Shiraz Rail Trail
The Shiraz Rail Trail on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula is a short but scenic ride that perfectly blends cycling and local flavour — with big views, great food, and many cellar-door stops. The trail runs 8 km each way between McLaren Vale and Willunga, following the old rail line through the heart of the Fleurieu Peninsula wine country. Committee member Ken Stewart and his wife Jennie have ridden in this area several times over the years, mainly when following the the Tour Down Under cycling race.
The Shiraz Rail Trail is part of the longer Coast to Vines Rail Trail, which stretches 38 km from Hallett Cove, on the coast in the southern suburbs of Adelaide, to Willunga. The Shiraz section is wide, sealed, well-signed, and mostly flat — ideal for all types and levels of cycling. It’s a shared path with walkers and casual cyclists.
Descending Willunga Hill
Willunga is a delightful town with plenty of food choices and interesting shops. It’s famous for the Willunga Hill climb. We slogged our way up the 4 km, 7% gradient climb which was well worth it for the thrilling decent and the great views. We’ve also ridden west from Willunga to Aldinga Beach (about 9 km). Much of this ride can be on a road side bike path and there are lovely views from the clifftop over looking the beach. The Shiraz Rail Trail begins at the old Willunga Railway station which, although signposted, can be tricky to find as it’s in a back street.
McLaren Vale township is the centre for over 80 wineries so there is plenty of choice if that is your fancy. The Flat to Vale Trail is a short (4km) shared path from McLaren Vale to McLaren Flat. It wanders along Pedler Creek, with tall eucalypts on one side and rambling vineyards on the other. The scenery will leave a lasting impression. Just before reaching the McLaren Flat township, the trail follows Chalk Hill Rd, a quiet back lane ideal for cycling to the local bakeries.
We also rode a quite worthwhile 8 km north from McLaren Vale climbing up on the bush lined former railway track on the Coast to Vines Rail Trail until it reached suburbia, before returning on the same route.