Coast to Vines Rail Trail
Where ocean views meet vineyard vistas

The Coast to Vines Rail Trail is one of Adelaide’s most scenic cycling routes, stretching 33 kilometres from Marino Rocks to the heart of McLaren Vale.

As a cycling enthusiast living near Adelaide, I’ve found this rail trail offers an incredible blend of coastal views, vineyard vistas, and natural landscapes. It is one that I have ridden on four different occasions, on my own. with another and as a group.

Starting the journey

My preferred starting point is Hallett Cove Railway Station, where convenient facilities make it an ideal launching spot. The initial section from Marino Rocks, while picturesque, includes some challenging undulations that might not suit all riders. This is where I feel the pain. As a 60 something, it is not exactly my cup of tea. Walk it if you must, but once at the top, the ride is exhilarating.

The trail between Hallett Cove and Old Reynella presents some interesting challenges. This 7-kilometre stretch deviates from the original rail track, creating a more adventurous ride. I particularly enjoy stopping at Old Reynella, where two bike-friendly cafes offer perfect rest stops before continuing the journey.

Natural wonders

The section past Old Reynella rewards riders with a magnificent 12-kilometre descent toward the Onkaparinga River. During late winter, the trail comes alive with almond blossoms near Honeypot Road, creating a stunning seasonal display.

One of my favourite features is the bridge crossing the Onkaparinga River. The wetlands surrounding this area provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, with kangaroos often seen in the early morning or late afternoon. The Onkaparinga wetlands create a peaceful transition between urban and rural landscapes.

Vineyard country

As the rail trail approaches McLaren Vale, the scenery transforms into a patchwork of vineyards. The final stretch includes lovely green, shady cuttings that provide welcome relief on warm days. These vineyards change their appearance throughout the seasons, from lush green in summer to brilliant reds and yellows in autumn.

The Coast to Vines Rail Trail boasts an excellent bitumen surface, making it suitable for year-round cycling. My typical ride covers around 45 kilometres with aside excurions and meandering. The trail includes several convenient access points, with regular train services available at Seaford Railway Station for the return journey.

Conclusion

The Coast to Vines Rail Trail combines the best elements of South Australian landscapes – from coastal views to wine country vistas. Whether riding the full length or choosing shorter sections, this rail trail offers an exceptional cycling experience for riders of various abilities. The combination of natural beauty, well-maintained infrastructure, and convenient access points makes it one of my most frequently recommended rides in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

The trail is accessible year-round thanks to its bitumen surface. Spring (September-November) offers comfortable temperatures and blooming almond trees. Summer mornings (December-February) are ideal before the heat sets in, with shaded sections providing relief. Autumn (March-May) presents stunning vineyard colours, while winter (June-August) offers peaceful riding conditions with fewer cyclists on the trail.

Several alternative routes exist along the Coast to Vines Rail Trail. The Patrick Jonker Veloway connects near the M2 tunnel, offering a link to the Sturt River Recreational Trail. You can also opt to start at Seaford Railway Station to avoid the more challenging northern sections. The Shiraz Rail Trail provides an additional 8-kilometre extension to Willunga, starting at McLaren Vale for those wanting to extend their journey.

Prime photography locations include the Onkaparinga River bridge, offering panoramic views of the wetlands and Adelaide Hills. The vineyards near McLaren Vale provide seasonal photo opportunities, particularly during autumn. The coastal views from the northern section and the almond blossoms in late winter create stunning photo opportunities.

The Onkaparinga River bridge offers spectacular sunrise views with the sun rising over the Adelaide Hills. For sunset rides, the elevated sections near Hallett Cove provide stunning ocean views. The vineyard sections near McLaren Vale offer beautiful golden hour lighting conditions, particularly during summer months when days are longer.

The trail caters to various fitness levels with distinct sections. The northern section from Marino Rocks to Hallett Cove is challenging with undulations. The middle section from Old Reynella features a gentle 12-kilometre descent. The total elevation gain of over 300 metres with the early section being very steep which makes it moderately challenging, but riders can choose shorter sections or to walk the harder inclines based on their abilities.

Local cycling groups organise regular group rides along the trail. The McLaren Vale wine region offers guided cycling tours that incorporate sections of the trail. Several bike hire companies in Adelaide provide guided tour packages that include transport, equipment, and local knowledge of the trail’s highlights.

The trail connects with several major cycling routes: the Patrick Jonker Veloway at the M2 tunnel, the Shiraz Rail Trail at McLaren Vale, and the Sturt River Recreational Trail via the Veloway. These connections allow cyclists to create longer routes or alternative return journeys to Adelaide.

Trains operate every 30 minutes (at the time of writing), even on Sundays and public holidays, making it convenient for cyclists to plan their return journey. The Seaford Line offers scenic ocean views between Bright Station and points south.

Key refuelling points include Old Reynella (Esculent Cafe and Soul Good Cafe), with limited options until reaching McLaren Vale’s Cottage Bakery. I recommend carrying water and snacks for the the whole ride as it can get very hot during summer.

The trail follows the former railway line that connected Adelaide to McLaren Vale, with historical markers along the route indicating former station locations and rail heritage points of interest.