McLaren Vale & Glenelg: Wine Tasting Tour with Coastal Return

Summary

Wine tasting in mclaren vale with a coastal walk through glenelg on the way back

You’ll travel from Adelaide through rolling hills to McLaren Vale for tastings at two cellar doors—with plenty of local stories along the way—then return by way of Glenelg for a sunset stroll along Gulf St Vincent before heading back to your hotel. Expect good wine, relaxed company, and small moments that linger longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

The van was already humming when I climbed in—someone had brought coffee that smelled like burnt caramel, and our guide, Mark, was cracking jokes about Adelaide traffic. We wound out of the city quick enough, windows down for that first hit of eucalyptus and dust as we climbed into the Onkaparinga Hills. Mark slowed down at one point and pointed out kangaroos grazing just off the road—honestly, I almost missed them because I was busy trying to spot koalas in the gums. No luck there. The hills rolled by all gold and green, and it felt like time stretched a bit.

McLaren Vale itself is quieter than I expected. Chapel Hill Winery was our first stop—big stone walls, cool inside even though it was warm out. The woman pouring tastings (I think her name was Tessa?) told us about the different soils here. I’m not a wine expert but you could taste something earthy in their Shiraz—maybe that’s just my imagination. Someone in our group bought a cheese platter at Haselgrove Wines (not included but looked pretty tempting), and we all ended up sharing bites between sips. There’s this easy friendliness in South Australia that makes you feel less like a tourist for a minute.

The drive back hugged the coast—windows open again, salt air mixing with leftover wine on my breath. We stopped in Glenelg just as the light started to go gold over Gulf St Vincent. Some people wandered off down the jetty; I just stood barefoot on the sand for a while and listened to seagulls fighting over chips. You can hop off here and take the tram back to Adelaide if you want more beach time, or stick with the group for hotel drop-off. Either way, it’s hard not to feel lighter after an afternoon like this.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — McLaren Vale wine tasting and Glenelg stroll

• Travel through Onkaparinga Hills spotting wildlife
• Wine tasting at Chapel Hill Winery
• Wine tasting at Haselgrove Wines
• Drive along coastline with scenic views
• Stroll along Glenelg beach and jetty
• Return to Adelaide CBD

Top questions

How long is the McLaren Vale & Glenelg wine tasting tour?

This is a half-day afternoon tour departing from Adelaide.

Are wine tastings included in the price?

Yes, tastings at both Chapel Hill Winery and Haselgrove Wines are included.

Is transportation provided from my hotel?

Yes, hotel drop-off is included at the end of the tour.

Can I buy food during the tour?

You can purchase a cheese platter at Haselgrove Wines if available.

Will we see wildlife on this day trip?

You may spot kangaroos or koalas while driving through Onkaparinga Hills.

How many people are on each tour?

The small-group tour is limited to 20 participants.

Can I leave the tour early in Glenelg?

Yes, you have the option to stay in Glenelg and take the tram back to Adelaide yourself.

Is this McLaren Vale wine tasting suitable for families?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes transport from Adelaide with an experienced local guide, guided tastings at two McLaren Vale wineries (Chapel Hill and Haselgrove), plus time to stroll along Glenelg Beach before returning to your hotel by van or tram—just bring some extra for snacks if you want them along the way.