Tucked into the rolling countryside of South Australia, the Clare Valley Wine and Wilderness Trail offers a rare blend of scenic walking, native bushland, and world-class wine tasting. Stretching over 100 kilometres, this purpose-built hiking route invites visitors to experience the region’s landscapes and cellar doors at walking pace—connecting the dots between nature, viticulture, and heritage.
This community-led initiative, developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, has quickly become a highlight of South Australia’s regional tourism portfolio. With strong support from volunteers and local authorities, it reflects a broader state commitment to sustainable tourism that uplifts regional economies while encouraging eco-conscious exploration.
Walking Through Vines, Valleys, and History
The trail is split into six clearly defined stages, looping across both public pathways and private lands—thanks to the cooperation of local landholders. Each stage showcases a different aspect of the Clare Valley’s topography and culture, from wooded ridgelines and open plains to neat rows of vines and rustic townships.
The route is versatile enough to accommodate different levels of walking experience. While some sections feature steeper climbs, most of the terrain is rated moderate, with wide trails, dirt tracks, and fire access routes making up the majority. Standard hiking boots or trail shoes are recommended, though casual walkers will find many parts manageable without technical gear.
From Red Gums to Riesling: Nature and Wine Side by Side
Wildlife sightings add richness to the walking experience. In particular, stage two—known for its red stringybark trees, the westernmost stand in the country—offers a high chance of spotting native birds like flame robins and galahs, as well as kangaroos and, occasionally, koalas.
But just as suddenly as the trail plunges you into the wild, it delivers you to a vineyard gate. Among the many cellar doors dotting the path, Jeanneret, Pikes, Skillogalee, and Tim Adams stand out for their balance of quality and atmosphere. These wineries are not just destinations for tastings; they also offer insight into how the local geology—ranging from slate to limestone to quartz—translates into the distinct flavour profiles of the region’s acclaimed wines.
Walking through these varied soils deepens your understanding of what makes Clare Valley wines so unique. The region’s microclimates, influenced by its elevation and topography, help produce signature varieties like riesling and shiraz with exceptional clarity and balance.
Cultural Stops Along the Way
The trail also winds through the historic towns of Clare and Sevenhill. Here, walkers can rest, refuel, and explore the local heritage. Clare, the largest town in the area, offers a range of services including cafes, restaurants, accommodation, and transport options. Sevenhill, home to a historic monastery and winery, offers another layer of cultural richness with its traditional architecture and warm hospitality.
Efforts have been made to ensure the trail is inclusive and accessible. Volunteers from community organisations, including men’s sheds, have constructed stiles, signage, and other trail infrastructure to help walkers navigate the sections that cross private property. This strong local participation speaks to the pride and sense of ownership residents feel over the region’s tourism development.
Shorter Routes for Casual Wanderers
While the entire trail can be completed over six days, many visitors prefer shorter excursions that balance walking with wine tasting. A modified section of stage two begins at Blue Gum lookout and travels through the Spring Gully Conservation Park, ending at Skillogalee via Jeanneret—perfect for a morning walk and lunch.
Another popular shortened walk starts at the Sevenhill Hotel and leads to Pauletts winery, with an optional detour to Pikes. For those more interested in spirits than sips of riesling, a shorter version of stage one links Tim Adams Wines to the Clare Valley Distillery, offering a manageable 7km stroll through vineyard landscapes.
These variations make the trail highly adaptable to different interests, fitness levels, and time constraints. Visitors can choose their own adventure—whether it’s a half-day loop or the full week-long trek.
Responding to Environmental Realities
While the valley remains visually stunning, the effects of prolonged drought are unmistakable. Locals and winemakers have noted the severity of dry conditions in recent years. Still, the resilience of the vineyards, and the beauty of the surrounding ridges and plains, remain compelling.
This contrast between natural beauty and environmental challenge serves as a reminder of the fragility of regional ecosystems. It also reinforces the need for responsible, low-impact tourism—something the trail is well-designed to support.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
Clare offers a central base for accommodation and planning. Visitors can choose from a variety of lodging types, from family-friendly caravan parks and budget-friendly campsites to boutique villas and eco-style tiny homes. Free camping is available in select areas such as Watervale, making the region accessible to travellers with different budgets and preferences.
The trail can be completed independently or with the help of a guided service. For self-guided walkers, planning is essential—particularly for transport, as not all start and end points are conveniently connected. Taxis operate in the region, and ride-sharing services are expected to launch soon.
Guided packages are also available and typically include accommodation, meals, and transit support between stages. These services offer a hassle-free option for those wanting to focus on the walk and the wine without logistical concerns.
Trail Infrastructure and Future Growth
According to state infrastructure planning documents, improvements to the Clare Valley Wine and Wilderness Trail are underway. New amenities—including dedicated campsites and trail signage—are being added to accommodate growing demand.
Local tourism boards and state government agencies continue to invest in the trail’s maintenance and promotion as part of a broader vision to position South Australia as a hub for immersive, experience-based travel. This includes efforts to grow walking tourism, support small producers, and showcase the region’s natural and cultural diversity.
Why the Clare Valley Trail is More Than a Walk
The Clare Valley Wine and Wilderness Trail is more than a hiking route—it’s a curated journey through the heart of South Australian life. From vineyard tastings to panoramic ridgelines, it offers a holistic way to engage with the region’s geography, ecology, food, and community.
Whether you’re drawn by the chance to taste award-winning wines, spot native wildlife, or simply spend time outdoors in a peaceful setting, this trail delivers a rich, grounded travel experience. It celebrates the value of slow movement, the authenticity of local culture, and the beauty of a region that has learned to adapt and thrive through connection—with the land, and with each other.
For travellers looking to reconnect with nature while enjoying the finer things in life, the Clare Valley Wine and Wilderness Trail may just be the perfect path.
