The Adelaide Hills offer some of the most stunning scenic drives in South Australia. I love taking a leisurely drive through this picturesque region, winding through charming towns, and stopping at breathtaking lookouts. For tourists, finding a car rental service Adelaide is easy and essential for exploring the area. The 34-kilometer stretch from Hahndorf to Birdwood along the Onkaparinga Valley Road is a must-do route that showcases the best of the hills.
As I cruise along these country roads, I’m always amazed by the rolling hills, lush green spaces, and panoramic views that unfold around every bend. Mount Lofty Summit is a highlight, giving me an incredible birds-eye view of Adelaide’s skyline and the surrounding landscape. I often pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots along the way.
These drives aren’t just about the views. I often spot native wildlife like kangaroos and koalas, especially when I stop at places like Cleland Conservation Park. The Adelaide Hills are a perfect blend of natural beauty and charming country towns, making for an unforgettable day out.
Key Takeaways
- The Adelaide Hills boast scenic drives with stunning lookouts and wildlife-spotting opportunities
- Mount Lofty Summit offers panoramic views of Adelaide’s skyline and surrounding hills
- Hahndorf to Birdwood along Onkaparinga Valley Road is a top route for experiencing the region’s beauty
Mapping the Hills: Routes to Discover
The Adelaide Hills offer breathtaking scenic drives with stunning lookouts. I’ve mapped out three routes that showcase the best of the region’s natural beauty and charming towns.
Onkaparinga Valley Scenic Drive
This drive takes me through the picturesque Onkaparinga Valley. I start in Balhannah and wind my way through rolling hills and vineyards. The route passes by several wineries where I can stop for a tasting.
A highlight is the view from the Kuitpo Forest lookout. It gives me a sweeping panorama of the valley below.
I make sure to visit the National Motor Museum in Birdwood. It’s home to over 400 vintage cars and motorbikes.
The drive ends in Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement. Here I can enjoy traditional Bavarian food and browse craft shops.
Torrens Valley Scenic Drive
This route follows the Torrens River through charming towns. I begin at Gumeracha, home of The Big Rocking Horse. It’s a quirky photo op I can’t miss.
The drive takes me past orchards and farms. I love stopping at roadside stalls to buy fresh produce.
A must-see is the Mount Pleasant lookout. It offers views across the Barossa Valley and Mount Lofty Ranges.
The quaint town of Birdwood is another highlight. Its historic buildings and cafes make it a perfect lunch stop.
Angas River Scenic Drive
This drive showcases the southern Adelaide Hills. I start in Strathalbyn, a town known for its antique shops.
The route follows the Angas River, with plenty of spots to pull over and enjoy the view. I pass through Macclesfield, where I can see koalas in the wild.
A top spot is the Mount Barker Summit lookout. On a clear day, I can see all the way to Lake Alexandrina.
The drive ends in Hahndorf, where I can relax with a local craft beer or wine.
Iconic Stopovers and Lookouts
The Adelaide Hills offer stunning views and unique stops. I’ll share three must-visit spots that showcase the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and wildlife.
Mount Lofty Summit
Mount Lofty Summit is the highest point in the Adelaide Hills. I love visiting for its breathtaking panoramic views of Adelaide and the coastline. On clear days, I can see all the way to Kangaroo Island.
The summit has a modern visitor center with a café and gift shop. I often grab a coffee and soak in the scenery from the outdoor viewing area. It’s a top spot for catching sunsets over the city.
There are several walking trails nearby. I recommend the short Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty hike for keen bushwalkers. It’s steep but rewarding.
Hahndorf’s German Heritage
Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. I’m always charmed by its tree-lined main street filled with traditional fachwerk buildings.
The town is packed with German-style bakeries, pubs, and shops. I love picking up handmade goods and trying local wines at the cellar doors. The Hahndorf Academy is worth a visit to learn about the town’s history and see local art.
For a tasty break, I head to one of the German restaurants for schnitzel or apple strudel. The leafy beer gardens are perfect for relaxing with a local craft beer.
Cleland Conservation Park
Cleland Conservation Park is a wildlife lover’s dream. It’s home to many native Aussie animals in a natural bush setting.
I always make time to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies. They’re very gentle and it’s a great photo op. The koala hold experience is another highlight – I get to cuddle a koala and learn about their conservation.
The park has several walking trails with amazing views of Adelaide. I often pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots. It’s a great place to spot wild birds and reptiles too.
Wildlife and Nature Retreats
The Adelaide Hills are home to amazing wildlife sanctuaries and nature parks. I’ve found some great spots where you can see native animals and enjoy beautiful scenery.
Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary
Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary in Stirling is a top place to see Aussie animals. It’s got over 100 species of native wildlife. I love watching the platypuses swim in the creek. There are also lots of kangaroos and wallabies hopping about.
The sanctuary has night tours where you can spot nocturnal animals like possums and potoroos. It’s pretty cool to see them active after dark.
Warrawong does important work breeding endangered species too. They’ve had success with things like the eastern quoll and southern brown bandicoot.
Morialta Conservation Park
Morialta Conservation Park near Woodside is brilliant for bushwalking and seeing native birds. I reckon the walking trails here are some of the best in the Hills.
There are three waterfalls in the park – First, Second, and Third Falls. The hike to First Falls is easy and gives you great views. If you’re keen on more of a challenge, the track to Third Falls is steeper but worth it.
Keep an eye out for koalas in the gum trees. I’ve spotted heaps here over the years. You might also see kangaroos, echidnas, and reptiles like blue-tongue lizards.
Laratinga Wetlands
Laratinga Wetlands in Mount Barker is a top spot for birdwatching. Over 150 bird species have been seen here. I always bring my binoculars to try and spot pelicans, black swans, and spoonbills.
There are nice walking trails around the wetlands. They’re flat and easy, so good for all fitness levels. The boardwalks let you get up close to the water without disturbing wildlife.
It’s a relaxing place for a picnic too. I like grabbing a takeaway from the Aldgate Pump Hotel and enjoying lunch by the water. The wetlands are especially pretty at sunset, for a perfect golden hour photograph.
