Mintaro

Mintaro is a beautifully preserved slate-stone village in South Australia's Clare Valley, oozing 19th-century charm. With its winding main street, historic buildings, and vineyards just a stone's throw away, it feels like stepping into a living museum — but one with excellent cellar doors and a thriving arts scene.

Highlights & What to See

• Mintaro Maze – Australia's largest hedge maze, offering a playful challenge amid formal gardens and a café.
• Martindale Hall – A stunning Georgian-style mansion (famous from Picnic at Hanging Rock) with opulent interiors and sprawling grounds.
• Mintaro Slate Quarries – Explore the source of the region's iconic blue-grey slate, used in buildings and fences throughout the valley.
• Cellar doors – Sample Clare Valley's standout rieslings and shirazes at nearby wineries like Reilly's Wines and Sevenhill Cellars.
• Heritage walk – Stroll past stone cottages, the old pub, and the historic railway station, all remarkably intact.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can soak up Mintaro's main sights in half a day, but to truly appreciate it — including a leisurely winery visit and a wander through the maze — plan for a full day. Pair it with an overnight stay in the Clare Valley to explore the region's food and wine trail without rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Clare – The valley's main town, with more wineries, restaurants, and the Clare Valley Wine & Grape Centre.
• Sevenhill – Home to the historic Sevenhill Cellars (run by Jesuits since 1851) and the beautiful St Aloysius Church.
• Auburn – A charming village at the southern end of the Riesling Trail, with the famous Rising Sun Hotel and access to cycling paths.
• Burra – A historic copper-mining town with excellent mining museum and heritage buildings, about 45 minutes east.
• Mount Remarkable National Park – For bushwalking and wildlife, about an hour west near Wilmington.

Please check official sources for current details.