Best McLaren Vale Wine Itinerary: Hastwell & Lightfoot, Samuel’s Gorge & Aldinga’s Fall From Grace
Welcome to McLaren Vale: A Wine Lover’s Getaway
Planning a memorable day in the McLaren Vale wine region? This stunning South Australian wine region blends world-class cellar doors, delicious food, coastal scenery, and unforgettable hospitality.
Whether you’re travelling from Adelaide or staying nearby, this itinerary helps you experience the very best — with the ideal starting point at Hastwell & Lightfoot, followed by extraordinary stops at Samuel’s Gorge and Fall From Grace in Aldinga.
Start Your Wine Day at Hastwell & Lightfoot Cellar Door
There’s no better way to begin your McLaren Vale wine adventure than at Hastwell & Lightfoot's boutique cellar door.
This family-run winery is all about an authentic and warm hospitality, quality estate wines, and a relaxed and educational tasting experience that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Nestled among vines and shaded garden seating, your visit here feels like spending time with good friends who happen to make exceptional wine.
What to Expect
- A thoughtfully curated tasting flight of estate wines
- Friendly, knowledgeable hosts guiding your experience
- A serene setting perfect for lingering with a glass
Pro Tip: After your tasting, enjoy one of the generous seasonal platters — with exceptional produce, cheeses, and house-made touches — paired perfectly with your favourite wine from the tasting. This is not just wine tasting; it’s a relaxed introduction to what makes McLaren Vale special.
👉 Book your tasting + platter experience here.
Afternoon Stop 1: Samuel’s Gorge — Views, Wines & Character
A short drive from Hastwell & Lightfoot, Samuel’s Gorge is another one of McLaren Vale’s standout cellar doors — famous for its dramatic landscape, beautifully built cottage, and deeply expressive red wines.
Why Visit Samuel’s Gorge?
- Spectacular hillside setting with panoramic views
- Bold, characterful wines reflecting the ancient soils
- A tasting experience that feels like an adventure
The cellar door architecture blends with the landscape, and many visitors find themselves lingering longer than planned — glass in hand and horizon in view. It’s an essential stop for anyone who loves red wine.
Pro Tip: Try their Shiraz or GSM — they showcase the region’s iconic bold reds beautifully.
Early Evening Stop 3: Fall From Grace — Aldinga’s Beloved Wine + Food Haven
Just a short scenic drive south toward Aldinga sits Fall From Grace, a local favourite that’s as much about the people as it is about the wine.
Meet Jimmy & Jo — The Heart of Fall From Grace
Owners Jimmy and Jo turned their passion for hospitality and wine into a destination that feels like home.
At Fall From Grace, you’ll find:
- Friendly faces with an extensive wine list
- An exceptional seasonal food menu designed to pair naturally with the wines
- Outdoor seating — perfect for long afternoons
Jimmy’s background in hospitality shines through in the thoughtful menu: fresh, locally sourced dishes that complement the wine list, from sharing plates to heartier options. Jo brings a genuine warmth to every interaction, creating a vibe that’s relaxed and friendly. It's clear this duo is passionate about what they do!
This stop is a perfect for late in the afternoon or early evening when you're feeling peckish again.
Optional Add-Ons: Breathe in the Coastline
McLaren Vale’s magic doesn’t stop with vineyards. If you have time and want to round out your day with sea views:
Port Willunga Beach
Just minutes away — a perfect post-wine wander with postcard scenery.
Maslin Beach and Beyond
Continue the coastal drive through Maslin and Moana for sweeping ocean views.
These stops work beautifully on your way home, or as a quick detour between wineries.
Practical Tips for Your Wine Day
Best Time to Visit:
McLaren Vale is wonderful year-round — autumn and spring are especially gorgeous.
Bookings:
Many cellar doors now require advance bookings, particularly on weekends. We always recommend booking your experiences ahead of time to secure your preferred tasting slot.
Transport:
Designate a driver, book a wine tour shuttle, or hire a private driver — all great ways to relax and enjoy the day.
Timing:
Aim for a full day to leisurely enjoy tastings, lunch, views, and maybe even a beach stop. We recommend no more than 3 wineries per day to truly enjoy the wines and get to know the region.
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This itinerary works for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike — helping them experience the best mix of wine, food, scenery, and local character South Australia has to offer.