Shopping Paddock to Plate on the Fleurieu Peninsula: Fresh Local Produce & Farm Experiences
Pluck fruit straight from nature’s top shelf in the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Skip the store and go straight to the source at Fleurieu Peninsula’s bountiful pick-your-own fruit farms, farm shops and farmers markets. From cherries to strawberries, Fleurieu Peninsula’s best produce is ripe for the picking and within reach of Adelaide. Direct from the farm to your fruit bowl, take the pick of the crop with our guide to the best places to pick your own fruit in South Australia and shop paddock to plate.
Pick Your Own Strawberries at Harvest the Fleurieu
If you're a fan of fresh strawberries (who isn't?), you can’t go past Harvest the Fleurieu, located in Mount Compass, just a stones throw from McLaren Vale. From November to April, the farm opens its gates to visitors eager to handpick their own juicy strawberries straight from the vines. Not only does this provide a fun and interactive way to enjoy a quintessential summer activity, but you’ll also get to take home the freshest strawberries around. Whether you eat them on the spot or take them home for your next dessert or smoothie, there's nothing quite like the taste of handpicked, sun-ripened fruit. For those who prefer to leave the picking to others, Harvest the Fleurieu also offers pre-picked strawberries and other local produce, so you can shop paddock to plate right from the farm gate.
Cherry Picking at Fleurieu Cherries
Another must-visit for fruit lovers is Fleurieu Cherries, located in the picturesque hills of The Range. Known for their sweet and juicy cherries, this family-owned farm invites visitors to pick their own cherries each season. Open from early December to January, the farm gives you the chance to wander through rows of cherry trees, carefully selecting the ripest fruit for your basket. The cherries at Fleurieu Cherries are known for their superior taste, and with the opportunity to handpick them, you'll experience a true farm-to-table adventure. And if you're not in the mood to pick your own, there’s always a selection of pre-picked cherries available for purchase at the farm’s store, now that's the cherry on top.
Olive Picking at Peninsula Providore
For those who enjoy a savoury twist to their paddock-to-plate experience, Peninsula Providore in McLaren Vale offers the perfect experience. This family-run farm offers visitors the chance to pick their own olives during the olive harvest season (usually April to June). After picking, you can even learn about the olive oil production process and purchase fresh, local extra virgin olive oil to take home. The farm also offers a range of products, including gourmet preserves, jams, and local delicacies, making it an excellent place to shop paddock to plate while supporting local artisans.
Shop Local at the Willunga and Victor Harbor Farmers Markets
If you're looking to take home even more fresh produce and local goods, be sure to visit the Willunga Farmers Market and the Victor Harbor Farmers Market. Both markets showcase the best the Fleurieu Peninsula has to offer in terms of local produce, artisanal foods, and farm-fresh ingredients. At the Willunga Farmers Market, open every Saturday, you’ll find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to homemade baked goods, meats, and local cheeses. The market is known for its wide variety of paddock-to-plate products, ensuring that you can get your hands on some of the freshest ingredients in the region.
The Victor Harbor Farmers Market offers a similar experience, with a range of locally grown and produced foods, including fresh seafood, vegetables, herbs, and much more. It’s the perfect place to grab fresh ingredients for a delicious paddock-to-plate meal while supporting local farmers and food producers.
Wildhand Farm: A Sustainable and Regenerative Experience
For a unique and sustainable farm-to-table experience, look no further than Wildhand Farm, located just outside of Strathalbyn. Specialising in regenerative farming, Wildhand Farm offers organic, pasture-raised meat, eggs, and seasonal produce. They focus on sustainable and ethical farming practices, allowing visitors to shop directly from the farm for products that are good for the environment and even better for your plate. You can also book in for the Wildhand Farm Highland Cow Experience or a Native Flower Workshop.
Supporting Local Farmers and Producers
The Fleurieu Peninsula is home to many farms and markets that offer a direct link between farmers and consumers, creating a paddock to plate experience that connects you with the region’s agricultural roots. Whether you’re picking your own strawberries, indulging in fresh olives, or shopping at the local farmers markets, you’ll discover an abundance of high-quality, locally produced foods that reflect the region's unique terroir and commitment to sustainability.
By shopping paddock to plate, you’re not only enjoying fresh, seasonal produce, but you’re also supporting the hardworking farmers and food producers of the Fleurieu Peninsula. So, whether you’re visiting for the day or planning your next weekend getaway, make sure to add some local food experiences to your itinerary. You’ll leave with memories of the farm, fresh ingredients, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re supporting local businesses.
Experience Paddock to Plate on the Fleurieu Peninsula
The Fleurieu Peninsula truly offers something for everyone when it comes to paddock to plate experiences. From strawberry picking at Harvest the Fleurieu to cherry picking at Fleurieu Cherries and olive picking at Peninsula Providore, there are endless opportunities to get hands-on with your food. And with local markets like Willunga Farmers Market and Victor Harbor Farmers Market, you’ll find a wealth of fresh ingredients to take home. So, next time you're in the Fleurieu Peninsula, immerse yourself in the region’s vibrant food culture and experience paddock to plate like never before.
