Footy fans heading to the Barossa Valley for the AFL Gather Round in April 2024 will enjoy a fantastic new perk—free hop-on, hop-off bus services. The “Bounce Around the Barossa” shuttle service will connect 45 local businesses and iconic destinations, making it easy for visitors to explore wineries, restaurants, and attractions.
The service will run daily from Thursday, April 10th, to Sunday, April 13th, and is free for all AFL Gather Round ticket holders. The shuttle will operate on three dedicated routes, each showcasing the best of the Barossa Valley. Stops include Barossa Distilling Co., Artisans of the Barossa, Barossa Valley Cheese Company, and Seppeltsfield Wines, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s food, wine, and natural beauty. Even those without AFL match tickets can enjoy the experience.
The buses will run from 9:45 am to 5:00 pm daily, giving visitors plenty of time to explore. For more details, including route maps and schedules, visit southaustralia.com.
Luxury Resort Coming to Barossa Valley
In addition to the shuttle service, a new luxury resort is set to elevate the Barossa Valley experience. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has been named the operator of the InterContinental Barossa Resort & Spa, a $100 million project near Lyndoch. The resort will feature 150 rooms, a premium restaurant, wellness and spa facilities, a gym, a pool, and event spaces, all with stunning views of the region’s vineyards.
The resort is expected to open in 2028, pending planning approvals. During construction, it will create over 350 jobs, with 120 ongoing positions once operational. The development is projected to generate between 70millionand100 million in annual economic benefits for the region, solidifying its role as a key driver of Barossa’s tourism growth.
Growing Demand for Luxury Accommodation
With the AFL Gather Round drawing more attention to the Barossa Valley, officials believe the new resort will meet the rising demand for high-end accommodation. South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas called the development an exciting step forward, reflecting confidence in the region’s potential. The addition of the InterContinental brand is expected to attract more international and interstate visitors seeking luxury experiences.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison highlighted the Barossa Valley’s importance to South Australia’s tourism industry, noting it attracts over 768,000 visitor nights annually, with significant contributions from interstate and international travelers. The new resort will further enhance Barossa’s reputation as a world-class destination.
IHG Expands in South Australia
Matthew Tripolone, Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts Australasia & Pacific, expressed excitement about the partnership with the Strategic Alliance Consortium. “We’re thrilled to bring the InterContinental brand to the Barossa Valley, a destination we’ve long wanted to grow our presence in,” he said.
The InterContinental Barossa Resort & Spa represents a major step in enhancing the region’s luxury tourism infrastructure, positioning the Barossa Valley as a top choice for travelers seeking authentic, high-end experiences.
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