Your dog-friendly guide to exploring the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast

Words by GLAM Adelaide

If you’re anything like the Glam Adelaide team, you’re completely dog obsessed. We love being able to take our pups with us for brunch, lunch or a vino,  so here’s our summer guide to exploring the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast with your pup in tow. 

Wineries

These cellar doors located within McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast not only have talented winemakers who produce great wine, but will happily welcome your pup. A few of our suggestions to try include: 

Alpha Box & Dice, (known as the alphabet of wine) offers handmade dog biscuits for your pup to enjoy

SC Pannell  are both also more than happy to welcome your pets

Lazy Ballerina is another excellent, pet-friendly spot in McLaren Vale and a hidden gem

DogRidge, is a family-owned venture serving a range of boutique wines from McLaren Vale vineyards

Gemtree is another gorgeous McLaren Vale spot, serving biodynamic wines

Mollydooker, a self-named, “out of left field” winery, sits in the heart of McLaren Vale. Visit for a glass of wine and a platter filled with local and international produce

Samuel’s Gorge is housed in an old farm shed and overlooks the glorious Onkaparinga River National Park.   

Hugh Hamilton’s cellar door boasts beautiful views and interactive experiences, ideal for something a little different.

The Angove Family cellar door sits in the heart of Warboys Vineyard and offers a number of tasting options

Vigna Bottin is a slice of Italy in South Australia, serving both wines and divine Italian cuisine

Cafes

Is there anything better than sitting down to a cappuccino and piece of cake or even a glass of wine and delicious meal with your pet by your side? We don’t think so, but we might be biased! Some of the cafés ready to welcome your pets in the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast region include:

The Farm Willunga, the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine and watch the glorious sunsets all with your furry friend by your side.

Oxenberry Farm  are known for their original Oxenburger, that your pup might just try to get a taste of too (and conveniently located on the Shiraz Trail too) 

The Golden Fleece Café in Willunga, complete with a retro vibe and amazing coffee  

Stump Hill Café located at McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre.   

Harry’s Deli located at the breathtaking Wirra Wirra (the winery was recently renovated and looks gorgeous)

Ripple and Swirl sits at Christies Beach and is the perfect place for an easy bite with a good view.

Agatha’s Café in Port Noarlunga  has been operating for over twenty years and offers dishes made with local produce, as well as SA wines.

Maxwell’s Grocery in Aldinga is ideal for those keen on wholesome, healthy food. Think cold-pressed juice, raw slice, and salads.

It's handy to know that some offer outdoor areas so that you can keep your fur baby close, while others provide a safe-haven near the door with a doggie water bowl. If you're not sure if where you would like to eat is pet friendly, just give them a quick call to check.

Accommodation

You’re keen on exploring the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast region, but there’s simply too much to do to make it a day trip. It’s certainly not a unique problem and there are plenty of pet-friendly accommodation options if you’re keen to make a weekend of it. Here’s a few of our top picks, noting it is always best to call to discuss the finer details, as some restrictions do apply, but as far as pet-friendly places to stay go, check out:  

Aldinga Beach Holiday Park

BIG4 Port Willunga Tourist Park

Christies Beach Tourist Park

McLaren Vale Lakeside Caravan Park 

Moana Beach Tourist Park

Red Poles in McLaren Vale

Beaches

Winter in South Australia is still great for walking the dog and there are some great ones to choose from. Beaches in McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast provide off-leash areas for pets at Christies Beach, Port Noarlunga South, Seaford, Maslin Beach, Aldinga Beach and Sellicks Beach. Owners are reminded that your dog must be on a leash when arriving and leaving foreshore areas and they must be under effective control.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your furry friend and start planning your next adventure to the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast.