tourism adelaide hills

Adelaide Hills

Adelaide Hills Tourism is the regional tourism organisation for the area. Its board includes representatives of its two funding councils, Adelaide Hills Council and the Mount Barker District Council, as well as tourism operators and industry bodies.

To find out more about the Adelaide Hills, check out our consumer website , drop into the Mount Lofty Summit Visitor Information or contact:

Tanya Jarman Executive Officer Adelaide Hills Tourism PO Box 741 Hahndorf SA 5245 T: +61 414 371 481 E: [email protected]   W: visitadelaidehills.com.au

REGION DOCUMENTS

More information and how tourism is tracking in this region is provided in the documents below:

Value of Tourism - Adelaide Hills

FACTSHEET: Tourism statistics for the region: Results for Year Ending December 2022 (released: July 2023).

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Regional Profile - Adelaide Hills

PROFILE: Results for Year Ending December 2022 - Released: June 2023

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South Australian Regional Visitor Strategy 2025 – Adelaide Hills

Region-specific priorities outlined in the South Australian Regional Visitor Strategy 2025

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Regional Visitor Strategy progress snapshot 2023 – Adelaide Hills

Region-specific outcomes achieved in 2023, aligned with the South Australian Regional Visitor Strategy 2025 (released April 2024).

• 919.1 KB

Regional Visitor Strategy progress snapshot 2022 – Adelaide Hills

Region-specific outcomes achieved in 2022, aligned with the South Australian Regional Visitor Strategy 2025 (released May 2023).

• 4.3 MB

Regional Visitor Strategy progress snapshot 2021 – Adelaide Hills

Region-specific outcomes achieved in 2021, aligned with the South Australian Regional Visitor Strategy 2025 (released May 2022).

• 979.4 KB

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Things To Do In The Adelaide Hills

28 amazing things to do in the adelaide hills.

Things to Do in the Adelaide Hills: The Ultimate Adventure Guide

The Adelaide Hills is a picturesque region located just a short drive from Adelaide, South Australia. This region is renowned for its rolling hills, stunning views, and charming towns. With its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Adelaide Hills is a must-visit destination for tourists. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural and historical sites, food and beverage experiences, or just a peaceful escape from the city, the Adelaide Hills has something to offer for everyone.

In this blog post, we will be highlighting some of the most exciting things to do in the Adelaide Hills that will make your trip unforgettable. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Australia’s most enchanting regions!

About The Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills are located to the east of the city of Adelaide and include many townships including Hahndorf, Stirling, Mt Barker, Lobethal, Woodside and more.

The traditional owners of the region are the First Nations Peramangk and Kaurna people who called this area home for thousands of years before the invasion of European settlers.

The stringy bark forests over the back of the Mount Lofty Ranges have been claimed as a traditional boundary between Kaurna and  Peramangk  people. 

As white settlers claimed the land and began clearing land to build settlements and farms, the Indigenous people were displaced as they could no longer access their usual food and water sources. Many Peramangk people were forced onto Aboriginal missions set up by churches and government organisations. The Peramangk & Kaurna people will always be the traditional owners of the land that was forcibly stolen from them.

Some of the place names in the hills are the original Indigenous names including  Brukunga ,  Uraidla ,  Gumeracha ,  Onkaparinga ,  Echunga , and  Cudlee Creek .

The Peramangk Council is a group of Peramangk descendants who share their stories on Facebook. Give them a follow!

Getting To The Adelaide Hills

The quickest and easiest way to explore the Adelaide Hills is by car. The region is a short drive from the Adelaide CBD. Some towns like Crafters & Norton Summit are around a 20-minute drive and even the furthest destinations can be reached in under an hour.

Don’t have a car? Check out rental car options here.

Adelaide Hills Tours

If you don’t have your own transport see the Adelaide Hills on a guided tour and get the added bonus of a knowledgeable guide!

• Adelaide: Hahndorf German Village Day Tour with Lunch
• Adelaide: Highlights, Hahndorf, & McLaren Vale Wine Tastings
• Adelaide: Half-Day City Highlights, Mt. Lofty, and Hahndorf
• South Australia: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour
• Adelaide Hills, Hahndorf & Mount Lofty from Adelaide
• Adelaide: Adelaide Hills Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting
• Hahndorf: Gourmet Food & Wine Electric Bike Tour
• From Adelaide: Hahndorf and Barossa Valley with Winery Lunch
• Hahndorf: Wine Tasting and Blending Experience
• Adelaide Hills Tour with River Murray Lunch Cruise

Outdoor Activities In The Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills is a stunning destination for outdoor activities. With its rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque wineries, the Adelaide Hills offer plenty of opportunities for adventure. From hiking and cycling to camping and kayaking, there are plenty of things to do in the Adelaide Hills that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an adrenaline-filled adventure, the Adelaide Hills has something for everyone. Discover all the amazing outdoor activities you can enjoy in this beautiful region!

Mount Lofty – The Highest Peak In The Adelaide Hills

At an elevation of 712 metres from sea level, Mount Lofty in the highest point in the Adelaide Hills and the best view. From the summit you can see views of the city below all they way out to the ocean as well as the surrounding hills & suburbs. The huge white obelisk was constructed in 1885 and was used as a central reference point when Adelaide was being surveyed. 

How To Get To Mount Lofty

The view is even better when you work for it and the 3.9km walk from Waterfall Gully will certainly get your heart-rate going. The walk is classified as Grade 4 – Hard Hike by Walking SA and the climb of 475 metres includes a lot of steep terrain. This is not an easy hike for beginners so a moderate fitness level or more is recommended. 

Mount Lofty is easy to access by car. Take the freeway to the Adelaide Hills and exit at Crafers. The route to Mount Lofty summit is clearly signed and it’s around 3km from Crafers. The car park at Mount Lofty is not free so a visit will set you back $4 for an hour. 

Public Transport

Mount Lofty is not easy to access by bus. The closest you can get is to Crafers from there walk 4.5km to Mount Lofty. Although this is longer than the Waterfall Gully hike it is a lot less steep gaining 140m in elevation, it is still 9km all up so not an easy walk.

Guided Tour 

If you don’t have your own vehicle taking a tour to the Adelaide Hills is a great option and will include a stop at Mount Lofty. 

• Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf Half Day Tour

Mount Lofty attracts plenty of visitors so there are excellent facilities including a paid car park, visitor information centre, gift shop, toilets,  cafe & restaurant which are all accessible and wheelchair friendly. 

Mount Lofty Car Park Opening Hours Octo­ber to March — 6:00am — 11:00pm April to Sep­tem­ber — 6:00am — 9:00pm

Mount Lofty Sum­mit Gift Shop:

Open 9:00am — 5:00 pm dai­ly (closed Christ­mas Day).

Wildlife at Mount Lofty

If you see a rat-like creature scurrying about at the summit it may be a bandicoot! The Southern Brown Bandicoot is a nationally endangered species found in the Mount Lofty Range. 

 I have been lucky to see one here on multiple occasions so keep your eyes peeled. Bandicoots are nocturnal so they become active in the evening so if you are catching a Mount Lofty sunset you may have some company!

You can also spot kangaroos and koalas here, especially on the walking trails.

Hiking In The Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills are a great place to explore and experience the beauty of nature. With its breathtaking views and diverse terrain, it is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. It offers a variety of walking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, which makes it suitable for all levels of hikers.

The Heysen Trail

The Heysen Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Adelaide Hills, as it takes you through some stunning landscapes and provides a great opportunity to explore the region’s rich wildlife and flora. The full trail is 1200km from Cape Jervis to Parachilna so most hikers do smaller sections of the trail.

Sections in the Adelaide Hills

• Mt Lofty to Bridgewater
• Loop through Mount Crawford
• Mylor to Aldgate Loop

Learn more about the Heysen Trail.

Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens

You will be hard-pressed to find a more impressive garden anywhere in the world! The Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens are nothing short of spectacular and a must-see for all visitors to Adelaide. The garden is on a sloped hill so some of the different areas of the garden require a bit of walking uphill. There is parking at both the top and bottom of the garden but I prefer to park at the bottom and start with the uphill walk first.

Adelaide has many reservoirs which have only recently been opened for public access. Mt Bold is the largest reservoir in South Australia, and the reserve is surrounded by more than 5,500 ha of land. Much of the surrounding bushland has been preserved and is the original old stringybark woodland that has not been subject to much human interference. There is also a manna gum woodland and many swamps and creeks. The beautiful and dense forest is filled with native species with 160 native animals living in the area including the southern brown bandicoot.

Mountain Biking & Cycling In The Adelaide Hills

Bike trails.

Amy Gillett Bikeway – The trail spans 15 km, starting just north of Oakbank, winding through Woodside, and ending at Mt Torrens. Although it is a bikeway it is also suitable for walkers. While primarily utilized by cyclists, the trail is perfect for short walks, bike rides with kids or leisurely strolling

Need a set of wheels? BikeAbout offer E-bike hire from Hahndorf, Woodside & Langhorne Creek.

Bike Riding Tour

Hahndorf food and wine E-Bike Tour – Explore the Adelaide Hills on an electrifying adventure with the Mt Lofty Electric Bike Guided Tour. This tour starts in Hahndorf where you’ll hop on a bus and make your way to the starting point for a scenic bike ride. Soak in the breathtaking views from Mt Osmond, discover the history behind the Pioneer Women’s Trail, and keep an eye out for koalas and other wildlife as you wind through the hills. Take a break at Mt Lofty Summit for a coffee before continuing your journey through the forest to Mt Osmond. The tour concludes in Hahndorf, giving you the chance to stroll through the charming German village and explore Adelaide’s history.

Fox Creek Bike Park

The self-proclaimed “raddest bike park in Australia”, the Fox Creek Community Bike Park is free and open to bikers of all abilities to enjoy.

Pine Forests

As much as I would rather see a native forest and not one created for profit, the pine forests in the Adelaide Hills are a magical place to explore. Kuitpo and Mt Crawford are both managed for wood production but are available to be used and enjoyed by the community.

Wildlife In The Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills is a biodiverse region in South Australia and is home to a variety of wildlife species. Some of the most notable species found in the area include:

• Koalas: These iconic marsupials can be found in eucalyptus forests in the Adelaide Hills.
• Kangaroos: The open woodlands of the Adelaide Hills provide a habitat for eastern grey kangaroos.
• Birds: The Adelaide Hills are a popular destination for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds found in the region, including fairy wrens, black cockatoos and the rare and endangered regent parrot.
• Reptiles: The Adelaide Hills are home to a number of reptiles, including the southern grass skink, the eastern three-lined skink, and several species of snakes.
• Native mammals: The Adelaide Hills are home to several native mammals, including the brush-tailed possum, the yellow-footed antechinus, and the southern brown bandicoot.
• Amphibians: The Adelaide Hills are also home to several species of frogs, including the spotted grass frog and the southern brown tree frog.

Towns To Explore

Hahndorf – Historic German Village

If you are going to visit one town in the Adelaide Hills make it Hahndorf! Hahndorf is a historic German village in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia. It was established in 1839 by Prussian Lutheran settlers and is one of the oldest German settlements in Australia. The village has a unique charm and offers visitors an insight into its rich cultural heritage, with many original buildings still standing today.

Visitors to Hahndorf can explore the town’s many attractions, including its old-world architecture, art galleries, cafes and restaurants serving traditional German cuisine. There are also a number of wineries nearby that offer tastings and tours for those who want to experience some of the local produce.

Stirling is a gorgeous little hills town just 20 minutes from the Adelaide CBD. The main street is the perfect place for a stroll and browse through the cute boutique shops. You can’t miss Red Cacao for the best vegan hot chocolate ever!

The Stirling Hotel has one of the best vegan pub meals in Adelaide.

Bridgewater

When I lived in the Adelaide Hills a walk along the Heysen Trail to Bridgewater was an almost daily occurrence. The Bridgewater Inn is perfectly located on the river and is the perfect place to rest and maybe indulge in a vegan schnitzel!

Mount Barker

The biggest town in the Adelaide Hills is Mount Barker and although it feels more developed than the smaller towns it has retained its charm, especially in the main street.

Art, History & Culture

SteamRanger Heritage Railway

The SteamRanger Railway is a heritage railway that operates in the Adelaide Hills & Fleurieu Peninsula regions of South Australia. The railway operates a fleet of historic trains including the Bugle Ranger & The Cockle Train. The two services from Mt Barker station are the Bugle Ranger to Philcox Hill and the Southern Encounter to Victor Harbor.

Whether you’re a train enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a unique and scenic way to explore the Adelaide Hills, the SteamRanger Railway is a great option!

Hahndorf Academy Regional Arts & Heritage Centre

A not-for-profit cultural centre with a shop, gallery, and museum celebrating local artists and stories.

National Motor Museum

The National Motor Museum, located in Birdwood, is a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of motor vehicles in Australia. It features a collection of over 300 vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, and racing cars. The museum’s collection covers over 100 years of automotive history, from early horse-drawn carriages to modern electric vehicles.

The Pioneer Women’s Trail

The Pioneer Women’s Trail: A historic trail that winds through the Adelaide Hills and is dedicated to the memory of the pioneering women who helped to settle the region.

Pioneer Women’s Trail, Verdun to Beaumont

Heritage Walks

• Mount Barker Heritage Walk
• Hahndorf Heritage Walk

Food & Beverage In The Adelaide Hills

Grünthal brew.

The Grünthal Brewery just outside of Hahndorf is a great spot to stop for a local beer. The watermelon sour is absolutely delightful and you really can’t beat being outside in the sunshine. There is a huge range of beers to choose from as well as 3 gins which can be enjoyed as a tasting flight. The menu has a good selection of vegan options to choose from.

Want beer, cider, wine & gin in one location? Lot 100 has every taste covered.

Lot 100 is a vineyard and cellar door near Nairne. Known for producing high-quality, premium wines, beers, gin, and cider, Lot 100 offers visitors a unique and diverse range of beverages to enjoy surrounded by rolling hills and stunning scenery. The Vinteloper vineyard grows a variety of grape varieties, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling, which are used to produce a range of wines with unique and distinct flavours.

Lot 100 is also home to the Mismatch Brewery which produces a range of craft beers, using locally sourced ingredients and unique brewing methods. The brewery offers a range of beers, from crisp and refreshing sours to rich and flavorful stouts.

South Australia’s best cider is also made at Lot 100. The Hill Cider Company makes absolutely divine ciders. Sampling a few varieties with a tasting flight is a great option just make sure you have a designated driver because they can be quite high in alcohol content.

The fun doesn’t stop there! The 78 Degrees Gin distillery is one of the 5 parts that make up Lot 100 as it is the Ashton Valley Fresh juice company.

In addition to production facilities, Lot 100 also features a tasting room, where visitors can sample the venue’s range of wines, beers, gin, and cider, and learn about the production process. The tasting room is set in a beautifully restored historic barn, offering a unique and relaxed setting for beverage tastings and enjoyment.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, beer lover, gin aficionado, or cider drinker, Lot 100 has something to offer for everyone. With its commitment to quality and locally sourced ingredients and sustainable farming and production practices, enjoying a beverage here is the perfect way to taste the flavours of the Adelaide Hills.

Adelaide Hills Markets

The Adelaide Hills region of South Australia is home to several bustling markets, offering locals and visitors alike the opportunity to explore and experience the area’s rich culture, history, and local produce. Some of the popular markets in the Adelaide Hills include:

Stirling Market

The Stirling Market is held on Druid Street in the heart of Stirling. Stallholders offer a range of fresh produce for you to purchase, artisan chocolates, art, jewellery, handbags, local natural beauty products, plants, fashion, fresh produce & much more.

Hahndorf Pop Market

POP Market is all about supporting small businesses producing handmade and homemade items in South Australia. Products range from home decor, gifts for children, unique artwork, furniture, flowers & plants to something sweet after your Hahndorf lunch. Check upcoming dates here.

Country town pubs are always as unique as the town you find them in. The Uraidla Pub accurately being both the best and worst pub in town! Gone are the days when the best vegan option you could get at a pub was a garden salad, in a region famous for its food the bar is high and venues are great at catering to dietary needs.

Check out the vegan pub meals guide for the full list of pubs around Adelaide with great vegan options.

Strawberry Picking

At Beerenberg Strawberry Farm, you can experience the joy of hand-picking your own fresh strawberries! The farm has been owned by the Paech family for six generations and the name “Beerenberg” means Berry Hill in German, honouring their heritage.

Visitors are welcome to pick strawberries from November to April. Admission is $5 per person, and you pay $10.95 per kilogram for the berries you gather.

Before heading to the farm, it’s advisable to check their website for availability, as the berry patch may need to close during the day due to being picked out or unfavourable weather conditions. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savour the sweet, juicy goodness of fresh-picked strawberries!

Cherry Picking

Cherry picking is a popular activity in the Adelaide Hills during the cherry season, which typically takes place from late November to early January. The Adelaide Hills is home to many cherry orchards, where visitors can pick their own cherries or purchase freshly picked cherries from the farm gate.

Seasons & Events In The Adelaide Hills

Autumn In The Adelaide Hills

The most colourful time of year in Adelaide is autumn when the trees turn every shade imaginable of yellow, orange and red. Autumn in Adelaide is in March, April & May but it really takes until early April for the colours to really start to show.

This guide will take you through all the best places in and around Adelaide to see the autumn colours.

The English Ale – Mylor

This is undoubtedly the most unique and strangest experience I have had in The Adelaide Hills and quite possibly in the world! I visited Mylor on an afternoon in May and accidentally came across a festival known as The English Ale.

To celebrate the return of the “Jack In The Green” or the green season and the end of the hot dry summer and a procession of dancers and singers who are dressed in costumes that could be described as olden-day, silly and even spooky! The gathering ends in the burning of the wicker man – a figure made of sticks and wood.

The event is held each May.

Things To Do In The Adelaide Hills With Kids

Gumaracha giant rocking horse.

The 14-metre high giant rocking horse was built in 1981 by local wood craftsman, Rodney Jackson, and is one of the largest rocking horses in the world. It is located at the Gumeracha Toy Factory, which sells handmade wooden toys and souvenirs, and offers a museum that showcases the history of wooden toys in Australia.

Look For Mushrooms

Definitely not an experience that solely appeals to kids, exploring forests and gardens to find cute mushrooms is a fun activity for everyone. Kuitpo & Mt Crawford pine forests are good places to spot the amanits muscaria – a white spotty mushroom that looks like a cartoon. Here are some other varieties you may spot!

The best time to go foraging for mushrooms in the Adelaide Hills is during the rainy season, which typically runs from April to November. During this time, the forest floor is moist, and the environment is perfect for mushrooms to grow and prosper.

While some varieties of mushrooms are edible, there are also many that are deadly poisonous so only touch them under the guidance of an expert.

Fairy Garden Bridgewater

Take your kids for a walk to look for fairies! Heysen Trail Walk with Kids to the Fairy Garden, Bridgewater

Kuitpo Tree Climb

A brand new activity in the Adelaide Hills is the Kuitpo Forest Tree Climb . With a variety of treetop obstacles for kids and adults as well as ziplines, this is great for adventure lovers & thrill-seekers!

Where To Stay In The Adelaide Hills

Whether you’re seeking luxury or budget-friendly options, the Adelaide Hills region offers a range of accommodation options to suit all needs and preferences. With its beautiful scenery, rich history, and abundant natural resources, the Adelaide Hills are the perfect place to escape and experience the beauty of the outdoors.

• Hahndorf Oak Tree Cottages –
• Hahndorf Rest & Hahndorf Peace
• The Manna by Haus, Ascend Hotel Collection
• Mt Lofty Botanic Garden Studio
• The Stirling Golf Club
• Sticky Rice Villas
• The Manor Basket Range
• Aldgate Creek Cottage Bed and Breakfast
• Aldgate Valley Bed and Breakfast

The Adelaide Hills is famous for being a high-quality fruit-growing region and the wine from the Adelaide Hills is famous around the world. The historic german village of Hahndorf is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in South Australia.

March is a great time to visit Adelaide when the Adelaide Fringe Festival is on and the hot summer weather has cooled off making it perfect weather to explore. Late April and May is the best if you want to see the autumn colours and November is when Adelaide turns purple when the jacaranda trees bloom.

The top places to visit in the Adelaide Hills are Hahndorf, Mount Lofty summit & botanic gardens.

Surprisingly yes! The Adelaide Hills are not exactly an alpine region but in the depths of winter the weather is cold enough to deliver a light dusting to the Adelaide Hills on a rare occasion.

Hanhdorf is a historic German settlement and the residents are leaning in strongly to the German heritage with many bars and restaurants offering traditional German cuisine and beer.

April & May is the best time to see Hahndorf’s autumn leaves. You don’t want to miss this vibrant display!

Conclusion: Things To Do In The Adelaide Hills

Wow! There are SO many things to do in the Adelaide Hills and this is just scratching the surface. I hope you will love this beautiful region as much as I do and find many exciting things to do, see and eat.

If you have any questions or need help planning your trip send me an email – [email protected]

60+ Things To Do – Adelaide Hills

Located on the city’s eastern fringe, the Adelaide Hills is one of South Australia’s most beautiful areas. Home to quaint and tranquil towns, incredible produce, superb vistas, and plenty of activities, it’s a genuine must-visit area. But there’s so many things to do in the Adelaide Hills, that it’s difficult to discern the good from the bad. So if you’re looking for the best Adelaide Hills attractions, read on for our mega-post on the best things to do – Adelaide Hills. And be sure to visit each town’s Visitor Information Centre, detailing what’s on in the Adelaide Hills , local places to visit Adelaide Hills, and of course what to see in Adelaide Hills.

Table of Contents

Disclosure:  Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we will earn commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Things To Do - Adelaide Hills

There are countless amazing things to do in the Adelaide Hills. As local Adelaide Hill Billys, as we are commonly called, please enjoy this list we have put together. 

Visit The Beautiful Towns

There’s plenty of charming suburbs in Adelaide Hills. Visiting these little towns, suburbs, and villages is always fun, and they rank among the top attractions Adelaide Hills.

More Interested In Things To Do In Adelaide? Click Below

Just off the freeway.

These spectacular towns can be visited by simply exiting off the South Eastern Freeway on your way out from Adelaide. Starting closest to Adelaide you will find:

Crafers is one of the oldest settlements in the Adelaide Hills, and is one of the first townships you’ll come across heading south-east out of the city. It’s quiet, peaceful and green, home to a large historic pub known as Crafers Hotel. Crafers is also the gateway to Mount Lofty Summit, the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, Cleland Conservation Park, and Cleland Wildlife Park.

2. Stirling

A bit further up the road from Crafers, is the town of Stirling, one of the larger settlements in the Adelaide Hills area. One of the best things to do in Stirling is visit during Autumn (April-May), when the trees turn beautiful shades of orange and brown. Be sure to check out many of the historic mansions in town, and enjoy the easy access to both Mount Lofty, and the Cleland Park attractions.

3. Bridgewater

Home of the historic Bridgewater Mill an old flour mill, Bridgewater is filled with greenery and is a perfect places for families. The famous Bridgewater Inn is known for fantastic schnitzels and has amazing seating next to a creek for a perfect afternoon lunch.  Furthermore Bridgewater has fantastic walking trails, including the Heysen Trail and has a wonderful park for everyone to enjoy. 

4. Hahndorf

Hahndorf is probably the best known town in the Adelaide Hills, and for good reason. Founded by German settlers, it still retains a strong Germanic flavour. Sample the many German pubs, restaurants, and bakeries, visit the beautiful Lutheran churches, and enjoy the gorgeous old buildings – many still in marvellous condition! Hahndorf is an excellent destination for an organised day trip, like this Adelaide Hills, Hahndorf & Mount Lofty from Adelaide tour.

BOOK NOW – Adelaide Hills Tour

5. Mount Barker

Mount Barker is the largest town in the Adelaide Hills, with a bustling main street that’s packed with shops and historic buildings. Relax in the green spaces of Keith Stephenson Park, follow the Mount Barker Heritage Walk, take in the views at Mount Barker Summit, or explore the trails of Laratinga Wetlands. Once you’re done, head for the Prancing Pony Brewery or Ngeringa Vineyard for a refreshing beverage.

Further From The Freeway

It is definitely worth exploring deeper into the Adelaide Hills away from the freeway. These quintessential Hills towns and unique in their own character and full of things to do. Starting in the northern area of the Adelaide Hills and working south we have:

6. Birdwood

At the northern end of the Adelaide Hills, you’ll find the charming riverside town of Birdwood. Once an important stop heading inland along the River Torrens, today Birdwood is famous for the National Motor Museum. With a large collection of modern and classic cars (particularly Australian cars), the Museum is a must-visit for any car lover.

7. Lobethal

Located in the central Adelaide Hills area, Lobethal is another picturesque town established by 19th century German migrants. Its Germanic heritage can still be seen today, with a beautiful Lutheran church, the famed Lobethal Bierhaus, and a fantastic German bakery. Lobethal is also famous for its magnificent Christmas lights displays along the main street.

8. Woodside

Those looking for gourmet experiences in the Adelaide Hills should definitely prioritise visiting Woodside. Located in the eastern Hills, not far from Oakbank, Woodside is home to many fantastic food and wine stops. Highlights here include Melba’s Chocolate Factory, Woodside Cheese Wrights, and several great cafes in town. Just outside town, you’ll find fantastic wineries like Barrister’s Block, Bird In Hand, and Petaluma.

Just south of Lobethal is the little hamlet of Oakbank. Surrounded by excellent wineries like Cobb’s Hill Estate and Murdoch Hill, Oakbank is also home to Australia’s largest picnic horse race meeting, which takes place at Easter every year. Be sure to check out the Oakbank Heritage Walk, taking in the town’s historic sites, including an oak tree that’s over 150 years old!

10. Uraidla

Uraidla sits in a close pocket of Adelaide Hills close to Adelaide, not far from Cleland Conservation Park. Nestled amongst the vineyards, Uraidla is a great base for exploring many of the Hills’ great wineries, including Lofty Valley, Greenhill, and Barratt Wines. There’s also an impressive historic pub, the Uraidla Hotel, and the well-regarded Uraidla Brewery next door.

In addition to the towns mentioned above, there’s plenty of other great spots scattered throughout the Adelaide Hills area. For example, there’s sleepy Aldgate, home of the Aldgate Pump Hotel and Balhannah, with its iconic hotel and easy access to wineries. However, there are many more tiny, quaint towns that should also not be missed so get out there and explore the beauty of the Adelaide Hills.

Scenic Drives

Being a road trip website we of course needed to mention the beautiful scenic drives that are available in the Adelaide Hills

12. Onkaparinga Valley Scenic Drive – Hahndorf to Birdwood

One of the best scenic drives in the Adelaide Hills is the 34-kilometre stretch between Hahndorf to Birdwood, along the Onkaparinga Valley Road (Onkaparinga Valley Scenic Drive – B34). This route takes in countless wineries, roadside stalls and charming townships such as Verdun, Balhannah, Oakbank, Woodside, Charleston and Mount Torrens.

13. Torrens Valley Scenic Drive – Adelaide to Mount Pleasant

Leaving from the north-eastern suburb of Adelaide, Tea Tree Gully, you will head north east through beautiful Adelaide Hills towns. These include Inglewood, Gumeracha, Birdwood and Mount Pleasant. This drive then continues on to the Barossa Valley.

Heading Further North? Things To Do In The Barossa Valley

14. angas river scenic drive – stirling to strathalbyn.

The Angas River Scenic Drive between Stirling and Strathalbyn, which is 38 kilometres in length highlights the southern Adelaide Hills and the beginning of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Driving through the beautiful towns of Aldgate, Mylor, Biggs Flat, Echunga, Flaxley and Macclesfield, before arriving in Strathalbyn, you won’t be disappointed. 

Heading Further South? Things To Do On The Fleurieu Peninsula - COMING SOON

Sample delicious food and wine.

The Adelaide Hills area is renowned across the country for the exceptional quality of its food and wine. If you’re wondering what to do in the Adelaide Hills, visiting as many wineries in the Adelaide Hills as you can is a great place to start! But there’s more than just wine among the top Adelaide Hills things to do.

Adelaide Hills is home to some of Australia’s best wineries, and the cellar doors of the Hills are renowned across the country. But it’s not just wine! In recent years, a plethora of brewers and gin distillers have also sprung up.

15. Adelaide Hills Wineries

The best wineries in Adelaide Hills are scattered across the entire area, and although you’ll find all types of wine, the best drops here are cool climate wines (thanks to the elevation). In the Hahndorf area, be sure to visit Hahndorf Hill, and The Lane. In nearby Balhannah you’ll find the spectacular Shaw + Smith, perhaps the top winery in Adelaide Hills. At Woodside, be sure to visit Bird in Hand, while the tiny hamlet of Lenswood is home to both Pike & Joyce, and Mount Lofty Ranges Vineyard, some of the best wineries Adelaide Hills.

Overall, there are dozens of wineries in the Adelaide Hills – sometimes it’s best to just cruise around and drop in wherever takes your fancy! Many wineries also have excellent restaurants, so a winery lunch Adelaide Hills is also a popular choice. And if you’d prefer to avoid the hassle of driving (or choosing), there are plenty of winery tour Adelaide Hills businesses that can chauffeur you around between cellar door Adelaide Hills, uncovering the hidden gems.

Wanting A Wine Tour?

Here are a few options: Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf Food & Wine tour Adelaide Hills Hop-on Hop-off Wine Tour Hahndorf Guided Food and Wine E-Bike Tour .

16. Craft Beer

Craft beer has expanded rapidly in the past few years, as drinkers broaden their horizons beyond mass market beer. Naturally, there’s some fantastic craft breweries in the Adelaide Hills. Be sure to check out Prancing Pony Brewery in Totness, Lobethal Bierhaus in Lobethal, Gulf Brewery in Hahndorf, Uraidla Brewery in Uraidla, and Mismatch Brewing at Lot 100 in Hay Valley. Grab a tasting paddle and enjoy everything from crisp lagers to cloudy ales and chocolate stouts.

17. Cider & Gin

Gins and ciders are also both commonly distilled in the Adelaide Hills, thanks to the excellent climate and easy access to orchards. For gins, Ambleside Distillers in Hahndorf is one of the highlights, while Applewood Distillery is also perennially popular. If you’re a fan of cider, the best spots include The Hills Cider Company at Lot 100 in Hay Valley, Kersbrook Hill, and Paracombe Premium Perry in Paracombe.

Adelaide Hills is one of Australia’s premier farming regions, and a huge variety of top-quality produce and artisan foods is grown and made right here.

18. Melba's Chocolates

One of the real highlights of the Adelaide Hills is Melba’s Chocolate Factory, located in the historic Farmer’s Union Factory building in Woodside. Mostly utilising heritage chocolate-making machines, Melba’s is famous for classic style chocolates and lollies – many with a unique Australian twist. Take a factory tour, or just enjoy the storefront, complete with samples!

19. FruChocs

FruChocs are one of South Australia’s hidden delights. Highly popular within the state, but almost unknown outside of it, these little gems are chocolate-covered chunks of dried fruit (hence the name!). Typically made with apricot and peach, but also available in other fruit flavours like mango or cherry, FruChocs are tasty and very more-ish. Be sure to grab some while you’re in the Adelaide Hills from its Hahndorf store. (Not technically just avilable in the Adelaide Hills but far too good not to mention)

20. Beerenberg Strawberry Farm

Located just outside of Hahndorf is one of Australia’s favourite independent fruit companies: the Beerenberg Family Farm, which has produced jams and sauces for over 150 years. The shop has a great variety of things to taste and buy, while picking your own fresh strawberries direct from the patch is one of the best fun things to do in Adelaide Hills. Strawberry picking is in season generally from November through April.

21. Cherry Picking

If you’re not a fan of strawberries (you must be crazy), there’s plenty of cherry orchards in the Adelaide Hills as well, where you can pick cherries to your heart’s content. There’s plenty to choose from, particularly in the Lenswood area, but other highlights include Stella Creek Cherries, Marble Hill Cherries at Ashton, and Harben Vale Cherries near Balhannah. Cherry picking Adelaide Hills is seasonal, and best done in early summer (November through January).

22. Apple Picking in Lenswood

Fruit trees and orchards are never far away in the Adelaide Hills, and picking apples is another wonderful Adelaide Hills attraction. Many orchards are dotted around the entire Hills region, but highlights include Montacute Valley Orchards at Montacute, Harrisville Orchards in Lenswood, and Heritage Apple and Pear Orchard near Springfield. Apple picking generally happens around late autumn, typically in May though this varies slightly each year.

23. Udder Delights

The incredible range of foods on offer in the Adelaide Hills extends far beyond fruit and chocolate. Another highly popular product from the region is cheese, and Udder Delights in Hahndorf is well known as one of the best local cheesemakers. Home to a tasting room, shop, and one of the best cafes Adelaide Hills, there’s a huge variety of cheeses to choose from: soft and hard, sharp and mild, aged, blue, goat, fondue, and more.

24. Woodside Cheese Wrights

Another well-known cheesemaker in the Adelaide Hills is Kris Lloyd of Woodside Cheese Wrights, based in Woodside. There’s a huge selection of cheese here, in a variety of styles, along with condiments, accessories, and the ever-popular hampers too. Anyone with even a passing interest in cheese should absolutely drop in for a wedge or two!

25. Bakeries

Every country town in Australia has a fantastic bakery, and of course the Adelaide Hills region is no different. Serving all manner of breads, sweet and savoury treats, pies and sausage rolls, and much more besides, Adelaide Hills bakeries are some of the most highly regarded in Australia. Highlights include Lobethal Bakery, Balhannah Bakery, and of course Hahndorf Bakery with its superb German goodies.

26. High Tea

There’s nothing better for a relaxing afternoon than a spot of high tea, and there’s plenty of high tea in Adelaide Hills options. Graze on a delicious selection of sweet and savoury treats, sip your tea or coffee, and enjoy a glass of something a little stronger in one of the world’s most serene settings. High Teas are available at Glen Ewin Estate in Houghton, Udder Delights in Hahndorf, and at Oleaceae’s Mediterranean High Tea in Mount Barker.

27. Food & Wine Tours

With such an enormous selection of foods and wines to try in the region, booking an Adelaide Hills day trip can be a great option. A day tour of the Adelaide Hills allows you to fit more in, with no worries about choosing the best spots or drink-driving limits. So if you’re thinking of an Adelaide Hills tour, perhaps consider this Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf Food & Wine tour , this Adelaide Hills Hop-on Hop-off Wine Tour , or a Hahndorf Guided Food and Wine E-Bike Tour .

In many parts of Australia, pubs serve as de facto community centres where friendships are formed and stories shared over the course of a drink (or several!). Naturally, there’s many great pubs in Adelaide Hills region.

28. Stirling Hotel

Located in Stirling, the Stirling Hotel complex is a great example of an upmarket Australian country pub. Recently renovated to include boutique accommodation, a bistro, beautiful dining room (with private rooms available), wine cellars, and a patisserie, the Stirling Hotel is a great place for an Adelaide Hills lunch.

29. Bridgewater Inn

Photo Courtesy of Lili Zhou of Pod Camper Hire

Fans of beer gardens should definitely head for the Bridgewater Inn, located in a relaxing green space at Bridgewater. The large outdoor beer garden opens right onto Cox Creek and overlooks the popular Heysen Trail walking track. It’s a very relaxing and tranquil spot, serving tasty pub meals, wines, and great cocktails.

30. Stanley Bridge Tavern

The Stanley Bridge Tavern in the little hamlet of Verdun is an iconic classic pub. With heavy sandstone walls, roaring fireplaces, plenty of outdoor space, and a modern dining area, it’s a great pub to have lunch or dinner. The fare is mostly classic Australian pub grub, like steaks, schnitzels, burgers, and salads.

31. Uraidla Hotel

Uraidla Hotel is among the older venues still operating in the Adelaide Hills, and has been a licensed pub since 1867! The pub itself is a pleasing jumble of rooms and spaces, with a variety of styles including classic colonial and art deco. There’s a huge outdoor space for kids, including a playground, and it’s pet friendly as well, making it one of the best pubs in Adelaide Hills.

32. Crafers Hotel

One of Adelaide’s first pubs, Crafers Hotel was first established in 1839. It still stands today as a sandstone colonial building, with a fully refurbished heritage interior. There’s an extensive food and wine menu, cocktails, and boutique accommodation rooms on the upper floors. It’s a great place to visit in the Adelaide Hills, and is highly regarded as one of the best pubs in the area.

33. Lobethal Bierhaus

Lobethal Bierhaus is one of the Hills’ top craft breweries. Standing on the main street corner in Lobethal, the Bierhaus is a fascinating blend of brewpub and restaurant. Try a tasting paddle of house beers, or just grab your favourite pint and head for the excellent in-house restaurant, considered as one of the best places to eat in the Adelaide Hills.

Restaurants

With so much fantastic produce available, the Adelaide Hills has a well-deserved reputation for excellent restaurants. Many restaurants work exclusively with local suppliers for their produce, with clearly evident results on the plate! Let’s check out the top restaurants in the Adelaide Hills.

34. Lot 100

One of the best Adelaide Hills dining experiences can be found at the Lot 100 collective in Hay Valley. Focused entirely on local produce, including wines, beers, ciders and gins from local makers, it’s a fine-dining experience unlike any other. There’s also a relaxed courtyard dining area, serving wood-fired pizzas and antipasto platters, making for one of the best winery restaurants Adelaide Hills.

35. Lost In A Forest

Located in an old church in Uraidla, Lost in a Forest is a combination wine bar and pizzeria. With a large wood oven for truly authentic pizzas, the menu covers everything from traditional fare to unusual options like bahn mi pizza! There’s also an extensive local wine list, making it a fantastic spot for an intimate lunch or dinner, and one of the best restaurants in Adelaide Hills.

36. Fred Eatery

In Aldgate, you’ll find FRED Eatery, a buzzing cafe and restaurant spread out across several dining areas. With a focus on locally-sourced produce and quick, friendly service, FRED Eatery is one of the best places for brunch in the Adelaide Hills. Lovers of homewares will also enjoy the FRED Living homewares shop right next door.

37. Patch Kitchen & Garden

Located in a history 19th century villa near Stirling, Patch Kitchen is a great spot to explore the seasonal produce of the Adelaide Hills. With a frequently changing menu and fresh, healthy local produce, it’s no wonder that Patch Kitchen & Garden is a local favourite. Patch serves up a full-day breakfast menu, and a separate lunch menu, along with a separate and highly-regarded kids menu. Note that Patch only opens Friday through Monday.

38. Miss Perez

Sitting in the heart of Stirling township, Miss Perez offers a great fusion of modern Australian, Spanish, and Latin American cooking. Produce is all sourced from local suppliers, while the drinks menu is likewise provided by local breweries and wineries. If you’re looking for a great place to eat in the Adelaide Hills, Miss Perez is definitely an excellent choice.

Taking a cooking class is an excellent way to try out new styles and cuisines. There’s some fantastic options in the Adelaide Hills, and it’s one of the more fun things to do in the Adelaide Hills.

39. Thai Cooking Class

Thai food has become one of Australia’s favourite cuisines in recent years, and learning to make delicious Thai dishes is a real treat. This Thai Cooking Class in the Adelaide Hills , located in Stirling, is a great place to brush up your skills, or learn something totally new. Classes last around four hours, and naturally, you get to eat your hard work at the end!

BOOK NOW – Thai Cooking Class

40. Olive Branch Balhannah

The delightful Olive Branch Cafe in Balhannah runs cooking classes for kids during school holiday periods. Aimed largely at primary school aged kids, the classes teach kitchen basics in a supervised environment. Enjoyable and practical, it’s definitely one of the best things to do with kids in the Adelaide Hills.

Walks & Lookouts

With its beautiful rolling hills, wide green spaces, expansive views, and charming towns, Adelaide Hills is a great place to get out and about. There’s some excellent walks in Adelaide Hills, ranging from easy to challenging.

41. Mount Lofty Summit

Most popular of the walking trails Adelaide Hills is Mount Lofty Summit, highest point in the area at over 700 metres. Drive to the top and enjoy the view, before tackling one of the many walking trails in the area. Highlights include the short Discovery Walk just below the top, the 3 hour Steub Trail, or head back to Crafers via the Mount Lofty Link Trail (4.5 kilometres, approx 2.5 hours). Getting amongst nature is always fun, and ranks highly among the free things to do in Adelaide Hills.

42. Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Walk

Another local favourite is the climb from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty. It’s about 4.5 kilometres each way, and takes about 2.5 hours to traverse. Starting from Waterfall Gully, the trail climbs steeply upward through the ranges, with some quite challenging sections, before finally emerging at the summit.

43. Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens

The Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens at Crafers is a wonderful environment, with a huge variety of trees, plants, and flowers. There’s some great walks here too, including the scenic Lakeside Trail, the rugged Nature Trail, and the relaxing Valley View Walk.

44. Laratinga Wetlands Walk

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Mount Barker, the Laratinga Wetlands are home to several great walking trails in the Adelaide Hills. With flat gradients, pleasant vistas and several bird-watching opportunities, the Laratinga Wetlands are an excellent spot for a chilled out walk.

45. Hahndorf Heritage Walk

Historic Hahndorf is one of the best places to visit in the Adelaide Hills. Follow the Hahndorf Heritage Walk through the town, learning about Hahndorf’s German heritage and how each building has been preserved. The walk takes less than an hour, features some of the nicest things to see in Adelaide Hills, and free brochures are available from the Visitor Information Centre.

46. Woorabinda Wetlands

Just south of Stirling, you’ll find the Woorabinda Bushland Reserve, complete with lake, forests, and wetlands. It’s a gorgeous piece of bushland, and is criss-crossed by various walking trails of varying lengths. Grab a map and set out into the park, taking as long as you like!

47. Walk the Heysen Trail

The Heysen Trail is Australia’s longest dedicated walking trail, clocking in at a colossal 1,200 kilometres. It passes through several areas of the Adelaide Hills, and there’s some great short walks you can do in the area along it. The best section is the Mount Lofty Loop Walk which takes in the Mount Lofty Summit, Cleland Conservation Park, and the Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens.

Australia’s unique animals have always been a tourist drawcard. Seeing koalas and kangaroos up close is a genuine highlight of any trip, and there’s some great opportunities in the Adelaide Hills.

48. Cleland Wildlife Park

The highlight of animal watching in the Adelaide Hills is definitely Cleland Wildlife Park, part of the larger Cleland Conservation Area, and the closest thing to a zoo in Adelaide Hills. With only a few enclosures, you’ve got the opportunity to see animals like koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes, snakes, and echidnas, all in their native environment. Hand feeding sessions and animal keeper talks are also available.

Cleland Tour Options

There’s plenty of great tour options available for visiting Cleland Wildlife Park. Some options include this Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park , a Summit Hike & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit , or this Cleland Wildlife Park Experience with Mount Lofty Summit .

49. Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary

Tucked away at Mylor, south of Stirling, is the impressive Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary. A large reservation for native Australian animals, Warrawong is home to koalas, platypus, dingoes, cockatoos, and plenty of others. Hands-on experiences are available, along with keeper talks and displays.

50. Gorge Wildlife Park

Up north, at Cudlee Creek, you’ll find the Gorge Wildlife Park. This privately-owned animal sanctuary is home to many Australian favourites, including echidnas, koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils, and plenty of international favourites too. With affordable prices, Gorge Wildlife Park is definitely one of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills.

Looking For More Action

Adelaide Hills has long been a playground for fit and active Adelaide residents looking to escape the city. As you’d expect, there’s plenty of Adelaide Hills attractions for those in search of a little adrenaline!

51. Abseiling in the Adelaide Hills

With plenty of cliffs, rock faces and overhangs, Adelaide Hills is a favoured spot for abseiling. If you’re looking to get fit and enjoy the fresh mountain air while learning (or practising!) abseiling, this Abseiling in the Adelaide Hills experience is a perfect option. It’s one of the many fun things to do in the Adelaide Hills.

BOOK NOW – Abseiling in the Adelaide Hills

52. Eagle Mountain Bike Park

Eagle Mountain Bike Park, located at Leawood Gardens just near Crafers, offers 21 kilometres of cross country mountain bike trails. Also featuring a downhill trail, a jumps park, trials area, and a skills development park, it’s great fun for anyone on two wheels.

53. Amy Gillett Bikeway

Running for approximately 17 kilometres between Oakbank and Mount Torrens, the Amy Gillett Bikeway is a dedicated cycling and pedestrian path along a disused rail line. Named in memory of Amy Gillett, a champion cyclist and rower, the Bikeway meanders pleasantly through the countryside of the Adelaide Hills. The path is mainly flat, and offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities – one of the top cycling things to do in the Adelaide Hills.

For The Kids

With all of the wineries, breweries and distilleries, you could be forgiven for thinking that the Adelaide Hills was mostly focused on adults. But that’s not the case! There’s plenty of things to do in the Adelaide Hills with kids.

54. The Big Rocking Horse

Building Big Things near the highway is an Australian tradition, and the Big Rocking Horse at Gumeracha is one of the most impressive. Built in 1981, the 18 metre tall Horse was designed to attract passers-by to a nearby wooden toy factory. The toy factory is still in operation, and has a wide range of hand-crafted toys available for purchase.

55. Hahndorf Farm Barn

For city kids, encountering farm animals can be a real treat. At the Hahndorf Farm Barn, they’ll have the opportunity to see farm animals up close, including cows, sheep, ponies, chickens, goats, and others. Pony and donkey rides are available, along with hands-on activities like cow milking and python holding.

56. Woodhouse Activity Centre

Physically active kids will love the Woodhouse Activity Centre, located at Woodhouse near Crafers. Featuring a range of activities like orienteering, waterslides, mazes, obstacle courses, and disc golf, Woodhouse Activity Centre is one of the top things to do in Adelaide Hills with kids.

57. Strawberry Picking at Beerenberg

Beerenberg Farm near Hahndorf is one of Australia’s most popular independent jam and preserves makers. Their farm features a large strawberry patch, where kids both young and old can pick strawberries to their hearts’ content. It’s relaxing and educational, and fun for all ages, though note that picking is seasonal – usually from November through April.

58. Birdwood National Motor Museum

Located in Birdwood, the National Motor Museum provides great entertainment for both young kids and big kids alike. With a particular focus on the history of Australian made cars, there’s plenty of exhibits and rare cars to see, from early 1900s antique cars through to a Bugatti Veyron, the world’s fastest production car.

59. SteamRanger Heritage Railway

There’s nothing quite like the puffing excitement of a heritage steam train, and there’s no better way to experience the magic than on the SteamRanger Heritage Railway. With regular tours running from Mount Barker across the Adelaide Hills south to Victor Harbor and back, taking a ride on a vintage steam train is a great day out for the whole family.

60. The Fairy Garden In Hahndorf

The Hahndorf Fairy Garden is a magical spot for kids to explore, with all manner of nooks and crannies devoted to all things fairy. There’s grottoes, gardens, plants, and more, so it’s a great place for kids to ignite their imaginations. There’s a cafe on site, and a gift shop too, selling all sorts of fairy gifts and items.

Arts and Crafts

The Adelaide Hills has a long connection with the art world, and has hosted many artists over the years. There’s still a real passion for art among the community here, and there’s plenty of interesting Adelaide Hills attractions for art lovers.

61. The Cedars

The Cedars is the home and studio of Sir Hans Heysen (and his daughter Nora Heysen), two of Australia’s most respected painters. Sitting on well-manicured grounds just outside Hahndorf, and with a large garden planted by Sir Hans himself, The Cedars is a treasure trove of art history. Wandering through the house and inspecting the studio is a fantastic experience, and a must-do for any art lover.

62. The Aboriginal Art House

Aboriginal Australian culture is the oldest culture on the planet, dating back as far as 60,000 years. Experiencing and understanding Aboriginal art is crucially important, and the Aboriginal Art House in Hahndorf is a great starting point. With a large variety of works on display, the Aboriginal Art House serves as a fantastic learning experience for Aboriginal culture, and is a unique experience in the Adelaide Hills.

With such a relaxing environment, it’s no surprise that Adelaide Hills is home to many day spas and beauty businesses. It’s a fantastic location for a day of pampering, and there’s no shortage of places to choose from.

63. Day Spas

Highlights include Hahndorf Creek Day Spa, with a full range of massage, spa, and treatment packages available. Senses Day Spa in Hahndorf offers various spa, sauna, pool and massage options, while Cocos Hair & Day Spa in Stirling has an excellent range of hair, nail, massage and tanning choices, all in a historic stone mansion.

Elsewhere in Stirling is Yogi-Veda, home of various Ayurvedic Massage and day spa treatments. At Aldgate you’ll find Breathe Indulgence & Beauty, specialising in couples and group massages, while Mount Lofty House offers a range of massages and treatments at one of the top hotels in the Adelaide Hills.

Make A Weekend Of It

If you’d prefer to make a weekend of it, there’s plenty of great overnight luxury accommodation in the Adelaide Hills. With this package , you can stay at Mount Lofty House in a Piccadilly Garden Room, enjoy sparkling wine on arrival, plus a country club breakfast and spa credits, or upgrade to a Valley View Room with this package . Another romantic option is this Overnight Luxury Villa Stay with a Private Chef , including a champagne breakfast, rose petal bed, and your choice of villa accommodation. These are all superb, romantic accommodation in Adelaide Hills choices.

Looking for other accommodation options? Check out these: Adelaide Hills B&Bs Adelaide Hills Caravan Parks

Final Thoughts

Well there you have it. A HUGE list of things to do in the Adelaide Hills. If you can’t find something that interests you there I am not sure where you can. In saying that if we have missed somewhere that you love please reach out and let us know. We would love to include it. You can contact us at [email protected].

Other Info on the ADELAIDE HILLS - Check It Out!

Other Areas of SA - Check Them Out!

Must-see attractions in Adelaide Hills

Adelaide Hills

Wow! What a cool building, and what a fabulous setting. Camera-conducive views and contemporary varietals (viognier, pinot grigio, pinot gris), plus an…

Mt Lofty Summit

From Cleland Wildlife Park you can bushwalk (2km) or drive up to Mt Lofty Summit (a surprising 727m), which has show-stopping views across the Adelaide…

Belair National Park

From Crafers, follow Upper Sturt Rd 10km west and you'll come to South Australia's oldest national park, established in 1891 (…also making it just the…

Cleland Wildlife Park

Within the steep Cleland Conservation Park, this place lets you interact with all kinds of Australian beasts. There are keeper talks and feeding sessions…

Pike & Joyce

High on a hill behind Lenswood (itself behind Lobethal), Pike & Joyce is an architectural doozy, with rammed-earth walls, jaunty corrugated-iron roof…

Big Rocking Horse

Gumeracha's main attraction is climbing the 18.3m-high Big Rocking Horse, which doesn't actually rock, but is unusually tasteful as far as Australia's …

National Motor Museum

Behind an impressive 1852 stone flour mill in Birdwood, the National Motor Museum has a collection of 300-plus immaculate vintage, modern and classic cars…

Mt Lofty Botanic Garden

From Mt Lofty, truck south 1.5km to the cool-climate slopes of this botanic garden. Nature trails wind past a lovely looking lake, exotic temperate plants…

Bird in Hand

Brilliant pinot rosé (as consumed at Wimbledon!), plus shiraz, merlot and blends, and an olive-oil press. Regular concerts in summer (Missy Higgins, John…

Deviation Road

Nothing deviant about the wines here: sublime pinot noir, substantial shiraz, zingy pinot gris and a very decent bubbly too. Grab a cheese platter and…

Shaw & Smith

Picture-perfect Mt Lofty Ranges and lake views almost steal the show at this mod winery, run by two cousins. Outstanding chardonnays and sauvignon blancs…

Nepenthe Wines

Homer described 'nepenthe' as a potion to ease grief and banish sorrow from the mind. Accordingly, Nepenthe Wines bring great happiness, especially the…

Beerenberg Strawberry Farm

Pick your own strawberries between November and April from this famous, family-run farm, also noted for its myriad jams, chutneys and sauces. Last entry…

Cleland Conservation Park

Clambering up the slopes from the foothills to Mt Lofty, this conservation park has some steep bushwalking trails through tall eucalyptus forest and cool…

Hahndorf Academy

This 1857 building houses an art gallery with rotating exhibitions and original sketches by Sir Hans Heysen, famed landscape artist and Hahndorf homeboy;…

Laratinga Wetlands

Laratinga is the Peramangk name for Mt Barker Creek, now corralled into a thriving man-made wetlands (constructed in 1999) that's become a real haven for…

Golding Wines

Inside a large stone longhouse behind Lobethal, fronted by neat Italianate parterre gardens, Golding scores big on aesthetics and cool-climate classics:…

You'll see more than 300 of legendary landscape painter Sir Hans Heysen's original doodles on a tour through his former studio and house, 2km northwest of…

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Accommodation in the Adelaide Hills

Where to stay in the adelaide hills.

There’s romance in the air in the Adelaide Hills. Begin your adventure just 20 minutes from Adelaide's CBD, explore further afield, then tuck yourself into a cosy retreat for the night. Nestled among leafy canopies, down winding lanes and in lush, leafy towns, you'll find boutique hotels and cottages , contemporary holiday homes, winery accommodation, a historic mansion and even a hand-built Gothic castle . Ramp things up by venturing off-grid to eco retreats, caravan and camping expereinces. Discover award-winning properties in stunning Adelaide Hills towns such as Aldgate, Hahndorf, Balhannah, Oakbank and Stirling. 

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Visitor Information

If you're after some assistance or advice while planning your visit to the Adelaide Hills or once you are already in region we have a network of visitor information outlets where brochures and maps can be sourced. We pride ourselves on passionate local operators who are always there to lend a hand with local tips!

Mount Lofty Summit Visitor Information and Gift Shop

Whether you phone, email or visit, the friendly staff and volunteers at the Mount Lofty Summit Visitor Information and Gift Shop will engage with you, inspire you, help you with bookings, and share the tips and stories that will make your visit even better.

The outlet provides a professionally managed and non-profit service run purely to enhance your visitor experience and grow local tourism in the region. The outlet is run by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of South Australia.

Staff and volunteers (mostly locals) are well-trained and passionate about the Adelaide Hills region.

Visitor services include:

a limited souvenir and retail range

visitor information (including brochures and maps) for the Adelaide Hills and South Australia

local and regional tourism and business information

Opening hours:

The Mount Lofty Summit Visitor Information and Gift Shop is open to 9am to 5pm daily including weekends and public holidays (closed Christmas Day).

Location and contact details:

Mount Lofty Visitor Information and Gift Shop Mount Lofty Summit Road, Crafers

Other Visitor Information Outlets in the Adelaide Hills

Mount Barker Community Library, Mount Barker Dumas Street, Mount Barker

Stirling Library, Stirling Adelaide Hills Library Service (Coventry) 63 Mount Barker Road, Stirling