Let’s go for a good walk

Easy: Spring Gully Cascades and Ridgetop

Who it suits: Everyone, including small children, and wheelchair users on the Ridgetop walk.
Time: About 2 hours for both walks, including a pause to take it all in.

Spring Gully Conservation Park sits about 8 km south of Clare. Turn off at Bayes Road, beside the Sevenhill Hotel.

The Cascades Walk is 1.3 km return and takes about 40 minutes. The waterfalls can be really beautiful if there is enough water or after rain. The rest of the time it is a stunning rocky surface that is facing west. In clear weather you can see Port Wakefield from the parking area. There also are some picnic tables near the carpark, so if you pack some snacks – it is a lovely stop opportunity with breathtaking views.

The Ridgetop Walk is 1.2 km one way, also about 40 minutes, with views east and west – suitable for all abilities. There is a healthy kangaroo population in the area, so this route is perfect for wildlife spotting.

The park protects the westernmost population of red stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha), and it’s the only reserve in South Australia that contains this species.
When you drive there, consider calling into Eldredge wines for a quick tasting experience, or Sawmill Gin for distillery and lunch indulgence. You can take the Spring Gully road that turns into Sawmill Road, use it like a loop and make it to both destinations.

Moderate: Clare to Penwortham and Back

Who it suits: Walkers used to several hours on foot.
Time: About 5 to 6 hours with breaks.

The gentle climb toward Penwortham is the trail’s highest point. Stop for lunch at Sevenhill Cellars or the Sevenhill Hotel on the way, you can also take a small detour to Uppside Restaurant in Penwortham. An alternative return route is to get to Huges Park Rd and head south. The walking will be along the road, but it is one of the most beautiful roads in the region with spectacular gumtrees lining the road and terraced vineyards to the west.

Moderate: Wymans Hike

Who it suits: Average fitness, with some inclines and loose surfaces.
Time: About 1 hour return.

This 2.6 km loop extends the Cascades Walk and returns along the northern boundary. It is also an excellent (at times technically challenging) trail for running. Beautiful experience especially in the wet season.

Challenging: Clare Valley Wine and Wilderness Trail, Stage 1

Who it suits: Walkers comfortable with a full day on foot.
Time: One long day, roughly 6 to 8 hours.

The Wine and Wilderness Trail covers about 100 km in six stages, from 13.5 to 23 km each. It’s a moderate grade, using backroads, road reserves and private property, with cellar doors, restaurants and cafés along the way.
Maps are available at cvwwt.com.au, or from the Clare Valley Wine, Food and Tourism Centre at 8 Spring Gully Road, Clare (08 8842 2131).

Quick reference