or explore the handcrafted goods on offer from local artists. A great place to get a gift, and support the locals.
— 42 North Terrace, Port Elliot
— jettyfood.com
To Experience – Harvest Rock
Harvest Rock understood the assignment about delivering amazing music as well as seriously good food and wine.
Scheduled for October 25th & 26th, headliners for the two day festival are New York band The Strokes, who will be playing alongside an epic line-up of other international and great local acts. Plenty of culinary credibility as well, with some of South Australia’s coolest restaurateurs and chefs getting involved. And expect some great wines too, not Oliver’s Taranga, but that just means you can come and see us after! So, great music, great food, and great wines, this is how South Australia rolls!
— harvestrock.com
To Eat – Fall from Grace
Fall from Grace, in the nearby seaside town of Aldinga, is a wine institution in these parts. Ever since it first opened in 2009, every custodian of this characterful wine bar has been a champion for the region. This is certainly true for veteran hospitality stars, and new owners, Jo Leal & Jimmy Toone. Jimmy, previously Head Chef at the Salopian restaurant showcases the region through a carefully curated menu that champions local produce, as well as seamlessly matching the extensive wine list. If you’re travelling to McLaren Vale, this is the perfect spot to cosy up at the end of the day, or as the weather gets better and better, find your spot on the lawn and watch the sunset. Fall from Grace also offers wines for sale, and you can always expect an ecelectic selection to choose from. Plenty of local treats, as well as some interesting international flair.
— 206 Port Rd, Aldinga
— @fallfromgracealdinga
To Stay – Timba rtreet
If the idea of retreating away from the world appeals, then the team at rtreet have got you covered with Timba.
Set on a 110-acres of rolling hills, trees and a hilltop view of McLaren Vale, this retro styled property will make you feel a world away. With four king-sized bedrooms in the main house, as well as an adjacent self-contained studio, Timba offers plenty of flexibility for a group. With ample indoor and outdoor dining spaces as well, you can entertain inside and out, and make the most of the region’s amazing wines and produce. And if the house itself hasn’t got you dreaming of your next escape, then the perfectly located freshwater swimming pool and japanese style hot tub will surely seal the deal. Timba really has everything you need to feel a world away!
— Pennys Hill Rd, McLaren Vale
— rtreet.world
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
Grenache & Gourmet X Porchetta Party – 21 September 2025 *
Grenache & Gourmet X Porchetta Party brings together two of McLaren Vale’s best… not one, not two, but three different styles of Grenache, alongside four delicious courses of amazing food, culminating in the slow roasted, crispy, Italian style Porchetta prepared by local chef Todd Steele. If you love Grenache, then this is the lunch to indulge your passion, and bring your friends along to show them the way! *CURRENTLY SOLD OUT
WHEN 12pm, Sunday 21st September, 2025
WHERE 246 Seaview Rd, McLaren Vale
COST $150pp (all dietaries catered for)
BOOK oliverstaranga.com/bookings
Christmas Party – 7 December 2025
A Christmas Party to remember with Oliver’s Taranga and Chef Todd Steele. Picture your most indulgent Christmas table with great food, delicious wines, colourful crackers, and everything you need to make you feel like all your Christmases have come at once!
WHEN 12pm, Sunday 7th December, 2025
WHERE 246 Seaview Rd, McLaren Vale
COST $150pp (all dietaries catered for)
BOOK oliverstaranga.com/bookings
OTT Tunes Playlist – Spring 2025
Alix, who looks after marketing at Oliver’s, has put together an eclectic mix for the Spring playlist, bringing some 90s nostalgia, as well as classic groovy tracks to get everyone feeling good!