Mintaro

Rich in history and heritage buildings, the entire town of Mintaro was declared a Heritage Area for South Australia in 1984. Mintaro's cultural significance is enhanced by its picturesque setting among wheat fields and vineyards surrounded by a broad band of hills. The best way to see this unique village is on foot. Wander past Mintaro's old stone churches, an 1850 country pub called the Magpie and Stump, a grand manor house, a converted granary and stables. You can browse for antiques, meander through a nursery and cottage garden and hedge maze, or enjoy wines from two boutique wineries and delicious local fare from a choice of several eateries. Martindale Hall to the south east of the town is a magnificent Georgian-style mansion built in 1879 by Edmund Bowman for his aristocratic English bride-to be who jilted him, so the legend goes. Slate has been quarried in Mintaro since the mid 1860s and was extensively used in the old colonial homes and public buildings of Mintaro. Acknowledged as one of the best slates in the world, some aspects of production have remained unchanged since the 1860s. Today, efficiency in handling and cutting slate has been increased with the addition of modern mobile processing equipment. The working quarry can be seen from a viewing area. Lose yourself in the Mintaro Maze, a living hedge maze of more than 800 conifers, featuring fountains, twists and turns. Mintaro is also home to Timandra Gardens, a multi award winning, Ecotourism accredited attraction. See its diversity of plants within a sustainable design. Experience this exceptional garden that demonstrates the success of waterwise plant selection. Mintaro also offers a range of welcoming accommodation.