Explore the Fleurieu

Yes. The Fleurieu has some beautiful dining. Hay Street and Crisp in Port Elliot are two favourites, Star of Greece is stunning, and there are lovely cafes throughout Middleton and Goolwa. We’ve included all of our recommendations in the guest compendium.

The Fleurieu Peninsula offers exceptional dining, from Middleton and Port Elliot cafés to Goolwa restaurants and local wineries. We are happy to make some recommendations pre-arrival or there is a detailed list of options provided in our guest compendium.

Yes. The Fleurieu is steeped in history from the historic Currency Creek Aqueduct and the charming townships of Goolwa and Strathalbyn, to heritage homesteads and early settler buildings scattered across the landscape. For a touch of nostalgia, take a scenic journey along the coast aboard the SteamRanger Cockle Train.

Absolutely. We’re happy to suggest wineries, farm-gates, coastal walks, attractions and hidden local gems. There is also a detailed guest compendium provided for your stay for last minute tips & experiences!

McLaren Vale is about 25 minutes away, and Langhorne Creek wineries are even closer at 15 minutes, making either perfect for a leisurely lunch.

Yes. Several wineries provide thoughtfully curated tasting flights, chef-led lunches and vineyard experiences.
Popular nearby options:

• Beresford Tasting Pavilion

• Maxwell Restaurant

• Mitolo Little Wolf

• d’Arenberg Cube Restaurant

Transfers can be organised so you can relax and enjoy the region.

Yes, a detailed pre-arrival email is sent with driveway instructions and recommended routes, along with other pre-arrival and access information.

Yes, including Alexandrina Cheese, Smidge Wines, Middleton Farmhouse Candles and other Fleurieu producers. Our very own MerriliAngus beef can also be provided for your stay.

Very close. Middleton beach is 7 minutes away, Port Elliot about 10 minutes, and Goolwa 15 minutes by car. These beaches offer something for everyone; from gentle swims and coastal walks to world-class surf breaks. Surfing lessons, surfboard and bike hire are all available locally, making it easy to explore the coastline at your own pace while still enjoying the peace of the countryside.

Merilli1885 is an easy 60–70 minute drive south of Adelaide, taking you from the city to the quiet luxury of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Most of the journey is on the expressway, making it a smooth and scenic transition into the countryside.

Allow around 70–80 minutes from Adelaide Airport to Merilli1885. Private transfers or chauffeur services can also be arranged for a seamless arrival.

Yes. Merilli1885 sits quietly between all three of these iconic coastal towns:

• Middleton: 8 minutes

• Port Elliot: 12 minutes

• Goolwa: 10 minutes

Guests enjoy the perfect balance of rural stillness and effortless access to the Fleurieu coast.

Yes , it has been meticulously restored and complemented with a contemporary architectural extension that respects its heritage.

Absolutely. Winter offers fireside slow stays; summer brings coastal adventures; spring and autumn highlight the farm’s natural beauty. There is always plentiful options on our beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula.

Made of Stars

Location:
46 Goolwa Road, Middleton SA 5213

What it offers:
A small store featuring local artisan talent including unique pieces of handmade jewellery & ceramics.

The Fleurieu Peninsula offers:

• Scenic helicopter flights

• Whale and dolphin watching (seasonal)

• Sail or kayak the Goolwa and Coorong waterways

• Horse riding and coastal trails

• Golf in nearby Goolwa or Victor Harbour courses

• Bike Hire

• Walking & Running Trails

• Bird watching

We can help curate a personalised experience tailored to your specific interests.

Our working farm is home to Angus cattle, horses and abundant wildlife including echidnas, blue-tongue lizards, kangaroos, kookaburras and seasonal birdlife. Guests often describe the property as calming and naturally immersive.

Within 10–15 minutes you’ll find:

• Middleton Beach – surf, long walks, dolphins

• Horseshoe Bay, Port Elliot – sheltered, beautiful for swimming

• Goolwa Beach – sweeping coastline, 4WD beyond the access point

Guests love pairing coastal mornings with slow afternoons at the farm.

You’ll find exceptional dining just minutes away:

• Star of Greece (Pt Willunga): Iconic coastal dining with sweeping views.

• HAY ST Goolwa: Contemporary menus championing local produce.

• CRISP Port Elliot: Seasonal plates, wine and relaxed modern atmosphere.

• Flying Fish Café: A Port Elliot favourite for brunch or sunset by the sea.

For an intimate night in, private chef dinners can be arranged at Merilli1885.

Some of South Australia’s most loved destinations are at your doorstep, including:

• Port Elliot

• Middleton

• Goolwa

• McLaren Vale

• Langhorne Creek

• The Murray Mouth and Coorong

• Currency Creek wine region

It’s the ideal base for exploring the best of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Plenty:

• Explore boutique wineries

• Enjoy cosy cafés and long lunches

• Browse Port Elliot and Goolwa shops

• Book an in-house massage or private chef

• Read, rest and unwind and re-connect by the fire at Merilli1885

We will contact guests with updates and safety guidance. Rural weather conditions can change quickly, for your safety you will always be informed and advised during your stay.

A blend of quiet luxury, natural textures and a desire to let the landscape and history speak for themselves.

Middleton Beach is the closest and just 8 minutes away. Popular for long coastal walks, dolphin sightings  (also whales at the right time of year!) and surf lessons, it offers the refreshing coastal backdrop many guests pair with their farm stay.

The Fleurieu is alive with native wildlife from kangaroos grazing at dusk and wedge-tailed eagles soaring above, to kookaburras, rosellas, echidnas, and ducklings paddling across the dam. Visit Urimbirra Wildlife Park for an up-close encounter, watch for little penguins on Granite Island, or, during winter and early spring, spot southern right whales as they migrate along the coast.

Merilli1885 is perfectly positioned to explore the best of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Visit the wineries of McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek, ride the historic Cockle Train, or enjoy Spirit of the Coorong and Canoe the Coorong tours. Dine at local favourites like Hay Street and Crisp, explore Granite Island, and unwind by the sea at Horseshoe Bay or on a Big Duck Boat Tour from Victor Harbor.

The region is known for its spectacular natural beauty, world-class food and wine, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. It’s a place where heritage, nature, and creativity come together perfectly reflecting the spirit of Merilli1885.

Rainwater systems, solar, low-waste amenities, local sourcing, regenerative pasture management and support for regional producers.

Summer offers long coastal days and golden evenings perfect for beach walks and alfresco dining. Autumn paints the vineyards and paddocks in rich tones of amber and gold, inviting slow drives and fireside wines. Winter brings misty mornings, open fires, and a deep sense of calm across the landscape. Then comes spring, when the paddocks burst to life with wildflowers, new calves, and birdsong; a season of renewal and gentle energy.

The Fleurieu Peninsula is just an hour south of Adelaide, stretching from McLaren Vale’s vineyards to the coastal towns of Goolwa, Port Elliot, and Victor Harbor where rolling farmland meets pristine coastline.

Many of McLaren Vale’s most celebrated cellar doors are 20–30 minutes away, including:

• d’Arenberg

• Maxwell Wines

• Wirra Wirra

• Coriole

• Beresford Estate

• Mitolo

Closer still is Currency Creek and Langhorne Creek, both offering boutique, less-crowded tasting experiences.