McLaren Vale crowned SA’s best tourism destination by Wotif.com
One of SA’s top wine regions has been named the state’s best tourism destination – and one of the best in Australia.
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McLaren Vale has been named SA’s best travel destination in travel website Wotif.com’s 2021 Aussie Town of the Year Awards.
The southern township was also ranked sixth best in the country among the likes of Cairns in Queensland and Exmouth, Western Australia.
With its combination of local produce, stunning wineries and a pristine coastline just 40 minutes from Adelaide, the Vale was the only South Australian destination to make the top 10 national list.
Wotif Managing Director Daniel Finch said the pandemic had given Australian’s the chance to appreciate local travel to destinations like McLaren Vale.
“While the last 12 months have been less than ideal, this time has given Aussies the chance to
re-evaluate how they live, work and play – a change of perspective that many now appreciate,” he said.
“The chance to get back to basics and take stock of how lucky we are.
“While an overseas getaway will always have its purpose and appeal, many Aussies do not realise the unique opportunity they have in front of them – to take advantage of having this enormous playground called Australia, all to themselves.”
Onkaparinga Mayor Erin Thompson said it was an honour for the region to be recognised.
“Our passionate tourism operators share a good story, make you feel completely at home, and know that when you leave, you will return again soon,” she said.
“They make this place so special.
“We know how lucky we are to be part of the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast, which is the only place in Australia where you can experience both the coast and vines in under 45 minutes from a capital city, making it one of Australia’s top holiday destinations.”
The winning destinations were awarded based on accommodation quality, affordability and traveller satisfaction.
Mr Finch encouraged Aussie travellers to keep exploring their own backyard as the tourism industry continues to feel the effects of COVID-19.
“With the overall loss to Australian tourism due to COVID-19 now totalling over $59 billion, there is a huge job ahead to get the industry back on its feet and with this year’s awards, we hope to motivate Aussies to discover a new corner of their own country,” he said.
2021 NATIONAL WINNERS LIST:
1. Cairns, QLD
2. Pokolbin, NSW
3. Apollo Bay, VIC
4. Mudgee, NSW
5. Lakes Entrance, VIC
6. McLaren Vale, SA
7. Hervey Bay, QLD
.8 Exmouth, WA
9. Port Macquarie, NSW
10. The Entrance, NSW
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