The Barossa You Don’t Know

The Barossa You Don’t Know

The Barossa is home to over 100 cellar doors. From the famous names, to the permanently purple-handed family winemakers, the Barossa is an adult’s playground for vinous-minded voyagers. 
 
Even the 2025 James Halliday ‘People’s Choice’ winery of Australia lives here. That is…ahem….yours truly, Gibson. 
 
The region is also well known for its food culture. From fine dining to farmer’s markets, the Barossa’s reputation for putting out seriously good grub is up with the best of the country.  
 
But what about those needing a different excuse to get Barossa bound? You’ve been consumed, but now need a new reason to be curious. Heck, dare we say it, what about the kids? 
 
We hear you.  
 
From kayaking to perfume making, to SA’s best doughnuts and walls that whisper, we’re bringing you the B-roll of the Barossa. Those extra, often unpublished bits, that so frequently become the surprise and delights of a getaway.  
 
What’s more, that glass of Barossa Shiraz tastes even better, when the kids are in bed early, exhausted from a day of new adventures.   



ADVENTURE

Kayaking Warren Reservoir, Williamstown

Located near Williamstown in the Barossa’s South, in 2019, the Warren Reservoir was opened officially for recreational use. Kayaking, canoeing and fishing (with a permit) are permitted, among beautiful bushland surrounds and the verges of Mount Crawford Forest. No kayak? No problem, hire them with Barossa Outdoors (we always recommend checking the water levels during dry seasons!).

Whispering Wall, Williamstown

Not far from the Warren, is the Barossa Reservoir Reserve - home to the Whispering Wall. The impressive, curved dam structure can be crossed by foot. But what’s more, if standing at opposite sides of the wall – 140m apart – you can hear the conversations, even whispers, from the other side. This acoustic feature is made possible by the parabola effect. Just watch what you say about your in-laws.

Trike Tours, Barossa Unique Tours

A banana yellow, fat wheeled trike isn’t the most inconspicuous way to get around. But if you want to feel like a rockstar, and get up to speed quickly with the region, this is the way to do it. Driver Tony Tscharke knows the best Barossa stories, and with the wind in your hair, you’ll be thankful of an in-radio helmet to hear them. Check out Barossa Unique Tours for more.  

WELLNESS

Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park, Flaxman Valley

Nothing soothes the soul quite like a long walk in nature. Crossing parts of the Heysen Trail, The Wallowa track of Kaiser Stuhl Conservation Park is 10.5KM return. A moderate walk through rocky outcrops, native scrub and the occasional running creek, your almost guaranteed to be outnumbered by Kangaroos. 

Endota Spa, Rowland Flat

If the hamstrings are tight post-hike, a massage may just be the ticket. The well-known Endota franchise has also put down roots in the Barossa. Located within the Novotel resort and overlooking the rolling hills of Barossa’s South, all of Endota’s nurturing, restorative treatments are on offer. During your time of self-indulgence, if your partner is at a whim, good news - Endota Spa Barossa is right next door to the Tanunda Pines golf course.

Perfume making, Vasse Virgin, Seppeltsfield

Vasse Virgin is a beauty boutique located within the sprawling Seppeltsfield complex. Known for its made-on-site range of soaps and skincare, here you can also indulge in workshops and masterclasses. The pick of the bunch being the natural perfumery class. Over 60 minutes, you’ll blend your own custom perfume, using a range of essential oils. Smell good, feel good.

 
FUN

Tanunda Kegel Club, Tanunda

Laying claim to the oldest sporting club in the Southern hemisphere, the Tanunda Kegel Club casts its heritage back to 1858. Kegel is a type of German 9 pin bowling. The alley is twice as long as typical 10 pin. It’s also narrow. And wonky. And old. But boy, a hell of a lot of fun. 

Barossa Bowland (and mini golf), Tanunda

If Kegel lit the competitive cockles, and you’re up for more, Barossa Bowland is your go to. We love that its fully licensed, and stocks some great local beers. What’s more, outside of the ten pin alleys is one serious, dinosaur-themed mini golf course. In putt putt, you can find your happy place. 

Sandy Creek Golf Club, Sandy Creek

The Sandy Creek Golf Club course was recently included in Golf Australia Magazine’s 100 Fun Aussie Courses to Play for $50 or less. An 18 hole, par 72 course, the resident ‘roos on the manicured greens add complexity to a round. Carts and clubs can be hired. 
KIDS

Browns Donuts, Tanunda

We’re using the excuse of kids…Browns Donuts are the real deal. The 2023 Delicious winner of Best Dougnut in SA. Located in Tanunda’s high street, owners Rachel and Dave serve up delectable, handmade artisan brioche donuts from scratch every single day. Look out for Cookies and Cream, Nutella and Lemon Curd - they’ll change your life. 

Water Park @ Discovery Parks Tanunda 

Caravan Parks have come along way in recent years, adding fancy stuff like glamping facilities and outdoor cinemas. Discovery Parks Tanunda is no exception. Our pick of the grounds is the grape-vined themed water park, where kids can go hectic under giant tippy buckets and endless waterslides. You don’t event need to be an overnight guest to get access to the water park - daily paid passes are available.   

Barossa Adventure Station, Angaston

Zip lines, trampolines, half-court basketball, mountain bike loops, skate ramps. This public park was opened in the beautiful township of Angaston in 2020. If the kids can’t find something to compel them away from the devices here, then nowhere will.  Visit Barossa Adventure Station for more details.  

 

Image credits: Barossa Council, Barossa Outdoors, Endota Spa, Barossa Bowland. 
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