With the most gorgeous panoramic views of vines and the Gulf St Vincent you will be feeling instantly relaxed on arrival and ready to kick back for an afternoon of grazing, acoustic tunes, wine tasting, lawn games and most importantly DONKEY pats! Yes, meet Pedro and Pinto! You can likely even score a carrot to feed them and the best news? Their donkey run has recently been extended so as they are now closer to the cellar door!

The beautiful knowledgeable staff will have you sorted in no time at all, and this is the perfect spot for families looking to enjoy a day out.

The wines are small batch and distinctive. Made with a whole lot of gentle love and nurturing by award winning winemaker Michael Sexton. They are vibrant and bright and celebrate the authentic naturally occurring characters of each variety and vintage.

The cellar door was undoubtedly designed with families in mind, offering a quality, creative and delicious kids’ lunch option that will keep little people happy. You can’t go wrong with crispy real chicken bites and hand cut fries, served with a cute fun sized chocolate on the side, plus these meals come with a juice box and the serving is big enough for bigger kids too.

Now, don’t expect the kids to sit around for too long – ours couldn’t keep away from the friendly donkey’s, they also danced and played games on the lawns, took Uno out to one of the picnic rugs, enjoyed spotting ducks and also bombed around with other kids for some winery lawn community fun.

When it comes to outdoor space, Main and Cherry Cellar Door truly shines. There’s plenty of room for kids to burn around and be kids, out of the way and with in sight, making it easy for parents to relax with a glass of wine while their little ones play safely. The picturesque grounds are ideal for a laid-back afternoon. Adding to the welcoming vibe, Main and Cherry also hosts a great line-up of acoustic musicians, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for a family outing. Check their for details.

It was only upon departure that we realized they also offer craft beers, so we did the right thing and took a four-pack home to enjoy later!

Main anFor the beer lovers, there is a fun little beer collab of Main and Cherry x Prancing Pony ales. Sold!

Whether you’re there to enjoy the food, music, a guided tasting or simply the great atmosphere, this winery has everything you need for a beautiful quality, memorable day out. Even the coffee was brilliant!

PS They do well presented gift vouchers and we can’t imagine many people not loving this! Buy one

Location: 60 Grants Gully Road, Chandlers Hill, 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, South Australia
Opening Times: Thursday to Mondays
Phone: 0474 015 349
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Woodstock is a beautiful family owned estate in McLaren Vale and it ticks more boxes than most wineries to be honest. It’s the first winery we think of in McLaren Vale – probably because we have been coming here since we were kids ourselves.

The wines are great, yes, but this place goes beyond the normal cellar door to include some child-friendly surprises as well, and recently there have been some beautiful upgrades. The cellar door has moved into a much larger space (previously The Coterie) and now provides ample room to sit in comfortable lounges or in small groups at high tables for seated guided tastings. The outlook to the garden in every direction is exquisite. This does mean the food offering has significantly changed at Woodstock. In The Stocks Tasting Room, you can simply do guided, seated tastings, and also enjoy a light snack such as a cheese platter. The lawns are where its at on weekends for food, with a Gin Long Canteen pop up that will leave your tastebuds exploding! AND how about the new onsite Trilby’s Chocolate Door?

The hours for lunch on the lawns change a bit seasonally and the team from Gin Long Canteen will look after you well. Shaded lawns and picnic rugs in the warmer months and cosy tables in the winter pavillion when its cooler. The menu features favourite dishes from Gin Long’s flagship restaurant in North 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, along with some exciting new additions. Designed for sharing and perfect alongside a glass of Woodstock wine. It’s casual and delicious.

Now the grounds are nothing short of expansive and spectacular. Shady grassed areas and dozens of tucked-away spots, all perfect for whiling away a few hours. The kids loved running around the lawn playing hide-and-seek behind the trees and the playground has been moved and it’s just perfect. Outdoor games, a gorgeous big water tank mural and flourishing kitchen garden reward families who explore the grounds (with a glass of wine in hand, of course). 

While you enjoy a sip of their delicious Grenache (or maybe if you are a sweet tooth go and check out Trilby’s! Your kids will have plenty of entertainment options at the winery. The highlight, we think, should be the Woodstock Wildlife Sanctuary. If just for that, it is worth a trip. Book it to ensure your place, start with this and then move to the cellar door. Nestled on approximately 3 hectares of natural vegetation, the sanctuary houses a group of rescued Western Grey Kangaroos, some wallabies and a couple of friendly emu’s named Maverick and lets say Goose (it was definitely from Top Gun, it’s got to be Goose right?)

For a small fee that remains at $5 for all ages, you can hand feed and pat the kangaroos. The animals are very used to people. Leave your strollers and prams at the gate, and know that kids under 18yo do need to be accompanied by a paying adult. The tranquil surroundings are scattered with soaring eucalyptus trees, and if you look up, you may even spot a koala – a treat we have been lucky enough to witness. It’s all pretty amazing!

After the kangaroo feeding settle in for a delightful wine tasting while watching the kids have a blast on the playground. Seated tastings are available every day from 11am to 4pm for a fee of $15, which includes a sampling of six wines.

We can’t wait to return in Spring and enjoy the new upgraded outdoor areas.

Woodstock also have some brilliant annual events worth keeping an eye on – we particularly love their annual Family Fun Day (June long weekend) and no doubt they have something in store for Father’s Day in a few weeks time.

Woodstock Wine Estate is bursting with pride, a love of the land, and an immense joy of sharing it with others. Be prepared to fall in love with it just as we do time after time.

Our tip: Book a kangaroo feeding session followed by a tasting. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early so you don’t hold the group up. Then, let the kids loose on the playground and lawns while you enjoy a wine tasting or simply a bottle of wine and cheese platter under a shady tree!

Location: 215 Douglas Gully Rd, McLaren Flat SA 5171
Cellar Door Opening Hours: Daily 11am – 4pm
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Max’s skill, knowledge and passion are immediately obvious the moment you step inside. This is true bean to bar chocolate making, with every step of the process carefully crafted on site. The cacao beans are thoughtfully sourced for both flavour and ethics, then transformed into beautifully balanced chocolates that showcase depth, texture and aroma. The scents alone are worth the visit, rich, warm and comforting. Simply pop into the chocolate door (can we call it that?) and you’ll be welcomed with genuinely personal service.

Max loves sharing his process, explaining flavour profiles, techniques and tasting tips in a way that feels relaxed, generous and never rushed. And then there’s the packaging, beautifully custom designed and seriously aesthetic. If aesthetics were a competition, these guys just blew it out of the water.

Set against a gorgeous McLaren Vale backdrop, Trilby’s Chocolates feel special without being intimidating. I guarantee you it is a place you’ll want to bring visiting friends, grandparents, kids (yes, they’re very welcome) and out-of-towners who want a true South Australian food experience. You can also , which is dangerous knowledge once you’ve tasted what’s on offer. Do yourself a favour and give them a follow on socials too. This is a high-quality, proudly South Australian product made with intention and an experience that’s only just beginning. Now, with Easter and Mother’s Day around the corner you are well and truly sorted… you’re welcome

What a fabulous unique celebration of small things, done well. Very well.

Find it at: 215 Douglas Gully Road, Blewitt Springs, South Australia 5171

Website:

and

We made our way here on e-bikes from SA eBikes (highly recommend!, rolling straight into one of the best picnics we’ve ever experienced. Their picnics must be booked a couple of days in advance, but trust us, they are worth every second of planning. Think boho cushions scattered across the lawns, beautifully curated hampers packed with local produce, and panoramic views stretching over Firehawk Farm, the Willunga escarpment and out to the Gulf. Meanwhile, the kids were in their element, running across the huge lawns, playing lawn games and enjoying all the open space right in front of us.

Inside the Wonder Room (probably more geared to adult visits) you’ll find a gorgeous tasting space offering guided wine flights featuring Dandelion’s wines from McLaren Vale, Barossa and the 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ Hills.

Outdoors, families can spread out with plenty of room for prams, high-chairs available, baby-change facilities, and a relaxed vibe that makes bringing children feel completely ok. It’s one of those rare wineries where adults can unwind while the kids are genuinely happy too.

What truly elevates the experience is the warmth of the team and the thoughtfulness of the set-up. The picnic is perfect for families and groups, easy, delicious and downright beautiful. Pair that with picture-perfect views, approachable tastings and loads of kid-friendly space, and you’ve got a McLaren Vale winery we’ll be raving about for a long time. If you’re planning a family winery adventure, Dandelion Vineyards and The Wonder Room deserve a top spot on your list.

Location: 91 Chaffeys Road, McLaren Vale SA 5171
Opening Times: Every Day 10am – 6pm
Phone: 0459 802 413
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Out front, we spent countless hours on the huge deck, lounging under umbrellas with a morning coffee or winding down at happy hour surrounded by nature and vineyard views. Out back, the gated yard felt spacious and secure to let the kids be kids, with what might just be the world’s best pizza oven (a huge Gozney), an outdoor lounge, smart TV, and a generous dining table perfect for all things outdoor entertaining in any weather. What’s more, there is a fire pit in the backyard, complete with wood and fire lighters. To top it off the kids were in heaven with their own mini picnic table and cubby house and one last magical touch, festoon lights! How good is outdoor living with kids? This place nails it.

From the outside, the house looks simple enough, but step through the front door and it’s anything but: stylish, luxurious, and beautifully furnished. The kitchen is perfectly equipped (complete with dream pantry), for feeding every one. Pair a BBQ dinner or home made pizzas with a local rose in summer, or wash down a roast or steaks with a big McLaren Vale red by the indoor combustion style fireplace in winter. Don’t want to cook? You’re walking distance to fabulous choices!

Four great sized bedrooms are on offer, with delightful mattresses and luxury linen. The master has its own ensuite, and the main bathroom is so spacious that the whole family can brush their teeth together, seriously. One bedroom even has the cutest little bunk beds for the kids, while the others feature queen beds.

With a games cupboard for rainy days or fun (read super competitive) nights in, you won’t hear ‘I’m bored’. Add to that the Shiraz Trail literally at your doorstep, and you’re connected to endless adventures, from walks to nearby shops and cafĂ©s to exploring the rolling hills, cellar doors, and family-friendly wineries McLaren Vale is famous for. Next up, when you’re ready for the coast, you’re only minutes from some of the Fleurieu’s most stunning beaches, like Port Willunga. Honestly, can we just move in?

How nice is it, going to stay in a clean, tidy big house that perfectly styled. Leaving all of the chaos at home, we felt so rested and recharged after this stay. HIghly reccommend a few nights here. Bring the kids or make it a girls weekend!

Location: McLaren Vale, South Australia (in the town, on the Shiraz Trail)
Bookings via Sanbis Retreats
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The kids darted between bites and playtime, climbing in and out of the charming little “boat” sandpit just a few steps away (OMG it was even clean, close and safe enough that we could keep an eye on them while actually enjoying our time at the table.)

For the older kids, the oversized Connect Four and Jenga sets became a full-blown championship event. Between laughter, mock cheering, and the occasional dramatic victory dance, it kept them happily entertained for ages. Meanwhile, our eyes feasted on the panoramic valley views that signature sweep of McLaren Vale that never gets old, while we sipped a chilled glass of rosé and the kids clinked mocktails with paper straws and big smiles. It’s that rare combination of atmosphere and freedom where everyone feels at ease.

What makes Beach Road Wines so fabulous for families is how effortlessly it all flows. The space invites kids to move, play, and explore without ever feeling like you’re intruding on other diners. The food is simple and delicious, the staff are welcoming, and the whole experience feels like a long, happy exhale. For parents chasing that perfect mix of great wine, good food and genuine kid-friendliness this spot is pure McLaren Vale magic.

We must give a nod to the warm chocolate brownie that stole our hearts, and the gelati cabinet that stole the remainder of the days calorie intake.

This place is a true 10/10 for families. So many wineries are not this.

You’ll find Beach Road Winery at
309 Seaview Road McLaren Vale
Phone:  08 8323 7344
For more information visit their website at

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For other places and things to do with kids in McLaren Vale check out this link

We started at Oxenberry Farm, however the Fleurieu Visitor Centre is usually the main pick-up hub for SA eBikes, and we set off along the Shiraz Trail, a beautiful, mostly flat path that winds past vineyards, gum trees and wide open countryside. It’s one of those rides that feels good for you but is still relaxing, with just the right amount of effort. The gentle help of the electric assist makes the hills a total breeze, so you can enjoy the scenery and conversation with the kids, instead of huffing and puffing your way up them.

We gave both the tuk tuks and the e-bikes a go, and both were a hit. The tuk tuks are brilliant for families, easily carrying two passengers comfortably on the back while one person pedalled up front. Then we jumped on the regular e-bikes (our highlight) and rode around 7km each way to Dandelion Vineyards, where we had pre-booked a gorgeous picnic lunch. Sitting on the expansive lawns, surrounded by vines, views, sunshine and fresh air, was the perfect way to recharge before cruising back. The kids loved it here with lawn games and room to move around.

SA eBikes offer all sorts of ride options and itineraries, from short scenic loops to half-day winery rides or full-day adventures exploring McLaren Vale’s trails and cellar doors. The beauty of the e-bikes is that they suit all ages and fitness levels, and make it easy to enjoy the outdoors without feeling worn out. From e-bikes with baby carries, to e-bikes with a cargo seat and rails on the back that carry up to two kids….. the whole family can join in with ease. The teenagers loved having their own bikes and are begging to go back.

Your hire includes a comfy, high quality eBike with pedal assist, a helmet, map, lock and full safety briefing including instructions if you haven’t ridden an eBike before (don’t worry it was so easy) and there is always on call support in the event you need help or have questions along the way.

You can find all the details and book online at . If you’re after a family outing that’s active, beautiful, a bit special and just plain fun, this one’s hard to beat! We felt great about exploring more of our own backyard and genuinely felt like this stacked up to any world class experience that would be available, all just under an hours drive from the city. Yep, this one is going on our 2026 bucket list for you guys.

SA eBike Hubs are conveniently located at McLaren Vale Visitor Centre (main hub), Dandelion Wonderoom, Ortus Wines, Oxenberry Farm, Shirvington Wines, Beresford Estate, and DogRidge Wines. We highly recommend having a chat with the team before booking if you are doing this with kids and this will ensure you book the best suited bikes for your group.

Location: 796 Main Road, McLaren Vale South Australia (McLaren Vale Visitor Centre)
Open: Seven days per week
Phone: 0490 671 789
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We visited for breakfast, what a way to start the day and fuel us up for exploring wineries, playgrounds and even a local hedge maze! Standouts that we gave a solid 10/10 were the kids plate, kids pancakes, Manna corn fritters, the big Fleurieu breakfast (proudly punched in by our hungry eight year old) and the most delicious orange and raspberry pancakes you could ever think up! The drinks menu is also worth a mention, with every thing from coffee’s to smoothies, juices and the most beautiful matcha too.

There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can soak up the sunshine or stay cozy inside depending on the weather. The coffee here absolutely hits the spot (we’re still dreaming about their trio of coffee flight), and the food menu is as carefully curated as it is delicious. The kids’ menu is a thoughtful stand out and it’s so fun, not just an afterthought. The kids options really appeal to little taste buds, and parents, you will approve! Take a better look at the food on their visual website menu. It certainly sealed the deal for us.

Inside, you’ll find a small lounge and play corner for toddlers, perfect for keeping the little café-goers happy while parents and friends can enjoy a chat and get their caffeine in, or actually eat with both hands and no child on their lap.

Now, if you live near by or you’re in town on a Monday, make sure to stop by for Story Time!
Manna McLaren Vale runs Story Time every Monday at 11 am in their “Manna Studio” space. It’s a free 30-minute session, with stories and songs aimed at preschoolers (0–5 yrs). Families are welcome to come and go as they need and its just a relaxed, heartwarming way to start the week.

Beyond being a family-friendly cafĂ©, Manna also has a beautiful private function space at the back of the property and it’s perfect for birthday parties, celebrations, meetings or community events. The Manna Studio can even be set up with soft play for kids’ parties, making it one of the most versatile venues in the Vale.

All in all, Manna McLaren Vale has nailed the balance between style, coffee, and quality food for all ages. It’s family comfort and it’s truly a spot where everyone (big or small) leaves happy. Parties of 5+ are encouraged to book.

Location: 211 Main Road McLaren Vale SA 5171
Opening Times: 7 days a week 7am to 3pm | Public Holidays 8am – 2pm
Phone: 0409 393 818 
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Nestled in Willunga as the gateway to the McLaren Vale region, Ortus Wines’ cellar door is a beautiful, laid-back spot that parents and kids instantly adore. Set in a cleverly repurposed fett-block old machinery store, the interior blends industrial warehouse style with polished concrete floors and airy, art-deco light pendants. An oversized cosy fireplace in winter and in Spring, Summer and Autumn the real magic happens outside. There are expansive grassy lawns, shady spots beneath century-old gums, and outdoor deck seating, all ideal for spreading out a picnic rug and playing lawn games while you sip on a wine and relax.

What truly makes Ortus memorable for us is that it’s run by a mother-and-daughter duo, Julie and Paige Cooper, likely one of the only family pairings of its kind in the Australian wine scene. Their passion and dedication come through in every detail, from the warmth of their genuine hospitality to the craftsmanship behind their wines, all sourced from their own family vineyard. Gosh we felt authentically welcomed and even kids are embraced as part of the experience. It’s the kind of genuine family-run winery that we truly love to discover and support.

While the kids were happily distracted by the lawns and the gorgeous platter that we ordered (we had to wrestle a few bites back from them), the wines truly stole the show. We loved them all, but the Grenache, crafted from 100-year-old vines, was a standout. The tasting was anything but pretentious; it felt more like having a cheeky banter with an old friend than a formal occasion. Add in the fact that Ortus is dog-friendly, with regular live music and special events announced on their socials, and it’s clear this should be your very first stop when heading into McLaren Vale.

Location: 205 Main Road Willunga, South Australia 5172
Opening Times: Friday to Monday 11am to 4.30pm
Phone: 08 8546 3476
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Each villa has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, so there’s plenty of space for a girls weekend away, a family stay or maybe even extend the invite to the grandparents to join (because babysitters are pretty handy when staying in a wine region, just saying). The design is modern but welcoming, with polished concrete downstairs and warm timber floors upstairs. Yep, stairs, so if you have toddlers this one probably isn’t super geared up for the really little kids if we are honest. Our three kids, aged 6, 7 and 10 years spread out and made themselves right at home within five minutes of arriving.

We have to mention the beds because, honestly they were some of the most comfortable we’ve ever slept in. The linen is next level, the quilts are super plush, and getting up in the morning was a serious struggle (in the best way). Even the kids didn’t want to get out of bed, which never happens.

Our villa had a sweet little garden and outdoor dining area plus BBQ and a patio swing (big hit with the little ones). The kitchen is brilliantly stocked with all of the gear you could dream up to cook up a meal, or better yet, assemble a cheese platter to go with a local red or even to shake up a cocktail. There’s a Nespresso machine, T2 teas, and a high chair tucked away in the pantry for families travelling with babies or toddlers. The Wi-Fi is sh*t hot (we said what we said). Fast enough for work, streaming, or keeping the kids happy with a bit of Netflix downtime when you need a breather or want to finish that glass of wine in peace.

It’s self-catered, but you’re spoilt for choice with food and coffee options just a short stroll away. Plus you’re literally next to the Shiraz Trail, which is great for a morning walk or bike ride, weather permitting.

We loved that Vale 194 gave us the space and comfort of home, with a touch of luxury. Everything from the bedding to the kitchen fit-out is high quality, and if you’re sharing with a couple of others, it suddenly becomes a pretty affordable way to live in luxury for the weekend.

Highly recommend for family getaways, girls’ weekends, special occasions, or even just a change of scenery that doesn’t require a long drive. Would we go again? Absolutely!

Location: – 15/194 Main Rd McLaren Vale SA 5171
Email: info@vale194.com.au
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