Cycling through the picturesque Clare Valley with your four-legged friend is a unique and rewarding experience that combines the best of outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and quality time with your pet.
The Riesling Trail, a 33-kilometer path following an old railway line, offers a safe and scenic route for both cyclists and their canine companions. With its gentle gradients and well-maintained surface, the trail is suitable for dogs of various sizes and fitness levels, making it an ideal activity for pet owners looking to explore the region’s natural beauty. (It is also suitable for an electric wheelchair, except perhaps for a short steeper section just south of the York Road crossing in Clare. https://rieslingtrail.com.au/)
To ensure a enjoyable ride for both you and your dog, consider using a specialised bike leash that attaches to your bicycle, allowing your pet to run safely alongside you. (And, do be aware of snakes during the spring and summer months.)
Alternatively, for smaller dogs or those who tire easily, bike baskets or trailers can provide a comfortable way for them to join the journey.
Remember to pack essentials like water, portable bowls, and waste bags, and plan regular stops at shaded areas for rest and hydration.
You can find out which of the trail’s entry points offer parking facilities, allowing you to tailor the length of your ride to suit your dog’s stamina and the day’s weather conditions.
This combination of cycling and dog-friendly adventure not only provides excellent exercise but also creates lasting memories of your Clare Valley getaway.
Below are five wineries (some with restaurants and/or beer brewing facilities) that are on or near the trail. You can check which welcome dogs indoors.
Skillogalee Winery – https://www.skillogalee.com.au/
Sevenhill Cellars – https://www.sevenhill.com.au/
Pikes Wines – https://www.pikeswines.com.au/
Knappstein Wines – Knappstein.com.au
| Start Point | The restored Auburn railway station building, Mount Horrocks Wines, Auburn, SA |
| End Point | The Old Barinia Railway Siding, Barinia Road, Stanley Flat, SA |
| Distance | 33.0km |
| Time | 7.5 Hours – Walking |
| Time | 4.5 Hours – Cycling |
You can also download a map of the Riesling Trail here: https://www.southaustraliantrails.com/trails/riesling-trail/