Adelaide Hills

Escape the city heat and ascend into the cool, green embrace of the Adelaide Hills, a patchwork of rolling vineyards, historic hamlets, and eucalyptus-scented forests. Just a 20-minute drive from Adelaide’s CBD, this region feels worlds away, offering a perfect blend of gourmet produce, artisan culture, and walking trails that wind through ancient landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• Hahndorf – Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, where timber-framed buildings house traditional bakeries, sausage shops, and craft galleries. Grab a pretzel and wander the main street.
• Mount Lofty Summit – The highest point in the hills, offering panoramic views over Adelaide to the sea. The Summit Walk from Waterfall Gully is a classic 4 km (one-way) trail through stringybark forest.
• Cleland Wildlife Park – Get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and wombats in a natural bush setting. You can hand-feed kangaroos and have your photo taken with a koala.
• The Cedars – The former home of celebrated Australian painter Hans Heysen, set among magnificent eucalypts. Tour the studio and gallery to see his luminous landscapes.
• Lobethal & Woodside – Charming villages known for their Christmas lights (Lobethal) and the Woodside Cheese Wrights, where you can sample artisanal goat’s cheeses.
• Beerenberg Farm – Pick your own strawberries (seasonal) and browse the farm shop for jams, chutneys, and fresh produce. A favourite with families.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors dedicate a full day to the Adelaide Hills, but a weekend allows you to explore at a relaxed pace. Start with a morning walk at Mount Lofty, spend the afternoon in Hahndorf, and finish with wine tasting in the Piccadilly Valley. If you’re self-driving, consider an overnight stay in a historic B&B to soak up the cool evening air.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Barossa Valley – Just north, this world-renowned wine region is perfect for a day of cellar-door hopping and gourmet dining.
• McLaren Vale – South of Adelaide, another top wine region with a coastal twist, ideal for combining with a beach visit.
• Fleurieu Peninsula – Extend your trip to the coast, where you can explore Victor Harbor, Granite Island, and the Coorong National Park.
• Clare Valley – A bit further north, this scenic valley offers outstanding rieslings and the Riesling Trail for cycling.
• Kangaroo Island – A ferry ride from Cape Jervis, this wildlife haven deserves at least two days for its rugged coast and native animals.

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