If you’re looking to head slightly off the beaten path this summer, wanting to try some fantastic wines, or keen for a simple staycation not too far from the city, the Clare Valley should be on your radar. Known for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, this region is as tranquil as it is bustling, and did we mention its exceptional wine?
Home to all kinds of wineries, breweries, and distilleries, the region is most known for its riesling. There’s cellar doors nestled all throughout the valley, making getting to, from, and between the hidden gems slightly tricky, but not anymore.
The Barrel & Vine Eggspress is a clever hop-on hop-off wine bus that lets you navigate and drink your way through one of South Australia’s most charming wine regions, without the stress of planning or driving.
Created by Alison ‘Chook’ Meaney of Bukirk Glamping, the Barrel & Vine Eggspress is every bit as warm, quirky and welcoming as its name suggests. The day begins at Bukirk Glamping & Luxury Cabins, just outside Clare, where the bus, affectionately nicknamed the Eggspress, sets off on its first loop at 9:50am. From there, you can jump on at the Clare Post Office at 10am or 11am, or along the way as it travels between some of the region’s most-loved cellar doors, breweries, distilleries and eateries.
Each full loop takes roughly an hour, so there’s no need to rush over lunch, hesitate on another tasting, or refuse a quick bakery stop before hopping back on to your next destination. So whether you’re chasing big reds at iconic wineries like Sevenhill Cellars and Pikes, a crisp gin at Clare Valley Distillery, or a cold brew at Rehn Bier, the route has something for every taste and tempo. There’s even a stop at Little Red Grape Bakery if you need a pastry pick-me-up between pours.
As for the tickets, it’s $125 for the whole day, includes unlimited rides so you can hop on and off as often as you like. The Eggspress returns to Clare around 4:30pm, making it perfect to refresh and head off to dinner, or kick back and enjoy a bottle of Clare Valley wine.
Tours typically run on weekends and can be arranged midweek if minimum numbers are met, so it’s best to plan ahead. So grab your friends and family and pick your date to ‘buk’ your spot on the Barrel & Vine Eggspress. Because in Clare, good wine and good times are always worth clucking about.
Eggspress Bus Stops
- Greg Cooley Wines
- Clare Valley Distillery (Gin)
- Clare Visitor Centre
- Shut the Gate Winery
- Hill River Winery
- Pikes Winery/Brewery/Slate Restaurant
- Paulett Winery/Restaurant
- Sevenhill Cellars Winery
- Sevenhill Pub
- Little Red Grape Bakery
- Good Catholic Girl (Open Weekends Only)
- Wykari Cellar Door (Open Weekends Only)
- Sussex Squire Winery
Barrel & Vine Eggspress
Where: From 88 Stradbrooke Rd, Clare Valley
Price: $125
For more information, click here.
Please drink responsibly
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