Our stay at The Grape Escape was everything a family holiday in McLaren Vale should be, relaxed, picturesque, and perfectly designed for families. Managed by the ever-impressive Sanbis Retreats, this home is made for one or two families looking to spend a few days or a week exploring both McLaren Vale and the wider Fleurieu Peninsula. It’s positioned smack bang on the Shiraz Trail, meaning there’s no traffic, just a peaceful bike path and rows of vines, bordered by tall gum trees, directly outside the kitchen window.
Out front, we spent countless hours on the huge deck, lounging under umbrellas with a morning coffee or winding down at happy hour surrounded by nature and vineyard views. Out back, the gated yard felt spacious and secure to let the kids be kids, with what might just be the world’s best pizza oven (a huge Gozney), an outdoor lounge, smart TV, and a generous dining table perfect for all things outdoor entertaining in any weather. What’s more, there is a fire pit in the backyard, complete with wood and fire lighters. To top it off the kids were in heaven with their own mini picnic table and cubby house and one last magical touch, festoon lights! How good is outdoor living with kids? This place nails it.
From the outside, the house looks simple enough, but step through the front door and it’s anything but: stylish, luxurious, and beautifully furnished. The kitchen is perfectly equipped (complete with dream pantry), for feeding every one. Pair a BBQ dinner or home made pizzas with a local rose in summer, or wash down a roast or steaks with a big McLaren Vale red by the indoor combustion style fireplace in winter. Don’t want to cook? You’re walking distance to fabulous choices!
Four great sized bedrooms are on offer, with delightful mattresses and luxury linen. The master has its own ensuite, and the main bathroom is so spacious that the whole family can brush their teeth together, seriously. One bedroom even has the cutest little bunk beds for the kids, while the others feature queen beds.
With a games cupboard for rainy days or fun (read super competitive) nights in, you won’t hear ‘I’m bored’. Add to that the Shiraz Trail literally at your doorstep, and you’re connected to endless adventures, from walks to nearby shops and cafés to exploring the rolling hills, cellar doors, and family-friendly wineries McLaren Vale is famous for. Next up, when you’re ready for the coast, you’re only minutes from some of the Fleurieu’s most stunning beaches, like Port Willunga. Honestly, can we just move in?
How nice is it, going to stay in a clean, tidy big house that perfectly styled. Leaving all of the chaos at home, we felt so rested and recharged after this stay. HIghly reccommend a few nights here. Bring the kids or make it a girls weekend!
The Grape Escape
Location: McLaren Vale, South Australia (in the town, on the Shiraz Trail)
Bookings via Sanbis Retreats
Find it on Facebook or Instagram
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