An absolute must along the way, is a stop at the Mount Lofty Summit to take in the stunning, panoramic views that stretch across the city and along the coastline of Australia.
Mt Lofty Summit views
Continuing the drive, you will pass lush, rolling hills before entering the gorgeous, tree-lined main street of Hahndorf. First settled in 1839 by Prussian immigrants, and later by settlers from Germany and the Silesia region, many of the shops today are still being run by German descendants.
Instantly captivating, you can’t help but fall in love with this buzzing yet quaint heritage town, serving an array of delicious cuisine and beverages. Fancy a pretzel with your favourite German beer? Or why not take advantage of the artisanal food and local wines and on offer from the vineyards of this renowned region?
Wandering the main street of Hahndorf, you will uncover galleries and studios, a professional leathersmith, cheese maker, jeweller, chocolatier and candle maker. And if you’re parched during your stroll, you will be rewarded with a craft brewery, winery cellar doors, gin distillery or have a stop in one of the pubs, restaurants or cafés. You can also treat yourself at one of the scrumptious speciality shops from the tasty cheese offerings at Udder Delights, Buzz Honey and the Hahndorf Sweets & Fudge Shop.
Hahndorf's tree-lined main street
Hahndorf - German Arms Hotel
Dennis Bunnik tasting the desserts at the German Cake Shop
Be sure to reach the very end of the Hahndorf main street to discover the strawberry farm of Beerenberg. Still owned by the Paech family, six generations and nearly 200 years after their ancestors arrived, the land has been cultivated over the many years. Grab an empty punnet and head to the fields to hand pick your own delicious strawberries. Explore their gorgeous shop, selling all their vast range of jams, sauces, chutneys, dressings and much more.
Our group sampling the delicious products from Beerenberg Family Farm
Beerenberg's strawberry fields
Another stop to add to your list is The Cedars, the studio, home and picturesque grounds of the famed Sir Hans Heysen and his daughter Nora. Tour the home of these beloved landscape painters, including Australia’s oldest studio of Sir Hans Heysen, witnessing over 200 original works of art and viewing the gardens that inspired some of their paintings.
Nora Heysen's studio
Inside Hans Heysen's studio
Hans Heysen's studio
So, if you ever find yourself in the great state of South Australia, a visit to the beautiful Adelaide Hills and the stunning town of Hahndorf will be one you will never forget!
All images taken by Dennis Bunnik, escorting our South Australia small group tours. Check them out here.
