Image: Bowhill General Store
Country general stores have always been more than a place to pick up the basics. They are where locals stop for coffee, travellers stretch their legs, community notices are shared and small towns show off their character.
Now, two South Australian favourites are earning national attention, from a quirky providore in the Clare Valley to a scenic riverside rest stop in Bowhill.
Here are the two general stores that were both named on Australian Traveller’s list of 13 of the most charming general stores in Australia.
Watervale General Store and Providore
Nestled in the heart of the Clare Valley, Watervale General Store and Providore blends country charm, vintage treasures and warm hospitality to create a destination that’s just as inviting as it is unique.
After the Clare Rise bakery revived the now buzzing store less than a year ago, it is now complete with an extensive breakfast menu, locally adored community exchange wall and book exchange.
Instrumental to the store’s charm and transformation has been head barista Leanne Skeers, who is regularly on the lookout for quirky furniture and vintage finds to bring the space to life.
“Bit by bit, we made it a place the community would want to sit and take their time.”
Leanne says being named in Australian Traveller’s list means a great deal, as it is recognition for their service to their small community.
The community exchange wall is the pride and joy of the general store, operating on a gold coin donation system with proceeds donated back to the Country Fire Service.
Customers regularly flock to browse the ever-changing selection of homely goods ranging from crafts, yarn, children’s clothing, DVDs and even homegrown fresh produce from locals. Leanne says the tink of coin donations going into the CFS collection helmet always brings a smile to her face.
“It’s really lovely because the community pride themselves on bringing quality stuff.”
Images: Watervale General Store/Facebook
In addition to food coming down from the Clare Rise bakery, Leanne personally prepares a range of rustic and homemade food for the store, including fluffy scones, fresh wraps, hearty rolls and spinach and feta slices.
It is a familiar and homely stop for many locals who simply order “the usual” as Leanne remembers their regular coffee and lunch orders by heart.
When: Open seven days, with all-day dining listed from 7:30am to 6pm. Check current trading hours before visiting.
Where: 29 Main North Road, Watervale.
Follow Watervale General Store and Providore on Facebook.
Bowhill General Store
Heading to the bank of the Murray River, the Bowhill General Store captures a relaxed slice of country life and offers a scenic rest stop for travellers and locals to unwind and switch off.
Owned and run by husband-and-wife team Frank and Marnie, the store recently celebrated its fourth birthday, marking four years of country hospitality and community spirit.
“Friendly service, amazing food and the best coffee on the river,” says Frank.
Images: Bowhill General Store/Facebook
As the winter chill rolls off the river, Marnie is cooking up a warm and comforting winter menu for visitors that feels like one big hug.
Think rich and creamy Thai red curry, fragrant fried rice and a rotating range of hearty soups and pizzas that are sure to fill your belly and warm your heart. But the food that stops travellers in their tracks?
“Our chips.
“Our chips are renowned for the love we put into them.”
With easy access by road and river, the store has become a favourite for locals, road-trippers and houseboat holidaymakers stopping in for fuel, coffee, a meal or a moment in the sunshine by the Murray.
“We overlook the mighty Murray river, what more could you ask for?”
When: Open most days, with current trading hours updated regularly on social media. Check before visiting.
Where: 28 Chucka Bend Road, Bowhill.
Follow Bowhill General Store on Facebook.
For a look at the whole list of charming general stores, click here.
