Getting Here and Around

The most direct route from Adelaide to the Barossa is via the town of Gawler. From Adelaide, drive north on King William Street. About 1 km (½ mile) past the Torrens River Bridge, take the right fork onto Main North Road. After 6 km (4 miles) this road forks to the right—follow signs to the Sturt Highway and the town of Gawler. At Gawler leave the highway and follow the signs to Lyndoch on the Barossa's southern border. The 50-km (31-mile) journey should take just more than an hour. A more attractive, if circuitous, route to Lyndoch takes you through the Adelaide Hills' Chain of Ponds and Williamstown.

Because the Barossa wineries are relatively far apart, a car is by far the best way to get around. But keep in mind that there are stiff penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol—the legal blood-alcohol limit is 0.05g/100ml. Police in patrol cars can pull you over for a random breath test anywhere in the state, and roadside mobile breath-testing stations—locally known as "Booze Buses"—are particularly visible during special events, such as the biennial Barossa Vintage Festival, held during mid-April in odd-numbered years. The best advice is to take a tour.