Willunga Basin Trail

The Willunga Basin Trail is a walking network of more than 100 kilometres circling the Willunga Basin, broken into 14-plus sections that link vineyards, hills country and the coast around Willunga, McLaren Vale and Port Willunga. Dogs can join for much of it, but the leash rules and the no-dog sections are strict, so pick your section before you drive.

Leash status. Where dogs are allowed, they must be on lead. The trail crosses private farmland, working vineyards and conservation land, and the trail organisation asks walkers to keep dogs leashed throughout.

The no-go sections. Dogs are prohibited in Onkaparinga River National Park, including Hardy's Scrub, and on the stretch between the national park and Brooks Road at Kangarilla. On the coast, dogs must be on a short lead within 100 metres of hooded plover signage, generally August to March. Check the individual section pages on the trail's website before setting out.

The walk. Surfaces range from vineyard tracks and rural back roads to clifftop paths, and most sections are point-to-point rather than loops, so plan a car shuffle or an out-and-back. There is little water on the trail; carry enough for the dog, plus bags - bins are scarce outside the towns.

Getting there. Willunga is about 45 minutes south of Adelaide. Park in Willunga or Aldinga and pick up the trail from town, or use the small trailhead car parks marked on the section maps. By public transport, take the Seaford train and connect to the 750 bus to Willunga.

Nearby with the dogs. The Farm Willunga runs a licensed cafe with pet-friendly accommodation, and Willunga's main street has several cafes with dog-friendly outdoor tables for the post-walk coffee.

Start early. Saturday mornings around Willunga are busy with the farmers market crowd, and summer heat builds fast on the exposed vineyard sections. Best for fit dogs that walk politely on lead past stock and other walkers.

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Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.