Where to stay in the Clare Valley for easy access to the Riesling Trail, Rattler Trail, Spring Gully Conservation Park, and the world-famous Clare Valley Riesling wine region.
| Region | Clare Valley |
| Best base towns | Clare, Auburn, Sevenhill, Mintaro |
| Budget options | From ~$35/night (caravan park) |
| Mid-range | From ~$130/night (hotel/motel) |
| Luxury | From ~$300/night (vineyard cottage) |
Budget: Caravan Parks
The Clare Valley has several well-maintained caravan parks that provide excellent value for trail users.
- Clare Valley Caravan Park – A friendly caravan park in Clare township, conveniently located close to the start of the Riesling Trail. Powered sites, self-contained cabins, and a community atmosphere. From ~$35/night (powered site), from ~$95/night (cabin).
Mid-Range: Hotels & Country Clubs
- Clare Country Club – A popular and well-regarded accommodation option set in beautiful grounds with a lake. Motel-style rooms, tennis courts, and a restaurant. Excellent value and very popular with Riesling Trail visitors. From ~$130/night.
- Clare Valley Visitor Information – South Australia Tourism’s guide to the Clare Valley, including comprehensive accommodation listings, cellar door information, and trail guides. A great starting point for planning a visit.
Luxury: Vineyard Cottages & Wine Estates
- Skillogalee Cottages – Charming self-contained cottages set in the vineyard at Skillogalee Wines, one of the Clare Valley’s most loved wineries. Beautiful views, excellent restaurant on-site, and total seclusion. From ~$300/night.
- Clare Valley – Places to Stay – Stay at one of the Clare Valley’s most historic wineries, established by Jesuit priests in 1851. Unique cellar-style accommodation in a heritage building surrounded by vines. From ~$250/night.
Planning Tips
Riesling Trail: The 33km trail from Auburn to Clare is mostly flat and sealed – ideal for cyclists and walkers of all fitness levels. Most visitors stay in Clare and ride or walk sections as day trips.
Wine region: The Clare Valley is one of Australia’s best Riesling wine regions. Many cellar doors offer cellar door accommodation. Book ahead for weekends as wineries are popular.
Best time: Harvest season (February-April) and late spring (October-November) are particularly beautiful. Clare Valley Gourmet Weekend in May is a highlight.
Bike hire: Cycle Clare operates bike hire in Clare township – very convenient for Riesling Trail visitors.
Guided tours: Several operators offer guided cycling and walking tours along the Riesling Trail and through Clare Valley wineries. See our Clare Valley tours guide for details.