Take in the history, fine wines and meet a pig named Kevin Bacon with our guide to a day in Clare.
Fuel up at Cafe 1871
For years we’ve been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but this statement will take on new meaning once you’ve kicked off your Clare Valley trip with breakfast at Cafe 1871. Conveniently located in the middle of Clare, this local favourite pours fantastic coffee while serving up tasty toasties and buttery croissants in a cosy, welcoming space. They nail gluten-free options too, so come prepared to load up regardless of your dietary requirements. Our pick – and trust us on this – is the peach, halloumi and balsamic vinegar toastie; you won't regret it, we promise.
Explore the historic Sevenhill Cellars
History lovers rejoice, because Sevenhill Cellars is not only Clare Valley's oldest winery, but also boasts the beautiful St Aloysius' Church as part of its estate. The Jesuits were making sacramental wine here back in 1851, though these days Sevenhill is known for producing premium Clare Valley classics, including riesling. You can taste the range at Sevenhill's stunning cellar door or treat yourself to a self-guided tour of the historic grounds, taking in the underground cellar, the St Ignatius of Loyola Shrine and the crypt of St Aloysius' Church (along with the rest of it, of course). And if history isn't your thing? Well, there’s still plenty of fun to be had out on Sevenhill’s front lawn with one of their indulgent grazing platters. Create your own from a range of locally grown and made produce. (We recommend the riesling jelly – you're in Clare after all!)
Lunch at Slate, Pikes' epic on-site restaurant
Having worked your way through a few highlights of the Pikes range, it's time to head to the winery's Slate Restaurant, which is named for the 650-million-year-old slate bed under the vineyards that gives the wines their unique character. Showcasing the region's best local produce, with seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from the kitchen garden, Slate offers a three-course 'Feed Me' menu or an à la carte option, so feel free to settle in for a long lunch or something more casual. The menu changes regularly, but current highlights include the stout-glazed beef rib, sourdough pappardelle and an incredible white chocolate mousse with raspberry and yuzu – seriously decadent, seriously delicious.
Drop into Knappstein, an iconic Clare Valley institution
You may well be eyeing off an afternoon nap by now, but best prepare for a 'Knapp' instead as there's one more winery you simply have to visit when driving back through town. Knappstein, or Knappstein Enterprise Winery, is smack bang on Clare's main street in the Heritage-listed Enterprise Brewery building and has been a non-negotiable stop since opening its rustic doors in 1976. It was established by industry legend Tim Knappstein, and though he is no longer involved, the quality of wine has remained consistently excellent. There are a bunch of tasting options available including single vineyard, riesling and red wine flights, while the cellar door also hosts regular feasts and live music sessions, so be sure to check if anything is happening while you're in town.
You left some room for a couple of drinks and dinner, right? You’re going to want to, with the Watervale Hotel in town. Behind this traditional country-pub facade lies a team that goes to incredible lengths to showcase the very best of this region, not to mention fresh produce pulled straight from the farm that belongs to the pub’s owners. The wine list here claims to offer at least one wine from every Clare producer, which is an achievement in itself, but if you’re ready for a palate cleanser after a day of wine touring, you’re spoilt for choice. Classic cocktails get a Watervale twist with local ingredients, and non-alcoholic drinks are no afterthought. You can even pair the restaurant’s six-course degustation with mocktails showcasing native ingredients. Otherwise, simply mix and match some share plates from the a la carte menu, and settle into this special place.
A luxurious night's sleep at Bukirk Glamping
The most important consideration for any holiday is where you'll lay your head at the end of the day. Clare Valley is no exception, and fortunately Bukirk Glamping has you covered for all things luxury regardless of whether you're opting for a Glamping Tent or Fancy Coop (tiny house). Private decks, fire pits and spectacular sunsets are all provided, and given that Bukirk is built on a 42-acre farm, you'll really feel like you're in the middle of nowhere. You’ll also get to make lots of new furry and feathered friends, including a pig named Kevin Bacon. Oh, and the name? That's the cherry on top. Try saying it nice and loud and let us know if you start to feel like one of the flock.
