Barossa Valley tourist information and attractions

NURIOOTPA

Population: 3250 Nuriootpa means 'meeting place,' which stems from its use as a place of barter by Aboriginal tribes before white settlement. Today it is the commercial centre of the Barossa Valley. Founder William Coulthard's name is commemorated in several spots - his house today is the headquarters for the APEX, Coulthard Reserve is a beautiful place for a picnic. The North Para River meanders through the town, and offers several pretty spots for recreation or a picnic - stock up on traditional German fare at the town's butcher and baker.

BAROSSA VALLEY CLIMATE

The Barossa Valley lies within the state's coastal temperate zone. The mostly placid waters of Gulf St. Vincent are 60-70 kilometres away. From the standpoint of the grape, the valley is regarded as a hot district, similar to Portugal, with summer temperatures often rising to 30°C and more - stressful unless supplemented by irrigation or watering. But for the traveller, the climate is most comfortable - cool to mild in winter, warm to hot in summer, with spring and autumn being delightfully mild.

Map of Barossa Valley region (284kb) - Our location

THE WHISPERING WALL (South of Cockatoo Valley)

The Whispering Wall is the retaining wall for the Barossa Reservoir. Its shape enables a whispered message at one end to be heard 140 metres away at the other end. It also provides excellent scenic views of the reservoir and barbecue and picnic facilities.