🔍

Watervale

SA 5452 • South Australia

338
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
58.97 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RuralHistoricAffordable

About Watervale

Watervale is a charming historic township in South Australia's celebrated Clare Valley wine region, located approximately 125 kilometres north of Adelaide within the Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council area. The town was first settled in 1847 and holds a significant place in Australian wine history, as the second vineyard in the Clare Valley was planted here by Valentine Mayr in 1852. With around 338 residents recorded in the 2021 Census, Watervale retains the character of a classic South Australian country town set amid rolling vineyards and gum-lined hillsides.

Watervale is particularly famous as a sub-region for producing world-class Riesling, and a number of renowned Clare Valley wineries and cellar doors are located in and around the township. The Watervale Hotel has been beautifully renovated into a celebrated dining destination, and the Watervale General Store provides a popular stop for locals and visitors. Community amenities include a primary school, churches, CFS unit, tennis courts, and a bowling green at Watervale Soldiers' Memorial Park, making it a vibrant and proud rural community that punches well above its size.

Watervale falls under postcode 5452 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Frome electorate.

📍 Location

State
South Australia
Postcode
5452
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
Grey
State Electorate
Frome
Type
Locality
Timezone
Adelaide (UTC+9:30)
Coordinates
-33.97°, 138.65°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
58.97 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Regional coach (FlexiLink Clare Valley) — Clare and Adelaide (Grenfell Street) 2 hr 30 min to Adelaide

Commute to Adelaide CBD

Distance
125 km
By Train
No rail service; nearest long-distance coach departs from Clare (~12 km north)
By Car (Peak)
1 hr 25 min
By Car (Off-Peak)
1 hr 15 min

🛣️ Accessed via Main North Road (A32) through Gawler. Clare is the main service town 12 km north.

Walkability Somewhat Walkable

Small township with a general store, hotel, and recreational facilities accessible on foot within the village. Beyond the town centre, car is essential.

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
338
▲ 0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
N/A
Income 2021
N/A
▲ 0% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Watervale SA known for? +

Watervale is best known as a premier wine sub-region in the Clare Valley, particularly celebrated for producing outstanding Riesling. It is one of South Australia's most historic wine-growing areas, with viticulture dating back to 1852.

How far is Watervale from Adelaide? +

Watervale is approximately 125 kilometres north of Adelaide, about a 1 hour 15–25 minute drive via the Main North Road (A32).

Is there a school in Watervale? +

Yes, Watervale Primary School serves local children. Secondary schooling is available in Clare, approximately 12 kilometres to the north.

What wineries are in Watervale SA? +

The Watervale sub-region hosts several celebrated Clare Valley wineries and cellar doors, known especially for their Riesling. The area around Watervale is part of one of Australia's finest cool-climate wine regions.