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In the southern Mount Lofty Ranges, just 20 minutes drive east of Adelaide, is a lush region known as the Adelaide Hills. Long occupied by the Peramangk people, the area was later settled by Europeans, including a large number of Germans (venture to pretty Hahndorf for a sense of this German connection). South Australia is amongst the world's top wine regions, and the Adelaide Hills are no exception. Home to some of the oldest vines in Australia, the area produces terrific wines, and you'll find an impressive array of tours and tastings at top wineries, many of which also boast excellent farm-to-table restaurants. Some even provide accommodation options for those who want to stay on site. Outdoorsy types will adore the Cleland National Park, the 100-hectare Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, and the abundance of walking and cycling trails which crisscross the region. Our pick of the best hotels in the Adelaide Hills reflect the diversity of activities on offer. We've discovered everything from chic little B&Bs to converted manor houses and heritage hotels — ideal whether you're travelling as a couple or with kids in tow!
For a Romantic Retreat
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- Cladich Pavilions B&B offers three expansive contemporary suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking verdant surroundings. Romantics will adore kicking back on private terraces or hiding away in big bedrooms after days of sightseeing in the Adelaide Hills. Beautiful.
- Pirralilla Estate, a heritage manor house-turned-family home, is an ideal retreat for those in search of tranquility. Three cottages and two swish apartments offer well-equipped kitchens and lots of privacy. An adults-only retreat with lots of charm.
- Thorngrove Manor Hotel is a whimsical faux-Gothic masterpiece of turrets and pointed roofs, with five opulent, antique-filled suites. One for romantics looking to escape the wider world, this hugely private country house hotel promises gourmet afternoon teas on vintage china and dinners in the atmospheric dining room on request.
For Families or Groups
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- Longview Vineyard offers a collection of luxurious suites overlooking the property's vineyards. Groups of friends or families can book out the homestead or the lodge, each of which have multiple bedrooms as well as kitchens and communal spaces to kick back after wine tastings, cycle rides and vineyard walks.
- The Studios by Haus have crisp, white-on-white interiors, earthy tones and garden views. Set on Hahndorf's Main Street, they're perfectly placed for guests of all ages to explore the town on foot. Two-bedroom options are great for families, and the Haus Restaurant's seasonal dishes are excellent.
- The Crafers Hotel, in the heart of town, is a restored heritage landmark. Groups will love the atmosphere in the friendly gastro-pub, whilst cots can be added to spacious double bedrooms for those travelling with little ones. Expect leather headboards, stylish black and white photography and swish bathrooms — as well as access to a shared guests' kitchen. Great fun.
For Food-Focused Luxury
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- Mount Lofty House was originally built as a private summer residence in 1852, and is still surrounded by 18 acres of glorious landscaped gardens. The interiors are superb, offering a real sense of old-school glamour through polished wood, brass accents and crisp white linens on big cosy beds. The garden-to-table ethos will delight foodies, with ingredients grown and foraged onsite. Expect top South Australian wines, too.
- The Stirling Hotel's bistro specialises in sensational regional fare, drawing a weekend crowd from Adelaide and further afield. Five elegant white-on-white guest rooms await, perfect for kicking back after an evening at the buzzy wine bar. Shared spaces are cool and contemporary, making this a hip base.
- Sticky Rice Villas offers three airy one-bedroom villas, each inspired by minimalist Asian style. Interiors are sleek and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, huge free-standing tubs and carved wooden details. Part of an acclaimed culinary school, this is the perfect pad for would-be chefs to take workshops and savour superb dishes.
- Sequoia Lodge is made up of 14 exceptional open-plan suites, each with an original piece of art by Stephen Trebilcock. Expect generous spaces, with private balconies, indulgent bathrooms and expansive valley views. The spa is fabulous, as are the gastronomic offerings. Next-level luxury.
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