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Dam · Tanunda, Austrália Meridional
Whispering Wall
A curved late-19th-century dam near the Barossa Valley where a whispered word at one end can be heard clearly at the other, over 140 metres away.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Whispering Wall
The Whispering Wall is the dam wall of the Barossa reservoir, built between 1899 and 1902 to supply towns in the region. It is about 144 metres long and 36 metres high, and at the time was one of the world’s earliest concrete arch dams.
The curved shape of the wall causes sound to travel along the surface from one end to the other. A person speaking softly near the wall at one end can be heard clearly by someone at the other end, more than 140 metres away, as if they were beside them. Visitors spend time testing the effect with messages and jokes.
The top of the dam is a pedestrian walkway, with views of the reservoir on one side and the treed valley on the other. There is a picnic area and parking.
There is no admission charge, and the site is open every day during daylight hours.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning or on weekdays, with fewer people and less noise, which helps to hear the whisper.
How to get there
By car, from Adelaide in about 50 minutes, or from Tanunda in about 30 minutes, via the Williamstown area. Many Barossa tours stop there.
Tip
Go with someone: one stands at each end, speaks softly facing the wall, and the other listens with their ear close to the concrete.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Whispering Wall
How does the Whispering Wall work?
The curved shape of the dam carries sound along the wall, and a whisper at one end is heard at the other, over 140 metres away.
Is there a fee to visit the Whispering Wall?
No. The dam is open daily during daylight hours without charge.
Where is the Whispering Wall located?
At the Barossa Reservoir, near Williamstown, about 50 minutes from Adelaide and 30 minutes from Tanunda.