The Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills is a picturesque region located a short drive from Adelaide, South Australia. Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns, the Adelaide Hills is the perfect destination for tourists looking for a mix of outdoor activities, delicious food, and stunning scenery. Whether you're looking for a day trip or an overnight stay, the Adelaide Hills has something for everyone.

One of the best things about the Adelaide Hills is the variety of accommodation options available; from cozy bed and breakfasts to scenic camp sports, there's something to suit every budget and preference. For those on a budget, there are a number of campgrounds available, both free and paid, such as the Belair National Park, Kuipto Forest, and the Cleland Conservation Park. These campgrounds offer a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region, but just be aware that both have park fees that are payable prior to park entry. 


Cleland National Park (Source: South Australia National Parks)

When it comes to dining, the Adelaide Hills is a food lover's paradise. The region is renowned for its delicious produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats, as well as its world-class wines. Visitors can indulge in delicious local specialties at one of the many restaurants and cafes, such as the German-inspired Hahndorf Inn or the charming Lane Vineyard cellar door. The Adelaide Hills are also home to some exciting new micro-breweries. Be sure to check out Prancing Pony, located in Mount Barker to sample their produce and take part in a tour of the brewery. 

The Adelaide Hills offers plenty of options when it comes to activities on a budget. Nature lovers can explore the many walking trails and hiking tracks, such as the Mount Lofty Summit Trail or the Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit hike, which offers spectacular views of the region. If you love animals, make sure to pop into Cleland Wildlife Park, which is home to a variety of native animals, such as kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas. One activity popular with the locals is strawberry picking at the famous Beerenberg farm in Hahndorf- be sure to stop by the shop for some of their amazing produce before leaving! If you’re in the mood to cruise, the Adelaide Hills is a fantastic region for driving, with an abundance of roads that wind up the hills through the countryside. We recommend the Adelaide Hills Tourist Drive and the Hysen Trail as starting points. 


Roads in the Adelaide Hills (Source: Tourism Australia)


Beerenberg Farm (Source: Time Out)

If your budget stretches a little further, there are lots of activities to keep you busy. Visitors can enjoy horse riding through some of the trails that wind through the hills with Four Oaks Farm in Littlehampton, or visit one of the many vineyards and wineries in the area, such as Mount Lofty Ranges Vineyard, Hahndorf Hill Winery or Nepenthe Wines to experience world-class wine. These wineries offer tastings, tours, and the opportunity to purchase local wines through their cellar doors.


Nepenthe Wines (Source: Nepenthe Wines)

The Adelaide Hills are also home to some of the most beautiful and unique locations in the region, making it a great destination for photographers. Visitors can capture stunning panoramic views from the top of the Mount Lofty Summit, or take a stroll through the charming towns, such as Hahndorf, Stirling, or even Strathalbyn further south. These small towns are filled with picturesque colonial-style buildings and beautiful gardens, making them a photographer's delight!

For visitors looking for hiking and physical activities, the Adelaide Hills offer a variety of options, such as the Mount Lofty Summit Trail or the Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit hike, which are challenging but rewarding with the spectacular views of the region. Another popular option is to take a bike ride along a section of the famous 1,200km Heysen Trail. If you’re not a hiker but love enjoying a scenic view, the Mount Lofty Summit is the perfect spot to stop off, grab a coffee and enjoy Adelaide as it sprawls out in front of you. 

The Adelaide Hills is a diverse region that offers the perfect mix of outdoor activities, delicious food, world-class wine, and stunning scenery. With a range of accommodation options and activities to suit every budget and preference, it's the perfect destination for a day trip or an overnight stay. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, a rev-head, a photographer, or a wine enthusiast, the Adelaide Hills has something for everyone to enjoy.