A guide to your Adelaide Hills wellness escape
Adelaidians, cover your ears (or eyes) for a moment. It wasn’t until my thirties that I finally made a trip to South Australia’s capital. Imagine my surprise – and delight – when I discovered an incredible city surrounded by some of Australia’s most stunning countryside, with an abundance of experiences right at my fingertips.
And honestly, I’m okay if Adelaide (Tarndanya) and its surrounds remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets, reserved for those of us in the know. Among its gems, the Adelaide Hills truly stands out, especially for those with a proclivity for wellness. Just a short drive from the CBD, this stunning region feels like stepping into another world – one of rolling vineyards, charming villages and tranquil bushland that together create the ultimate wellness escape.
If you’re craving a wellness escape that combines serenity, indulgence and breathtaking beauty, the Adelaide Hill is for you.
Wellness top picks
Begin your Adelaide Hills wellness journey with a visit to the Jurlique Farm. As the heart of the globally renowned skincare brand, this biodynamic farm offers a glimpse into the artistry behind their luxurious products. Wander through fragrant herb gardens, explore the sustainable practices that marry beauty with nature and see firsthand where their ingredients come to life.
If you are keen to move your body and have some fun while you’re in the region, check out the timetable for Roaming Zen. The team hosts regular yoga sessions in serene spaces, dance classes in nature and beautiful sound healing immersions.
For a creative break, join a Mindful Mandala Workshop with Cathy Gray Inkwork. Immerse yourself in this meditative art form as you create intricate designs in a peaceful studio setting. It’s a calming, hands-on experience that encourages mindfulness while unlocking your artistic potential. If you’re seeking a holistic wellness experience, the Ayurveda Rejuvenation Retreat at Ayurveda Village is a must. This retreat combines traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern wellness techniques, offering personalised treatments, yoga and meditation to help you restore balance and vitality.
For a day of pure relaxation, visit Gatekeepers Day Spa at Mount Lofty Estate. This exceptional day spa in the Adelaide Hills takes inspiration from the region’s natural bounty, offering treatments like signature massages and facials infused with locally sourced botanicals.
Natural wellness
Reconnect with nature by exploring some of South Australia’s most picturesque trails. The Mount Lofty Summit Trail is a standout among Adelaide Hills walks, winding through native bushland to breathtaking panoramic views of Adelaide and the coastline. Just nearby, the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden offers an oasis of serenity. Stroll through vibrant seasonal blooms, majestic trees and tranquil water features.
For a more fast-paced adventure, visit Woodhouse Adventure Park, a haven for physical activity in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. From obstacle courses and mazes to orienteering challenges, it’s a great way to move your body and energise your mind, all while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings that promote stress relief and mental clarity. This is the perfect place to take the kids, if they’re travelling with you.
If you prefer to feel the wind in your hair, Mt Lofty Wheels & Wildlife Tour by Bike About is excellent fun. This 5-hour e-mountain bike adventure begins in the charming town of Hahndorf and follows the historic Pioneer Women’s Trail. It’s effortless cycling meets incredible views, wildlife spotting and a peaceful cuppa at Mount Lofty’s summit.
Nourishing eats
Start your culinary journey at The Lane Vineyard, where seasonal menus champion sustainability and showcase the region’s finest ingredients. Pair your meal with their exceptional biodynamic wines while soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Uraidla Hotel, a local gem known for its hearty, organic fare. With plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans, it’s a spot that caters to all tastes while staying true to its ethos of supporting local producers.
After a true paddock-to-plate experience? Kitchen Farm Adelaide Hills delivers. Nestled in Piccadilly, this charming farm café serves dishes that celebrate the seasonal bounty of their surrounding gardens. Think rustic, wholesome meals that taste as good as they look. Another standout is the historic Inglewood Inn, where you’ll find hearty dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Overlooking the rolling Adelaide Hills and the Para River, it’s a wonderful spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning surroundings.
If you’re looking to stock up on organic produce while soaking up the friendly, laid-back atmosphere of the Adelaide Hills, the Stirling Market is unmissable. Held monthly in its namesake village, this bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisan goods and handmade treats.
Where to stay
Sequoia Lodge sets the gold standard for luxury Adelaide Hills retreats, boasting breathtaking views of the Piccadilly Valley, gas fireplaces, and private balconies. Its location near the Heysen Trail and Adelaide Hills Botanic Gardens makes it the ultimate retreat for nature lovers seeking indulgence.
Eco-conscious travelers can unwind at Sticky Rice Villas, where sustainability meets style. With solar power and rainwater harvesting, these villas provide guilt-free luxury in the heart of the Adelaide Hills (and if you’re keen to learn some skills in the kitchen, there is a fabulous cooking school onsite).
Nestled within Kuitpo State Forest, CABN offers a serene getaway around an hour from Adelaide’s CBD. Choose from 3 pet-friendly cabins with walking trails and mountain bike tracks right at your doorstep, so it’s an ideal base for exploring the region.
The Adelaide Hills is just a scenic 30-minute drive from Adelaide’s CBD, making it a perfect escape for day trips or longer getaways. For those flying in, Adelaide Airport is the closest gateway, with convenient car hire options to help you explore at your own pace. While driving offers the most flexibility, public transport is also an option. Buses run regularly between Adelaide and key towns like Stirling and Hahndorf, but if you’re planning to venture further into the Hills, having your own wheels is the way to go.
Image credits: South Australian Tourism Commission, Wellness wander, Gatekeepers Day Spa, The Lane Vineyard, Safari Global.
Latest stories
Other stories you might like
The best time to visit the Adelaide Hills
By Well Traveller, 24 Jan, 2025
Wellness wander in the Adelaide Hills
By Well Traveller, 04 Dec, 2024
Nature therapy in the Adelaide Hills
By Well Traveller, 27 Nov, 2024