A pretty little hamlet at the southern edge of the Barossa, Williamstown is better known for its timber than its wine, being at the centre of the local pine forest industry. Many of the original stone buildings in the town centre are still in use, including the hotel, first licensed in 1854, and Cundy’s Bridge, built in 1867 over Victoria Creek. Nearby Mount Crawford Forest is a major attraction with walking, cycling and horse riding trails. Of special interest is the Whispering Wall, the huge curved retaining wall of the Barossa Reservoir that’s about 140 metres long and an acoustic miracle. You can speak in a normal voice and people at the other end of the wall can hear you clearly – of course, you’ll need someone to hear you do it, so go with a friend. Fishing in the South Para Reservoir requires a permit which can be purchased at the local newsagency and general store. New to the town is Dragonfly Antiques which brings a taste of Asia to the Barossa through an eclectic collection of imported gifts and furniture. Williamstown offers a choice of bed and breakfast and caravan park accommodation and is an ideal base for exploring the vineyards, wineries, walking trails and beautiful parks of the Barossa.
