Cooks Cottage

McLaren Vale is a wine region in the Australian state of South Australia located in the Adelaide metropolitan area and centred on the town of McLaren Vale about 38 kilometres (24 mi) south of the Adelaide city centre. It is internationally renowned for the wines it produces and is included within the Great Wine Capitals of the World. The region was named after either David McLaren, the Colonial Manager of the South Australia Company or John McLaren (unrelated) who surveyed the area in 1839. Among the first settlers to the region in late 1839, were two English farmers from Devon, William Colton and Charles Thomas Hewett. William Colton established the Daringa Farm and Charles Thomas Hewett established Oxenberry Farm. Both men would be prominent in the early days of McLaren Vale. Although initially the region's main economic activity was the growing of cereal crops, John Reynell and Thomas Hardy planted grape vines in 1838 and the present-day Seaview and Hardy wineries were in operation as early as 1850. Grapes were first planted in the region in 1838 and some vines more than 100 years old are still producing.

As soon as you arrive in McLaren Vale, you'll be greeted with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, a winery on every corner and mouthwatering food options to tempt your taste buds. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply enjoy indulging in a glass or two, McLaren Vale is the perfect destination for you.

One of the standout features of McLaren Vale is its beautiful beaches, which are just a short drive from the main town. You can spend your day soaking up the sun on the golden sand, taking a dip in the crystal-clear water or exploring the stunning coastline.