Tanunda, Australia

Tanunda is the Barossa's most quintessentially German town. The tree-lined main drag, Murray Street, boasts several old and beautiful buildings and proclaims its pedigree with German music wafting out of small wooden kegs above the shops. There's a more authentic atmosphere in the narrow streets on the western side of town, towards the river. Here, Goat Square was the site of the first town market and is bordered by the original cottages; the early market is re-enacted during the Vintage Festival. Many wineries dot the town, the largest concentration being along Para Road, beside the Para River, including Stanley Brothers, Peter Lehmann, Richmond Grove, Langmeil and Veritas, all of which can be visited in the course of a pleasant stroll along the road and river.

For a good introduction to the region, head to the Barossa visitor centre, 66–68 Murray St (Mon– Fri 9am–5pm, Sat & Sun 10am–4pm; wine centre daily 10am–4pm; $2; Tel:08/8563 0600 or 1300 852 982, Web: www.barossa.com ). The low-key Historical Museum, 47 Murray St (Mon– Fri 10am–5pm, Sat & Sun 10am–4pm; $3), crams local history into a small quaint building which it shares with an antiques shop.