And one of the most popular destinations in this tourist hotspot of a country is the state of South Australia.  There is a vast array of things to do there, and to be honest, I don’t think you could possibly do them all unless you are on a really long vacation.

With that said, there is one thing to do in South Australia that probably outshines them all and that is touring the McLaren Vale wineries.  These wineries are world-renowned and for good reason.  It is from this area that the following wines are harvested and produced: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Verdelho, Viognier, and Zinfandel.  Definitely a who’s who of wines.

One of the major factors that contribute to the area producing such a diverse variety of wines is that the area is blessed with various types of soil, enabling the vintners to plant on soils such as fertile red-brown earths, terra rossa, rendzina, soft sands and dark cracking clays.

Although this is the number one destination and attraction in South Australia, there are a number of other things to do while you are there.

McLaren Vale is on the Fleurieu Peninsula which probably has, per square mile, more fun things to do than anywhere in South Australia.  The beaches are great for surfing; there are outstanding trails, out of this world areas to dive from, and just all in all great activities to participate in, especially if you are visiting as a family.

Also on the peninsula is a place called Granite Island, which you can get to by way of a wooden walkway.  There are also horse-drawn trams available.  Once you arrive on Granite Island you will be treated to beautifully landscaped gardens.  It is an excellent area to picnic at.  There are tours where you can see penguins, a boardwalk trail around the island, and chances to try your hand at fishing.  There is also a platform from which you can observe underwater activity and even dolphin and whale watching tours.

Another popular tourist pastime in McLaren Vale are the motorcycle tours.  There are a variety of tour choices available, but be advised, they can become addictive.  And these tours are on none other than the best of the best, Harley Davidson motorcycles.  The people you want to talk to about this are the wonderful folks at McLaren Vale Motorcycle Tours.

There are a number of restaurants and bed-and-breakfasts in McLaren Vale, which is to be expected in a venue this popular.  And they do not disappoint.  There are B&B’s to suit every taste, and restaurants which serve up everything from Modern Australian to Mexican, Spanish, South American, Vegan, Vegetarian, Mediterranean, English and Italian, plus many more.  No matter what part of the world you are from, you will more than likely find your type of cuisine here.

So, although the wineries, for good reason, are the primary attraction and feature of McLaren Vale, rest assured that you will also find a whole lot more to do once you get there.  So, what are you waiting for, go book your trip.