Situated 136kms from Adelaide, the historic town of Clare lies amidst the wooded hills of the northern Mt. Lofty Ranges at the end of a plateau valley.
Prior to the white settlement there were a number of aboriginal tribes in the region including the Kaurna, the Burkanendi and Ngadjuri. In 1839 Edward John Eyre travelled through the central valleys of the region. His favourable reports led to the subsequent settlement of that area by pastoralists. One such was and Irishman by the name of Edward Gleeson who settled in 1840 at a spot he named Inchiquin. One year later the Hawker Brothers selected their site for Bungaree Station - today one of Australia's foremost Merino Studs.
Today, just one and a half hours drive north of Adelaide, the rural beginnings of this enriched area now blend successfully with one of Austalia's premium wine growing districts
Easter is a popular time in the valley with horse racing on both Easter Saturday and Easter Monday. A Spanish Festival is usually held on the ANZAC weekend.
There are a number of barbecue and picnic areas around the town for family enjoyment. Visit Maynard Park or the Lions Park in the centre of Clare. Try the family outdoor gym at Inchiquin Lake, or feed the resident black swans and use the excellent play equipment at Christison Park on the edge of town. Billy Goat Hill, Neagles Rock, and Quarry Hill Lookouts provide another perspective on the area.
Restaurants, wineries and a first class golf course are within a few kilometres. Clare is a good service centre with a wide range of shopping facilities. The Clare Valley is noted for its fine wines, and boasts many excellent, boutique wineries, fine restaurants and informal eateries. Scenic drives amongst gum trees and rolling hills connect many of these. There’s an unspoilt rural charm about the region.
For the cyclist or walking trail enthusiast, The Riesling trail follows the old railway line between Clare and Auburn (22Kms) and is becoming increasingly popular. The trail passes close to wineries, restaurants and scenic spots. It is sign posted and the full trail does not have to be negotiated. For the adventurous you can continue on the rail trail from Auburn to Riverton. A distance of another 19kms.