Tales from the Tours

Kind Words, Great Wines – What Our Guests Are Saying

At Valley Wine Tours, I’ve always believed that the best advertising is a happy guest, ideally holding a glass of Clare Valley Riesling in one hand and a Barossa Shiraz in the other, with a smile on their face.

Over the past few months, I’ve had the pleasure of sharing stories, wine, and a few gravel-road detours with all sorts of travellers - from interstate guests and international couples to Golden Retrievers and wine-loving neighbours. Here’s what some of them had to say, and what it tells you about what we do. All of these are visible on my Google reviews.

The Local Advantage

“You cannot beat local knowledge and passion for sharing.” “Charles is incredibly knowledgeable about the regions…” “We asked Charles to take us where our little legs and cycle wheels wouldn’t get us to - boy did he succeed!”

These quotes make me smile because that’s exactly what I aim to offer - a relaxed, personalised tour through the backroads, the history, and the real character of the Clare and Barossa Valleys. If you’re after a Google Maps tour, there are plenty of Adelaide operators for that. If you’re after hidden cellar doors, scenic shortcuts, and maybe a spontaneous chat with a winemaker, that’s where I come in.

Dog-Friendly and Definitely Not Boring

“Our dog was very well catered for…” “Charles provided an excellent tour for our family and our Golden Retriever…”

Dog-friendly means truly dog-friendly. I’ve scouted the region to know which cellar doors will welcome a well-behaved four-legged passenger, and can also take you to the ones that don't. I always make sure there’s shade, water, and a few laughs. Whether you're bringing a furry friend or not, the goal is always the same: a relaxing day with no rushing and plenty of character.

Two Days, Two Valleys

“We re-booked for another tour in Barossa with Charles!” “We tasted both Barossa & Clare Valley wines over two days.”

Some guests like to double-dip, and I’m happy to make it happen. A private tour over two days means we can explore Clare Valley one day and the Barossa the next without packing up and moving, with time for long lunches, good chats, and a proper feel for each region. Yes, I’m still on time on day two - coffee helps.

More Than Just Wine

“Charles knew so much about everything, even non-wine related!” “A litany of information about the historical nature of the region…”

I’m a history nut, and I don’t hide it. If you’re curious about 19th-century Jesuits, frontier emigrants, forgotten bush tracks, or what the hard rock copper miners drank back in the day, you’ll be in good company. That said, if you just want to sip and stare at vines, that’s perfectly fine too.

Grateful, Always

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s taken the time to leave a review. Your kind words mean the world, not just to me, but to future guests wondering whether a small, local tour is worth it (it is).

If you're thinking about booking, just get in touch. Whether you're visiting solo, in a private group, or with your dog, we’ll put together a day that’s personal, unhurried, and full of good wine and better stories.

Cheers, Charles.