A South Australian Road Trip Adventure From Vineyards to the Coast
If you’re road-tripping around South Australia, you’d be wise to put wineries and beaches at the top of your list. And with an Ace rental car, you’ve got the keys to connect you between the vines and sand—without the fuss or spending a fortune. Let’s find out how it’s done.
Before you Begin
If wine tasting is a top priority, just make sure you have a designated driver as you cruise from one cellar to the next.
Barossa Valley
The Barossa is where some of Australia’s biggest names in wine. Take a drive to Seppeltsfield, which is known for its century-old fortifieds, and Yalumba, with its historic cooperage and elegant reds. For something more intimate, Rockford Wines delivers rich, old-vine Grenache and Shiraz in a rustic setting, while Henschke produces some of the country’s most iconic wines, including the legendary Hill of Grace. Pair your tastings with a stop at the Barossa Farmers Market, and make time to wander heritage towns like Tanunda for a full flavour of the region.
Clare Valley
The Clare Valley is known for stunning landscapes and equally stunning Rieslings. Cellar doors like Pikes Wines, Skillogalee, and Jim Barry Wines are consistently praised, while Sevenhill Cellars is the oldest in the region. The Riesling Trail makes it easy to link cellar doors and towns, whether you’re driving or cycling. Pack a picnic in your rental car, and keep your eyes open for a spot to take it all in.
Adelaide Hills
For something closer to Adelaide, this is your place. Here, you’ll find charming villages and some of South Australia’s most stylish cool-climate wines. Shaw + Smith is a must-visit for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, while Bird in Hand combines award-winning wines with striking grounds and art installations. The German-influenced village of Hahndorf adds another layer of character, and nearby wildlife parks make this region just as fun for families as it is for wine enthusiasts.
Fleurieu Peninsula
McLaren Vale sits right next to the coast, making it one of South Australia’s most versatile regions. Come here to taste bold reds, swim at Aldinga or walk along the jetty at Port Willunga. And don’t miss the local produce, like olive oil to handmade chocolate!
Kangaroo Island
Hop on the ferry at Cape Jervis and you’ll land in one of Australia’s most unique spots. Kangaroo Island is packed with wildlife, from sea lions at Seal Bay to wallabies and echidnas along the roadside. And don’t miss Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch for photos and places for a picnic.
Eyre Peninsula
The Eyre Peninsula rewards you with rugged coastlines and some of the country’s best seafood. Try oysters straight from the water at Coffin Bay, or head out on a fishing charter. If you’re up for a true Australian wildlife encounter, this is one of the few places in the world where you can cage dive with great white sharks. When you’re done, crack open one of the special bottles you picked up and celebrate your bravery!
Beaches. Wineries. Aced.
The state of South Australia is blessed with beautiful landscapes, so it’s no wonder that the wine and produce here is so special. With Ace, and an appetite for adventure, you’ll find yourself immersed in untouched beaches, historic vineyards and unique wildlife, creating a trip that balances treating yourself and saving a few dollars on your rental car.
