The Langhorne Creek community is celebrating a major win, with the announcement of a $7.06 million Federal grant to fully fund the long-anticipated Langhorne Creek Discovery Trail.

The 2.8km shared-use trail will wind through one of South Australia’s premier wine regions, connecting cellar doors, parks, and cultural sites, creating a new attraction for visitors to enjoy by bike or on foot.

A Trail Years in the Making

The project is the result of years of advocacy and collaboration between Alexandrina Council, the Langhorne Creek Grape and Wine Association, the Langhorne Creek Hub, and the Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Corporation.

The trail’s concept design, endorsed by Council last year, starts near Bremerton Wines, passes through Memorial Park and Frank Potts Reserve, and finishes at the historic Bleasdale Winery.

Mayor Keith Parkes described it as a “hero tourism attraction” for the region:

“The 2.8km Langhorne Creek Discovery Trail linking cellar doors is going to be a beautiful, interesting, safe, and accessible way for visitors and locals to explore this pocket-sized historic wine region by foot or by bike.”

Community and Economic Impact

Langhorne Creek produces around 45,000 tonnes of grapes each year, but only 15% of that is sold under the Langhorne Creek label. Local leaders believe the Discovery Trail will boost the region’s profile, attract visitors, and drive economic growth.

Lian Jaensch, Executive Officer of the Langhorne Creek Grape and Wine Association, said the investment is transformative.

“This sort of funding represents a game changer for any community… Langhorne Creek has so much to offer and this trail will help strengthen the connection between our winemaking community and the traditional Ngarrindjeri nation.”

The project will not only showcase the region’s wineries but also weave in Ngarrindjeri cultural stories, strengthening connections between visitors, land, and history.

What’s Included

The Discovery Trail will be more than just a path. Infrastructure works will include:

• A 2.85km, 1.8m wide bituminised shared-use pathway
• Intersection upgrades and pedestrian refuges
• A new bridge culvert
• Wayfinding signage and story boards
• Landscaping, irrigation, and plantings
• Street furniture and safety bollards

Industry partners will lead the tourism marketing and promotion, ensuring the trail becomes a centrepiece for regional tourism.

A New Cycling Destination

For Bike SA members and the wider cycling community, this trail represents a new way to experience Langhorne Creek’s renowned vineyards and landscapes. Whether for a leisurely weekend ride or part of a longer wine country cycling escape, the Discovery Trail promises to be a safe, scenic, and memorable addition to South Australia’s cycling network.

Construction will be project-managed by Alexandrina Council, with delivery expected to begin soon.

Learn more about the project from the City of Alexandrina.