Although I've been to the Barossa countless times, it's only recently that I became aware of the picturesque Eden Valley. This quaint little town produces some exceptional cool-climate wines. Tasting signature varieties such as riesling and shiraz straight from either
Fernfield,
Brockenchack,
Flaxman or
Henschke is an absolute must. Winemaking dates back to the 1840s in Eden Valley and some really old vineyards can be found here.
Scenic lookout
Besides vineyards and cellar doors, the township also boasts a fabulous picnic spot with panoramic views of Barossa's high country. Tables have been provided for you at
Eden Valley Scenic Lookout to enjoy your little outing. Situated just off Eden Valley Road, the lookout is impossible to miss.
For a novel and unusual art experience, be sure to check out the
historical silhouettes as you're strolling along the main street. These sculptures have successfully combined art and history. They are a great way to learn more about the township. How many blacksmith shops were there? Why was dairying significant? What about public entertainment and social life? Just some of the questions that will be answered.
If you'd like to visit a gallery instead or take home a little memento, then volunteer-run
Lillefield Gallery which showcases works by local artists and
Really Useful Pots with its eclectic range of beautiful pottery pieces are your go-tos whilst in Eden Valley.
And, last but not least, you will find a large hollow red gum tree approximately eight kilometres south of the town centre. The
Herbig Family Tree has a diameter of seven metres and was the home of Friedrich Herbig and his wife in the 1850s. Caroline gave birth to two children here before the family moved into a pine-and-pug hut and later a stone cottage.
Eden Valley can be reached within a 90-minute drive from Adelaide. So, why not put it on your to-do list for the weekend if you've never been to this part of the Barossa before!
