City dwellers escape here for its refreshing cool-climate wines, picturesque natural environment and diverse array of wildlife.
Whichever season you visit, the region is filled with many photo-worthy opportunities. In spring, pear and apple orchards are in full blossom. In autumn, be treated to stunning displays of red and yellow at the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden.
The area’s natural bushland is the habitat of many Australian wildlife, so don’t forget to say hi to a koala or kangaroo you spot out and about.
The charming small towns of Stirling ,Mount Barker, Hahndorf and Aldgate are also worth popping by and within an hour’s drive from Adelaide.
Attractions
See native wildlife up close at Cleland Wildlife Park, home to 130 species of Australian animals. Many are free-roaming too, so you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal.
Around 20 minutes from Adelaide, the Mount Lofty Lookout offers panoramic views of Adelaide and Gulf St Vincent, along with a visitor centre and restaurant featuring Australian cuisine.
Don’t miss the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, which overlooks Piccadilly Valley and attracts crowds in spring for its magnolia and camellias displays.
And stop by Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest-surviving German settlement. The town still retains its classic German architecture and offers solid artisanal food.
Stay
Just 15 minutes from Adelaide CBD, Mount Lofty House is a boutique designer hotel housed within a historical country home, with panoramic views over Piccadilly Valley.
At Mount Barker, opt for Grandview Accommodation – The Elm Tree Apartments for its lovely garden and well-furnished apartments.
Situated within the bushlands of Aldgate, Cladich Pavilions features contemporary, Australian-style pavilions in a quiet setting.
A mere 250m from Hahndorf town centre, Hahndorf Oak Tree Cottages offers excellent service and a private patio.
Over at Stirling, The Retreat at Stirling boasts free private parking, a barbeque and lush garden views.
Dine
The family-owned Barristers Block Wines offers not only great tipple, but also a fantastic casual dining area with comfort fare like pizzas and grazing platters.
Inside Mount Lofty House, Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant is highly regarded for its degustation menu, having won 3 chef hats and a number 2 ranking by the Australian Good Food Guide.
At Hahndorf, The Haus restaurant has a great selection of German specialties, pizzas and other dishes made from local produce.
If visiting wildlife at Cleland Wildlife Park, we recommend lunch at Barking Gecko Café for its solid seasonal menu and variety of Adelaide Hills products.
