ADELAIDE HILLS
THINGS TO DO IN THE ADELAIDE HILLS
Wineries to foodie destinations and charming towns, this picture-perfect region is packed full of homegrown goodness.
Set within the serene surrounds of Mount Lofty Ranges and a short 30-minute drive from Adelaide City, Adelaide Hills is one good-looking region. Renowned for its wines, fresh produce, and seasonal beauty, this is the type of place you escape to and never look back.
Bounded by stunning countryside, colourful gardens and conservation areas, the towns of Adelaide Hills highlight the beauty of this region. From Stirling to Hahndorf and everywhere in-between, the small towns are unique in their own way, yet, they all shine a spotlight on regional produce and artisans. And although the towns boast an impressive line-up of foodie hotspots and must-visit shopfronts, it's the wineries and their cellar doors and restaurants that are a real crowd-pleaser.
Tasting flights, incredible views and sweeping countryside, the wineries have defined this region, but when you get off the beaten track and meander through the many trails, you will see the true wonders of this region. So, buckle up because this stunning region is just begging to be explored. Here is your list of things to do in Adelaide City.
Wineries
Adelaide Hills has steep competition with the Barossa Valley to the North and McLaren Vale to the South. Yet still, this stunning wine country holds its own among premium cool climate wines. One of the best things to do in Adelaide Hills is its wineries, and what a choice you have with over 40 cellar doors peppered throughout the region. Among these are award-winning cellar doors and hatted restaurants that champion farmgate produce, and you simply must visit them all. But, if you're short on time, head to Bird in Hand, Petaluma, The Lane and Cobbs Hill Estate.
Foodie's Delight
When it comes to eating out, Adelaide Hills delivers in a big way. From restaurants with uninterrupted views of the vineyards to gastropubs and fine dining. Stirling is at the centre of it all with its vast selection of dining spots serving everything from home comforts to global eats. The Stirling Hotel leads the way, while for German-style pubs, head to Hahndorf. But no visit to this region is complete without stopping by the fresh produce markets and farmgate stalls to stock up on some real homegrown goodness.
Stirling
If you had to pick one town to visit in the Adelaide Hills, Stirling would be it. The best of Adelaide Hills bundled up into one perfect package, Adelaide Hills is a place where European indulgences meet the Australian bush. This small-town changes colours with the season, has a thriving café culture, boutique shopping and an enviable dining scene. Plus, Stirling boasts an annual events calendar that draws a crowd from the Adelaide Hills Crush Festival to the Tour Down Under.
Markets
For things to do in Adelaide Hills, the line-up of local markets is an absolute must. The monthly Stirling Markets under the oak trees on Druid Street bring together local producers and artisans, while Stirling Laneways features food, pop-up stalls and entertainment. Adelaide Hills Farmers Market in Mount Baker and Mount Pleasant Farmers Market are held every Saturday morning, shining a spotlight on the regions fresh produce. While the European-style Christmas markets in Hahndorf is one magical experience.
Hahndorf
As Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf's architecture speaks to times past. Centred around iconic Main Street, you will be able to find the best of this town – German small goods, traditional candy, handcrafted leather goods, antiques, and a selection of global eats. Although you can find Australian flavours mixed in among international cuisine, it's the German-style pubs that have people flocking to this neighbourhood.
The Great Outdoors
Adelaide Hills has an abundance of reserves, gardens, national parks and nature trails to explore by foot or bike. There are so many places to discover, but the pick of the bunch is Mount Lofty Botanical Gardens in Crafers, which is stunning (especially in autumn). Cleland Conservation Park is home to Mount Lofty Summit, and it has incredible views of the region, while Woorabinda Bushland Reserve is known for its magical lake. Plus, there are many ops for animal encounters, such as Cleland Wildlife Park and Gorge Wildlife Park.
World-class wineries and foodie delights to markets and wildlife – there are so many things to do in Adelaide Hills.
