It takes a little longer to get there from Adelaide, but it's worth the extra effort it takes to visit the Clare Valley. Its famous neighbour, the Barossa Valley is only a hop, skip and jump away from Adelaide. Because of this, as wonderful as it is to visit, it sometimes lacks the rural charm of the Clare Valley. The Clare Valley has everything you want in a wine growing region - and less.
The Clare Valley was named after the town of Clare, in the heart of the valley. Founded in 1842 by Edward Burton Gleeson and named after County Clare in his native Ireland, Clare quickly became a major regional centre. In 1919, a railway line was established between Clare and Riverton, some 27 miles (43km) south of the town. A year later, this was extended about the same distance north to Spalding. A rich and fertile valley, the Clare Valley produced much more than just grapes and the train line was needed for transporting a number of crops and livestock.
In 1983, the devastating Ash Wednesday fires swept through the Clare Valley, rendering the train track unusable. By then, road transport was more frequently used, so instead of rebuilding the train line, the locals turned a 21 mile (34km) stretch of it into the Riesling Trail. This walking and cycling track has become a major tourist attraction in the area. It runs between Auburn, south of Clare and Barinia to the north and has been cleverly designed so travellers can choose to ride or walk just a portion of the trail and then loop back via a different trail.
Cycling the Riesling Trail is the perfect way to explore the Clare Valley. The cycle track is suitable for anyone who is reasonably fit. In fact, taking a slow and leisurely ride is the best way to get the most out of it. Stop in at one of the wineries along the way and enjoy a delicious meal and, of course, a glass of Clare Valley Riesling.
The architecture in the Clare Valley is not as magnificent as what you will see in Adelaide, but in many ways, it is even more captivating. When you pass by a small stone cottage built in the middle of the 19th century and surrounded by grape vines that may be just as old, you feel transported back in time.
When you're in Clare, make it a point to visit the Old Police Station museum. It's just on the outskirts of town, in a lovely setting with gum trees swaying in the background. Inside, you'll find a fascinating collection of period clothing, photographs and other historical artefacts that will make the region's colourful history come alive for you.
The Clare Valley is renowned for its cosy, boutique Clare Valley accommodations, ranging from old restored hotels in the centre of town to lovely Bed and Breakfast accommodations throughout the area. When you stay in the Clare Valley, you will be made to feel welcome and at home in a way only rural South Australia can offer. Go on, give it a go: You'll love the Clare Valley.
Planning your next holiday, find <a target="_new" href="http://www.bookitnow.com.au/accommodation/sa/clare-valley/1/">Clare Valley accommodation</a> and other travel related information about the area on <a target="_new" href="http://www.bookitnow.com.au/">bookitnow.com.au</a>. Or visit our <a target="_new" href="http://ozblog.net.au/">Australia blog</a> for more Australian holiday ideas.
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