Day Trip to the Clare Valley with the Kids

If you're short on time, there's still plenty you can do to enjoy a day trip in the Clare Valley. Here are some kid-friendly ideas for a quick trip.

Morning

Arrive in the Clare Valley by car. Drive-up on the Horrocks Highway and arrive at Auburn. Enjoy breakfast at Velvet and Willow Pantry, a light croissant, muffin or toastie goes down deliciously paired with a coffee in their garden. 

Mid-morning to lunchtime

Now there are a couple of options for your trip.

Continue north Sevenhill Cellars, where the kids can run around on the lawn area and play games like cricket or Jenga, whilst you look around the St AloysiusChuch or even taste some wines. Enjoy lunch just down the road at the Sevenhill Hotel, which is great for the little ones or grab something from the bakery and enjoy it at Richardson Park Playspace.

Or you could turn off at Leasingham and head towards the historic town of Mintaro. Here you'll find the Mintaro Maze (Open weekends & School Holidays) which is great for all ages. Find the statues as you're trying to find the middle, enjoy the games in the garden to test your skills and enjoy a delicious coffee whilst browsing the gift shops. Enjoy lunch at the Magpie and Stump Hotel which has a great lawned 'beer-garden' area and sometimes live music. Try their famous 'Stump Burger' for lunch. If you've got time, Martindale Hall (closed Tuesdays) is fascinating to look through on a self-guided tour.

Afternoon

In the afternoon you explore the heritage mining town of Burra, about a half hours drive from Clare. If you've got the time, the Burra Heritage Passport is a must-do. The key allows you to 'unlock' Burras past, by wandering through the old Redruth Gaol, Morphett's Enginehouse, underground Unicorn Brewery Cellars or the Miners Dugouts. Stretch your legs at Worlds End Reserve on the way back home.

Or you could stay close to Clare and explore Bungaree Station, where there's a chance the kids will see some horses, kangaroos, deer and birdlife. There is a self-guided audio-post tour, be sure to press the buttons and hear about the remarkable history of the place. Gleeson Wetlands is also great for a short stroll to stretch your legs before getting in the car and driving back home.