Coast to Vines Rail Trail
A scenic 75km paved trail connecting coastal views to the renowned McLaren Vale wine region, perfect for cycling and walking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flora
Coast to Vines Rail Trail
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flora
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 75km paved trail connecting coastal views to the renowned McLaren Vale wine region, perfect for cycling and walking.
"Absolutely beautiful scenery on this ~75km round trip ride, with nice places to stop in Willunga or McLaren Vale."
🚲 Bring your bike!
Rentals are available, but bringing your own bike ensures comfort on the ~75km round trip.
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as stops can be spaced out.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Views to Vineyards
Seaford to McLaren Vale
Experience a stunning transition from coastal vistas to rolling vineyards, offering diverse scenery.
Willunga & McLaren Vale Stops
Willunga & McLaren Vale
Explore charming towns with wineries, cafes, and shops. Perfect for a mid-trail break and local flavors.
Smooth Paved Path
Entire Trail
Enjoy a comfortable ride or walk on the well-maintained, smooth surface suitable for all ages and abilities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Journey: Distance & Stops
Trail Conditions & Best Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bring your bike!
Rentals are available, but bringing your own bike ensures comfort on the ~75km round trip.
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as stops can be spaced out.
🍷 Wine tasting breaks
Plan stops in McLaren Vale for wine tasting and local produce.
🅿️ Parking options
Ample parking is available at the old Willunga railway station and nearby parks.
Best paved bike trails in Adelaide for the may 50k?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bring your bike!
Rentals are available, but bringing your own bike ensures comfort on the ~75km round trip.
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as stops can be spaced out.
🍷 Wine tasting breaks
Plan stops in McLaren Vale for wine tasting and local produce.
🅿️ Parking options
Ample parking is available at the old Willunga railway station and nearby parks.
👟 Comfortable footwear
Essential for walking or cycling the trail, even with its smooth surface.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Coast to Vines Rail Trail's beautiful scenery, transitioning from ocean views to vineyards. The well-maintained, paved path is praised for its smoothness, making it ideal for walking, running, and cycling. Many appreciate the convenient stops in charming towns like Willunga and McLaren Vale for food and wine.
"Great trail if you aim to, walk, run or cycle up to 75km. Fantastic change of scenery from suburbs to landscape to ocean."
Edgar Huk
"Absolutely beautiful scenery on this ~75km round trip ride, with nice places to stop in Willunga or McLaren Vale. The ride in and out of seaford is pretty taxing, but overall makes for a wonderful ride."
Rohan M
"What a beautiful way to see the Southern Vales. A well maintained trail to walk and ride along. There is plenty of parking at the old Willunga railway station or a couple of nearby parks. There are shady areas along the trail, some with bench seats to rest and take in the wonderful views. Easy access from the trail to wineries, cafes, and some shops when you approach the Shiraz trail in McLaren Vale. Friendly locals are always willing to say g'day along the way."
Kerry Dillon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessible from various points. Popular starting locations include Marino Rocks, Hallett Cove, and the old Willunga railway station. Driving is common, with parking available at these access points.
Yes, you can access parts of the trail via public transport. The train line runs near sections of the trail, particularly around Seaford and Marino Rocks, allowing for a partial journey or access to trailheads.
You can begin your journey from Adelaide by taking the train south towards Marino Rocks or Hallett Cove, which are entry points to the trail. This allows you to cycle or walk a significant portion without a car.
The McLaren Vale section is easily accessible from the town center, with parking available near the Shiraz Trail, which connects to the Coast to Vines Rail Trail.
No, the Coast to Vines Rail Trail is a public access trail and does not have any entry fees. You can enjoy the scenery and activities freely.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to access or use the Coast to Vines Rail Trail. It's a public pathway for everyone to enjoy.
The trail is open 24/7, allowing you to visit at any time. However, it's recommended to use it during daylight hours for safety and the best experience.
There is no admission fee for the Coast to Vines Rail Trail. It's a free public amenity for recreational use.
While there aren't rental stations directly on the trail, several bike hire services are available in nearby towns like McLaren Vale and Seaford. It's advisable to book in advance.
The trail is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and runners. Please be mindful of other users and adhere to any local signage.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The full trail is approximately 75km for a round trip, offering a substantial distance for cycling or walking adventures.
You'll experience a diverse landscape, starting with coastal views near Seaford and transitioning into the picturesque vineyards of McLaren Vale.
Yes, the trail is equipped with shady areas and bench seats, particularly around the towns and scenic spots, perfect for taking a break.
Absolutely! The paved, relatively flat surface makes it ideal for families with children, strollers, and bikes.
You'll find access to cafes, wineries, and shops in towns like Willunga and McLaren Vale. Public toilets are also available at key access points.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The trail passes through McLaren Vale and Willunga, offering numerous cafes, restaurants, and wineries for dining and refreshments.
Yes, the trail is renowned for its proximity to the McLaren Vale wine region, with many cellar doors easily accessible from the path.
While there are stretches with fewer services, you'll find plenty of options in the towns of Willunga and McLaren Vale. It's wise to carry some snacks and water.
Willunga offers charming cafes and pubs, perfect for a lunch stop or a coffee break during your trail adventure.
Yes, there are several scenic spots with benches that are ideal for picnics. Look for designated rest areas along the route.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning coastal sunrises/sunsets, the rolling vineyards of McLaren Vale, and charming townscapes. The changing scenery offers diverse photographic subjects.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer beautiful light for capturing the landscapes and vineyards.
Look out for the old railway bridges, vineyard rows, and the ocean views near Seaford. The towns themselves also offer picturesque backdrops.
A versatile camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for vineyard details.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near private properties and towns. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting at a point closer to town, like Hallett Cove, for a shorter, more manageable outing. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be aware that while there are shaded rest stops, some sections can be exposed. The trail offers a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Plan your route to include tastings at your favorite wineries or discover new ones. The towns of Willunga and McLaren Vale also offer excellent dining options to complement your wine experience. Remember to arrange safe transport for any wine purchases and consider a designated driver or shuttle service if you plan on extensive tasting.
🚴♀️ Active Adventurers
Explore the full length of the trail for a rewarding day out, or tackle specific sections for a shorter workout. The varied terrain, including coastal stretches and vineyard paths, adds an exciting element to your activity. Don't forget to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a repair kit for your bike.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Coast to Vines Rail Trail
When planning your cycling trip, consider the terrain. While largely flat, the sections in and out of Seaford can be a bit more taxing, but the overall experience is rewarding. Popular stops include the charming towns of Willunga and McLaren Vale, where you can refuel at cafes, sample local wines at cellar doors, or simply rest and enjoy the atmosphere. Remember to bring your own bike or arrange for rentals in advance, as on-trail rental facilities are limited.
Walking and Running the Trail
The trail's diverse scenery, from coastal paths to vineyard landscapes, keeps the experience engaging. You'll find plenty of shady spots with benches along the way, perfect for resting and taking in the views. The accessibility to towns like Willunga and McLaren Vale means you can easily incorporate a coffee break or a meal into your walk or run. It's a popular choice for those looking to explore the Fleurieu Peninsula at their own pace.
Exploring McLaren Vale's Wine Region
Many visitors plan their trail journey to include stops at renowned wineries for tastings and to purchase local produce. The towns of McLaren Vale and Willunga offer a charming backdrop with cafes, restaurants, and shops, providing ample opportunities for refreshment and exploration. The combination of outdoor activity and wine appreciation makes this a popular day trip for many.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit