The Shiraz Trail

I thought I would finish off the Coast to Vines Rail Trail, so on this sunny afternoon I set out from Pedlar Creek riding to McLaren Vale, and then onwards along the Shiraz Trail to Willunga.

McLaren Vale to Willunga

Will return to the Mawson Trail one day soon.

Tim, Kate and myself rode part of the Coast to Vines Rail Trail from Hallett Cove to McLaren Vale back on March 12 this year, but we were too exhausted to continue onwards the end of the trail at Willunga. Today, I started from Pedlar Creek, just east of Seaford. I had cycled this bit before, but from this point on the trail south it is definately country and not suburbs, so it was worth doing this short bit again.

Lots of vineyards with views to the hills beyond. Like my photographic expedition down to Second Valley yesterday, lots of hills coloured purple by Salvation Jane (also called Patterson's Curse). I was glad this time to be able to get a good photo.



I found a dismantled old railway crane at the end of the trail, at the former Willunga Railway Station. Pity it has been cast aside, too important to dump but too unimportant to be erected elsewhere. Perhaps later it will be.



Had lunch at a bakery in Willunga, yummo. From McLaren Vale to Willunga is pretty much a steady slight incline, so returning back to McLaren Vale was easy.



View photos as full screen slideshow



Stats:

• Distance: 13km (27km return)
  
• Moving duration: 54m (40m on return trip)
  
• Moving average: 14.7km/h (19km/h on return trip)
  
• Max speed: 35.9km/h (36.9km/h on return trip)
  

Some stuff about the trails:

Coast to Vines Rail Trail - Pathway to Discovery The Coast to Vines Rail Trail offers a spectacular journey through Adelaide's south. Winding along the historic, former railway corridor between Marino Rocks and Willunga, the Trail is rich in beauty and history. From the magnificent cliffs of Hallett Cove to the natural beauty of the Onkaparinga River Recreation Park, the Trail offers scenic coast to hinterland views. Visit the heritage towns of Old Reynella and Old Noarlunga along the way and take in spectacular vineyard vistas as you travel through the renowned McLaren Vale wine district. The Coast to Vines Rail Trail: A journey through time and place.

The Shiraz Trail The Shiraz Trail links the historic towns of McLaren Vale and Willunga, situated at the base of the stunning Willunga Hills in the McLaren Vale wine region. The last (or first!) section of the Coast to Vines Rail Trail, the Shiraz Trail offers a gateway to the many riches the region has to offer, from quality wines and local fare to fascinating heritage.

View maps that appear at the trail head.