The Riesling Trail

Route Summary

Distance: Approximately 25 km (one way)

Start Point: Auburn

End Point: Clare

Trail Type: Sealed and unsealed shared-use rail trail

Surface: Mostly compacted gravel with sealed sections in towns

Terrain: Gentle to moderate gradients through vineyards, farmland, and rolling hills

View the full Riesling Trail route here

Introduction

The Riesling Trail is one of the most established and accessible family friendly cycling trails in South Australia, running through the middle of the Clare Valley between Auburn and Clare with a northern extension beyond Clare toward Barinia Road. As it follows the previous railway corridor, the trail is smooth and gentle, which travels through vineyards, farmland and historic townships.

This trail has become an extremely relevant part of regional cycling in South Australia. It is well used and an unmissable experience for frequent riders, families and those looking to undertake a relaxed regional ride.

History

The Riesling Trail follows the alignment of the old railway that once connected the Clare Valley towns. The railway was a vital link for the transport of produce, wine and passengers, supporting the region’s agricultural and mining industries for over a century. When the line was decommissioned, the corridor was transformed into a shared-use trail, preserving its historical footprint while creating an accessible route for cyclists, walkers, and visitors to enjoy the Clare Valley landscape and embrace a significant piece of cycling in South Australia.

The trail’s creation allowed the towns of Auburn, Watervale, Sevenhill, and Clare to remain connected in a new way, encouraging active tourism and providing a safe, traffic-free route that celebrates both the region’s natural beauty and its rail heritage.

Significance

The Riesling Trail is widely regarded as one of South Australia’s iconic cycling trails. It provides a gentle, scenic corridor that highlights the Clare Valley’s vineyards, farmland, and historic townships, making it accessible to riders of all abilities.

Beyond recreation, the trail strengthens the region’s tourism and local economy by linking towns with cafes, cellar doors, and accommodation. It preserves the cultural memory of the old rail line while offering a modern, sustainable way to experience the valley. The trail also promotes health

and active lifestyles and serves as a gateway to the Clare Valley for both locals and visitors, making it a trail of regional pride and ongoing significance.

Southern Section

Auburn to Watervale

The southern end of the Riesling Trail begins in Auburn, a historic stone town at the beginning of the Clare Valley. After, the trail immediately will settle into the characteristic rhythm of the valley that follows the old rail corridor through open farmland and vineyard country.

This section is gentle and easy to ride, with wide views across the region. It has a consistent surface that is well maintained and ideal for riders of all abilities. Watervale offers a nice halfway stopping point as it is close to the trail and has a strong village character that is surrounded by vineyards.

Central Section

Watervale to Clare

When travelling between Watervale and Clare, cyclists pedal through some of the most recognizable Clare Valley scenery. Vineyards, stone buildings and historic rail features are all along the Riesling Trail route, showing the working and lived in landscape.

There is a steady flow of riders in this section, particularly on weekends and during holiday periods. The riding is relaxed and social, with plenty of opportunities for a break, explore nearby towns or simply just enjoy the environment.

As you approach Clare, the trail is more animated, reflecting its role as the regional centre and a key hub for cycling, food and accommodation.

Northern Section

Clare to Barinia Road

North of Clare, the Riesling Trail heads towards Barinia Road, offering a quitter extension for those wanting to push their endurance a little more but embrace off-road cycling in South Australia. This section feels more open and less populated, having longer views across farmland and more space to relax on the bike.

The riding remains gentle and consistent along the route, maintaining the trail’s accessible nature while offering a peaceful experience away from the central hotspots. Riders will have the ability to turn back at any point or link into the local roads to create many different ride variations.

Food and Accommodation

One of the Riesling Trail’s defining strengths is how closely it connects riders to towns, food and places to stay. The trail passes directly through several Clare Valley townships, making it easy to plan relaxed day rides or multi day stays without straying far from the route.

https://www.clarevalley.com.au