Fireside wine tasting in the Barossa this winter

Add a seasonal twist to your Barossa wine tasting this winter and curate your own fireside itinerary, adding flickering flames and firelight to warming Barossa reds!

And if you’re staying at The Villas – Barossa in Marananga village, you’ll be able to explore the best of the Barossa’s cellar doors (with fireplaces), on foot.   

We’re an easy 10-minute walk from 7 cellar doors (not to mention Seppeltsfield Rd Distillers).  Just add a woollen beanie and long scarf and start exploring.

Here are some local cellar doors with fireplaces within walking distance of The Villas - Barossa, for your Best of Barossa on Foot winter wine-tasting itinerary:

two hands cellar door, barossa

Two Hands

Settle into the slower pace of the Barossa with a winter tasting experience designed for simple pleasures. Start at Two Hands with a guided walk along the Kraehe Nature Trail where you’ll take in winter vineyard views, hear the story of the property and meet the resident Scottish Highland cows along the way. Return to Cellar Door where a reserved table by the fireplace awaits. 

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seppeltsfield rd distillers

Seppeltsfield Road Distillers

Ok, this is not strictly wine-tasting…but Seppeltsfield Road Distillers do have a cosy winter indoor fireplace!  However, with elevated views from the outdoor seating, you might end up seeking the winter sun on the decks, and warm up with a tasting flight or cocktail (there are mocktails on offer, too).

This is a great option if you’re looking for a place to unwind on a winter weekend in the Barossa.

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Greenock Creek Wines

The Greenock Creek wine room is located in the heart of Marananga village, along the Seppeltsfield Road iconic avenue of palms.  With its rustic charm and warm fireplace, settle in and explore the wines of a sub-region of the Barossa known for beauty and quality.

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barossa valley estate credit: simon grifiths

Barossa Valley Estate

With its perennial gardens and breath-taking views, Barossa Valley Estate is beautiful in any season.

Take a stroll through the gardens with a glass of red wine, find a cosy outdoor fire, or slip back inside to the warmth of the cellar door fireplace.

This is an absolutely beautiful location for winter winetasting.

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And when you’re ready, a short drive, will bring you to…

HENTLEY FARM - Cellar door, barossa credit: South Australian tourism Commission / sven kovac

Hentley Farm Cellar Door

Hentley Farm is a single estate boutique winery with its cellar door housed in a charming 1840s heritage cottage complete with an open fireplace.

Enjoy a curated tasting experience, showcasing the unique diversity of their premium single estate wines.

With limited seating capacity in this beautiful intimate space, booking ahead is essential.

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Fireside tasting at Whistler Wines

Embrace the simple pleasures of winter at Whistler Wines with a complimentary tasting experience. Crackling fires, rich red wines and relaxed hospitality invite you to slow down and savour the season.

Taste through a selection of handcrafted wines while soaking up the cosy atmosphere that makes winter in wine country so special. 

A seasonal experience to celebrate everything we love about South Australian winters — connection, flavour and comfort.

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Langmeil Winery

Secure a fireside spot for a winter wine-tasting at Langmeil Winery, a family-owned treasure. 

More than a winery, Langmeil is a piece of the Barossa’s heritage. Many original buildings from the 1840s have been beautifully restored, inviting you to step back in time. Surrounded by manicured gardens, the winery offers a picturesque setting that enhances your visit.

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PINDARIE, BAROSSA CREDIt: SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOurISM COMMISSION

Pindarie

Acting as a gateway to the Barossa Valley, the Pindarie sustainable farm is a place of natural beauty, magnificent views, and lovingly restored buildings.

Pindarie offers seasonal lunches of local produce and stunning locations to their guests all year round, and in the winter you can cosy up near the open fireplace! 

Enjoy home-made gourmet pies and local produce in the beautifully restored 1890's Grain Store or just marvel at the views. 

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Special Deal: Stay 3 Pay 2 Barossa Winter Escape accommodation package at The Villas - Barossa

Slow down, stay longer with our Stay 3 Nights Pay 2 special seasonal deal: Embrace the simple pleasures of winter among the vineyards of the Barossa. Think simplicity and warmth: a relaxed, intimate space, deep soak tub, hot chocolate & marshmallows, comfortable lounge, luxurious linen sheets, abundant local produce for your breakfast. Your villa is a perfect winter home-base to explore nearby cellar doors, dining and gin distillery. Or for beautiful winter walks or cycling in the stunning natural environment. Or snuggling up with blanket on the deck, stargazing.

Special Offers and Accommodation Packages

Stay 3 nights Pay 2 Barossa Winter Escape at The Villas - Barossa

WARM up this winter in a deep soak tub CREDIT: The Villas - Barossa / Harry gruttner films

Slow down, stay longer and embrace the simple pleasures of winter among the vineyards of the Barossa. Think simplicity and warmth: a relaxed, intimate space, deep soak tub, hot chocolate & marshmallows, comfortable lounge, luxurious linen sheets, abundant local produce for your breakfast. Your villa is a perfect winter home-base to explore nearby cellar doors, dining and gin distillery. Or for beautiful winter walks or cycling in the stunning natural environment. Or snuggling up with blanket on the deck, stargazing.

Barossa winter events and seasonal experiences

What’s on in the Barossa this winter? Should I slip away for a spontaneous day trip – or make plans for a cosy winter weekend escape? Which Barossa cellar doors have fireside wine-tastings?  And what about winter walks…? 

This winter in the Barossa you’ll find Scottish Highland cows, nature walks, shared seasonal tables, sunset bars, boot-scootin’, potato crisps, fudge and winter flames!

Your challenge is to weave these into an itinerary for your personalised Barossa winter getaway:

Here goes…

Kraehe Nature walk with scottish Highlanders credit: two hands wines

Season of Shiraz: A Winter Walk & Wine Experience

Where? Two Hands Wines, Marananga, Barossa

When? 10.30am daily, during winter

What? Settle into the slower pace of the Barossa with a winter tasting experience designed for simple pleasures. Begin with a guided walk along the Kraehe Nature Trail where you’ll take in winter vineyard views, hear the story of the property and meet the resident Highlanders along the way. From there, you’ll return to Cellar Door where a reserved table by the fireplace awaits.

More information and bookings

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Small victories Wine & Crisp Pairing credit: Elderton Wines

Small Victories Wine & Crisp Pairing

Where? Elderton Wines, Nuriootpa, Barossa When?  10am daily during winter

What? Here’s a twist for your Barossa winter itinerary: the Small Victories wine + potato crisp tasting is a little bit fancy, a little bit cheeky—and seriously delicious. Alternate varietal wines are matched with the ultimate salty, crispy snacks for pairings that surprise and delight. Each combo is carefully curated to bring out unexpected flavours, spark conversation, and celebrate the joy of small, satisfying wins.

More information and bookings

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Fireside tasting at Whistler Wines

Where? Whistler Wines, Stonewell, Barossa When?  Daily during winter

What?  Embrace the simple pleasures of a Barossa winter at Whistler Wines with a complimentary tasting experience. Crackling fires, rich red wines and relaxed hospitality invite you to slow down and savour the season. Taste through a selection of handcrafted wines while soaking up the cosy atmosphere that makes winter in wine country so special.  A seasonal experience to celebrate everything we love about South Australian winters — connection, flavour and comfort.

More information

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Fudge and Fortified

Where?  Seppeltsfield Cellar Door, Seppeltsfield, Barossa When? Daily during winter

What?  Internationally acclaimed for its remarkable fortified wines, Seppeltsfield is home to the Centennial Collection — the world’s only unbroken lineage of single-vintage Tawny, dating back to 1878. This experience offers a rare opportunity to discover the depth, complexity and heritage of these exceptional wines. Each tasting is thoughtfully paired with handcrafted Barossa Valley gourmet fudge, creating a rich and indulgent sensory journey that highlights the nuances of each wine.

More information and bookings

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Barossa farmers market credit: South Australian Tourism commission

From Farm to Table:  a Community long lunch

Where?  Barossa Farmers’ Market, Angaston, Barossa When? Saturday 20 June

More information and tickets

What?  Pull up a chair this winter and join a very special Long Table Lunch celebrating everything loved about Barossa Farmers Market: exceptional local produce, passionate growers, great wine, and the joy of sharing food together. At the helm is esteemed chef and fellow market stallholder Daniel Murphy, who will transform the day’s best market produce into a generous, shared style feast.

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SUNSET AT SEABROOK WINES IMAGE: SEABROOK WINES

Sunset Bar Fireside

Where? Seabrook Wines, Vine Vale, Barossa When? 5pm Saturday 27 June

What? Join Seabrook House fireside for an evening of wine, music and good food as their Sunset Bar returns this winter.

As the sun sets over their beautiful vineyard, unwind to the sounds of live acoustic music, bringing an acoustic blend of laid-back favourites and soulful tunes on the deck and courtyard garden. Gather your friends and soak in the magic of their estate as day turns to dusk.

Delicious gourmet Vietnamese street food by Moi An Viet Street Food and tunes by Jayme Raine.

More information and bookings

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Vine Vale Country Club

Where? Tim Smith Wines, Vine Vale, Barossa When? 3pm Saturday 25 July, 5pm boot scootin’ kick’s off

VINE VALE COuNTry club CREDIT: Tim smith wines

What?  A brand-new, family-friendly winter throwdown at Tim Smith Wines, turning the winery into a Barossa-style honky-tonk with guided line dancing from the legends at Saddle & Stomp. There’ll be bold reds flowing, firepits roaring and pizza’s by Barossa’s Amanti Pizza.

Kids free. Great wine. Good people. Zero pressure to know what you’re doing on the dance floor.

More information and tickets

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Marananga Wine Show 2026

Where? Old Redemption, Peter Lehmann Wines, Tanunda When? 7pm Friday 28 August

What? Marananga Wine Show is a celebration of the western Barossa – its community, producers and winemakers. The region is home to renowned wineries such as Whistler Wines, Tscharke, Hentley Farm and Seppeltsfield, as well as a diverse number of small batch wine producers.

The 2026 Marananga Wine Show Public Tasting provides guests with the rare opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with growers and winemakers, taste from a range of 100+ wine entries and cast their vote for the People’s Choice award.

More information and tickets

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For a full list of Barossa winter events & experiences visit Barossa Australia.

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Stay 3 Pay 2 Barossa Winter Escape accommodation package at The Villas - Barossa

Deep soak tub credit: the villas - barossa / harry gruttner films

Slow down, stay longer and embrace the simple pleasures of winter among the vineyards of the Barossa. Think simplicity and warmth: a relaxed, intimate space, deep soak tub, hot chocolate & marshmallows, comfortable lounge, luxurious linen sheets, abundant local produce for your breakfast. Your villa is a perfect winter home-base to explore nearby cellar doors, dining and gin distillery. Or for beautiful winter walks or cycling in the stunning natural environment. Or snuggling up with blanket on the deck, stargazing.

Marananga village, Barossa, 4-day itinerary: Slow Down and rediscover Life's Simple Pleasures

Seppeltsfield Road’s iconic avenue of palms weaves its way through the vineyards of the western Barossa, delivering you to the tiny village of Marananga, and its passionate community of producers.

At each approach, the sign ‘Marananga – Slow Down’ offers both an instruction and an invitation: to surrender to a slower pace, embrace the luxury of time and space, and re-connect with each other over the simple pleasures of amazing wine, food…and gin.

Day One: Marananga – Slow Down

After a final check of essential items – walking shoes, chargers, a favourite magazine or two – you’ll be on your way. There’s less than an hour’s drive from Adelaide city or Adelaide airport via the marvellously efficient Northern Connector and the exit to Seppeltsfield Road will arrive sooner than expected. The change of scenery will be dramatic – you’ll exchange the highway for a country road flanked by vast expanses of vineyard – and as the historic avenue of palms rises ahead of you, you’ll be glad you planned for an early afternoon arrival to allow time to explore this gorgeous region.

Hundreds of Canary Island palms will guide you for the next few kilometres, until the gleaming white spire of Gnadenfrei Church marks the entrance to Marananga. You’ll want to pull over at the ‘photo point’ to capture these stunning views, and then right outside the church, alongside its historic school bell, you’ll get your first reminder - ‘Marananga…Slow Down’.

It won’t be difficult to find your accommodation – the difficulty will have been in choosing where to stay in the first place! The Louise is perfect for your romantic getaway, an idyllic luxury vineyard retreat surrounded by hundreds of acres of vines, providing absolute privacy. Marananga Cottages offer a charming retreat in the heart of the village, only a few steps from local cellar doors. The Villas - Barossa harmonise unique architectural design with simplicity and warmth, creating a peaceful, secluded Barossa retreat. Cross the threshold, take a deep breath of country air and absorb the offerings of your space – luxurious linens, a bathtub that beckons and a deep sense of peace.

MARANANGA VILLAGE - best of the barossa on foot

You have time…plenty of time…to take a slow walk along Seppeltsfield Road together. Watch out for local wildlife, you’ll find a mob of kangaroos interspersed amidst the vineyard rows, their cute faces studying you with a curious gaze. Pairs of exquisitely coloured parrots use the vines as a race track, with impressive displays of precision flying. And a chorus of magpies is certain to serenade you somewhere along the way. If you time it right, you’ll witness a staggering Marananga sunset, with flaming orange and pink streaks fading to midnight blue behind the striking silhouette of palms.

Marananga village at sunset

There’s time for a glass of wine back at your accommodation, before strolling to Appellation at The Louise, where an extraordinary regional dining experience awaits you. The talented team at this renowned restaurant are all about fresh ingredients which is reflected in the fact that 85% of their menu comes from within the Barossa Valley. Devour thoughtfully curated dishes paired with boutique local wines while you watch the sun set over the surrounding vineyard.

As you sink into bed, take a moment to switch off all alarms, and give yourselves the luxury of a long sleep in…and slow down…

Day Two: Marananga village x foot

You’ll wake to the sounds of birdlife, perhaps a tractor rattling past, or maybe just a stillness that you haven’t experienced for a long time. Those magazines you slipped into your suitcase, a steaming cup of freshly-brewed coffee, or a half-finished book are the perfect accompaniment for a lazy lie-in. At your own pace, enjoy a generous breakfast of free range eggs, sourdough and delicious local produce.

Today is dedicated to exploring Marananga by foot – and your first destination is Two Hands, its cellar door located in a beautifully restored 19th century stone cottage, with an adjoining settler bakehouse. You’ve booked a Two Hands vineyard experience, and a luxury Land Rover Defender is waiting to chauffeur you to their spectacular vineyard site, the Holy Grail.

You’ll be delivered to the grand entrance of Barossa Valley Estate, set amongst Australia’s largest perennial gardens, designed by renowned landscape architect, Paul Bangay. Choose a table in one of the gorgeous alfresco garden rooms, enjoy a Rosé and regional produce platter for lunch, and lose yourself for a while in the breath-taking beauty.

Enjoy the easy stroll back to Marananga and your accommodation to take time for body and soul. Relax with a therapeutic soak in the bath, take a quiet moment for reflection or drift into an afternoon nap.

With iconic wineries and cellar doors within a lazy amble, more intimate options for tasting await.

You’ll wander by the old Marananga schoolhouse and its memories of laughter and play, now home to staguni restaurant, New Wave Wines and Goldie Pottery Studio. Then on to the heritage home of a Barossa winemaking legend, Greenock Creek Wines. Nestled in native gardens the cellar door is an intriguing mix of nostalgia, memory and familiarity. Friendly faces and an endearing enthusiasm for the art of winemaking belie a serious history of awards and accolades earned through hard work, honesty and authenticity.

Woven through tales of colonial settlers, vineyard innovations, mysterious origins and all manner of myth and legend, the wines of Greenock Creek will tell the story of Marananga through their character and style. You’ll leave for the next leg of your wander a little older, a little wiser and with new friends and tales of your own, a feeling that time has slowed and a promise delivered upon.

There is more to discover at Heritage Wines, a few steps across the road, and just up the rise Tscharke’s Wines are infused with Damien’s passion for all things sustainable.

When your wine tasting is done, make a mid-afternoon meander to Seppeltsfield Rd Distillers for a light refreshment (or two), don’t be fooled by their four-legged security system, they’re happy to see you. Become familiar with old traditions that have been brought back to life in this hamlet through the art of distillation.

Stroll down the hill to New Wave Wines, and finish up with some light snacks at the bar, or if its a Thursday, slip in to neighbours’ night at Staguni.

Follow your feet back to your bed, make it an early night and this time you’ll definitely need to set your alarm…

Day Three: Seppeltsfield Road x bike (and balloon)

Your sunrise flight will give you a perspective of Seppeltsfield Road like no other, as the balloon floats low across the vine canopies, and skims the tops of towering Eucalypts. Your pilot Michael from Barossa Valley Ballooning is a local, and he’ll call out a few cheery morning greetings to neighbours below. You’ll sense both incredible stillness and exhilaration and memories of this magical experience will linger with you long into the future.

You’ve had a very early start to the day – so there’ll be no judgement if you sneak back to bed for a nap after your flight…

There’s another version of slow waiting for you, with Louis from Barossa Bike Hire delivering bikes to your doorstep (e-bikes if the gentle hills seem a little daunting). It seems only fitting to follow this avenue of palms, and reflect on the hopes and dreams discovered along this road. Take time, take photos and take home memories.

There’s a world of discovery awaiting at Seppeltsfield Wine Estate, where you’ll be lost in a place where old meets new and masters of creation can be discovered down every path. Immaculately tended gardens lead to the creative wonderlands of Jam Factory Art & Design studio and Vasse Virgin olive oil skincare house. Resident artisans demonstrate their crafts, and if you’ve booked ahead, there are opportunities to learn from a master. The Seppeltsfield cellar door is part living museum – home to the world’s longest and unbroken lineage of single vintage tawny starting 1878. You can savour a century old fortified straight from the barrel – it’s as slow as it gets.

It’s lunchtime, but there’s no need to leave. The team at Fino curate share plates reflecting both regionality and seasonality, with a wine list that supports small batch, hand-crafted wines. Coffee is the order of the day at the Cafe at Seppeltsfield, as well as light lunch options that are best enjoyed in the expansive picnic grounds, with kookaburras laughing in the palms above.

The hills are conquered, the sun is setting and your room awaits. Opt for a light dinner in, perhaps room service, some sneaky take away, or a simple platter of Barossa goodness from the abundant provisions in your accommodation. All enjoyed with a glass in hand.

Day Four: Discover Seppeltsfield Road & Beyond

You could get used to the local alarm tone – a fusion of magpies, galahs and noisy miner birds that seeps into your consciousness. It’s your final day, but there’s no need to rush. Discoveries await over the horizon and you want to be sure you savour all that is ahead.

Your driver has arrived and will be your host for the day. Tony Tscharke of Barossa Unique Tours has a range of vehicles to suit your tastes – a custom Trike, a head-turning 1966 Mustang convertible, luxurious Jaguar or Jeep. His local knowledge is amazing, and your tour will be customised for you. Not far from Marananga the road leads to Whistler Wines or the gorgeous deck at Torbreck Vintners, before you wind up the dusty driveway to David Franz. Select your lunch from an extraordinary selection of cheese and charcuterie – some that David has crafted himself. The intimate interior of the cellar door is a work of art in itself, and the stunning panoramic views from the deck will make it hard to leave.

And now, for a palate-cleansing ale – you’ll be personally delivered to The Greenock, where the glasses are as tall as the stories when you find a local at the bar. There’s plenty to choose from the tavern menu, including a fantastic selection of local wines.

The pace of your arrival is now a distant memory, and a gentle acceptance that this is the speed at which life should always travel has settled upon you. As you journey back from the village of Greenock towards Marananga the ripple of moonlight flows across the Great Terrace vines of Seppeltsfield illuminating silent palms that forever remind of the Marananga mantra…”Slow Down”

*This 4-day itinerary and video was prepared by Marananga businesses as a submission to TicSA’s South Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards

Best Barossa Accommodation

When we don’t have availability here at The Villas – Barossa, we love to refer guests to the many fantastic accommodation options in our beautiful Seppeltsfield Road region. 

As well as being home to renowned dining experiences and iconic wineries, the Seppeltsfield Road precinct offers some of the Barossa’s best accommodation with a diverse range of styles.  Whether you’re planning a mini-break, romantic getaway, long lazy escape, a weekend away with friends or family, or a food and wine weekend, there are some gorgeous options.  

We’ve selected some of our local favourites in the following categories – best romantic getaway, best luxury culinary retreat, best waterfront vineyard retreat, best cottage accommodation, best getaway with friends and best family escape!  The truth is, we think each of the options is wonderful – and wherever you stay along Seppeltsfield Road, you can be assured of being in an outstanding location in the heart of the Barossa.

The Villas - barossa Image credit: PETE THORNTON

Best Romantic Escape: The Villas - Barossa

Actually, you could have an amazing Romantic Getaway in any of the accommodations listed below, but we do happen to think that The Villas – Barossa is just perfect for an intimate retreat.  The secluded environment is perfect for unwinding – stargazing from the deck, long walks to re-connect with nature (and each other) or relaxing in the soak tub.  Plus the location in the centre of the village of Marananga puts five cellar doors and New Wave Wines collective within walking distance, Seppeltsfield Road Distillers just a minutes stroll away, Staguni Restaurant across the road, and Appellation at The Louise about a 10 minute walk for a very special celebration dinner!

We think that sometimes the very simple shared experiences are the best – and we’ve created a list of simple ideas to inspire you for your next romantic getaway in the Barossa.

THE LOUISE Image credit: John Montesi

Best Luxury Culinary Retreat: The Louise Barossa Valley

A member of Luxury Lodges of Australia, The Louise offers a sophisticated Luxury Culinary Retreat for lovers of food and wine.  The Louise delivers the perfect pairing of indulgent vineyard accommodation and an award-winning culinary experience with warm and attentive hospitality.

Appellation at The Louise is recognised as one of South Australia’s world class dining experiences, with menus that curate the Barossa’s seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden and nearby local growers and farmers.

STONEWELL COTTAGES & VINEYARDS

Best Waterfront Vineyard Retreat: Stonewell Cottages & Vineyards

Stonewell Cottages and Vineyards is an idyllic waterfront vineyard retreat set on an expansive 103 acre property.  Tina and Evan are wonderful hosts, and a stay at in this beautiful property is an exceptional experience.  Surrounded by vineyard, each of the two suites and two cottages have lake views – and you’ll be tempted to the water’s edge to feed the ducks, row a boat on the lake or maybe just to lie on a sun lounge!

With the best of Seppeltsfield Road on your doorstep you’ll have ready access to Hayes Family Wines, Appellation at The Louise, Laughing Jack, Tscharke Wines and Whistler Wines.

SEPPELTSFIELD VINEYARD COTTAGE Image Credit: Ross Doonan

Best Cottage Accommodation: Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage

Surrounded by acres of private vineyard and lush gardens, Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage offers exclusive, luxury accommodation for just one couple.  We love the sense of history in this authentic, beautifully restored German settler cottage, with its thick walls, wonderful cellar and deep cast-iron bathtub.  The vineyard vista is amazing and you may find it hard to leave the deck chairs under the verandah!

When you are ready to stretch your legs, the cottage is only a 5 minute walk to Hentley Farm Restaurant, and a 10 minute walk to Fino at the expansive historic Seppeltsfield Wine Estate.

CAMBOURNE BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION Image credit: Josie Withers

Best Getaway with Friends: Cambourne Boutique Accommodation

Cambourne Boutique Accommodation is the perfect choice if you’re planning a Barossa Getaway with a group of friends, and looking for an extraordinary accommodation to share.  This luxury self-contained cottage is set on 25 acres of premium shiraz vineyard and your group will enjoy gorgeous views, 3 bedrooms with ensuites and a beautifully appointed kitchen.  Cambourne is walking distance from Hentley Farm, Fino and Seppeltsfield Wine Estate.

The owners Skye and Andrew Quin are absolutely delightful, and we have to say that their own label of Quin Wines are delicious!