Para Wirra Recreation Park


In the northern Mt Lofty Ranges, a 20km hook south of Lyndoch, Para Wirra offers over 14 sq km laced with walking tracks, scenic drives, barbecues, campsites ($15) and tennis courts. Emus search hopefully around picnic areas; western grey roos graze in the dusk. Pay entry fees online before you arrive.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Whispering Wall

3.84 MILES

About 7km southwest of Lyndoch, the Barossa Reservoir dam (built 1899–1902) is better known as the Whispering Wall. The huge concrete curve has amazing…

2. Warren Conservation Park

6.44 MILES

Explore 363 tranquil hectares of wattles, banksias and spring heaths, plus pink, blue and statuesque river red gums. Steep tracks for experienced hikers…

3. Lyndoch Lavender Farm

7.43 MILES

What's that smell? Oh, it's coming from those big purple fields! Lyndoch Lavender Farm is a working producer of sweet-smelling stuff – oils, lotions, tea,…

4. Big Rocking Horse

9.71 MILES

Gumeracha's main attraction is climbing the 18.3m-high Big Rocking Horse, which doesn't actually rock, but is unusually tasteful as far as Australia's …

5. Jacob's Creek

11.17 MILES

Jacob's Creek is probably the biggest international exporter of Australian wine – you'll find their bottles everywhere from London to Toronto. HQ is just…

6. National Motor Museum

11.9 MILES

Behind an impressive 1852 stone flour mill in Birdwood, the National Motor Museum has a collection of 300-plus immaculate vintage, modern and classic cars…

7. Keg Factory

12.36 MILES

Watch honest-to-goodness coopers make and repair wine barrels, 4km south of town. Amazing! If you want to roll one home, kegs start at $325.

8. St Hallett

12.4 MILES

Using only Barossa grapes, reliable St Hallett produces reasonably priced but consistently good whites (try the Poacher’s Blend) and the excellent Old…