The Clare Valley’s notably more famous amongst vino aficionados than 4WDing purists. However if you’re at all partial to sampling a couple of good drops while exploring a pretty pocket of South Oz’s famous wine country, a weekend spent out this way is inevitably a very good time.

If you manage to not go too hard on the wine tastings while sampling the local produce, there’s a handful of scenic drives through the rolling, hilly countryside that are absolutely worth checking out.

If you’re keen to get away from the tourist traps, factor in a visit to the Caroona Creek Conservation Area, where you’ll get the opportunity to get the wheels dirty on the track out to the beautiful Tourilie Gorge.

STUFF TO DO

4WDING: The Goyder Trail is the region’s premier touring route, and it’s split into two sections – the Southern Goyder Trail and the Northern Goyder Trail which each take the best part of a day to explore.

The Southern Goyder Trail passes through Booborowie, Farrell Flat, Hampden, Eedunda, Point Pass, Sutherlands and Robertson, while the Northern Goyder Trail visits Terowie, Whyte Yarcowie, Hallett and Mount Bryan.

THE CAROONA CREEK CONSERVATION AREA is split down the middle by a 4WD track that takes visitors over ridges and several creek crossings before depositing them at the serene Tourilie Gorge.

IMPORTANT INFO

LOCATION: The Clare Valley is located approximately 100km north of Adelaide and is accessed via the National Highway A1 and National Highway M20.

CAMPING is allowed south of the Clare Valley in seven separate bush campgrounds within the Gawler Range National Park. Several commercial campgrounds are located within the Clare Valley itself, including the Clare Valley Caravan Park and Discovery Holiday Park.

FUEL is available at the Clare Valley, Gawler and Adelaide.

MORE INFO is available at www.environment.sa.gov.au