Unwinding in Style: The Vineyard Retreat, McLaren Vale

Last year, I had the chance to snap some pics at The Vineyard Retreat again and let me tell you, it's a slice of heaven perched on top of a hill in McLaren Vale. I mean, talk about luxury and charm rolled into one!

Every nook and cranny of this place is decked out with such taste and detail that it's like stepping into a cozy Pinterest board. From snug cottages to swanky villas, each accommodation is like a warm hug waiting to welcome you.

But let's talk about the views, folks. Picture this: rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see, with the occasional kangaroo hopping by to add to the charm. It's like nature's Instagram backdrop, begging you to snap away.

And don't even get me started on the outdoor spaces. You've got lush gardens begging for a stroll, a sparkling spa just waiting for you to slide into, and balconies perfect for sipping wine and watching the sunset. It's the stuff that relaxation dreams are made of, trust me.

As I wandered around with my camera, I couldn't help but notice the little touches that make The Vineyard Retreat so unique. They've thought of everything, from the chic decor to the thoughtful amenities. They've got pampering down to an art form.

But here's the best part: despite feeling like you're a world away from it all, you're actually just a hop, skip, and jump from McLaren Vale's buzzing town centre. So whether you're keen to explore the nearby wineries or just fancy a lazy day in, you have the best of both worlds at your doorstep.

In my photos, I aimed to capture the beauty of The Vineyard Retreat and the laid-back vibe that makes it such a special spot. Each snap is like a little invitation to kick back, relax, and soak up the good vibes.

So if you're in need of a break from the daily grind, do yourself a favor and book a stay at The Vineyard Retreat. Trust me, it's the kind of place that'll have you feeling like a VIP from the moment you arrive.

Client: The Vineyard Retreat, McLaren Vale

Wild South Coast Way, Fleurieu Peninsula

Client: Department of Environment and Water SA

Brief: A variety of shots to showcase the Wild South Coast Way. Inclusive access, also.

One-day photo shoot at various locations on the trail through Deep Creek National Park. Street casting through heidi who photos street casting Facebook group

Usage on website and marketing material

Casa Feliz Tiny Home

A beautiful shoot I did recently for Casa Feliz Tiny Home at Maslin Beach.

Wow! I think I need to book to stay here myself (even though it’s only a few minutes from my house).

The Vineyard Retreat

“The Vineyard Mclaren Vale is a peaceful and stylish vineyard retreat with distinctive guest houses and cadole’s; each commanding views over South Australia’s most idyllic wine and food region.

An unpretentious wine country escape, ensconced in a working vineyard, the contemporary and well-appointed guest houses are elegant and sophisticated.”

Two shoots for The Vineyard Retreat - each accommodation is unique, and full of elegance and sophistication indeed.

Tipsy Hill Private Dining Experience

Bec Hardy Wines offers amazing food and wine experiences at Bec and Richard’s Tipsy Hill property in McLaren Vale, South Australia.

Their stunning home is within one of the most renowned private gardens in South Australia, with Instagrammable views over vineyards and rolling hills.

Guests sit with Bec and Richard, hearing stories about the Hardy family over the generations and what it is like to grow up in the wine industry.

If you are looking for something unique, check it out.

Flinders Ranges - why I love it.

Why Flinders? 

With interstate border regulations changing daily, I'm looking at different ways to get my adventure and discovery fix locally. I always love the beach, but being in the big wide open spaces also pulls me. 

In recent years I have travelled to the Flinders Ranges quite a few times for work. I used to go camping with family and relatives as a child too. I am amazed at how many people haven't been, missing out on such a unique area. It's such a special place, close to Adelaide and very doable as a weekender. 

I asked people what stops them from going? The main stop signs were...

1. I don't have a 4WD

2. I don't like camping

3. I don't know what to do out there

Well, here are my answers to those points.

I don't have a 4WD

I have done it in my VW Golf! But taking the Mitsubishi Outlander and Pajero Sport made it easier and a little less 'bumpy'. 

There are many sealed roads, and even the unsealed ones (that we went on) are pretty good. An SUV will get you even further. We went to Bendleby Ranges, a station known for it's four-wheel drive tracks. The tracks are varied, so check where you can go before tackling any. Being a novice 4wd'er, we did do a handful in the Mitsubishi with no problems. 

Yes, you can't go everywhere, but hey, don't you want to do some hiking anyway? That's where you get the real immersion. 

I don't like camping

I do like camping, but I'm also known as a bit of a hotel buff. And Flinders Ranges has the variety. Bush camping right through to luxurious digs. There's also eco tents, fly-in luxury camp stays and shearers quarters on stations for some real life. 

Check out www.flindersandoutback.com.au and www.stationstayssa.com.au for some of the options ready for you. 

I don't know what to do

Well... there's hiking, biking, flying, 4WDing (and mere driving), eating, drinking... and a vast landscape that is in constant change. The feeling I get when in the Flinders is like a surrender: peace and strength, a reset button. There is a spiritual presence in this ancient place that I always feel. 

My fave things (so far)...

Flying over Flinders Ranges - by helicopter or plane (I’ve been up with Wrights Air and Arkaroola)

Strzelecki and Oodnadatta Track drives

Prairie Hotel food and sundowners

Flinders Bush Retreats Eco tent and Homestead stays

Bike riding in Melrose

Tour at Holowiliena Station

Eating at Flinders Food Co

Have you been? What can you add to this?

CLIENT: Oceanview Eco Villas

Part 2: Open and ready for you!

Oceanview Eco Villas is a luxurious and memorable off the grid experience. Tim and Tamsin Wendt have built these villas on their stunning 500-acre coastal property at Nepean Bay on Kangaroo Island.

It's a place to relax and get yourself back into nature. Either watching the kangaroos grazing while you relax on your deck, sipping wine while relaxing back in the large bath while watching the sunset, or being more active outside. There are trails through the yackas and beach walks, where you can encounter kangaroos, birds and other wildlife.

And the eco part is pretty amazing too — Eco designers, solar power, eco products and technology plus completely off-grid. The list is endless; check out their website to be wowed.

I've been to Oceanview Eco Villas twice for photoshoots now. Each time I took a little time to wander around the property early morning - I found it a balancing way to start the day. I could hear the birds sing, see the kangaroos graze and watch the colours of early morning ooze across the sky.

Check out more pics and info here.