We’ve visited plenty of family-friendly spots across South Australia, but O’Leary Walker genuinely stands out. The reasons could fill a whole post, but here are our top two.

First, the space. The lawn is huge, lush, and perfect for kids to run, kick a ball, or just go a little wild while you relax with a glass of wine. There are lawn games like Cornhole and giant Jenga, and the views across the rolling hills are so gorgeous you’ll find yourself lingering long after the kids are done playing. Bring a picnic rug, take a deep breath, and just enjoy the moment.

Second, the kids’ experience. The Children’s Tasting Platter ($10) is fun and thoughtful, with three Bickford’s cordials, cheese cubes, house-made grissini, an Adixions Chocolate Owl, and a little activity pack to keep little hands busy. Four-legged friends are also welcome, with the new Dog Tasting Platter from The Woofery offering locally made treats so everyone in the family can join in the fun.

And although the kid-friendly vibes are definitely vibing, adults aren’t left behind. From premium wine flights to the full table-service restaurant, there’s plenty to get excited about. We loved sipping the 2025 Watervale Riesling, pairing it with the lemongrass chicken and duck wontons or the katsu chicken finger sandwich, and ending the day with a glass of The Sleeper Shiraz while taking in the valley views.

The platters at O’Leary Walker are another highlight. Stacked with the best local cheeses, meats, fresh fruit, and house-made goodies, hand on heart, this is one of the best we’ve ever had. The local truffle honey… honestly, I wanted to bathe in it. And the house-made duck pâtĂ©? Absolutely next level. Every bite tastes like the Clare Valley itself – fresh, seasonal, and packed with flavour. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, sneaking bites between tastings, or grazing while the kids play, these platters are impossible to resist.

The verandah and outdoor spaces are perfect for taking your time. Watch the kids or dogs play, soak up the sweeping views, and enjoy another round of tasting or a platter if you’re peckish. The food here isn’t just good, it’s memorable, and it pairs beautifully with every wine you try.

By the time you leave, you’ll have experienced the best of the Clare Valley. Delicious wine, incredible food, and plenty of space for the kids (and dogs) to play. You’ll leave with happy hearts, full bellies, and probably a few bottles of wine for the road.

Location: 7093 Horrocks Highway, Leasingham (Clare Valley), SA 5452
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 4:00pm | Sun 11:00am – 4:00 pm daily
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The Clare Valley is famous for its wine and for good reason. But beyond the cellar doors, this charming region is full of rolling hills, country vibes, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. And with right in the heart of it all, it’s the perfect base to truly soak up everything this beautiful region has to offer.

And while the adults may be here for the riesling, the kids? They’ll think this adventure is entirely about them from the second you check in. There’s a bouncing pillow (yes, the adults tried it, very funny), plus the biggest pump track we’ve ever seen at a holiday park. Two pools, including a heated one, plus the basketball court, painted on hopscotch, and a big tub of sporting equipment (cricket sets, balls, racquets and more) provide the kids with even more opportunities to be active and outdoors. Everywhere you look, kids are running, jumping, riding and exploring and parents can actually relax a little knowing there’s so much to keep them entertained.

The splash park deserves a paragraph of its own. EPIC is the only word that does it justice. Two waterslides, a giant tipping bucket, a squirting kangaroo and koala, interactive jets and water play galore. If you’ve got aqua-loving kids (like me), this is their version of paradise.

The main camp kitchen is right near the pool and sports area, creating a central hub where families naturally gather. Travellers cook, chat, and share stories while the kids play nearby. There’s also plenty of grassy space for picnics, and if your crew wants a bit more adventure, you can hire e-bikes, pedal bikes or karts to explore the park and even hop on the Riesling Trail, a gorgeous way to see the region without moving the car.

We stayed in a Deluxe 2-Bedroom cabin – sleeps 4, which was perfect for families. Spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, it had everything you could need: a fully equipped kitchen for cooking meals, all linen and towels supplied (so no hauling your own), an electric blanket on the main bed (hello, cosy nights!), and block-out double blinds for lazy mornings. The cabin was perfectly positioned between the playground and splash park, which meant the kids could dash from one activity to the next. For families or travellers on a budget, there’s also plenty of space for caravans and tents, as well as smaller cabins, making the park accessible and affordable for all kinds of visitors.

Despite the not-so-perfect weather, the kids didn’t care. They still loved every element of the park, from pools to splash park to bouncing pillow. When it rained, the Discovery Kids Activity Booklets from reception kept them happily occupied with puzzles and colouring while we sipped Clare Valley Shiraz and enjoyed wood-oven pizzas from Mr Micks, who parks his mobile pizza setup onsite on Friday evenings. A little rain never felt like a letdown here.

If you’re planning a Clare Valley getaway, or maybe just making your way through SA, make sure is on your list. It’s the kind of place where kids make instant friends, families come together, and everyone leaves a little tired, a little messy, but very happy. Wine country is great, but this is where the whole family can truly soak up the country charm… and a little chaos too.

(Use code KIDSINADL25 at check out for 15% discount until Nov 2026 t&c apply)

Location: 8511 Horrocks Hwy, Clare SA 5453
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This content was created in partnership with Discovery Parks

Once we settled into the beer garden, it was easy to see why this place is such a winner for families. There’s plenty of open grassy space for the kids to run around, a few lawn games to keep them busy, highchairs available, plenty of seating for large groups, and a cute little fishpond. Meanwhile, the adults can kick back with a tasting paddle or a pint, soaking up the sun and enjoying a rare moment of calm while the kids entertain themselves.

Now, the food. Honestly, it was a bit of a revelation for a brewery. The fried chicken tenders disappeared so fast we barely remember seeing them hit the table, and the popcorn cauliflower was next-level good; crispy, full of flavour and that chilli, coriander and bang bang sauce was the kind you keep dipping into long after you’re “done.” The PBC burger is apparently a local legend, and we get it… it’s juicy, messy, and exactly what a burger should be. The grilled American reuben sandwich hit all the right notes, pastrami, sauerkraut, pickles, swiss cheese, it’s basically a hug in sandwich form. The kids weren’t left out either. Our eight-year-old demolished the crumbed snapper like the food critic he is, and our six-year-old’s hotdog with chips (one of four solid kids options at $16 each) was so huge we genuinely didn’t think she’d get through it… but she proved us wrong.

Beer-wise, Pikes has something for everyone. We went for a tasting paddle so we could try a few of their beers, then Dad settled in with a pint of the IPA while Mum enjoyed a refreshing hard lemonade. There’s also a small wine list and non-alcoholic options, and the kids were happily with their fruit boxes.

The Tap Room itself is on the smaller side, with just a few tables inside, but it’s worth popping in, especially if the weather isn’t playing nice. You can sit and watch the brewers at work while enjoying your drink, which is a little bit of behind-the-scenes magic. There’s heaps of car parking too, which is a lifesaver because this place can get busy, and the venue is dog friendly, so your furry friends can come along for the fun.

If you’re heading to the Clare Valley, make sure Pikes Beer Company earns a spot on your itinerary. It’s one of those easy, genuinely enjoyable family stops where everyone finds something they like. Just make sure you book ahead. This place fills up fast, and for good reason.

Location: 233 Polish Hill Rd, Polish Hill River SA 5453
Opening Times: Open Daily 10am to 4pm
Phone: 
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Just a breezy 90-minute drive from 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, this stunning region is known for its world-class rieslings, charming cellar doors, and scenic Riesling Trail. But don’t be fooled – it’s not all about the wine! Clare is surprisingly kid-friendly, with plenty of room for little ones to roam, play, and explore.

For our family of four, Bed in a Shed (The Homestead) was everything we could’ve hoped for – and then some.

Bed in a Shed actually offers four or five boutique accommodation options, but the thoughtful layout ensures each one feels private and peaceful. Despite sharing the grounds, we never felt crowded, making it a true escape.

From the moment we arrived, the homestead felt like home, with just the right amount of luxury thrown in. The main bedroom was dreamy: a queen bed with a pillow-top mattress, plush pillows, and linen so soft, it was like sleeping on a cloud. The kids had their own cosy space with two single beds and a baby cot ready to go—no need to haul the porta cot or deal with co-sleeping negotiations.

The fully equipped kitchen had everything we needed, and the spacious bathroom, complete with Sheridan towels, made us feel like VIPs. The sustainable Kevin.Murphy toiletries were a lovely touch, and I’m not exaggerating when I say the body lotion smelt good enough to eat (don’t worry, I didn’t). Breakfast was sorted, thanks to Merrin and Carl’s thoughtful touches. A continental breakfast from the Watervale General Store, featuring granola, natural yoghurt, and spreads, paired with SA coffee and tea, was the perfect start to the day. We also appreciated the bottle of wine from their vineyard – thanks, guys!

The homestead’s design is as unique as its name. Rustic, artisan touches made with recycled materials gave the space character and charm. The large living area had a wood heater for winter nights, plus a flat-screen TV and shelves packed with books and games to keep the kids entertained.

Outside was easily our favourite part. The wraparound porch, with its charming wooden swing, offered breathtaking vineyard views that could’ve been straight out of a postcard. We often found ourselves sitting at the verandah’s outdoor setting, drink in hand, while the kids explored. They were thrilled to discover a mini trampoline, bikes in the shed, and plenty of grass to run wild, kick the ball, or set up a picnic. The big shady tree was perfect for climbing or simply spreading out a blanket underneath, enjoying some quiet time with colouring books.

The highlight? The resident goats. These cheeky characters were the ultimate entertainment. Our kids spent ages feeding them hay, laughing as they ran around, and trying to out-cheek the cheekiest goats ever. If goats aren’t on your family getaway checklist, trust me, they should be.

Now, a trip to Clare isn’t complete without a visit to a winery, and Bed in a Shed makes this effortless. A short, 15-minute walk from the property (via a sneaky shortcut) takes you to the renowned O’Leary Walker Wines. With stunning views and exceptional rieslings, it’s a must-visit. Best of all, you can leave the car behind, indulge in a glass or two, and walk back to the homestead with the kids.

Whether you’re here for the wine, the wide-open spaces, or simply a change of scenery, this is a spot you won’t want to miss so book your stay, pack your sense of adventure (and your wine glass), and get ready to fall in love with Clare!

Location: 289 Blocks Rd, Leasingham SA 5452
Email: stay@bedinashed.com.au
Phone: 
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We have two kids, aged 7 and 5, and I’ll be honest – it’s been about 20 years since I last rode a bike. So, when we found out that Riesling Trail Bike Hire offered bike rentals for families, we couldn’t wait to give it a go. It was easy to organise, and Kent, who runs the bike hire, made sure everything was taken care of. He gave us all the details we needed and even suggested that our youngest ride in a trailer with Dad, which was an idea she loved from the moment she heard it! Our 7-year-old got his own “big boy” bike, complete with a flame helmet – which definitely added some cool factor to his ride.

As for me, with my calf injury and rusty cycling skills, I was a bit nervous, but the e-bike was a total game changer. I hadn’t ridden in years, but the electric bike made it easy and comfortable. With a throttle option to help me up the hills and just the right amount of power to take the strain off my leg, I was able to keep up with the family and enjoy the ride.

Before we set off, Kent made sure we had everything we needed for a smooth ride: water bottles, bike locks, a handy map of the trail, and some great local tips. The bikes were in excellent condition, well-maintained, and ready to go. With a range of options like mountain bikes, tandem bikes, and more, we opted for the e-bikes – a choice Mum and Dad were more than happy with!

The journey began, and I couldn’t help but be amazed by the beauty of the Clare Valley. The kids were loving it – spotting wildlife, listening to the birds chirp, and taking in the fresh air. Every now and then, we stopped for a quick drink break or to snap a few photos. The slow pace of the ride gave us the perfect chance to appreciate the countryside. After about 7 km, we arrived at Sevenhill and stopped at the Little Red Grape Bakery. We enjoyed a delicious coffee and a pie (well-deserved after the ride). Afterward, we made our way to the Richardson Park Playspace, where the kids ran around and explored. Then, we were back on the bikes to make the return journey. By now, we were practically experts – just call me Cadel Evans!

Riesling Trail Bike Hire has four convenient locations, making it easy to start your adventure from Auburn to Clare. Their main location at 10 Warenda Road, Clare, is right at the start of the Riesling Trail, with additional hire spots at Discovery Park Clare, Clare Country Club (for guests only), and Auburn Caravan Park. With hire options starting at just $25 and the flexibility to choose between half-day or full-day rentals, it’s a hassle-free way to explore the Clare Valley.

Overall, cycling the Riesling Trail was such a fantastic experience for our family. It was a fun and easy way to explore Clare’s stunning landscape, and it gave us the chance to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and make some great memories. So, if you’re planning a trip to Clare, make sure to check out Riesling Trail Bike Hire – it’s a must-do adventure that we highly recommend! Next time, we’ll venture a little further I think.

Location: 10 Warenda Road, Clare, South Australia
Hire Hours:
Monday: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Tuesday: By appointment only
Wednesday: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Thursday: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Saturday: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Sunday: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Email: info@rieslingtrailbikehire.com.au
Phone: 0418 777 318
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The cafe overlooks the mini golf course and although we didn’t have time to grab a coffee or an ice cream (much to the kids’ disgust), but the cafe looked really cute and would’ve been the perfect spot to linger a bit longer. There’s also a fully enclosed courtyard, making it ideal for families, with a children’s playground just nearby. There’s also a large sheltered seating area next to the playground, with extra games to keep the kids entertained while you relax.

Our round of mini golf set us back $30 for a family of two adults and two children, which we thought was pretty decently priced. It was the perfect activity for quality family time in a lovely outdoor setting and a great way to keep the kids entertained before we headed off to wineries!

Rices Creek
Location: 104 Saddleworth Rd, Auburn SA 5451
Opening Times: Sun & Mon: 9:00am – 5:00 pm | Tues & Wed: Closed | Thurs, Fri & Sat: 9:00am – 5:00pm
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The fabulously talented crew at The Trail Collective (check them out on to find out more of their great work) have put together a fantastic facility for the locals up at Clare.

Aimed at the beginner and intermediate level, this track is about 90 minutes north of 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ and a worthy stop on your day trip or weekend away up in the mid north.

For more ripping things to do with the kids up at Clare, click here.

Conveniently located on the Riesling Trail, if you are exploring the region by bike, this place makes a great lunch stop and is open seven days from 11am until late. It is also a very easy drive, under two hours, from 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ – even with kids.

This pub is classic country hotel meets modern food and quirky spaces teamed with impeccable hospitality and service. Don’t be fooled by the traditional looking front bar – they actually pour some beautiful beverages, make a tasty espresso martini and have a wine list to die for (with a nice local focus – Clare Valley Riesling any one?)

Grab a drink on your way in and take a wander before you sit down to eat. Now, about that, reservations are preferred (it can be a busy place) and you can choose to sit out in the cute beer garden, in the modern dining room, or take a little adventure and book a table in the underground wine cellar. My kids were fascinated. PS It is a H_U_G_E wine cellar, housing quite the selection.

We chose to eat in the dining room, but first enjoyed a game of giant Jenga and drink in the beer garden, followed by a little explore downstairs.

Soon seated at our table, the kids had fun activity sheets and bright pencils followed by prompt service and meal arrival. The kids fish and chips and house-made chicken bites were devoured very quickly!

The adults menu was impressive, we enjoyed a very fragrant butter chicken and slow cooked pork belly. There is also plenty of the more classic pub fare available. Regardless of what I order I always suffer food envy and highly enjoyed watching ALL of the meals that were coming out of that talented kitchen as they breezed past our table.

The kids finished up with ice cream and sprinkles (plain but impressive) and I opted for a quiet glass of Riesling by the fire while FIFO Dad and the kids did dessert. Perfect chance to get my head around our next stops on our ‘Clare Valley with Kids’ adventure.

Sevenhill Hotel – no wonder you have all of those awards under your belt. You have a beautiful venue. It truly is family friendly and would make a perfect family stop off or a great spot for a special group celebration.

A quick thank you note to the chef and we were off. It’s always a nice way to end a meal, keeps the kids occupied that little bit longer and teaches them gratitude and to be thankful for the time and care that some one has taken to put nice food in their bellies. Who knows, one day they might even thank me for dinner at home……..gaaaahhhh doubt it.

Massive thumbs up from the Kids in 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ Team!

Final word: if the kids need to burn some extra energy, it is just a hop, skip and a jump to the local playground Richardson Park Playspace, Sevenhill and it is worth checking out!

You will find Sevenhill Hotel at
Main North Rd, Sevenhill South Australia
Phone: (08) 8843 4217
For more information visit their website at
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This playground is an absolute gem! At the centre of it all is a massive rope climbing structure, perfect for little dare-devils. The two proper flying foxes are a hit (race anyone?), along with swings, a slide, and wobble boards that keep the kids entertained for hours.

Set within a beautiful natural play space, the playground is surrounded by bushland, creating a peaceful and scenic spot to unwind. There are also two shelters, one with a BBQ, and toilets are conveniently located nearby, along with an oval for extra space to stretch out.

Located in the heart of the Clare Valley wine district, between the Riesling Trail and the township of Sevenhill, this playground makes the perfect pit stop for families. It’s just a short hop from the delicious Little Red Grape Bakery, so grab a pie, a coffee, or a cheeky cake, and take a break before continuing your ride or walk along the trail.

Whether you’re in the Clare Valley or just passing through, this playground is well worth a stop to let the kids burn off some energy while you enjoy a well-earned rest.

Thanks to Naomi for this playground review.
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