The Barossa Valley – a name synonymous with a stunning patchwork of meticulously planted rows of grapevines, contrasted against cereal crops, historic settlers’ stonework and majestic gums that stand tall amongst the timeless Australian landscape.

A cluster of tight-knit villages, incredibly rich in history and charm are set into the contours of the Barossa, with its rolling hills, plains and sweeping valleys.

But, do you know the best way to view this entire panorama?  

Without doubt, it is from above in a hot air balloon.

Breathtaking beauty all year round with Barossa Valley Ballooning

Peaceful yet exhilarating, a balloon flight with Barossa Valley Ballooning is the perfect start to the day. A slow drift across the Barossa gives a unique perspective on the amazing patchwork of vineyards below. There are so many hidden secrets along our road that can only be viewed from above…

Sunrise balloon flights over the Barossa are available all year round (weather permitting), giving you the opportunity to marvel at the picturesque views of every season. Locals will tell you it is not uncommon to wake up on a clear crisp morning and see a balloon so close you feel you could touch it.

A view of Seppeltsfield Road like no other

We may be biased, but once you witness Seppeltsfield Road from above – we think you’ll understand why it is a jewel in the Barossa Valley’s crown.

Not only is it one of Australia’s most visually spectacular driving avenues, but an area of immense historic significance.

Drift silently above the Avenue of Palms. Beginning in front of Chateau Dorrien at the Western entrance of Seppeltsfield Road, you will find the five kilometre trail of Canary Island Date Palms that were planted by Seppeltsfield workers during the Great Depression.

Over 2,000 palms now line the sides of Seppeltsfield Road – perhaps you can try to count them!

As a side note, one particular palm has more recent significance and shows the power of local voices. After a Marananga resident raised concern about the intersection at the Western end of Seppeltsfield Road, the SRBA became heavily involved in lobbying action.

Once the roundabout funding was approved, our attention turned to safety signage and landscaping. A date palm donated by Seppeltsfield Winery is now the central feature and marks a grand entrance to our tourist precinct, from the ground and from above!

Floating over Seppeltsfield Estate is both striking and sentimental. The historic Seppeltsfield Estate is comprised of over 420 acres of ancient vineyard, a grand collection of heritage-listed architecture and manicured gardens.

Perhaps you will step back in time to imagine when the now legendary Barossan hospitality began. Original owner, Sophie Seppelt, would feed visiting dignitaries from the dining room, as well as up to 100 workers with breakfast and dinner every day. Sophie would serve up bread baked and meats roasted on-site, to compliment produce from the Seppelt farm and gardens.

“…The most historic winery and greatest showpiece of the Barossa Valley…”  – James Halliday

 

The Great Terraced Vineyard is a sight to behold. This highly prized hillside outcrop of Seppeltsfield Estate, is the site of 60-80 year old bush vine Grenache plantings. The complete vineyard is planted in contours to follow the natural shape of the land and is simply stunning from above.

Spot a familiar shape when you fly over Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop. As you continue your tour of this unique slice of the Barossa, you might do a double take as you cross over this popular foodie’s haven. Nestled into the vineyards, olive groves and surrounding bush, is the property’s dam that is in the shape of the Australian mainland!

Get a glimpse of the beautiful St Michael’s Gnadenfrei Church. Built in 1873 and still home to a thriving congregation, the impressive and ornamental structure of this white-spired church rises high above the greenery of the sweeping vineyards. At the entrance to Marananga, just after the Avenue of Palms and the Seppelt Mausoleum, it is rumoured to be one of the most photographed churches in Australia.

When you touch back down to ground, we encourage you to visit the church to admire their historic pipe organ. Originally constructed in 1880 and installed into its present location in 1918, this organ has so much charm and warmth to it.

Tip : Don’t forget your camera – there are countless unique photo opportunities!

Magical memories that will last forever

Peaceful, yet exhilarating, your sunrise balloon flight will give you a perspective like no other of this world-famous wine region.

Sweeping over the tiny villages of Seppeltsfield, Marananga and Stonewell, you can be enchanted by its timeless beauty from aloft.

We highly recommend including a hot air balloon flight into your itinerary when you next plan a holiday to Seppeltsfield Road in the Barossa Valley – home to premium wines, world-class dining, memorable experiences and secluded vineyard escapes.

Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram with #seppeltsfieldroad. We love seeing what made your time on Seppeltsfield Road unique.