There is quite simply no more joyful way to traverse the McLaren Vale wine region than behind the handlebars—or in the passenger seat—of an e-TukTuk. These three-wheeled electric wonders are the heart of the SA eBikes experience, offering a whimsical, open-air perspective that a car simply can’t match. As you glide along the Flat to Vale Trail or meander through quiet, vineyard-lined backroads, you are fully immersed in the landscape. You’ll smell the ripening grapes and salty air.

Our e-TukTuks are incredibly easy and fun to operate, featuring electric assist that makes cruising effortless. For those who prefer to sit back and soak in the scenery, your guide can take the lead while you relax in the comfortable rear seating. It’s a social, “slow-travel” experience that invites you to wave to locals and spot kangaroos grazing between the rows of vines. With a low carbon footprint and a high fun factor, turning the transit between cellar doors into a highlight of your South Australian holiday.

Your first stop brings you to the family-owned Hugo Wines, a hidden gem that epitomizes the warmth of McLaren Vale hospitality. Here, the experience is centered around the stunning vine-covered arbor, where dappled sunlight creates the perfect atmosphere for a morning tasting. The Hugo family has been producing estate-grown wines for decades, and their expertise shines through in every pour, from their crisp, award-winning Fiano, to their legendary, full-bodied Shiraz.

To complement the flight, you’ll be served a generous gourmet cheese platter featuring the finest local artisan selections. Savouring creamy brie and sharp cheddar alongside estate-grown olives while overlooking the meticulously manicured lawns is a sensory delight. It is a moment of pure relaxation where time seems to slow down. The staff’s intimate knowledge of the vineyard’s history adds a personal touch, making you feel like a guest in a private country estate. This stop isn’t just about the wine; it’s about the quintessential Mediterranean lifestyle that has made this region famous worldwide.

At Shottesbrooke Wines, the focus shifts to the fascinating “terroir” of the region. This estate is renowned for its commitment to quality and its ability to capture the unique nuances of different vineyard sites. As you park your e-TukTuk, you’ll enter a space dedicated to the craft of winemaking. The premium tasting here is an educational journey, guided by passionate cellar door experts who provide deep insight into how the McLaren Vale’s varied soils and microclimates influence the final product in your glass.

The Shottesbrooke range is diverse and sophisticated, often featuring elegant Cabernet Sauvignons and vibrant blends that challenge and delight the palate. You’ll learn about the estate’s sustainable viticulture practices—a perfect match for our eco-friendly tour philosophy. The tasting room offers a tranquil, professional environment to refine your palate and discover new favorites. It’s a sophisticated mid-day highlight that bridges the gap between the morning’s relaxation and the afternoon’s festivities, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the technical artistry behind South Australia’s world-class wine industry.

When it’s time for lunch, there is no place more iconic than Pizzateca. This family-run institution is famous for bringing a slice of Abruzzo to the heart of the Vale. Set in a vibrant, sprawling garden filled with pops of color and the aroma of woodsmoke, the atmosphere is electric and welcoming. You’ll feast on authentic, artisanal pizza made with high-quality ingredients and a traditional thin crust that is charred to perfection in their custom-built ovens.

The experience at Pizzateca is a celebration of “La Dolce Vita.” Beyond the world-class Margherita and Salami pizzas, the restaurant is known for its incredible atmosphere—it’s the kind of place where laughter flows as freely as the wine. Dining under the shade of the trees, you’ll enjoy a meal that feels like a big family Sunday lunch. It provides a hearty, delicious foundation for the rest of your afternoon. The combination of rustic Italian tradition and the sun-drenched Australian landscape makes this one of the most Instagrammable and mouth-watering stops on the entire tour.

The final stop on your journey is the historic Oxenberry Farm, a site that beautifully blends the region’s heritage with modern winemaking. This charming property is home to the famous “Sermon Tree” and overlooks a tranquil, reed-lined billabong that attracts local birdlife. Tasting wine here feels like stepping back in time, as the estate occupies one of the first areas settled in the McLaren Vale, dating back to 1840.

The tasting experience at Oxenberry is diverse, featuring everything from bright, fruity whites to rich, fortified wines that pay homage to the region’s early history. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your day’s adventure. You can choose to sit on the deck and watch the water, enjoying the peaceful end-of-day light. The relaxed pace at Oxenberry is the ideal “wind-down” before your transfer back to Adelaide. It’s a poignant reminder of the deep roots and enduring beauty of the Fleurieu Coast.