LYNDOCH LAVENDER

We drive north from Adelaide to Gawler, turning right along the Barossa Valley Way (B19) through Sandy Creek and so to Lyndoch. Noting the German Bakery on the right, we continue across Gilbert Street onto the Lyndoch Valley Rd (B31) towards Williamstown. The left turn-off to the Lavender Farm is clearly marked, and we travel over unsealed road to reach it.

Although we don’t see an expected blaze of colour, there are various types of lavender in flower. The farm itself is set in the middle of a very scenic valley.

There is a small entry fee ($2) which includes tea/coffee, and lavender biscuits are for sale in the shop, along with many other attractive lavender products which appeal to the ladies. The staff are attentive and helpful, making this a very pleasant hour.

Leaving the Lavender Farm we return to the Lyndoch Bakery, where we receive excellent service. Our group has its own room with set tables, bottled water, and various breads with butter. The German setting and music are appealing. Most people order a pie from the extensive range together with salad for under $10, but there is a variety of other choices.

After a leisurely lunch, we set our group loose on the nearby shops before reboarding the bus.

Turning right into Gilbert/Pimpala Road, we turn left into the Williamstown Rd, and then veer right into Yettie Rd. The Whispering Wall turnoff is on the right. The ‘Whispering Wall’ is the curved dam which holds back the water of the Barossa Reservoir. Whispered speech on one side is easily heard on the other side.

Surprisingly, many members of our group have never visited here. A final group photo ...

... and then we return to Adelaide via Williamstown, Kersbrook, Chain of Ponds and the Gorge.

Our total distance for the day is around 150 km.