Overview
Soak up the tranquillity as you wander through the vines and along the banks of the Murray River. This majestic river is the lifeblood of this land and has significant cultural, environmental and historical importance.
St Leonards is located right on the banks of the Murray River in an area where over time a natural lagoon has taken shape. It is abundant with native flora and fauna that you will see as you walk or ride. Keep an eye out for Pierre, the resident Pelican named after Peter Brown, as you approach the lagoon.
Route Details
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Short Walks
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4 kms
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1 Hour
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Grade 1
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Circuit Walk
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Nature Walks
View Route on Map
Start
Walking
Start Walking: St Leonards Vineyard during winery opening hours
1
Start at the gate on the river side below the cellar door. Head to the left and in 100m follow the dirt road to the right along the lagoon. At 1.1km on reaching the Murray River do a U turn following the same track back towards the winery. At 2.2km continue straight ahead.
A Saint Called Leonard
Now this is what we call a perfect afternoon. A gentle walk, stunning scenery, a historic winery and top notch local food. All the boxes have been ticked. This walk you along a section of the Murray River which twists and bends through the iconic bushland.
2
At 2.5km keep left and shortly after go through the gate. Continue to follow the fence line and at the end continue straight ahead crossing a floodway at 3km.
One highlight of the walk is the lagoon abundant in wildlife and birds, and one curious chap in particular – keep your eye out for the handsome pelican called Pierre (named after Peter Brown, a true pioneer of the wine industry in Australia).
3
Starting and ending your walk at St Leonards Estate, take in the history of one of the oldest vineyards and wineries of the region. Settle in under the shade of the giant majestic gum trees and for the young, or young-at-heart, there is a very excellent rolling hill. Pitched at the perfect angle, covered in green grass, tuck those arms in and rotate to your heart’s content.
If you’ve timed your visit over the weekend, you’re in for a tasty treat or two at the St Leonards Café. With stunning views overlooking the vineyard as it slopes down to the banks of the Murray River and food prepared by some of the best in the region, all you need is some local wine to really elevate your experience.
4
At 3.2km turn right going through a gulley to follow a rough dirt road along the lagoon. At 4km turn left at the Murray River and follow the road closest to the river.
At 4.7km take a left turn to follow the dirt road adjacent to the farmland. This is Grantham’s Bend. Re-join the fence line, go through the gate and eventually turn right towards the cellar door and starting point.
Take your time to wander through the 100 year old barrel room, before making your way through the tasting flight at the cellar door. From fun and fruity Moscato and Rosé to the more serious Shiraz and Durif, these guys have been making the good stuff since 1860s, so you can be sure that you’ll find a truly delicious drop.
End Walking: Back at the cellar door
