If you’re searching for a family-friendly winery in McLaren Vale with incredible views, space for kids to roam, and a memorable food and wine offering, Dandelion Vineyards’ Wonder Room is an absolute standout. Officially opened in late 2023, this stunning newish cellar door blends relaxed luxury with award-winning wines and genuine family-friendly hospitality, making it one of the region’s most impressive spots to visit with kids.
We made our way here on e-bikes from SA eBikes (highly recommend!, rolling straight into one of the best picnics we’ve ever experienced. Their picnics must be booked a couple of days in advance, but trust us, they are worth every second of planning. Think boho cushions scattered across the lawns, beautifully curated hampers packed with local produce, and panoramic views stretching over Firehawk Farm, the Willunga escarpment and out to the Gulf. Meanwhile, the kids were in their element, running across the huge lawns, playing lawn games and enjoying all the open space right in front of us.
Inside the Wonder Room (probably more geared to adult visits) you’ll find a gorgeous tasting space offering guided wine flights featuring Dandelion’s wines from McLaren Vale, Barossa and the Adelaide Hills.
Outdoors, families can spread out with plenty of room for prams, high-chairs available, baby-change facilities, and a relaxed vibe that makes bringing children feel completely ok. It’s one of those rare wineries where adults can unwind while the kids are genuinely happy too.
What truly elevates the experience is the warmth of the team and the thoughtfulness of the set-up. The picnic is perfect for families and groups, easy, delicious and downright beautiful. Pair that with picture-perfect views, approachable tastings and loads of kid-friendly space, and you’ve got a McLaren Vale winery we’ll be raving about for a long time. If you’re planning a family winery adventure, Dandelion Vineyards and The Wonder Room deserve a top spot on your list.
Dandelion Vinyards
Location: 91 Chaffeys Road, McLaren Vale SA 5171
Opening Times: Every Day 10am – 6pm
Phone: 0459 802 413
Find them on Facebook or Instagram
You might also be interested in
-
Find it at: West Park Way, McLaren Vale Located just off Main Road down at the stunning McLaren Vale, this stunning reserve is home to one of the most picturesque playgrounds down south, especially when the trees are in bloom. With a climbing sphere, swings, plenty of grass and did we mention the nearby tank (which is always a show stopper), this precinct makes for a great stop and leg stretch on your McLaren Vale day trip. The larger precinct also has BBQs, tennis courts and a BMX track! The larger area includes toilets and plenty of grassed areas to sit down with your fruchocs (its compulsory to visit the Fruchoc Shop at McVale) and soak in the serenity.
-
Looking for family-friendly accommodation in McLaren Vale? Less than an hour from Adelaide, Vale 194 is a gated complex of five luxury holiday homes that tick all the boxes - stylish, spacious, and perfect for families or groups. Tucked just behind McLaren Vale’s Main Street, these beautifully designed villas feel private and peaceful, but you're still right in the heart of it all. Cafés, wineries, playgrounds and walking trails are just a short stroll away. Each villa has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, so there’s plenty of space for a girls weekend away, a family stay or maybe even extend the invite to the grandparents to join (because babysitters are pretty handy when staying in a wine region, just saying). The design is modern but welcoming, with polished concrete downstairs and warm timber floors upstairs. Yep, stairs, so if you have toddlers this one probably isn't super geared up for the really little kids if we are honest. Our three kids, aged 6, 7 and 10 years spread out and made themselves right at home within five minutes of arriving. We have to mention the beds because, honestly they were some of the most comfortable we’ve ever slept in. The…
-
Looking for the perfect Barossa Valley blend of wine tasting and family fun? Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush vineyards, Whistler Wines is a hidden gem that provides both of those to family friendly perfection. Picnic spots don't get much better than this and it's all available for you to order onsite. Build your own perfect platter, tailored precisely to your families taste buds. Take a look at the platter menu and choose from a range of artisan cheeses, cured meats, pâtés and condiments. We loved the obvious focus on supporting local South Australian brands and enjoyed our platter immensely. For the kids, the specially crafted kids snack pack is a total winner. For just 10 bucks they'll get a Le Snack, Sultanas, fruit bar, lollypop and a juice. It’s almost like a mini showbag, although I must admit, it didn’t stop our kids from stealing our food once they where done. Please note: BYO picnics / food NOT permitted and while on the topic of things not to bring, on this occasion please leave your doggo's at home due to the orphan kangaroo and other abundant wildlife. Our favourite part of Whistler Wines is without a doubt, the stunning location.…
0 Comments