14 Best Things To Do In The Adelaide Hills

Start here for the best things to do in the Adelaide hills that go beyond wine tasting.

Of course, you’re going to be spending a sizeable measure of time in the undulating Adelaide Hills sipping wine. We have that itinerary covered for you here, and dining, too. But there are plenty of other things you really should do on a visit to this beautiful region.

From strawberry-picking to ice-cream-licking, and bike-riding to summit-hiking, you’ll find plenty of extra-curricular activities to complement your viticultural pursuits. It’s worth adding an extra day or two just to ensure you can adopt a leisurely pace to explore more. Here are 14 of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills.

1. Beerenberg Farm

An Adelaide Hills institution, Beerenberg is a must-visit on your tour of the region. The family name may be familiar from supermarket shelves across the country, but here you’ll discover the provenance of flavour that makes Beerenberg’s jams, sauces and marinades so delicious.

a mother with her kids strawberry picking at the Beerenberg Farm — Strawberry picking is a fun family activity. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

In strawberry season (November to April), head to the Hahndorf farm to pick your own basket of berries from the patch or pop in any time to enjoy breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea at the farm cafe and shop.

the cafe and shop inside Beerenberg Farm — Shop the delicious array of jams. (Image: Beerenberg Farm)

Kids won’t leave without a visit to The Dairy, the farm’s ice creamery, where waffles, thickshakes and homemade gelati will hit the insatiable sweet spot head-on.

a herd of cows at Beerenberg Farm — See cows and goats at the small farm. (Image: We Are Komodo and Daisy Hofstetter)

2. Sticky Rice Cooking School

Fire up the wok and expand your signature dish repertoire with some culinary tuition at Sticky Rice Cooking School. This well-run Adelaide Hills favourite has been honing the skills of home chefs since 2008, plumping up their pad Thai, fine-tuning their dumpling-folding technique and crisping up their pork belly.

a cooking class at Sticky Rice Cooking School — Join a culinary class covering Spanish and Middle Eastern cuisines. (Image: Sticky Rice Cooking School)

It’s mostly Asian-style menus here, from Japanese to Malaysian and Thai, but you’ll also find classes covering Spanish and Middle Eastern. If you’re too full from your own masterful creations, stay onsite at one of the three beautiful, Asian-inspired villas.

cooking an Asian-style dish in a pan at Sticky Rice Cooking School — Master Asian-style dishes. (Image: Adelaide Hills Wine Region)

3. Cycle the Hills

Take to two wheels for a fun way to wind through the Adelaide Hills. Bike About guides culinarily inclined cyclists on a tour of Hahndorf and her surrounds, stopping at local wine and food producers along the way.

a group of women exploring Shaw + Smith, Adelaide Hills — Stop by Shaw + Smith to try their signature wines. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

The five-hour outing sees you pedal to Beerenberg to pick strawberries, into Udder Delights to sample cheese, and onto Shaw + Smith to sip their award-winning wines.

food dipped into cheese at Udder Delights — Sample irresistable cheese at Udder Delights. (Image: Udder Delights)

While some effort is involved, it’s relatively minimal given you’re issued with an e-bike for the journey – allowing you to enjoy the breeze on your face as you woosh past the stunning countryside.

4. Cleland Wildlife Park

Furred and fluffy locals hang about at Cleland Wildlife Park wowing visitors with their adorable cuddliness.

a koala resting on a branch at Cleland Wildlife Park — Cuddle cute koalas at Cleland Wildlife Park. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Most animals here live in a natural habitat but are quite accustomed to fawning parkgoers and will often willingly accept pats and feed and pose for the occasional photo.

kangaroos at Cleland Wildlife Park — Spot kangaroos in their natural habitat. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

While koalas are the headliners, you may also spot kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, potoroos, dingoes, native birds, reptiles and even the shy echidna. Stay tuned for the soon-to-open educational hub, Koala Loft, where visitors can interact with koalas and learn about their conservation.

a yellow-footed rock wallaby at Cleland Wildlife Park — You can also see yellow-footed rock wallabies. (Image: Greg Snell)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

5. Ambleside Distillers

Even the most devout oenophiles need to cleanse their palate every now and then. Break up a wine-focused excursion with a visit to the Ambleside Distillery to try their selection of botanically infused gins.

the exterior of Ambleside Distillers, Adelaide Hills — Amble through Ambleside Distillers. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission)

Their spirited collection includes seasonal releases, such as mandarin gin made from South Australian citrus and the blossom gin crafted with strawberries from Beerenberg and rose from Jurlique, as well as their core range infused with local and native ingredients.

a bartender mixing drinks at Ambleside Distillers — Sample their world-class gin tipples. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission)

Try a selection with a gin flight at the distillery or sip one (or more) of their refreshing gin cocktails. If the sun is shining, find a spot on the lawn and temper your tasting with some nibbles or a toastie.

friends enjoying a gin and wine tasting session at Ambleside Distillers, Adelaide Hills — Gather a few mates for a gin-tasting session. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission)

6. Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens

To see how the cool-climate garden grows in the Adelaide Hills, carve out a little time from your rigorous wine-tasting schedule to wander the beautiful Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens.

an aerial view of Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens — Be surrounded by a tapestry of foliage. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

Meandering over 97 hectares and planted with different gardens and gullies – including a fragrant rose garden – it’s the prettiest place for a stroll in any season.

Along your walk, you’ll encounter a collection of sculptures, many by celebrated artist Greg Johns, as well as the Noel Lothian Viewing Platform, which spoils visitors with a pretty tapestry of foliage.

7. Wander through Hahndorf

It won’t take you long to discern something of a Bavarian theme in this charming Adelaide Hills town. Established in 1839, Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement and this identity has been cleverly parlayed into a tourist drawcard. But apart from the toppings for your bratwurst, there’s nothing all that cheesy about Hahndorf.

friends exploring the Grunthal Brewery in Hahndorf — Explore the historic Grunthal Brewery in Hahndorf. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission)

While there are a handful of German pubs, eateries and themed shops, it’s also just an adorable tree-lined town with historic buildings and a vaguely European vibe. Here you’ll also find the craft Grunthal Brewery, the chic Waldon’s General Store, and a stylish Spanish restaurant, Comida, among other finds.

friends enjoying at Grunthal Brewery in Hahndorf — Catch up over a cold pint at Grunthal Brewery. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission)

8. The Stirling Market

If you happen to arrive in the Hills on the weekend of this long-established monthly market, you’ll have struck artisan gold. The Stirling Market is a collective of makers and creators with a bit of everything on offer to tempt any type of shopper. Peruse stalls selling plants, handicrafts, local honey, produce, toys, books, antiques and ceramics. There’s also hot food and coffee and live entertainment lending a convivial atmosphere to this community event.

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9. Hike to the Mounty Lofty Summit

All the fine wining and dining done in the Adelaide Hills may call for a counterbalance of physical activity. The 7.8-kilometre return Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty summit hike is a good way to offset indulgence given it’s an uphill climb. The steep hike is graded as ‘hard’, but should take no more than three hours up and back.

the Waterfall Gully near Mt Lofty summit — Walk from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

However, at the top, you will find The Summit Café and Function Centre, where you may feel like rewarding yourself with an Aperol spritz and delaying your descent or calling for a pick-up.

the Waterfall Gully in Adelaide Hills — Reach the summit for more rewarding views. (Image: Ben Goode)

10. Browse Antiques

Country towns are often a goldmine for bygone bric-a-brac and the Adelaide Hills antique trade is no different. Scattered about is a collection of stores selling found and foraged objects with a certain rustic and rusted charm to delight the Antiques Roadshow set. Check out The Warehouse at Woodside, Hahdorf’s Grass Roots Vintage and Hahndorf Antiques and Collectibles, as well as Ambleside Antiques and the weekends-only The Local Produce Shop & Farmer’s Daughter, among others dotted about.

a couple browsing through antique items at The Warehouse at Woodside — Step into The Warehouse at Woodside for all things antique. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

11. Woodside Cheese Wrights cellar door

This artisan cheesemaker has been separating their curds and whey since 1994. The Woodside Cheese Wrights range includes cow and goat milk varieties made using local milk from surrounding dairies, so you’ll be able to taste the distinct terroir of the region. Their chevre is a cult product but swing by the Woodside cellar door to taste a number of deliciously creamy concoctions. Best enjoyed with a crusty loaf of bread and a crisp, Adelaide Hills white, of course.

a cheese offering at Woodside Cheese Wrights cellar door — Taste creamy delights at Woodside Cheese Wrights. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

12. Pull into roadside stalls

The fecund Adelaide Hills may be best known for its proliferation of grapes, but these hills are also alive with all manner of tempting produce. While you’ll find plenty on restaurant menus around the region, you can also collect your own provisions from the many roadside stalls and farm gates dotted from Verdun to Balhannah and Piccadilly to Uraidla. Particularly good if you’re staying in accommodation equipped with a kitchen. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you’ll find yourself amid a cherry fest. Find the plump, sweet fruit sold at stalls or you even pick your own. This guide will show you the way.

13. Jurlique Farm tour

For 35 years, Jurlique has been hydrating hands and other body parts using naturally grown botanicals from their Adelaide Hills farm. For skincare fanatics or anyone who enjoys a stroll around a beautiful garden, add a tour of this B-Corp Certified company to your itinerary. The 90-minute tour will take you behind the scenes of this beloved Australian skincare brand, while explaining the nature and science that goes into their products. If you’d rather go skin-deeper, opt for the eight-hour tour that includes an afternoon in the Jurlique Spa.

14. Eat, drink and be merry

Of course, the top-tier reason for visiting the Adelaide Hills is to savour the area’s incredible wineries and complementary restaurants. While there are far too many to list here if you’d like to hit the vines, read our top picks here. And for booking in those gastronomic adventures, these are the best restaurants in the Adelaide Hills.

al fresco dining at Pike and Joyce Lenswood — Dine al fresco at Pike and Joyce. (Image: Adelaide Hills Wine Region/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Need somewhere to rest your head? Choose from one of the best accommodations in Adelaide Hills.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge.

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea. You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet, the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery, Arc One Gallery, Outre Gallery, Caves Gallery, Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary, allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria. The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement, Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar, or larger ones, such as The Toff, Forum and Palais Theatre, for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

14 of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills