Watervale: Wine, Trails and History

Watervale brings together wine culture, historic buildings and trails through the Clare Valley. Two distinct routes shape the lay of the land: the Riesling Trail, which passes through the town, and the short walking trail to the Mount Horrocks lookout. There is also a historic homestead that forms part of a tasting room, and regional cuisine at the Watervale Hotel.

Walking, Cycling and Views

The short walking trail from Watervale to the Mount Horrocks lookout passes through the historic town centre, vineyards and cellar doors, and across the rolling Clare Valley countryside. At the end, the lookout offers a 360-degree view.

Part of the short trail crosses private land and is closed during bushfire season; the section along council roads is accessible year-round. As conditions can change with the bushfire situation, check the latest access information before your walk.

The Riesling Trail is suitable for recreational walkers, mountain bikers and touring cyclists, as well as wheelchairs and prams. There is parking for the trail in Watervale. If you are travelling with a pram, this suitability is a specific point to consider; for the trail to the lookout, check the access information for the section on private land.

The difference is relevant to your choice: the short trail focuses on the lookout as its destination, while the Riesling Trail is suitable for a range of ways of getting around.

Wine and Historic Buildings

Crabtree Watervale Wines is in the heart of Watervale, just a few steps from the Riesling Trail. The tasting room includes the original 1850s homestead. Crabtree invites you to sample its selection of premium, handcrafted wines made from estate-grown grapes.

The former Stanley Grammar School is a historic 19th-century building in Watervale and offers private bed and breakfast accommodation. The town’s history is therefore part of two different settings: an original homestead in a tasting room, and a former school with private accommodation.

Regional Cuisine and Farm Tour

The Penobscot Restaurant at the Watervale Hotel is a farm-to-plate restaurant. It sources produce from several local farms, including its own organic and biodynamic Penobscot Farm. The restaurant thus connects its cuisine with several regional producers and its own farm. Farm-to-plate describes the connection between agricultural production and the kitchen.

The Watervale Hotel offers the Penobscot Farm Tour and tasting meals at the Chef's Table. The farm tour starts at 4 pm and can be combined with lunch or dinner. If you want to plan your tour in advance, check the available dates.

When looking for a holiday rental in Watervale, you can decide whether this mix of trails, wine, history and regional cuisine suits your stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Mintaro, Penwortham, Clare, Auburn

Return to the main travel overview: Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council.