Wondering what to do in the Barossa?

If you’re thinking of visiting the Barossa but not sure what to do, or maybe it’s been awhile and you’re looking for a good reason to come back… here’s our rundown on the newest additions to the Barossa scene.  This is a bit of a long post, but stay with me… it’s worth it!

Our region is fast becoming popular as a destination for more than just cellar doors and if you ask the locals (us!) you’ll find a whole range of fabulous things to do.

Seppeltsfield Road in the Barossa offers not just 18 cellar doors (definitely visit the new Hewitson Wines cellar door)  but also new “go to” places like Seppeltsfield Road Distillers who are bringing gin back in the most ingenious fashion!

Seppeltsfield Road Distillers are newcomers, having opened in late 2018 and have relaunched the gin craze in a glorious way!!  If you haven’t paid a visit to meet “Christine” the still or “Chase” the dog and stopped to enjoy a refreshing G&T on the deck, you are missing out!!  Owners Nicole and Jon have created a contemporary and unique venue bringing something new and exciting to the Barossa. Bec the Bar Manager will delight you with a guided Gin Flight or mix you a mean cocktail. A 5 minute drive from us, (taxi’s are available) it’s a must do!!  Check their website for dates of their “Deck Days” where you can just chill and enjoy Barossa street food and live music with your gin of choice. I have to confess I’ve spent a few enjoyable lazy afternoons there myself!

Vasse Virgin at Seppeltsfield are also relatively new on the scene and bring another level of experience with their luxe natural olive oil skincare and soap products, as well as gourmet food products. Recently awarded “Best New Tourism Business” you can sample and purchase their delectable products in the retail space, view them hand making soaps on site or try your hand at a workshop to make your own lip balm or perfume. This is a beautifully serene spot, where they have lovingly restored the old “Vinegar Haus” building on the Seppeltsfield Estate into a bright, fresh and inviting space. Tip.. make sure you try their divine hand scrubs, they are truly life changing!

What’s new in food and wine in the Barossa? 

Yes sometimes it’s nice to do something that’s not all about wine, but let’s face it most people do come to the Barossa for a chance to try some great wine and amazing food and there’s still such a fabulous array of choices. Here’s some newbies we think are just fantastic.

Vino Lokal Wine Room & Bar is the Artisans of Barossa’s “new place” in Tanunda – and I have to say, a very chic spot to enjoy a bite and some artisan wine. They have just been awarded “Australia’s Best Tasting Experience” in the 2019 Gourmet Traveller Cellar Door Awards!  Here you can experience the best local wines from Artisans of Barossa. Their aim: to present every possible expression of wine from the best of Barossa’s small winemakers. Offering over 50 Barossa wines for tasting, by the glass, carafe or bottle, the wines are from Artisan winemakers John Duval Wines, Spinifex, Schwarz Wine Company, Hobbs of Barossa Ranges and Sons of Eden.  Combine this with innovative dining offering a relaxed and down to earth menu of the best locally sourced produce, with renowned local chef Ryan Edwards at the helm. Far more than a cellar door this is a place to take some time to sit and savour wine and food in a more relaxed environment. If you want to dive deeper and understand the Barossa – its heritage, geography, climate, seasons and major wine styles then “Wine Skool” @ Vino Lokal is the perfect introduction. Classes are available by booking only – for more info email wineroom@vinolokal.com
The Wine Bar is open until 8pm on Monday to Thursday, 10pm on Friday and Saturday and 6pm on Sundays, so a great destination at the end of the day (as well as all day of course!) Check out their new “Kitchen Table” night on Wednesday’s, where $50 will get you a seat at the Vino Lokal Long Table, and then leave you entirely at the kitchen’s privilege to surprise you with local fare, I can’t wait to try this!

If you’re feeling energetic, take a healthy 30 minute walk from Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage to newly opened Barossa Valley Estate, home to Australia’s only Paul Bangay designed garden that can be accessed by the public. Enjoy a platter and glass of wine in one of the many “garden rooms” surrounded by stunning, immaculately clipped hedges, manicured lawns and structured gardens, with Barossa views to die for.
The beautifully appointed cellar door is a space just as amazing… pop inside for a tasting and chat with the lovely Donna who will guide you through their collection of reds.
Barossa Valley Estate only make red wines. In fact they only make Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre, because, in their words “if history has taught us anything, these are the Barossa Valley’s greatest wines”  I have to agree…  You won’t be disappointed if you choose to while away a few hours here.

Did someone say chocolate?

If you have a sweet tooth or a passion for ice cream, then you’ll be wowed with the very newly opened Barossa Valley Chocolate Company. At this very impressive home of all things chocolate you’ll find their team of chocolatiers creating delicious handmade, artisan chocolates made from cacao sourced from around the world. With over 250 products available, ranging from white, milk, dark and the new ruby chocolate you will definitely find something to tempt your tastebuds. Located on the edge of one of the Barossa’s most picturesque towns, Tanunda, they are open 9-5 daily. There’s also a cafe offering coffee and cake and they also serve lunch from 11-4. Sit inside by the fire in winter or out on the decked verandah overlooking the lake or vineyards on a nice day.  If that’s not enough, venture through to the adjacent wine tasting room where you can taste and enjoy some wine and chocolate pairing – need I say more?  They will soon be offering some exclusive chocolate experiences and classes so keep your eye on this place!

Fancy some shopping?  Or the best coffee in the Barossa? …  

Hyyge Homewares and Vintage located in the tiny village of Greenock, is a gorgeous tiny shop packed with personality and wonderful gifts and homewares – and is located very conveniently across the road from a great coffee or something delicious to eat at the Colombian inspired El Estanco café,   In Angaston, Hive Barossa cafe is creating a buzz for great simple food, fresh smoothies and coffee. If you’re venturing into Tanunda, although not new, don’t miss A Time for Seasons and Alabaster for shopping and our favourite stop for food, coffee and delectable desserts Red Door Espresso Cafe.
The Jam Factory at Seppeltsfield Estate is also another firm favourite of mine. There’s always a new exhibition of artisan crafted art and wares to see or to buy the perfect uniquely crafted gift. Follow this with lunch, a coffee or their new afternoon tea menu at FINO (the Crema Catalana will blow your mind) or perhaps stay there for dinner?

There really is so much on offer and please,  take note  – most people find that only a weekend in the Barossa is never enough once they start discovering all of these amazing places!
So come stay a while, join us soon and let Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage provide your perfect base for discovering or re-discovering the best things the Barossa has to offer.