Are you looking for things to do in the Adelaide Hills? There’s a lot to choose from – fabulous wine, gourmet food, bushwalks, wildlife, art and history. The tree-lined main streets of the English style villages glow with autumn colour and the parks and gardens are the perfect place to relax with a picnic lunch. Put together by Adelaide Hills locals, this guide of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills has something for foodies, families or couples looking for a romantic weekend getaway.
Featured Image: Golding Wines © Adelaide Hills Wine Region
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Contents
- Day Trip to Mount Lofty
- Hahndorf Village
- National Motor Museum
- Adelaide Hills Wine, Beer + Spirits
- Adelaide Hills Restaurants, Pubs + Cafes
- Adelaide Hills Walks
- Things to do in Adelaide Hills for Families
- Adelaide Hills Farmgate Experiences
- Adelaide Art and Craft
- Adelaide Hills Markets
- Adelaide Hills Events and Festivals
- Places to Stay in the Adelaide Hills
Getting to the Adelaide Hills
One of the best things about the Adelaide Hills is that they are as little as 20 minutes from the city. And despite the short drive, the Adelaide Hills can feel like a world away from metropolitan Adelaide. The easiest way to get to the Adelaide Hils is up the South Eastern Freeway. From the bottom of the freeway, you can be in the popular towns of Stirling, Crafers, Aldgate and Hahndorf in 15 to 20 minutes.
Gorge Road or Norton Summit Road offer alternate routes to northern Adelaide Hills towns like Gumeracha, Birdwood and Lobethal. While they are slower and windier drives, the scenery is great and there are farm gates and cosy cafes to stop at along the way.
Adelaide Hills FAQs
What is the Weather like in the Adelaide Hills?
Summer – Daily average temperatures range from 16 to 28 degrees but daytime temperatures in the high 30s are possible. The Hills are always cooler than metropolitan Adelaide. It is a great time to relax at a vine-shaded Adelaide Hills winery.
Spring – Daily average temperatures range from 10 to 23 degrees. This is the perfect time to see newborn wildlife at Cleland Conservation Park or wildflowers on an Adelaide Hils walk.
Winter – Daily average temperatures range from 5 to 12 degrees, and it can be wet and foggy even if the sun is shining in town. Settle in front of an open fire at the Stirling or Crafers Hotel or try some freshly roasted chestnuts at the Stirling markets.
Autumn – Daily average temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees. Autumn is one of the most popular times to visit the hills as towns and gardens glow with autumn colour. The main streets of Stirling and Hahndorf and the Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens are the best places to see the red, yellow and orange show.
Public transport is a great option for a day trip to the Adelaide Hills. Regular bus services run to popular Adelaide Hills towns like Crafers, Stirling and Aldgate.
Buses run regularly to the German heritage town of Hahndorf too.
You can also get a bus from Crafers to Cleland Conservation Park.
Autumn is a spectacular time to visit the Adelaide Hills but don’t jump in the car on March 1 and expect to see colour! The foliage fireworks are at their best from mid to late April. If you are planning a trip to a Hills autumn hot spot like Mt Lotfy Botanic Gardens or Stirling, get an early start as it can get very busy later in the day.
Why should I visit the Adelaide Hills?
The Adelaide Hills is a perfect location for a day trip from Adelaide or a long weekend getaway. There is food, wine, walks, free things to do and lots of family friendly activities. Best of all, the Adelaide Hills are close to the city so easy to get to.
Playgrounds in the Adelaide Hills
If you are a family looking for things to do in the Adelaide Hills, there are some great playgrounds. Bring lunch or pop into a bakery or café for supplies then let the kids run around while you relax.
- Steamroller Park Stirling – Popular playground right by the roundabout as you come off the freeway. Close to cafes and shops. Toilets. Prety spot in autumn.
- Bridgewater Mill Playground – Lovely playground between a creek and Bridgewater Mill. There’s a café there and the Bridgewater Inn if you get thirsty.
- Johnston Memorial Park Balhannah – Either run the kids ragged on the pretty tree-lined oval or have a go on the playground. The bakery across the road is excellent!
- Lobethal Bushland Park on Kenton Valley Road – the first of a couple of fantastic nature playgrounds. Lots of sliding, climbing, swinging fun to be had or walk along one of the bush trails.
- Kersbrook Playground – this new playground has lots of open space, a natural timber-look and a long flying fox. Lots of open space to kick or hit a ball too.
See more family friendly things to in the Adelaide Hills further down.
Cycling in the Adelaide Hills
On any weekend you’ll see plenty of cyclists riding through the hills but you don’t have to be part of the Lycra army to have fun on two wheels.
Eagle Mountain Bike Park
If you prefer your cycling to be more off road, check out Eagle Mountain Bike Park. Located on the eastern slope of the ranges, there are over 20 kilometres of cross country trails. You can also try out the purpose built downhill track and a jumps park. There is something for all ability levels. You’ll find the park on Mount Barker Road (the old freeway)
Amy Gillett Bikeway
For an easier ride, or even a walk, a great way to see some hills countryside is the Amy Gillet Bikeway. The 16km one way path runs between the picturesque towns of Oakbank and Mount Torrens. The sealed path, despite being in the hills, never gets beyond a gentle gradient. There are plenty of opportunities along the way for coffee stops. Spring and autumn would be the pick of the seasons for giving it a try.
Day Trip to Mount Lofty
Mount Lofty Summit
If you want to begin your visit to the Adelaide Hills on a high note, this is the place to do it. Mount Lofty summit has great views across Adelaide to York Peninsula. You can relax at the Summit Café and have the best seat in Adelaide for the sunset. There is also a visitor centre that has loads of information on the region. Also keep an eye out for koalas, black cockatoos, kangaroos and bandicoots in the area.
At 727m in height you can occasionally get a flake or two of snow on the ground in winter. If you are going to the summit for a sunset, take a jacket because it is quite a bit cooler here than on the Adelaide Plains. If you are any sort of weather watcher, Mt Lofty is a great spot to see southerly cool changes coming towards the city. It is not uncommon to see some fearless photographers set up here to get a lightening shot as storm fronts approach.
- Cleland Wildlife Park & Mount Lofty Summit Day Tour See Koalas, Kangaroos, Emus, Echidnas, Scenic Lookout
Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens
These compact, cool climate gardens are beautiful all year round. There are two entry points that take you to either the Upper or Lower Carparks. The Lower Carpark on Piccadilly Road is the more popular option. It provides easy access to the feature lake and the grassed picnic area. The lake walk is one of the best places in the Adelaide Hills to see displays of red, yellow and orange autumn leaves. In early spring, Magnolia Gully is a lovely walk too.
From the Upper Carpark there are scenic walks down to the lake but getting back to your car can get you puffing. Follow Rhododendron, Fern, South American, Southeast Asian and West Asian Gully walks along creeks and over bridges. The water features, sculptures and range of plants that can grow here make it a spectacular place. There are a couple of toilet blocks, picnic facilities and a pop-up café in the lower carpark. Give yourself a good half day to look around.
Opens at 8.30am daily. Check closing times which vary on weekends and across the year.
Cleland Wildlife Park
Cleland Wildlife Park is 5 minutes from the Mount Lofty summit. It is a wonderful place to have a native animal experience. There are a few enclosures, but the park is mostly open range. Red kangaroos, Grey kangaroos and beautiful Kangaroo Island kangaroos graze in the open and most are happy to be hand fed. The yellow footed rock wallaby exhibit is one of our favourites. The highlight of your visit will be spotting the many little potoroos. They are everywhere and are super cute and can be hand fed. The doe-eyed Tamar wallabies are hard to resist too.
There are keeper talks throughout the day. You can also do a range of interactive experiences with wombats, koalas, cockatoos and butterflies (all at extra cost). We did an echidna feeding, it was great fun – you won’t soon forget hand feeding an echidna as it sits on your lap! If you have never seen a koala up close, you’ll see lots here and have a chance to hold one too. The Barking Gecko Cafe has lots of yummy snacks and there is a picnic area too. It is an easy and relaxing place to spend a day.
The park is open from 9.30am to 5.00pm – last entry 4.30pm. It is closed on Christmas Day and days of catastrophic fire danger.
- Cleland Wildlife Park & Mount Lofty Summit Day Tour See Koalas, Kangaroos, Emus, Echidnas, Scenic Lookout
Hahndorf Village
Hahndorf is one of the most popular attractions in the Adelaide Hils. The main street is a full-on celebration of the town’s German heritage. From the architecture and art galleries to bakeries and pubs serving pork knuckles, sauerkraut and schnitzels, the place has an unmistakable German flavour.
The main street has every type of shop you can imagine. You’ll see everything from antiques and gourmet food to clothing, craft and giftware. In autumn, see the lovely old buildings framed by rows of trees changing colour. Hahndorf has something for everyone. Doing a lap of the main street will keep you busy for hours!
- Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf Day Tour – Visit Mount Lofty Summit, Botanic Gardens + Wine, Beer, Cheese & Chocolate
- Hahndorf Half Day Tour – Visit Mount Lofty Summit, Beerenberg Strawberry Farm & Hahndorf Village for Afternoon Tea
- Hahndorf Food & Wine e-Bike Tour – Visit Beerenberg & Wineries as you wind you way along county roads. Picnic Lunch
- Mystery Picnic – Solve clues and fill your picnic basket as you explore the Adelaide Hills
Beerenberg Strawberry Farm
Beerenberg Farm is minutes from Hahndorf’s bustling main street and is heaven for strawberry lovers. From November to April, you can go into the strawberry fields and pick delicious, juicy strawberries. It is a fun family activity. In late 2021, Beerenberg opened an impressive expansion to its farm shop. Now, all under one big roof, you have the shop with all its lovely jams, sauces and relishes, two cafes – one for sweet and one for savoury treats, a demo kitchen and the Beerenberg Museum. It is a fantastic foodie hub, their sweet café is awesome!
Beerenberg is open 7 days a week, 9.00am to 5.00pm. It is closed on Christmas Day.
Read More : Read our full guide of things to do in Hahndorf
National Motor Museum
The Adelaide Hills is not only a destination for food and wine lovers. The pretty town of Birdwood is 60 minutes from Adelaide and home to the National Motor Museum. It has a collection of around 400 vehicles and hosts a range of special exhibitions. There is a significant motoring library and a huge range of motoring memorabilia on display. Petrol heads will love it!
The museum doesn’t just have cars of yesteryear. It also has unique contemporary vehicles you might not see anywhere else in the world. Check out the amazing Bugatti Veyron, one of world’s most expensive cars with a top speed over 400 kph. Regardless of which car make you are loyal to, put aside a good day to explore all that the museum has on offer. It is well worth keeping an eye on their website to keep track of their latest special displays.
The National Motor Museum is open daily 10 -5, closed on Christmas Day.
Adelaide Hills Wine, Beer + Spirits
One of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills visiting one of the 60 wineries in the region. The hills and valleys not only create the perfect conditions for cool climate wines, but they are also a beautiful backdrop for the cellar doors that have sweeping balconies or airy viewing spaces so you can take in the views. Some of the most popular varieties in the region include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
Adelaide Hills Winery Tours
Do want to really enjoy your day in the Adelaide Hills? Going on a guided winery tour is one of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills with a chauffeur andexpert advice it is a stress free experience.
Adelaide Hills Winery Tours
- Adelaide Hills Cellar Door Day Tour – Visit some of the best wineries in the hills along with cheese tasting & lunch
- Adelaide Hills Full Day Winery Tour + Tastings – Explore Crafers, Stirling, Hahndorf and the Bridgewater Mill
- Hahndorf Food & Wine e-Bike Tour – Visit Beerenberg & Wineries as you wind you way along county roads. Picnic Lunch
- Adelaide Hills Hop on Hop Off Tour – With City Pick Up. Visit historic Hahndorf & choose from 8-10 winery stops
Adelaide Hills Wineries
There is no way we could mention all the wineries in the Adelaide Hills – there are just too many! Below are a few of our favourites. They all offer something different from great dining experinces, unique settings and family-friendly atmosphere.
Barristers Block Wines
Location: Woodside
Open: Mon-Sun 10.30am-5pm
Cellar Door : Rustic Barn Setting
Restaurant: Gourmet Pizza
Light Meals: Grazing Platters
Family Friendly: Farm Animals, Deers, Birdlife, Large Garden
Other: Accommodation,Functions
Nepenthe
Location: Balhannah
Open: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Cellar Door : Rolling Hills Views
Restaurant: No
Light Meals: Picnics + Platters
Family Friendly: No
Other: New Cellar Door Development
K1 by Geoff Hardy
Location: Kuitpo
Open: Mon-Sun 11am-5pm
Cellar Door : Lakehouse + Deck
Restaurant: No
Light Meals: Cheese Platters
Family Friendly: No
Other: Functions, Weddings
Cobbs Hill Estate
Location: Oakbank
Open: M-Th-F 12-6 + S-S 11-6
Cellar Door : Homestead
Restaurant: No
Light Meals: Picnics & Platters
Family Friendly: Large Garden
Other: Guided Walks, Functions & Accommodation
Mount Lofty Ranges Vineyard
Location: Lenswood
Open: Mon-Sun 11am-5pm
Cellar Door : Views of the Ranges
Restaurant: 2 or 3 Course Option
Light Meals: Summer Wine Bar
Family Friendly: No
Other: Events & Functions
Howard Vineyard
Location: Nairne
Open: Wed-Sun 10am-5pm
Cellar Door : Rustic Stone Barn
Restaurant: Asian-Fusion Menu
Light Meals: Bar Menu
Family Friendly: Large Lawn Area
Other: Accommodation, Live Music & Functions
Bird in Hand
Location: Woodside
Open: M-F 10-5 + S-S 11-5
Cellar Door : Closed for Reno
Restaurant: Seasonal Degustation
Light Meals: Regional Platters
Family Friendly: Large Garden
Other: Live Music, Art Gallery & Sculpture, Private Tasting Room
Golding Wines
Location: Lobethal
Open: Mon-Sun 11am-5pm
Cellar Door : Old Stone Barn
Restaurant: Seasonal Produce
Light Meals: Wood-fired Pizza, Picnic Baskets
Family Friendly: Children’s menu
Other: Woven Tasting Net, Wine Safaris, Picnic Experiences
The Lane Vineyard
Location: Hahndorf
Open: Mon-Sun 10am-4pm
Cellar Door : Modern + Hills Views
Restaurant: 5 Course Provenance Lunch, 7 Course Chefs Table
Light Meals: Harvest Menu, Picnics
Family Friendly: Picnic Tables
Other: Golf Tee, Estate Picnics
Adelaide Hills Distilleries
If like distilleries, there are a few to try in the Adelaide Hills. Two of the most popular are Applewood Distillery in Gumeracha and Ambleside Distillers in Hahndorf. At Applewood there are distillery tours and door sales. A highlight of your stop is relaxing at their beautiful cellar door and trying a tasting flight of their gin. Applewood in Hahndorf is also a beautiful place. Relaxing on the deck in the lovely gardens tasting gin isn’t a bad way to spend an afternoon. If you want to take your gin appreciation to another level, you can also a do a gin blending masterclass there.
Lot 100 in Hay Valley near Nairne is a collective of several artisan food and drink providers. There you’ll find Hills Cider Co and Adelaide Hills Distillery who make the 78 degrees range of gins. There is also a restaurant and craft brewery here so you could really settle in for the day.
For something on a smaller scale try the Robbers Dog. Located in the old bank at Mount Pleasant, it is a lovely boutique distillery serving gin, vodka and fruit brandy. And if you have never tried a Perry (fermented pear), pop into Paracombe Premium Perry in Paracombe to try their range of Pear spritzers and ciders.
Adelaide Hills Breweries
Beer drinkers don’t miss out either with several craft breweries around different Adelaide hills towns. At Lot 100 in Hay Valley, alongside the distillers you’ll find Mismatch Brewing who have a range of ales and lagers. At Silver Bark Brewery in Mount Barker, you can try a range of pilsners and ales in their new tap house. Gulf Brewery in the main street of Hahndorf offers stouts, ales and lagers. You can try them under a lovely vine shaded tasting area, the bar or the beer garden.
The Prancing Pony is just beyond Hahndorf in Totness. Don’t be put off by its uninspiring exterior. Inside, the Beer Shed is warm and welcoming, and you’ll find a great range of craft beers. Lobethal Bierhaus is one of the most popular brewers in the hills. Their core range of eight beers and seasonal specials have won many awards. There is a restaurant there too along with a nice outdoor area and a homey indoor bar. Grϋnthal Brew in Verdun is also a great spot. Not only is beer brewed on site, but there is also a local wine range, café, cheese shop, large outdoor dining area, room for the kids to run around and lots of parking.
Adelaide Hills Restaurants, Pubs + Cafes
Besides wine, the Adelaide Hills is also a fun foodie destination. There is everything from great pub dining to café and fine dining restaurants. As is the case for the winey restaurants, much of the ingredients are sourced from local producers. Here are a few dining options from formal to something more relaxed.
Adelaide Hills Restaurants
Mount Lofty House
Does dining like a 19th century aristocrat in a country manor sound appealing? Then look no further than Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant at Mt Lofty House. Boasting one of the most formidable wine cellars in South Australia, the 4 to 7-course degustation menu is the finest in the Adelaide Hils. The beautiful gardens and view across Piccadilly Valley and vineyards all add to the splendour of the occasion.
The Bridgewater Mill
Bridgewater Mill’s reputation is nothing short of deliciously fantastic. The restaurant is in the old mill building, complete with large waterwheel. The menu has a multicultural flavour and varies with seasonal ingredients. Like much of the food, the wine list also draws from the local area. For less formal dining, you can try the Little Cog Café which overlooks a creek and fun little playground.
Yuki in the Hills
If you are not a local this fabulous little Japanese restaurant is easy to miss. Yuki in the Hils is at one end of the main street of Aldgate. Sushi and sashimi are on the menu along with a range of gyoza (dumplings) and a tasty selection of salads and mains. Or you can try chef’s set menu. It is a great spot for lunch or dinner if you are looking for somewhere relaxed and tasty to eat.
Chingari
This Indian restaurant in Nairne seems as out of place as Yuki is in Aldgate. But like Yuki in the Hills, Chingari is a tasty surprise. With a focus on north Indian cuisine, Chingari is the perfect spot to warm up on a cold night in the hills. The service is always great, and you will never leave feeling hungry – especially if you try one of the banquets.
Adelaide Hills Pubs
If you feel at home in a pub, it’s possible you could go to a trip to the Adelaide Hills and never leave. One of the most pub-rich parts of the hills is only 20 minutes from Adelaide. The Stirling Hotel, Crafers Hotel and Bridgewater Inn all have open fireplaces to keep warm in winter, lovely beer gardens for summer and dining rooms. The Aldgate Pump Hotel hasn’t had the upgrades the other three have, but it still has a great beer garden and cosy atmosphere in winter.
In Hahndorf, you’ll find your pubs have a German flavour. All on Hahndorf’s main street, the Old Hahndorf Mill, The German Arms Hotel (our favourite) and the Hahndorf Inn all have steins of lager, schnitzels and wurst waiting for you. They are great spots for lunch as you explore the main street of Hahndorf.
A few other pubs of note in the area. The Uraidla Hotel is a ripper. It has lovely outdoor dining and eating spaces, an onsite brewery and an onsite bakery. The Scenic Hotel in Norton Summitt has amazing views across Adelaide, great meals and live music.
Adelaide Hills Cafes
If coffee, relaxed snacks or late breakfasts are your style, check out some these Adelaide Hills Cafes.
- Organic Market and Café in Stirling – delicious fresh food in a market garden atmosphere
- Ruby’s Organic Café in Stirling – great vegan, veggie and gluten free food
- Fred Eatery in Aldgate – fantastic coffee with a country kitchen feel
- Red Cacao in Stirling – Chocolatier plus a café with a menu that targets your sweet tooth
- Lost in a Forest in Uraidla – café/restaurant in an old church – great pizzas, drinks menu and vibe
- Harvest Café in Mylor – hidden gem with an all day breakfast, dog friendly, delicious food and coffee.
- Miss Perez in Stirling – stylish café bordering on restaurant. Multicultural menu, platters & a good local drinks list
- The Haus Handorf – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Local produce with traditional German dishes and Haus Pizza
- Patch Kitchen and Garden in Aldgate – top spot serving delicious seasonal local food. All day breakfasts. The building was Stirling’s original post office, now stylishly renovated to honour the buildings historical significance.
Sticky Rice Cooking School
The Adelaide Hills is not just about eating great food, you can also cook great food! Sticky Rice Cooking School is tucked away in Stirling. You’d only know it is there by the cars parked out the front – and that is a common sight. At Sticky Rice you can do a four hour cooking class that finishes with a banquet made of the food you just cooked.
There are classes in a range of cuisines including Thai, Moroccan, Spanish, French, Mexican and Mediterranean. Your Beveridges – beer and wine – are included in the cost of the class. If the day gets a bit long, you can even stay the night in one of their Asian styled luxury villas. Cooking and accommodation are available.
- Book your own cooking class here Hands-on Thai cooking class followed by a delicious sit down meal with wine
Adelaide Hills Walks
One of the best ways to explore the Adelaide Hills is on foot. There are walking trails in the Adelaide Hills that focus on both the history and natural beaty of the region. On any of the walks through the bush you could spot kangaroos and koalas and hear the squawk of black cockatoos overhead.
We have featured just a few Adelaide Hils walks below. If you never go anywhere without your hiking boots, also check the walks in the Para Wirra Conservation Park, Morialta Conservation Park and Belar National Park. These parks, scattered along the length of the hills zone offer dozens of great walking options. The Devils Nose walk at Para Wirra and the Second Falls hike at Morialta are a couple of our favourites.
Read More: Best Adelaide Hills Caravan Parks & Camping Spots
Steub Trail
Location: Mt Lofty Summit
Length/Time: 7.4km/3 hours return
Difficulty: Medium
Start: Cleland Wildlife Park or Mt Lofty SummitDescription:This walk zigzags through the bush between Mount Lofty and Cleland. Switchbacks mean the slope is never too great. In spring look out for wildflowers. As you approach Cleland, look for koalas in the nature park.
Laratinga Wetlands
Location: Mount Barker
Length/Time: 2km / 45 minute loop
Difficulty: Easy
Start: Bald Hills Road Carpark
Description: This is a relaxing walk around the wetlands with abundant birdlife. The path is dog, bike and pram friendly. Little bridges and paths between the lagoons let you make the walk as short or long as you like. There is also a nice picnic area.
Woorabinda Lake Walk
Location: Stirling
Length/Time:1.5km / 20 min loop
Difficulty: Easy
Start: Mable Street Carpark
Description: This is a fun family friendly walk. Spotting birds, turtles and maybe kangaroos and koalas around this peaceful lake is sure to make the walk longer than the suggested 20 minutes. If you want a longer walk, follow the markers from the lake.
Pioneer Womens Walk
Location: Hahndorf
Length/Time: 22km 1-way/1-2 day
Difficulty: Medium – Hard
Start: Hahndorf Academy
Description: This long walk takes you through picturesque villages, valleys and bushland. It honours the women who used to walk between Hahndorf and Adelaide to sell their goods. Best done as a 2 day walk so you have time to stop at a café or two.
Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty
Location: Waterfall Gully/Mt Lofty
Length/Time: 7.8km / 2-3 hrs return
Difficulty: Medium – Hard
Start: Waterfall Gully or Mt Lofty
Description: This is a very popular walk & it’s no wonder. There are cafés at both ends, waterfalls, great views of the city & wildlife. Steep sections will get you puffing but there are lots of places to stop & take in the views.
Aldgate Valley Nature Walk
Location: Aldgate
Length/Time: 13.6km/3.5 hrs return
Difficulty: Medium
Start: Aldgate Village
Description: Also known as the Bandicoot Trail, this pretty walk between Aldgate & Mylor takes you along laneways, dirt tracks & quiet roads. Best done as a one-way walk with a ride waiting for you at Mylor.
- Mount Lofty Descent Bike Tour City Pick Up. From Mount Lofty ride through Cleland NP stopping at the Wildlife Park
- Guided Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit Walk City Pick up, walk past waterfalls, wildlife & enjoy panoramic views
Things to do in Adelaide Hills for Families
The Adelaide Hills is a fantastic place to visit with children or the young at heart. Check out one of Australia’s best ‘big’ things, get into some nature play and explore life on a farm.
Tree Climb in Kuitpo Forest
Kids young and old will have a fantastic time climbing and zip lining through the trees in Kuitpo Forest. There are courses for all ability and confidence levels that take you up into the canopy of lovely Kuitpo Forest. Children need to be 100cm tall to go on the Kids Course. If climbing between trees is not your thing, you can have a play on the Net Course. There is a café on site or after your tree climb you could head down to McLaren Vale for lunch.
The Big Rocking Horse
Here is a big thing the kids will enjoy – the Big Rocking Horse. It’s huge! Unfortunately, it doesn’t rock but for a gold coin donation you can climb it and get a certificate to prove you made it to the top. Besides the rocking horse, there is also a wooden toy factory with some lovely ‘old school’ toys in it.
For another gold coin you can walk through a petting zoo with kangaroos, emus, and farm animals. Bags of feed are available. There is a small café on site too. It is a fun and inexpensive outing that younger children will enjoy. Gumeracha is a scenic 55 minute windy drive through Houghton and Chain of Ponds.
Warrawong Wildlife
For a native animal experience with a difference try Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary. Warrawong is an open range sanctuary protected against feral animals. As you walk through the park, you can see koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, bettongs and potoroos. The area is also rich in birdlife.
Warrawong is home to South Australia’s only mainland population of platypuses. If you are quiet, still and lucky, you might spot one. We recommend the guided tours – at dusk if you can. The keepers are expert animal spotters passionate about what they do. There are also a range of animal encounters and keeper tag along experiences.
Warrawong is in Mylor, 30 minutes from Adelaide.
Read More : Visit the Big Rocking Horse with the Kids
Woodhouse Activity Centre
Run by Scouts SA, Woodhouse is only 15 minutes from Adelaide and has a bunch of stuff to do. The highlight is Challenge Hill – a 30 piece obstacle course. There is a maze, frisbee golf and some fantastic tube slides. You can buy a day pass to use the activities. Suitable for ages 5 and up, Woodhouse is a great family location for a day trip to the Adelaide Hills. You can also camp the night and explore other attractions in the Adelaide Hills.
Hahndorf Farm Barn
This is a lovely activity for younger children. They can get up close to a range of different farm and Australian native animals. Located near Hahndorf, the Farm Barn offers a range of interactive experiences. You can milk cows, ride ponies and cuddle bunnies and guinea pigs. The friendly staff also spend time talking about the animals and how a farm works. There are picnic and BBQ facilities which make it easy to explore the Farm Barn at your own pace.
Melba’s Chocolates
Located in Woodside, Melba’s chocolates are an Adelaide Hills institution. Anyone with a sweet tooth will love doing a bit of shopping here. You’ll likely leave with an armful of chocolates and lollies. You can watch chocolates get made on the premises and, if you look carefully, you might find the odd free sample.
If you feel like you need to prepare yourself for the kid’s sugar high, right next door to Melbas you’ll find Woodside Cheese Wrights and Chesterfield Whisky Firm.
Woodside is 40 minutes from Adelaide via Hahndorf.
Monarto Safari Park
While not strictly in the Adelaide Hills, you will drive through the hills to get there and it is worth the extra travel time. Monarto is shaping up as one of the most exciting animal parks in Australia. As the name suggests, Monarto Safari Park’s focus is on African animals. It is the largest open plain zoo in the southern hemisphere. If lions, giraffes, rhinos and chimps are your thing you will love it. Monarto is around 60 minutes from Adelaide. It is open 7 days a week, 9.30-5.00pm. Bring comfy shoes and a hat.
Read More : Plan your visit to Monarto Safari Park
Adelaide Hills Farmgate Experiences
While Beerenberg Farm is the biggest farmgate experience in the Adelaide Hills, there are several other places to pick fruit.
Fruit Picking in the Hills
If you visit the hills in December and January, you can pick some juicy Christmas cherries. Check out Harben Vale Cherries in Balhannah or Marble Hill Cherry Farm in Ashton. It’s a popular pastime so you might need to book a time to pick your fruit.
If you are a fan of figs, during February and March head to Glen Ewin Estate in Lower Hermitage. Not only are the grounds spectacular, but you’ll also have up to five varieties of figs to pick. As well as the fresh fruit, there is also a restaurant and cellar door. You can try fig gin and a range of other locally produced spirits and wines.
Finally, if you are visiting in May, you can ‘Pick a Pink Lady’ at Harrisville Orchards in Lenswood. They have plenty of apple related produce for sale too. Keep an eye out as you drive through the hills for roadside apple stalls. The only picking you’ll have to do there is choosing between a fresh apple pie or a delicious apple strudel. Yum!
Jurlique Farm Tour
The producer of botanical based skin care range Jurlique are in the Adelaide Hills. If you are a fan of their creams, oils, mists and aromatherapy range, go to Biggs Flat for a Jurlique Farm Tour. The 90 minute experience covers everything from the history of Jurlique to the planting and harvesting of the plants used in their products. If you feel like a bit more pampering, try the full day Spa Tour option. Bookings essential.
Adelaide Art and Craft
The Adelaide Hills has a thriving arts and crafts culture. Here are a few places and activities to take it in.
The Cedars
This is the home of one of Australia’s best known painters, Hans Heysen. Located near Hahndorf, his studio and house are in near original condition. They provide a fascinating insight into the artist and his family. The property is set on 60 hectares of garden that make a lovely spot for a picnic lunch. A revolving collection of around 200 of his painting are on display. Art lovers will find this insight into Heysen’s life fascinating.
Art Galleries
Other galleries of note to wander through in the Adelaide Hills include the Hahndorf Academy and The Aboriginal Art House in Hahndorf. Aptos Cruz (Stirling), Field Trip (Balhannah), Top of the Torrens (Birdwood), The Coach House Studio (Gumeracha) and Atelier (Crafers). All support local artists.
Fabrik
Fabrik is an art and craft precinct in the township of Lobethal. Located in the old woollen mills, the precinct was established in 2019. It includes gallery space, studios, and displays celebrating the history of the mill. There is also a small shop where artists sell their work. If you are an art and craft type, keep an eye on Fabrik’s website. They are always announcing new events and exhibitions. The historic Woollen mill buildings are worth a visit on their own.
Hills Sculpture Trail
For a different way to see the Adelaide Hills, plan your trip around the Adelaide Hills Sculpture Trail. Local and international sculptors have contributed works to 16 towns in the Adelaide Hills. In many of the towns, the sculptures are the centrepiece of their parks and gardens.
It took us a few days, but we have been to all the sculptures on the trail. To learn more about the trail and what you can do in each of the sculpture towns, read our Hills Sculpture Trail post. As sculpture spotting can be thirsty work, we have included a quick guide to wineries near each town too.
Read More : Follow the Adelaide Hills Sculpture Trail
Adelaide Hills Markets
One of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills is go to a market. The hills have such a great food and craft and wellness culture, you’re bound to find some nice goodies. The tree-lined streets and ovals and lovely old halls are a great setting. If you plan things right, you could go to a market every weekend!
- Stirling Markets – 4th Sunday of the month in Druid Avenue
- Stirling Lane Ways – 4th Sunday of the month from September to May. These are a supersized version of the Stirling Market where stalls spill into the laneways and arcades along the main street.
- Meadows Country Market and Fair – 2nd Sunday of the month
- Mount Pleasant Farmers Market – Saturday morning 8.00-12.00 – great market, lots of fresh produce.
- Mylor Country Market – 1st Sunday morning of each month on the pretty tree-ringed oval
- Woodside Market – 3rd Sunday morning of the month – fun range of produce and craft.
- The Blooming Market – 2nd Saturday of the month – Charleston Hall – focus on flowers and plants
For More Market Information Click Here
Adelaide Hills Events and Festivals
Over the course of the year, the Adelaide Hills hosts several festival and events. We have narrowed them down to the month. If you find yourself in the Adelaide Hills around then, check the exact dates closer to the time.
January – Tour Down Under – The hills go into party mode as this festival of cycling races through the region
April – Wellness Wander – a weekend of experiences that brings together all that is healthy and relaxing about the hills from food and nature to art, yoga and meditation.
May – Medieval Fair – Held in Gumeracha, think knights, jousting, archery and lots of mead
July – Winter Reds – This is a celebration of the Adelaide Hill’s red wines. Open fireplaces, cosy cellar doors and red wine – perfect!
October – Bay to Birdwood – watch cars of yesteryear wind through the hills to the National Motor Museum
November – Uraidla Show – this is a traditional country show just 20 minutes from adelaide, a great day out!
December – Lobethal Lights – The whole town gets into the Christmas spirit with colourful Christmas light displays
Places to Stay in the Adelaide Hills
There is an enormous range of accommodation options in the Adelaide Hills from caravan parks in Hahndorf to the unsurpassed luxury of the Sequoia Lodge at Mount Lofty House. Below are just a few hills accommodation options. To see more cosy B and Bs, villas, and Glamping options read our Adelaide Hills accommodation guide.
Sticky Rice Villas – Stirling – Indulge your senses in the luxury villas set behind Sticky Rice Cooking School.
Sequoia Lodge – Crafers – Luxury wellness lodge with stunning terrace views over Piccadilly Valley.
Cladich Pavilions – Aldgate – Set amongst towering Stringybark eucalypts settle in at these self contained B&B’s.
The Studios by Haus – Hahndorf – Boutique Self-contained studios set in the Main Street of Hahndorf.
Aldgate Creek Cottage Bed & Breakfast – Aldgate – Stay in the B&B right in the heart of Aldgate surrounded by gardens.
Discovery Hahndorf Resort – Hahndorf – With cabins, powered campsites and resort rooms set among the rolling hills.
Read More : Find all the Best Accommodation in the Adelaide Hills
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