The Almond Train: A McLaren Vale Gourmet Experience
Discover gourmet delights at The Almond Train in McLaren Vale: regional produce, unique gifts, and a vintage train experience.
The Almond Train, nestled in the heart of McLaren Vale, South Australia, is more than just a shop; it's a gourmet experience housed within a beautifully restored vintage train carriage. Located on the main road, this unique establishment has been a regional highlight for over 30 years, showcasing the best gourmet foods the region has to offer. The train carriage itself dates back to the early 1900s and once serviced the Adelaide to Willunga line, traveling an estimated 2 million miles. Today, it has been carefully transformed into a cozy shop, retaining its historic charm while offering a wide array of South Australian products. As the name suggests, The Almond Train specializes in almonds, boasting South Australia's largest range of almond products. Visitors can sample a variety of flavors, including caramelized, spiced, salted, raw, smoked, and chocolate-coated almonds. In addition to almonds, the shop also stocks other regional produce such as honey, spices, olive oil, dukkah, gift packs, old-fashioned lollies, chutneys, sauces, jams, and locally made beauty products. This makes it a perfect stop for tourists looking to support local businesses and take home a taste of McLaren Vale. The Almond Train is open from Thursday to Friday from 10 am to 4:30 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 pm.
Local tips
- Sample the wide variety of almond flavors available for free tasting to find your perfect snack or gift.
- Check out the locally made beauty products for unique souvenirs.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby wineries and cellar doors for a full McLaren Vale experience.
A brief summary to The Almond Train
- 196 Main Rd, McLaren Vale, South Australia, 5171, AU
- +61883238112
- Visit website
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Driving
The Almond Train is located on Main Road in McLaren Vale. From Adelaide, take the Southern Expressway and follow the signs to McLaren Vale. Once in McLaren Vale, continue on Main Road; the Almond Train will be on your left. Parking is available on Main Road and in nearby areas. Note that parking can be limited during peak tourist season. Free parking is generally available.
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Public Transport
From Adelaide, take the train to Seaford. From the Seaford train station, transfer to bus route 751, 751W, or 752. Get off at Stop 91 on Main Road, McLaren Vale. The Almond Train is a short walk from the bus stop. A single trip on public transport will cost approximately $5.
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Taxi/Uber
Taxis and Ubers are available in McLaren Vale. From the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre, a taxi or Uber to The Almond Train is a short ride. Expect to pay around $15-25 for a short trip within McLaren Vale.
