Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

173 places

Explore local places

Guests sit in Coonawarra Park with their dogs on the Coonawarra Walking Trail — Image credit: Coonawarra Vignerons

Natural Attractions

Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail

The Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail offers a relaxed and immersive way to experience the Coonawarra wine region on foot. This easy five kilometre trail links six well known wineries through vineyards and open rural landscapes, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The trail is designed for leisurely walking and wine tasting, combining gentle exercise with the enjoyment of premium regional wines. Participating wineries offer consolidated freight options, allowing visitors to have wine purchases sent from the region without carrying bottles along the trail. The trail connects the following wineries: Brand's Laira DiGiorgio Family Wines Ottelia Redman Wines Wynns Coonawarra Estate Zema Estate The Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail links directly to the Penola township via the Coonawarra Rail Trail. This connection allows visitors to extend their walk into town for dining, accommodation and local attractions. Dogs are welcome on the trail and must be kept on a lead at all times. The Coonawarra Wineries Walking Trail provides a unique way to experience wine, landscape and slow travel in one of South Australia's most respected wine regions.

Coonawarra SA

1.6 km away

The Coonawarra Park

Natural Attractions

The Coonawarra Park

The Coonawarra centenary sculpture in the town’s park commemorates the beginning of the fruit colony. One section of the park is known as the sculpture park because in 1991 a sculpture made from red gum and limestone called the Terra Rossa tree wall, and was unveiled along with three bronze busts. The first bust is of John Riddoch the founder of Coonawarra. The second bust is of David Wynn the revitaliser of Coonawarra and the third is of Bill Redman the sustainer of Coonawarra. On the wall of the public toilets a map of the wineries has been placed along with the history of Coonawarra and a map of the original fruit blocks. Coonawarra Park has picnic and barbecue facilities, as well as playground equipment.

Coonawarra SA

1.6 km away

Coonawarra Siding — Image credit: Coonawarra Vignerons

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Coonawarra Railway Siding

Arguably one of the most recognisable landmarks in the wine world, the Coonawarra Railway Siding is has become one of the most photographed sites in South Australia! Located on the outskirts of the Coonawarra township, no trip to Coonawarra is complete without a happy snap at the iconic landmark. The railway platform, or Siding as it is known, played a significant role during Coonawarra's early settlement. The railway track was built by John Riddoch in 1898, allowing Coonawarra's premium fruits and wines to be transported around the nation and across the seas to Europe and beyond. While the rattle of train carriages is no longer heard along the rusty tracks, the rail line has since been converted to a bike trail (opened in November 2022), suitable for walkers, cyclists, scooter riders, runners and joggers alike to hit the 19km long sealed pavement along the winery route to take in the stunning viticultural scenery along the way. Stop in and visit this historical landmark that was the catalyst for the Coonawarra region to flourish as a great farming and wine district.

Coonawarra SA

1.9 km away

St Mary's Garden

Parks and Gardens

St Mary's Garden

One of Penola's most visited gardens, St Mary's Garden is meticulously crafted and maintained by Glenys Mulligan that includes dry stone walls, paths, artworks and a kaleidoscope of color produced by hundreds of roses, flowers, shrubs and trees. Nestled among the vines is St Mary’s Homestead and Cellar Door, surrounded by four acres of garden that has evolved and developed over 70 years. St Mary’s Garden has regularly participated in the Australian Open Garden Scheme and is open for viewing from 10 am to 4 pm daily, except Good Friday and Christmas Day. The garden is also available for wedding ceremonies, garden clubs, and bus tours.

Penola SA

4.9 km away

Parker Estate — Image credit: Parker Estate

Agritourism

Parker Estate Cellar Door

Parker Estate was founded on one man's vision to defy expectations. Their story is a story of Australian ambition and craftmanship. John Parker believed that with the right patch of dirt, the right climate and the right clones, he could craft Cabernet which rivalled Bordeaux. And he did. In 1985 he planted twenty hectares of vine on the 27-kilometre cigar-shaped strip of terra rossa soil that is famous for crafting some of Australia's most famous Cabernet. His inaugural release, the 1988 First Growth, caught the world's attention. The wine won the Penfold Hyland Trophy in Perth and was judged the sixth highest-rated Bordeaux-style in the 1991 International Wine Challenge in London. With just one wine, John Parker put Parker Estate and his Abbey Vineyard on the map. Today, the Parker Estate winery still stands tall and proud on the famous terra rossa soil they are so proud to celebrate with the wines they craft. It's a symbol of their ongoing commitment to John Parker's vision. Parker Estate continues to achieve recognition through medals, trophies and accolades. In 2010, First Growth entered the Langton's Classification of Australian Wine as 'Excellent'. Parker Estate remains focused on its endeavour to craft the best Cabernet for the world to enjoy.

Penola SA

6.2 km away

Walk with History - Self-guided heritage walk

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Walk with History - Self-guided heritage walk

Penola is the oldest inland town in the Limestone Coast of South Australia. Pick up a brochure for the 'Walk with History' from the Visitor Information Centre where visitors can start their tour with a visit to the Local History Collection in the John Riddoch Centre. Enjoy a self-guided heritage walk, marked by posts with heritage badges and signage. The walk takes you past historic places of interest in the township and explains their origin. Explore the whole walk or just a section but don't miss the lovely Petticoat Lane where you can step back in time with cottages open for exploration along with a public herb garden and a terrific display of heritage roses. Visitors are also invited to explore Penola's art galleries, specialty shops and restaurants.

Penola SA

8.0 km away

Upside Down — Image credit: John Davies

Parks and Gardens

Penola Skatepark

The Penola Skatepark is a popular and well-designed site where people gather to have fun and practise their skating and bike skills. Popular with visitors to the town and the locals alike. The Penola Skatepark offers a range of different facilities that will keep the keen skateboarder or bike rider amused for hours. There is a basketball ring and key. So bring along your kids - and don't forget the helmets. Come and be entertained!

Penola SA

8.0 km away

Walk with History at Penola

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Walk with History at Penola

Enjoy a self-guided walk or drive, to explore the beautiful town and the history of Penola. Penola is widely recognised as an historic town and many of its buildings are listed on the South Australian State Heritage Register and identified by the National Trust. This walk includes attractions in Petticoat Lane, with original cottages dating back to the 1850s, an herb garden, lavender farm, churches, galleries and much more. The Walk with History brochure, and more information about the walk is available from the Penola Coonawarra Visitor Information Centre, 27 Arthur Street, Penola. Penola Walk With History now has a talking app which you can download from Google Play by searching "SA Heritage"

Penola SA

8.0 km away

The John Riddoch Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The John Riddoch Centre

The John Riddoch Centre incorporates the Penola/Coonawarra Visitor Information Centre with a wide range of brochures, maps, souvenirs and Internet access. The local history display invites visitors to follow the journey of those who lived and worked in Penola and its districts and have contributed to its diversity, spirit, triumphs, and tragedies. The local history room has an extensive collection of resources focusing on the local area. Also within the centre is the Wattle Range Council offices assisting with all council enquires, payments and permits. There is a gold coin donation for entry into the history display.

Penola SA

8.0 km away

Adam

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Poets Corner

Located on the corner of Arthur Street and Church Street Penola, the Adam Lindsay Gordon bust is a bronze replica of the marble bust of Gordon in Poets Corner, Westminster Abbey, London. The bust honours the Australian poet and Penola, the place he called home for 14 years. Adam Lindsay Gordon was the author of the poetry collections Sea Spray and Smoke Drift (1867) and Bush Ballads and Galloping Rhymes (1870). He is the only Australian poet honoured with a bust in the Poet's Corner of Westminster Abbey. In 2019 two smaller busts celebrating two other poets, John Shaw Neilson (born in Penola) and William Ogilvie were added. These busts are accessible at all times.

Penola SA

8.0 km away

Petticoat

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Petticoat Lane

Enjoy a stroll along Petticoat Lane. View the historic timber and stone cottages that retain the charm and character of yesteryear. Petticoat Lane represents the oldest residential area of Penola. The lane's character is enhanced by red gum kerbing, roses and lavender. The herb farm features over 60 varieties of lavender. Petticoat Lane is open daily. Please call the Penola Coonawarra Visitor Information Centre or collect keys for the cottages at the Mary MacKillop Interpretive Centre.

Penola SA

8.2 km away

Sharams Cottages

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Sharams Cottage

In 1848, Christopher Sharam a boot maker aged 29 of Limestone Ridge Station, married Ellen Patching 15, a shepherd's daughter of nearby Glenroy Station. Christopher built the cottage from blackwood slabs with a bark roof out of timber from a nearby swamp. Early in 1850, the family moved into a two roomed slab cottage in Petticoat Lane, Penola, the residence was the first constructed in the new Township of Penola. Christopher Sharam built a second cottage of sawn slabs in the mid 1860s to accommodate his growing family. The cottages remained in the Sharam family until 1941, with descendant Sarah, known as "Granny Davis" being the last to live there. Then it was purchased by Bob Fennell. The Penola Branch of the National Trust of South Australia purchased the property in 1981. The cottages are opened daily by volunteers and are a great place to explore.

Penola SA

8.2 km away

Sharams Cottage

Galleries, Museums and Collections

National Trust Herb Garden Penola

This carefully conserved area of Penola, with its original cottages dating from 1850, was declared a State Heritage area on 11th December 1997. The charming laneway was originally called Christie's Row, named after bootmaker Christopher Sharam, who built the first dwellings. It was later called Wilson's Lane after another early inhabitant, noted market gardener, William Wilson. Now known as Petticoat Lane it has now become the jewel in the crown of the Penola Branch of the National Trust of South Australia, which owns and maintains six historic buildings on the Lane and manages the following with the indispensable help of local volunteers: The Herb Garden: A popular and prosperous venture first established by Graham and Jenny Hinze in 2001 and then managed by National Trust member Kate Spencer from 2006-2019 and, presently, by neighbours and National Trust members and volunteers. The Lavender Farm: First created by Simon and Deb Cox from 1999-2008, now maintained by the Branch with the help of an Alpaca, Goldie, and some sheep. The Murrell Block: Purchased in 2008 and now the new home of a Heritage Rose Garden sponsored by Heritage Roses Australia Inc and planted by Rose Society of South Australia and National Trust member Sue Zwar. Recently added to the block is 1860's McAdam Hut. James Robert McAdam

Penola SA

8.2 km away

Mary MacKillop Penola Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mary MacKillop Penola Centre

The Mary MacKillop Penola Centre celebrates the life and legacy of Australia's first Saint, Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. It was here in Penola that Mary MacKillop and Father Julian Tenison Woods co-founded the uniquely Australian congregation, the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart. Experience history as you walk in her footsteps and gain a deeper understanding of her enduring impact on Australia's social, educational and religious landscape. Begin your visit with a self-guided tour through the Mary MacKillop Gallery, which outlines significant events leading to her canonisation and sainthood. Father Woods was a remarkable missionary bush priest and scientist, and his achievements and legacy are on display in his gallery 'Priest and Scientist - 'a saddle for a pillow'. Founder of Penola, Alexander Cameron and his wife Margaret engaged young Mary as a governess to her cousins in 1860. The reconstructed original two rooms of the homestead include displays on the family and provide a unique glimpse into the past. Saint Joseph's Catholic Church and MacKillop shrine are also on the site. But the 1867 Schoolhouse is a must see. This State Heritage Listed building is a special place where Mary's youthful presence can still be felt. She taught and lived here ... and changed Australia's social, educational and religious landscape.

Penola SA

8.2 km away

Alexander

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Alexander Cameron Statue

A life-size bronze statue commemorates Alexander Cameron and was created by John Dowie. This statue was erected by public subscription on Church Street beside the Royal Oak Hotel. Alexander Cameron (1810 - 1881), known widely as the King of Penola, is remembered as the district's first squatter and the town's founder. Alexander arrived from Scotland in 1844. His niece was Mary MacKillop. Alexander Cameron is responsible for building the first cottages and the Royal Oak hotel in 1848.

Penola SA

8.2 km away

George the Farmer concept store — Image credit: George the Farmer

Shopping and Markets

George the Farmer Concept Store

Created in Penola, George the Farmer is an award-winning educational children's brand which entertains and educates kids through fun and creative mediums such as picture storybooks, free curriculum-aligned educators resources, virtual reality, music, performances, and paddock-to-plate videos on YouTube and ABC iView. George the Farmer's vision is a world where all kids connect to the earth, food and farm. The George the Farmer concept store stocks all things George the Farmer plus many other fun and educational brands. Signed copies of George the Farmer books by author, Simone Kain are also available. Take home a true piece of Penola creativity that the kids in your life will love!

Penola SA

8.3 km away

Wine Barrel Baths | Penola Coonawarra Caravan Park

Spas and Retreats

Wine Barrel Baths | Penola Coonawarra Caravan Park

Penola Coonawarra Caravan Park in Penola, South Australia, offers a Wine Barrel Bath experience for adults seeking relaxation in the heart of wine country. This experience invites visitors to unwind in handcrafted baths made from reclaimed wine barrels, creating an escape surrounded by nature. Each private session is designed for two people and includes a complimentary bottle of local wine, adding an authentic sense of place. Warm water, quiet surroundings, and rustic craftsmanship create an intimate setting ideal for couples, friends, or special occasions. The use of real wine barrels pays homage to the region's winemaking heritage, while the emphasis on privacy and comfort ensures a calm, unhurried experience. Located within the renowned Coonawarra wine region, the baths are positioned close to cellar doors, scenic cycling and walking trails, and the historic township of Penola. Visitors may explore nearby wineries, enjoy local cafés, or take in the surrounding countryside. Designed with sustainability and local character in mind, the Wine Barrel Baths reflect the history and landscape of the region. This experience is available to both internal and external guests. Each bath is pre-filled and heated prior to arrival and maintained at a comfortable soaking temperature for a 45-minute session. For water quality and maintenance purposes, the use of shampoo, body wash, soaps, or other bathing products is not permitted. Change rooms are available nearby.

Penola SA

8.8 km away

Greenrise Walking Trail in Winter

National Parks and Reserves

Greenrise Recreational Reserve

Greenrise Recreational Reserve Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery, have a picnic, watch birds, or take a leisurely walk around the reserve. A walking track begins in town near the G'Day Park to the south of Church Street Penola or alternatively you can drive, park and walk. Wattle Range Council allows overnight stays by self -contained vehicles free of charge. Self-contained vehicles are defined as having a holding capacity for fresh, grey and black water as well as storage capacity for garbage waste (e.g. they have an on-board shower, fresh water tank, toilet and a garbage container.) Also on site is the Greenrise Arboretum Trail, which has 6000 trees, 1200 metres of pathways and showcases 110 species of trees. It links up to the Adam Lindsay Gordon walk which takes you around the dry lake, past the Penola Cemetery and back to the self-contained vehicle site which is available for a 2 night stay for any fully self-contained vehicle.

Penola SA

10 km away

yallum house — Image credit: a clifford

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Yallum Park

Yallum Park is a historic homestead built by John Riddoch being completed in 1880. It is described as being the best preserved Victorian house in its original condition in Australia and contains the original wallpapers and other furnishings. The property dates back to the 1840"s when squattered on by Thomas and Joshua Austin. The property was then leased by the Wells brothers in 1851 then bought by John Riddoch in 1861. In 1890 there was 1100 acres subdivided into 10 and 20 acre blocks which was the Penola Fruit Growing Colony which then became Coonawarra. After his death in 1901 most of the property was sold with W A Clifford purchasing 2200 acres including the house in June 1914.

Monbulla SA

12 km away

Father Woods Park

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Father Woods Park

Father Woods Park is located 21 kilometres north of Penola, and is home to a series of seven sculptures depicting the life of Father Julian Tenison Woods and Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Father Woods Park is dedicated to the life of Father Julian Tenison Woods who served the region from 1857 to 1867. The sculptures stand in the middle of the park across the road from Father Woods tree, where Father Woods used to conduct mass. The sculptures were skilfully created by Kevin Gilders using only a chainsaw.

Coonawarra SA

12 km away

Penola Conservation Park — Image credit: DEW

Natural Attractions

Penola Conservation Park

Visit Penola Conservation Park to discover its wetland environment, woodlands and open heaths. The park's swamps (when full) provide a breeding area for numerous waterbirds such as herons, ibis and swamphens which make the park an interesting site for birdwatching. It is also a haven for orchids in spring. You may also see flocks of yellow-tailed black-cockatoos or encounter a short-beaked echidna, red-necked wallaby or a western grey kangaroo.

Monbulla SA

13 km away

Penola Golf Course

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Penola Golf Course

Penola Golf Course is an 18- hole golf course located 10 kilometres south of Penola. It is flat but well wooded with tight fairways being set amongst natural bushland. The grass greens and fairways are well watered and lightly bunkered. Birds and wildlife live in the pleasant surrounds. Visitors are always welcome to join in competitions or social competitions. The club holds competitions on Saturdays for both men and ladies. A ladies competition also being held on Wednesdays, and a men's competition on Thursdays. The Clubhouse is open on these days for a social drink after the game and catering facilities and Clubhouse hire are available upon request. Par 72, 5,884 metres (men's), 5,232 (ladies).

Penola SA

21 km away

Bool Lagoon Game Reserve and Hacks Lagoon Conservation Park

Natural Attractions

Bool Lagoon Game Reserve and Hacks Lagoon Conservation Park

Bool Lagoon is one of the largest and most diverse freshwater lagoon systems in southern Australia. This seasonal wetland is home to a wide range of wildlife and provides essential drought refuge for many rare and endangered bird species. Take a drive to the top of Big Hill to see just how big these wetlands really are. The extended drive via Bool Lagoon and Moyhall Roads to Little Bool Lagoon is also worth the effort. The open water of Little Bool Lagoon is a popular venue for many waterbirds. The boardwalk, extending 500 metres over the wetlands, gives you the feeling of walking on water. Brolgas, commonly associated with northern Australia, are perhaps the most spectacular of the 150 species of birds that visit this area. Enjoy the magnificent scenery and listen carefully for the creatures of the wetlands, especially the insects and frogs. Hacks Lagoon Conservation Park adjoins the main basin of Bool Lagoon Game Reserve. Whether you are a birdwatcher, a lover of open space, or merely wish to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, Hacks Lagoon offers another wetland habitat to explore.

Naracoorte SA

24 km away

Inside a Cave — Image credit: Naracoorte Caves

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Naracoorte Caves National Park

Visit South Australia’s only World Heritage listed site and discover one of the world's most important fossil sites. For over 500,000 years giant marsupials such as the wombat-like Diprotodon, Thylacoleo the marsupial lion and giant kangaroos roamed the Limestone Coast, with many of their fossils now on display. With five different caves to explore, plus adventure caving, photographic tour options, a brand new adventure playground, café, campgrounds and an above-ground accessible loop-walk, Naracoorte Caves offers experiences for everyone. Victoria Fossil Cave tour Tour times: 10.15am, 2.15pm Duration: 1 hour Walk through magnificent speleothem chambers (e.g. stalactites, stalagmites and helectites) on the way to the Fossil Chamber. Here you'll learn about the accumulation of bones in the caves, excavation techniques, current research and World Heritage. Alexandra Cave tour Tour times: 9:30am, 1:30pm Duration: 30 minutes This tour is a good introduction to caves and the geological processes that form them and is ideal for families with small children. Blanche Cave and The Bat Tour Tour times: 11.30am, 3.30pm Duration: 1 hour Start at the Bat Observation Centre, where you’ll watch and learn about the resident southern bent-wing bats, a critically endangered species and be able to watch them via infrared camera. The tour then heads into the majestic Blanche Cave. Stick-Tomato Cave Opening hours: 9.00am - 5.00pm An easy self-guided walk suitable for all ages.

Naracoorte SA

30 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.