Alexandrina Council has unveiled concept images for the hotly awaited Langhorne Creek Discovery Trail, a scenic shared path to be constructed in the heart of South Australia’s historic wine region.
The $7 million trail will stretch 2.8km, connecting wineries, heritage sites, community spaces and natural landscapes between Bremerton and Bleasdale.
The concept images show an attractive shared path replete with public artworks, places to sit and gather and trail feature incorporating natural materials such as stone and wood.
Significant landscaping, including the planting of mature trees and smaller natives, will beautify the project along its length.
As well as the shared path itself, the project will see the following amenities built:
- A pedestrian bridge across the Bremer River featuring railing referencing wine barrel staves.
- A bicycle pump track at Frank Potts Reserve, as well as two new shelters and picnic settings.
- A nature-based playground at First Reserve, incorporating creative, contemporary play equipment, seasonal water elements and First Nations storytelling. New toilets, BBQ facilities and accessible play equipment will also be included.
- A new shelter at Alfred Langhorne Park.
- Wayfinding and interpretive signage.
The council has consulted with First Nations representatives and locals – including Langhorne Creek Grape and Wine, the Langhorne Creek Hub and the Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Corporation – on designs for the trail to ensure it faithfully represents the stories of the area.
The designs will be presented to the community in a free event on 16 August. Details can be found here.
The project is funded by a $7.06 million grant from the federal government, secured last year.
It is expected to be completed by April 2027.
Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes said the trail would make Langhorne Creek a destination for families, wine lovers and visitors from across the state and beyond.
“It’s so much more than a pathway with fantastic play areas for children, public spaces and amenities for gatherings with friends and family, First Nations artwork and wayfinding and interpretive signage that authentically shares the history of this region from the Ngarrindjeri people to the early pioneers, the wine industry, the river environment and the families who have made this area what it is today,” he said.
“Everything has been designed to complement the beautiful natural surroundings of Langhorne Creek while encouraging visitors to explore the town and the surrounding areas and support local businesses.
“This project is expected to drive the next phase of tourism development in Langhorne Creek, creating opportunities in cycling, nature-based tourism, cultural experiences and agritourism.”
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