3 of South Australia’s Best Rail Trails
Some rides are all about the kilometres. These ones are about everything along the way.
South Australia has a lovely knack for combining relaxed cycling with memorable food and wine. Former railway corridors lead through beautiful countryside, with welcoming towns and tempting stops to turn a bike ride into a holiday.
From McLaren Vale to the Clare Valley and Adelaide Hills, here are three we think deserve a place on your riding wish list. Lycra optional. A healthy appetite encouraged.
The Shiraz Trail — McLaren Vale
For a short ride with plenty of temptation, the Shiraz Trail is hard to beat. Following the old railway corridor between McLaren Vale and Willunga, it puts you in the heart of one of Australia’s favourite wine regions.
The sealed path makes for relaxed pedalling, with vineyards and cellar doors adding plenty of reasons to linger. Allow time to explore Willunga and make lunch part of the plan. This is a ride best enjoyed without watching the clock.
The Essentials: Approximately 8 km one way with lots of side trip options.
Surface: Sealed path
Bike: Any bike will work on this trail
Best For: A leisurely ride with a long lunch
Our Tips: Leave room in the day for the stops, rather than simply riding there and back. And time your ride to visit the wonderful Wilunga Market on a Saturday.
The Riesling Trail - Clare Valley
Vineyards, old railway history and country town charm: the Riesling Rail Trail brings together much of what we love about the Clare Valley.
Stretching from Auburn to Barinia, north of Clare, its fine-gravel surface follows a former railway through the valley. Choose a shorter section or make a weekend of it, with time for cellar doors, local award winning food & wine and comfortable places to stay for overnight trips.
The Essentials: Approximately 33 km one way, with shorter sections and side trips to explore.
Surface: Compacted fine gravel
Bike: A hybrid, touring or mountain bike is ideal, including e-bikes with suitable tyres.
Best For: A two-day Clare Valley escape with cellar doors and country-town charm.
Our Tips: You don’t need to ride the whole trail to enjoy it. Pick a section and give yourself time to explore. Spread your riding over two days to make the most of the valley’s food and wine. Oh and visit a least one of the aware winning venues from either Skillogalle Winery, Watervale Hotel or O’Leary Walker wines for a full gourmet and wine experience.
The Amy Gillett Bikeway — Adelaide Hills
Whilst this Adelaide Hills bikeway doesn’t have ‘rail trail’ in its offical title, the Amy Gillett Bikeway is a former railway corridor that offers an epic way to enjoy this stunning region on the doorstep of Adelaide.
The sealed shared path links country communities and peaceful rural scenery, with the extension to Birdwood bringing its length to around 22 km one way. It’s a lovely change of pace: fresh air, open views and time to enjoy the journey together.
The rail trail is dotted with wineries, small towns and even a chocolaterie along the way.
The Essentials: Approximately 22 km one way, with multiple access points for shorter rides.
Surface: Sealed shared path
Bike: Any bike will work on this trail, including e-bikes.
Best For: An easygoing ride through peaceful countryside, cellar doors and welcoming villages.
Our Tips: Allow time for a café stop and a wander through the towns along the way. Remember to plan your return journey—riding the full trail in both directions makes it approximately 44 km. Stay overnight in gorgeous historic Hahndorf and if you don’t mind it cool the autumn colours are incredible.
Three great rail trails across South Australia (there are more!).
One delicious escape.
Want to experience all three with good company and the details taken care of? Our Tour de South Australia Vineyards brings these trails together with the Barossa, local food and wine, and a relaxed small-group atmosphere.
Enjoy six nights away, a local guide and support vehicle throughout. More time enjoying South Australia. Less time organising it.
