Trains operate on up to 140 days a year and are manned by volunteers from the Australian Railway Historical Society, who are also responsible for maintenance of the rail line and the heritage locomotives and carriages.

The most popular services are…..

The Cockle Train

Commences its run each day at Goolwa station, in the historic Wharf Precinct alongside the River Murray. After crossing the main Goolwa to Victor road the line heads off across the plains to Middleton, picking up or dropping off passengers on request, and then to Port Elliot where it reaches the Encounter Bay coast. The station here is operated by the local National Trust and features a small historical museum.

After leaving Port Elliot the train climbs to the top of the coastal cliffs and passengers then experiemce some of the most picturesque coastal scenery on the Fleurieu Peninsula, with nothing separating you from the beach below and a perfect view of the Southern Ocean – in winter the home of Southern Right Whale

After a 30 minute journey the train edges into Victor Harbor station, right in the centre of the town and surrounded with its iconic pine trees. Here, the locomotive is detached from the carriages and turned on our specially retained 30m long electric turntable before rejoining the carriages for the return journey to Goolwa.

The number of trains operated varies through the year. The Cockle train does not have reserved seats, passengers can buy tickets at any of our stations for one-way journeys in either direction along the line or for a bargain priced round trip. Trains wait for about 30 minutes at both Goolwa and Victor and roundtrip passengers can extend this period by returning on a later train.

For more information, current ticket prices and The Cockle Train Timetable visit

The Highlander

A short journey from Mt Barker to Strathalbyn and return on either the hertigage steam or diesel locomotive, with each leg taking about one hour, grab this fantastic trip most Sundays. The journey commences from Mount Barker station – a pleasant 20 minute drive from 91������ý along the South Eastern Freeway.

Leaving Mt Barker mid morning, the train first climbs up to the crest of the line and then winds down the eastern escarpment of the southern Mt Lofty Ranges, passing through several long abandoned station sites which bear testimony to the importance of this branch line a century ago.

Crossing the Angas River you then enter the historic township of Strathalbyn where many Scottish migrants settled in the early 1800s, influencing the early architecture which is still evident today. The town is well worth a visit to explore its well stocked antique shops and cafes.

You can return to Mount Barker after a short break or catch the afternoon train back and spend a few hours in Strath. Either way the bakery is a must we say!

For more information, current ticket prices and timetables visit

There is so much happening this Easter weekend in 91������ý! There are Easter markets, family friendly days out at wineries, fundraisers & more! Visit one of our regional chocolate factories, such as Melbas or Barossa Valley Chocolate Company. If you fancy an Easter Market, there’s plenty to choose from. We recommend a visit to Meadows Easter Fair which spans over the whole long weekend! Which 91������ý Easter events will you be hopping into?

No matter how you celebrate Easter in 91������ý over the long weekend with your family, we hope it is fun, safe & delicious! If you’re looking for the best Easter events in 91������ý for kids, we’ve rounded up the top family-friendly things to do this Easter long weekend.

Easter Long Weekend Events in 91������ý

What’s Open this Easter in 91������ý

TreeClimb

Open Easter Saturday & Easter Monday at all 3 locations; 91������ý, Salisbury and Kuitpo Forest. 
Closed Good Friday & Easter Sunday

Laneway Boulders

Open everyday over the Easter weekend. Take part in the laneway Easter hunt where you can find an egg and claim the prize inside. Everyday eggs will be hidden around the gym with each egg containing prizes such as coffee, merch, day passes, chalk refills and the Golden Ticket! 

KIIS 1023 Skyline Giant Ferris Wheel

Open every day of the Easter Weekend from 10am-9.30pm.

Tada Kids Cafe

Open Saturday 4th April.

Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Monday.

Woodhouse Adventure

Open all weekend 9am – 5pm. Camping and day adventures with plenty of outdoor screen-free fun and some great EGGSTRAS for Easter. 

Bounce

Open all weekend from 10am each day. Located at both Marleston and Greenacres. 

AFL Max

Open Saturday and Easter Sunday 10.30am-2.30pm.

Closed Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Monarto Zoo

Open every day of the Easter Weekend. Families can explore while taking part in our Giant Easter Egg Trail, enjoy creative colouring activities, Melba’s chocolate giveaways on Easter Sunday *stocks are limited and the chance to win some great prizes.

91������ý Zoo

Open every day of the Easter Weekend from 9.30am-5pm. Enjoy special Easter activities including celebrating the Greater Bilby, craft workshops and activities, as well as a chance to win a hamper. Visitors are strongly encouraged to prebook tickets prior to your visit.

Hahndorf Farm Barn

The Farm Barn is open everyday from 10am-4pm over the Easter Weekend.

Hey Caddy Easter Hunt

Join the fun these school holidays at the Hey Caddy Easter Hunt, included FREE with any mini-golf booking.
Search the course for hidden Easter surprises and enjoy a prize for every participant, plus the chance to win a giant Easter egg.

A great activity for families this Easter- book your round and start the hunt! Available at West Lakes and Marion Hey Caddy/ X-Golf.

Closed Good Friday. Open Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Little Rockets Play Cafe Barossa

Open everyday. Good Friday 9am-2pm. Easter Saturday 9am-2pm. Easter Sunday 10am-2pm.

Get ready for an egg-citing Easter long weekend packed with fun, games and sweet surprises.

Bazinga

Munno Para and Barossa open Saturday and Easter Sunday 10am-3pm. Closed Good Friday and Easter Monday. 1/2 price arcade tokens and they will double your tickets for double the prizes!

Lenswood Pick your own

Apple Picking- Open everydayover the Easter Weekend. 9am-4pm. No booking required. 

SA Museum

Closed Good Friday.

Open Saturday, Sunday and Monday 10am-5pm.

Fox in a Box

Open everyday over the Easter Weekend from 10am-10pm. Bookings are required.

Villa 19 is in the absolute dream spot. It’s right next to a huge lagoon-style pool, complete with a shallow end for the little ones, and just across from a massive grassy expanse where kids can run, ride scooters, play basketball, swing from trees, and generally disappear for hours. There are picnic tables scattered around, so you can grab a drink or snack and actually sit down while they play, and if that’s not enough, a private boardwalk leads straight to the beach. Honestly, it’s one of those layouts where the kids feel free to roam, but you still have that calm, safe feeling as a parent.

The villa itself looks out over the lake, which is stunning in the morning light and gives the whole place a peaceful vibe. There’s a deck off the downstairs bedroom that’s perfect for a quiet coffee, and upstairs a huge balcony with a proper outdoor dining setup and a BBQ that basically screams weekend feasts and margaritas for the adults. It sleeps up to ten, which works really well for two families or a bigger group without anyone feeling on top of each other.

Inside, the attention to detail is next level. The bunk room was an instant hit, with two double bunks, books, and toys already set up, which makes settling in that much easier. The beds are seriously comfortable, and the linen is so soft you almost don’t want to get out of bed in the morning (as we’ve come to expect from a Sanbis stay). The lighting is warm and gentle, and the lampshades are exactly the kind I’d pick for my own house if I could. Small touches that make the whole place feel effortlessly cosy.

The house is set up for families in a way that actually makes sense. There is plastic dining for kids, a high chair, step stool, portacot, pool towels, sports gear, Netflix, WiFi, and even a popcorn machine, which quickly became the highlight of movie night. The adults aren’t forgotten either, with a proper barista-style coffee machine that made mornings feel a little indulgent. And yes, it is a two-storey house, which means stairs, but there is a safety gate at the top that any parent of little ones will quietly celebrate. The garage as been transformed into a second living space with another TV and fridge making it the perfect hangout for older kids or teens.

Normanville itself is quiet and coastal, with cafes, shops, and a few short drives for exploring the rest of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Ingalalla Falls is only five minutes away, with Second Valley and Rapid Bay also close by. But honestly, once you are at Villa 19, it is hard to want to leave. The pool, the lake, the grassy areas, the private boardwalk to the beach, it all just works so the kids are happy and the parents can breathe.

If I could move in here, I would in a heartbeat. Since that is probably a bit far-fetched, I will happily settle for a Sanbis Villa stay at least once a year.

Location: Villa 19, South Shores, Normanville
For bookings and more information:
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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 91������ý, 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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If you’re looking for a place where the kids drag you out of bed and straight into a kayak, in Barmera is exactly that kind of family getaway. What an absolute Riverland icon for kids. I’d heard all the chatter before; “Lake Bonney this” and “Lake Bonney that” but now I honestly understand what all the fuss is about. Trust me, you’ll want to keep reading and add this awesome holiday and caravan park to your summer plans!

There’s accommodation to suit every budget at Discovery Parks – Lake Bonney. We stayed in a Deluxe 2 Bedroom Lakeview Cabin – sleeps 6. Yes, a little luxurious, but it still had that classic caravan park feel. Bunk beds for the kids, a queen bed that felt like sleeping on a cloud, and all linen and towels supplied, no need to lug it all from home. The shower was one of the best I’ve had anywhere, hot with strong pressure, almost like a back massage… and in a caravan park, no less. There was a TV in the lounge for a little wind-down time, but honestly, most of our time was spent outside, and rightly so.

The water activities here are next-level. We’re talking water bikes (I didn’t even know these existed), canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, pedal boats, and floating trampolines/ pontoon things for the kids to bounce on… we loved it all. I even had a go at 42 and can confirm it’s ridiculously fun. Hiring is straightforward but there’s a $20 cash bond, and each activity has time limits, so it’s worth asking the kids what they want to try first. Paddle boats go for $20 an hour, single canoes $18, double canoes $25, and water bikes $30. The first hire starts at 9:15 in the morning and the last one is 3:45 in the afternoon, and don’t forget life jackets. Safety first, always!

My top tip? Grab a pedal boat for two adults and two kids and head straight for the trampolines, you could happily spend hours out there.

There’s plenty of other fun to keep everyone entertained too. An epic splash park, a sparkling heated swimming pool (with another brand-new one being built while we were there), a playground, pedal carts, a bouncing pillow, a pump track, and a games room. Seriously, the list goes on.

Although our gorgeous cabin had everything we needed, we made the most of the camp kitchen, cooking a BBQ dinner and kicking off the next day with bacon and egg muffins for breakfast. Simple, easy, and totally family-friendly, and we even met some lovely people doing the exact same thing.

The park itself is huge, with heaps of powered sites for caravans and lakeside views that make it easy to see why it books out fast, especially in summer. Even on a slightly overcast day (we had a bit of rain while we were there), there’s still plenty of space to relax by the lake and enjoy a bit of calm while keeping an eye on the kids as they explore. Fishing is another draw, though we didn’t get a chance this trip. Staff were super friendly and helpful, giving great tips on everything from water sports to family-friendly spots to visit around the Riverland.

If you can tear yourself away (though why would you?), there are plenty of nearby options. Mallee Fowl Restaurant is just 15 minutes away and an absolute must for dinner, while Barmera has a handful of closer spots too. For a bit of adventure, there are walking trails, Loveday 4×4 Park, and Monash Adventure Park all within easy reach. Reception stocks basics like ice cream, sunscreen and snacks. If you’re self-catering, there’s a Foodland two minutes down the road, or come prepared. Please note: certain fruit and vegetables can’t be brought into the Riverland, check the SA Government website for current restrictions.

Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, Discovery Parks – Lake Bonney is fun, easy, and impossible not to love. We can’t wait to go again! The easy drive from 91������ý will take you around two and a half hours.

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

Location: Lakeside Dr, Barmera SA 5345
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If you’re looking for the kind of holiday where the kids will be outside and entertained ALL DAY LONG look no further than . Join in the fun or sit back and relax while the kids have a ball!

They have a fantastic new resort style pool! This huge pool is 250,000 litres and 65m around. One half is under shade and there’s also plenty of poolside seating, sun lounges and picnic tables. The main pool starts at just 10cm deep so little ones can splash play, right down to 1.8m at the deepest point. The original pool will also remain open giving guests two areas to swim.

Splash Harbor waterpark featuring giant hurricane slide and double tipping bucket is super popular with all guests young and old!. It is believed the vortex slide and double bucket are the first of their kind ever installed in a holiday park in Australia!

Located on Bay Rd, just 5 minutes from the beach and a few minutes more to the centre of Victor Harbor this spacious 22-acre park offers a selection of self-contained units and cabin accommodation as well as spacious powered and unpowered sites for camping, caravans and motorhomes.

The cabin accommodation ranges from affordable budget accommodation right up to their very comfortable 3 bedroom Heysen cabins which have prime spot at the park, overlooking the grassed pump track area as well as being right near the fantastic recreation area. The Heysen cabin sleep up to 8 people making them a great option for family holidays in Victor Harbor. Their 2 bedroom Hindmarsh cabins are also in a great location and are fully accessible for those with mobility issues.

to take a look at the accommodation options available at the park

But the real draw card of this park is the facilities. Guaranteed to keep the kids busy all day and ready for a good night sleep! A win for kids AND parents! Located within the park grounds you’ll find..

• Pump Track – for hours of bike, scooter and skateboard fun
• Dual waterslide tower
• Two swimming pools
• Mini Golf
• Playground
• Jumping Pillow
• Outdoor movies and FREE school holiday activities
• Games Room
• Onsite takeaway shop (try the donuts)
• Pedal Kart and Bike Hire, and more!

All of that included in your nightly fee! It’s school holiday heaven! We’ve stayed here quite a few times now and it really does come highly recommended as your next family holiday or even a weekend mini break.

Kids in 91������ý Review – Family Favourite for a reason

We have stayed at Victor Harbor Holiday Park three times now, and honestly, there is a reason we keep coming back. It is just fabulous.

This time we checked into one of the Newland cabins, a two-bedroom superior cabin literally right next to the lagoon pool. And when I say right next to, I mean open your door and you are practically swimming (do not worry, there is a fence, thank goodness). The outdoor patio was perfect for meals, and being so close meant we could zip back for drinks or a quick loo stop without trekking halfway across the park.

A wonderful new addition to the second bedroom is the themed kids bunk beds. They are ideal for children under eight and a super cool way to make bedtime fun, matching the playful theme of the rest of the holiday park. The campervan themed design, complete with a surfboard-style ladder was an absolute hit with my two kids. There is also a standard bunk bed for kids who are a bit bigger or dads who snore.

Now, full disclosure, only one of the three slides was working during our stay as they are waiting on a new pump, but lucky for us it was the Hurricane Slide, and it is the most fun one anyway. The kids were up and down non-stop while I got tired just watching them. Good to note for those who have been before, the slides are now fenced off. I believe this is new since our last visit.

This was our first time visiting during Halloween and it was such a fun experience. The reception staff handed out goodies and even performed a trick for the kids and it was lovely to see other families getting involved too.

We still absolutely love the barbecue area down by the playground, jumping pillow and pump track. It is the perfect spot to set up for a meal while the kids play and make new friends.The Hungry Harbor Takeaway was open this time so we grabbed some fish and chips one night. It was hot, crispy and surprisingly well priced. Next time, we’ll be firing up that pizza oven at the camp kitchen for some delicious DYI pizzas.

Every time we visit we find something new to love. From the wonderful atmosphere to the family-friendly layout, Victor Harbor Holiday Park just makes holidaying with kids feel easy. We are already planning trip number four.

This is a Hampshire Holidays Park:

For more information about the park, to check rates or to book online visit their website

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If you’re looking for other great places to visit while on the Fleurieu, don’t forget to check out our FLEURIEU FOR KIDS feature right here on our website >> kidsinadelaide.com.au/category/discover/fleurieu

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

Don Moseley Park received an extensive playground redevelopment late 2025. This nature-themed upgrade includes water play, a flying fox, sandpit, huge 4.2m tall towers, slides, swings, cubby houses and so much more.

The best news? The famous ‘train’ roller coaster has remained part of this playground!

If you are heading to the states South East or on a road trip to Melbourne or any where along Dukes Highway, Keith Playground (around 2.5 hours from 91������ý) is an iconic MUST stop. Their famous ‘train’ could well be the last of the states REAL fun old school play equipment and I guarantee your kids will run and run and play and burn energy ready to get back in the car.

Keith the township has a great bakery (The Morning Loaf) and also worth looking for the ‘Land-rover on a Pole’ the ‘Army Tank’ and the ‘CFS shed wall mural’.

Even if you are heading to Mount Gambier via Dukes Hwy, you would generally turn off just before the town – totally worth driving a few hundred meters up the road.

Check it out here:

Upgrade images below thanks to Sarah Cunningham

Good News is that the roller coaster ‘train ride’ as pictured below has remained part of this playground upgrade.

Key facts:

• Tourism operator Expressions of Interest: Tuesday 26 August – Friday 29 August 2025  
• Ballot opens: Friday, 19 September 2025
• Ballot closes: Monday, 22 September 2025
• Ballot drawn: Tuesday, 23 September 2025
• Travel period: Wednesday, 24 September – Sunday, 30 November 2025
• Types of vouchers:
  • $100 for experiences
  • $100 for 1-night accommodation
  • $200 for 2-night accommodation
  • $500 for 5-night accommodation

Supported by a $28 million algal bloom relief package funded jointly by the South Australian and Australian governments, it aims to inject vitality back into coastal economies.

More info .

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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