Adelaide Hills

Overview

The Adelaide Hills region is a cool-climate haven just 30 minutes from Adelaide, known for its boutique wineries, charming villages, artisan produce, and lush rolling landscapes. With a perfect blend of natural beauty, gourmet food and wine, and creative culture, it’s an ideal escape for anyone wanting a peaceful yet enriching experience. Whether you’re here to discover hidden cellar doors, browse local art, or relax in nature, the Adelaide Hills delivers a slice of country charm with a sophisticated twist.

Explore the Adelaide Hills Your Way

At The Road Trip Oz, we take care of the planning so you can focus on savouring the best of the Hills. Whether you prefer the independence of a self-drive tour, the shared fun of a small group, or the comfort of a private guide, we’ve got options to match your travel style.

• Self-drive tours – We’ll curate a route with must-visit wineries, local eateries, and hidden gems.

• Small group tours – Connect with fellow travellers on a leisurely and social day out.

• Private guided tours – Travel at your own pace with a local guide who knows the area inside out.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (Dec–Feb): Cool escapes and vibrant cellar doors

• Sip Sauvignon Blanc on shady decks with sweeping views.

• Discover summer produce at farmers’ markets and roadside stalls.

• Enjoy outdoor concerts and twilight tastings at wineries.

Autumn (Mar–May): Colourful landscapes and harvest buzz

• Wander through golden vineyards and leafy lanes.

• Experience vintage season at boutique wineries.

• Pick your own apples and pears in local orchards.

Winter (Jun–Aug): Cosy hideaways and red wine by the fire

• Settle into a crackling fireplace with a glass of Pinot Noir.

• Explore hearty seasonal menus at Hills restaurants.

• Discover charming towns dusted with mist and magic.

Spring (Sep–Nov): Blooming gardens and fresh flavours

• Stroll through wildflower trails and heritage gardens in full bloom.

• Taste crisp new releases and fresh spring produce.

• Celebrate local festivals in historic towns like Hahndorf and Stirling.

Best Things to See & Do in the Adelaide Hills

Iconic Highlights

• Hahndorf – Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, filled with quaint shops, bakeries, and art galleries.

• Shaw + Smith – A must-visit winery with elegant tastings and vineyard views.

• Mount Lofty Botanic Garden – Explore spectacular cool-climate flora and sweeping valley views.

• The Lane Vineyard – Enjoy exquisite food and wine pairings with one of the best outlooks in the Hills.

• Jurlique Farm Tour – See behind the scenes of this iconic skincare brand and its biodynamic gardens.

• Udder Delights Cheese Cellar – Indulge in handmade cheese tastings in Hahndorf.

• Beerenberg Farm – Pick-your-own strawberries and explore the farm shop filled with local goodies.

• Cleland Wildlife Park – Get close to koalas, kangaroos, and more in a natural bush setting.

• Stirling Market (Monthly) – Discover artisan crafts, food, and music in a lively local setting.

• Mount Lofty Summit – Catch panoramic views over Adelaide from this iconic lookout.

Photo Hotspots

• Mount Lofty Summit Lookout – Capture sweeping views of Adelaide and beyond.

• Autumn in Stirling – Golden leaves lining the streets in a blaze of colour.

• Hahndorf Main Street – Timber-framed buildings, vibrant shops, and garden blooms.

• The Lane Vineyard’s terrace – Wine with a backdrop of rolling green hills.

• Beerenberg Strawberry Fields (Spring/Summer) – Red fruit against blue skies.

Hidden Gems

• Deviation Road – Boutique bubbles and forest views.

• Ashton Hills Vineyard – A Pinot Noir paradise tucked away in the woods.

• Lost in a Forest – A quirky wood-oven pizza and wine bar set in a converted church.

• Lobethal Road Wines – A peaceful retreat with intimate tastings and scenic surrounds.

• The Cedars – The former home and studio of artist Sir Hans Heysen, rich with art and nature.

Choosing the Right Rental Car for Self Drive Adventures

Driving through the Adelaide Hills is a pleasure, with winding country roads, scenic lookouts, and picturesque villages around every corner. Here’s how to choose the right ride:

• Compact car – Ideal for couples exploring cellar doors and small villages.

• SUV – Offers extra comfort and luggage space for families or longer trips.

• Luxury car – Add style and comfort to your wine country getaway.

We’ll help match you with the perfect car for a smooth and scenic adventure.

Where to Stay in the Adelaide Hills

Mid-Range Comfort

• The Manna by Haus (Hahndorf) – A stylish and central base in the heart of town.

• Mount Lofty House Cottages – Cosy stays surrounded by gardens and bushland.

• Hahndorf Motel – Great value with easy access to dining and attractions.

Luxury Stays

• Sequoia Lodge – An ultra-luxury adults-only retreat with views over Piccadilly Valley.

• Mount Lofty House – A heritage estate offering fine dining, spa treatments, and elevated stays.

• Sticky Rice Villas – Asian-inspired luxury villas with in-villa cooking classes available.

Looking for a romantic retreat or family-friendly stay? We’ll help tailor your accommodation to your style.

Combining the Adelaide Hills with Other Destinations

The Adelaide Hills make a perfect stand-alone escape or a scenic start to a longer South Australian road trip. Only half an hour from Adelaide, it’s easy to combine with city attractions like the Adelaide Central Market and the Art Gallery of SA. From here, venture into the Barossa Valley for more wine adventures or head south to McLaren Vale for coastal vineyards and beaches.

Looking to stretch your legs a little further? Continue your journey to Kangaroo Island for wildlife and wilderness, or head inland to the Murray River for houseboats and riverside towns. The Adelaide Hills are the perfect gateway to explore South Australia’s diversity.

Why Travel with The Road Trip Oz?

We know the Adelaide Hills inside and out – from iconic cellar doors to local favourites tucked away on quiet country lanes. Whether you’re after a self-guided experience or a hosted journey, we’ll plan your trip down to the last detail so you can simply enjoy the moment.

• Private guided tours – Sit back and relax as a local expert brings the region to life.

• Self-drive tours – A custom itinerary with hand-picked stops and local secrets.

• Small group experiences – A fun, interactive way to discover the Hills with others.

We’ll take care of the details. You just enjoy the Hills.

Book Your Adelaide Hills Escape

Whether you’re after refined wines, rich history, fresh country air, or a romantic weekend away, the Adelaide Hills have it all. Let us craft your perfect getaway.

Contact The Road Trip Oz today to start planning your Adelaide Hills adventure!