Indulge in local varietals and postcard-worthy scenery on this tour of South Austrialia's McLaren Vale wine region. Hop between 3 vineyards for tastings, then head to Glenelg for a leisurely stroll along the shore—the perfect ending to an exceptional afternoon.

Leave the city behind and head to McLaren Vale, just 24 miles (40 km) south of Adelaide. Learn about the unique characteristics of the region—it's often called “the middle palate of Australia” for the winemakers' skill in drawing out the full richness of a wine's character, and for flavors that linger long after the first sip.

Your first tasting is at Rosemount, a winery known for fruit-driven wines available exclusively at cellar doors (that's local lingo for tasting rooms). Next, visit the Lloyd Brothers Wine & Olive Company, set among fragrant olive groves and boasting magnificent views. Sample some of the region's finest Shiraz as well as peppery olive oil produced right on the estate.

On McLaren Vale's main street, head to Hardy's for some more sips and samples. Visit the Menz FruChocs shop to try the iconic Australian confection, and head down the tracks to meet the Almond Train—this 1920s train car offers up tastes of local produce and gourmet goods, including almonds, sauces, and jams.

On the trip back, stop to stroll along the beautiful beach at Glenelg, a seaside resort on the sandy shores of Holfast Bay. You can choose to return to Adelaide with the tour or stay in Glenelg and return on your own by tram.