Route summary: Adelaide – Aldgate – Stirling – Crafers – Hahndorf – Balhannah – Littlehampton – Woodside – Gumeracha
Escape to the scenic Adelaide Hills for a romantic three-day getaway, where winding tree-lined roads lead to cosy stays, award-winning vineyards and breathtaking views. This itinerary is perfect for couples who love a bit of gourmet wining and dining, browsing charming boutiques and who just simply enjoy taking in the picturesque nature of the area.
Stay:
Cladich Pavilions, Aldgate
Tucked away in native bushland, this eco-luxe accommodation feels like your own private treetop hideaway. Unwind on your private deck surrounded by towering gums and the sound of singing birds.
Day 1
Adelaide – Aldgate – Stirling – Crafers
Total driving distance: 28km
Morning:
- Before checking into your accommodation, detour through Stirling for a relaxed morning. Stroll the leafy streets and explore local boutiques. For gifts and homewares, check out Cleveland Home and 29 Milan and on a Sunday, don’t miss the Stirling Market.
Lunch:
- Grab lunch at The Organic Market & Cafe for a fresh, seasonal, organic and wholefood focussed menu or Marshi’s Kitchen which offers a contemporary Australian menu with a Sri Lankan twist.
Afternoon:
- Treat yourself to a couple’s experience at Gatekeeper’s Day Spa or take a peaceful walk through Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens.
Dinner:
- Book a table at Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant for an indulgent, multi-course dinner with breathtaking views.
Image credit :: Cladich Pavilions | Marshi’s Kitchen | Gatekeeper’s Day Spa
Day 2
Aldgate – Hahndorf – Balhannah – Littlehampton
Total driving distance: 22km
Morning:
- Enjoy a lazy breakfast with your Cladich Pavilions welcome hamper provisions.
- Head into Hahndorf and explore the main street — it’s bursting with gourmet stores, art galleries and German heritage charm. Check out Grass Roots for unique vintage treasures and Jack & Sarah for fashion, homewares and gifts.
- Or, if you’re Gin enthusiasts — book into Ambleside Distillers Gin Blending Masterclass and create your own special brew to take home!
Lunch:
- Dine at The Lane Vineyard in Balhannah. Choose between the curated Gathering Experience (tasting menu with wine pairings) or an à la carte option for a leisurely lunch with stunning vineyard views.
Afternoon:
- Treat yourselves to a ChocoVino wine and chocolate tasting at Hahndorf Hill Winery.
- Alternatively, head to Field Trip Balhannah — a gift shop with a strong focus on ethically made products that use natural materials or even stop in at Hahndorf Mini Golf for a romantic (or competitive) round of good old fashioned fun.
Dinner:
- Head to Honey Bang Bang in Littlehampton for bold and delicious South East Asian dishes that will have your tastebuds dancing.
Image credit :: Hahndorf Hill Winery | Ambleside Distillers Gin | Hahndorf Mini Golf
Day 3
Aldgate – Stirling – Woodside – Gumeracha – Aldgate – Crafers
Total driving distance: 79km
Morning:
- Start your day slow with a sleep-in, then head into Stirling for coffee and pastries from Red Cacao.
- Make your way to Woorabinda Bushland Reserve (still in Stirling) and take a picturesque walk around Woorabinda Lake.
Lunch:
- Book a table at Mt Bera Vineyards in Gumeracha and enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the Onkaparinga River.
Afternoon:
- While you’re in Gumeracha, stop by Applewood Distillery for a boutique gin tasting and browse Unico Zelo Wines next door.
- If time allows, stretch your legs along the Aldgate Valley Nature Walk. It’s the perfect way to work up an appetite for dinner!
Dinner:
- Finish your trip with a relaxed meal at The Crafers Hotel, known for its warm hospitality, hearty dishes and award-winning wine list. Oh, and in winter their open fireplaces are always roaring — what more could you want?!
Image credit :: Mt Bera Vineyards | The Crafers Hotel | Adelaide Hills Council
