Pack your lederhosen and dirndl, and head out to Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement.
A short 30-minute bus ride from Adelaide is where travellers can take a leisurely stroll through the historic town of Hahndorf in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. Hahndorf is a picturesque artisan village packed with great wineries, pubs and activities to make a bustling day trip for the family.
First settled in 1839, boulevards of charming trees surround cobblestone buildings, amplifying a sense that you’ve stepped back in time. Traditions of Germany come to life in Hahndorf, delivering bratwurst and schnitzels in all shapes, flavours and sizes.
Travellers can order a beer paddle or stein but beware, they’re much bigger than a schooner!
Your day in Hahndorf
Wandering Hahndorf gives you the chance to visit three premium wineries and the famous, Beerenberg Farm where you can pick strawberries and buy local jams, chutneys and sauces. The farm has been family owned and operated since 1839. George and Anna Paech, along with their family, moved from German-speaking Prussia to Australia. The Paech family farm remains 100 per cent owned, operated and even lived on by the family.
Beerenberg literally translates to ‘Berry Hill’ in German.
Find out more and book your tour here.
Jurlique Farm & Lavender Estate
Just a short drive from the town centre lies the dreamy Jurlique Farm, where fields of lavender, calendula, and roses bloom across the Adelaide Hills. You can join a guided tour to learn how these botanicals are grown and harvested for Jurlique’s iconic natural skincare range, and even stroll through the aromatic gardens. It’s a serene and sensory escape perfect for nature lovers and beauty buffs alike.
Hahndorf Academy
Art and history collide at the Hahndorf Academy—a regional hub housed in a charming 19th-century building. This gallery and heritage museum showcases local contemporary artists, traditional crafts, and fascinating exhibitions on German migration. You’ll also find a curated gift shop filled with handmade jewellery, ceramics and more, ideal for a unique souvenir.
Cedars House & Studio
Step into the world of iconic Australian artist Sir Hans Heysen at The Cedars, his former home and studio nestled just outside Hahndorf. Wander through original paintings, personal artifacts, and the peaceful garden trails that inspired his landscapes. Art enthusiasts and history buffs will love the intimate glimpse into one of Australia’s most celebrated painters.
The Lane Vineyard
Another important stop on any tour of this charming town is The Lane Vineyard (as seen in the video above) where you can sample handmade cheeses from Udder Delights, another high-quality local South Australian producer.
The Lane Vineyard is set upon the traditional lands of the Peramangk and Kaurna people. From Hahndorf, the Lane estate is only 3 kilometres from the city centre. Hidden amongst mountain views and open clear skies lies an award-winning restaurant. In both 2018 and 2021, The Lane Restaurant took home the AGFG Chef Hat. It has also been rated in the top ten South Australian regional restaurants.
So, what better way to finish off your day than with an indulgent seven-course Chef’s menu at The Lane Vineyard, paired with their very best wines. The Lane’s head chef Tom Robinson and his team serve up a unique sensory and immersive food experience.
If that wasn’t enough, The Lane Vineyard estate is also home to a variety of other unique experiences including trout fishing, ATV tours and the chance to blend your own wine. You could easily lose an afternoon just appreciating the beauty of the venue and its delicious produce.
Only a short venture from the main street in Hahndorf is one of Choice Hotel’s best Barvarian getaways – The Manna by Haus, Ascend Hotel Collection.
Enjoy a leisurely Hahndorf heritage walk, marvelling at the unique architecture that truly paints Hahndorf straight out of a Hollywood movie scene. Visitors from all around spend the nights chatting with friends and enjoying amazing food and drinks. The small town in the Adelaide Hills is nothing far from an experience.
To discover the best events in regional South Australia, click here.
