If you’re craving crisp air, beautiful landscapes, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting, the Adelaide Hills getaway is your answer. Tucked less than an hour from Adelaide city, this region feels a world away—with charming villages, peaceful valleys, and some of the best wine and food South Australia has to offer.
In fact, everything about the Hills invites you to slow down. Whether you’re sipping wine under the sun or wandering through old stone towns, there’s always something to spark joy. So, rather than rushing from one big attraction to another, you can simply wander, relax, and take it all in.
Two days here is just enough to breathe deeply, enjoy the company you’re with, and rediscover the little things that make travel meaningful. So, let’s dive into a gentle 48-hour escape filled with vineyards, panoramic views, heritage towns, and fresh country air. You’ll be surprised how much you can see, taste, and experience in just one weekend.
Day One: Vineyards, Villages & Scenic Cafés
Your first day in the Hills is all about relaxing into the region’s rhythm. From sunrise views to afternoon wine tastings, everything invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment.
1. Morning: Cruising into the Hills
To begin, the short drive into the hills already feels like an adventure. As you leave the city behind, each turn reveals a quieter world—rolling slopes, native bushland, and fresh country air.
Even before you’ve arrived, the journey sets the tone. Along the way, consider pausing at Mount Lofty Summit. Not only is the view breathtaking, but it’s also a great introduction to the beauty of the Hills region. From here, your getaway officially begins.
Afterward, cruise into Stirling, a leafy village that immediately charms visitors. With its cozy cafés and boutique shops, it’s easy to spend your morning here. Grab a locally roasted coffee at Red Cacao, or, alternatively, try The Organic Market & Café for a relaxed, earthy vibe. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by locals enjoying their morning rituals.
2. Midday: Wine Tasting and Rolling Hills
Next, the day naturally leads into one of the area’s highlights—vineyards. After your café stop, you’ll want to explore the nearby wineries that give the region its global reputation.
3. Afternoon: Exploring Historic Hahndorf
After indulging in wine and scenic views, make your way to the charming village of Hahndorf. Without rushing, you’ll find the afternoon perfect for wandering and tasting your way through history.
Although Hahndorf is often busy, its atmosphere remains delightfully peaceful. As you stroll along its historic main street, lined with elm trees and half-timbered buildings, you’ll spot inviting galleries, sweet shops, and boutique stores. Moreover, nearly every storefront tells a story—some rooted in German tradition, others celebrating local creativity.
For instance, you might find handcrafted leather goods in one shop, and just next door, discover a display of handmade chocolates. Additionally, if you’re feeling a little peckish, grab a freshly baked pretzel or stop for a scoop of gelato at Evercream Gelati. There’s always something tasty within reach.
Before you leave, consider visiting The Cedars, the beautifully preserved home of landscape artist Hans Heysen. Not only is the home itself impressive, but the surrounding gardens also provide a quiet space to reflect and enjoy the natural beauty that inspired his work.
4. Evening: Dinner Among the Vines
Now that the day is winding down, it’s time to soak in the evening light. Whether you opt for fine dining or a cozy pub, a meal surrounded by vines is a must.
Day Two: Nature Trails, Art Stops & More Coffee
With a restful night behind you, day two brings a deeper dive into the natural and artistic side of your Adelaide Hills getaway. Today’s pace is easygoing, yet still full of discovery.
5. Morning: Nature Walks & Coffee Fixes
There’s something magical about waking up in the hills. Whether you stayed in a tiny cabin, country inn, or vineyard cottage, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to explore more.
Ease into the day with a walk in Cleland Conservation Park or Morialta Falls. These trails vary in length and effort, but all offer the same reward: native wildlife, shady paths, and wide-open spaces.
After stretching your legs, it’s time for coffee—again. Stop in Crafers or Bridgewater for a warm cup and a buttery pastry. The Bridgewater Mill, with its historic water wheel and peaceful surroundings, is a picturesque place to pause.
6. Midday: Arts, Antiques & Local Finds
While vineyards and views are the highlight of any Adelaide Hills getaway, the creative side of the region deserves attention too. Spend the late morning in Aldgate or Uraidla, where quirky shops and local art galleries surprise at every turn.
In Uraidla, even the pub has an artistic twist. The Uraidla Hotel is a bright, eccentric place with mismatched chairs, a garden full of vegetables, and locally brewed beer on tap. It’s ideal for a casual lunch.
Prefer quiet corners? Lobethal—once a hub for textiles—is now a small-town haven for creatives. Check out Fabrik Arts + Heritage, housed in a former wool mill, to see rotating exhibitions and community workshops.
7. Afternoon: Slow Moments Before Goodbye
As your weekend begins to wind down, let yourself slow completely. Grab one last sweet treat at Stirling’s Patisserie Jin, then perhaps take a scenic backroad back toward Mount Barker or the freeway to Adelaide. Even the drive itself is part of the experience—especially if you stop for a few final photos along the way.
For a laid-back end, stop at Barrister’s Block in Woodside. Their vineyard is family-friendly, often with live music or wood-fired pizza on Sundays. Sit under the trees, toast to your mini-adventure, and breathe in the country calm one last time.
Why This Hills Getaway Feels So Special
What makes the Adelaide Hills getaway stand out isn’t just the wine, or the views, or the cozy fireplaces—it’s how all of it blends together. You never feel rushed. Everything is close, yet nothing feels crowded. The people are warm, the air is crisp, and the rhythm of life slows in the best possible way.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or on a mini-group escape, the Hills make you feel welcome. And more importantly, they invite you to reconnect—with nature, with great food, and with moments you actually remember.
Tips to Make the Most of It
- Pack layers. Mornings can be cool even in warmer months, so it’s best to come prepared.
- Bring walking shoes. Trails and towns are both best explored on foot; therefore, comfortable footwear is essential.
- Check winery hours. Some require bookings or close earlier than you might expect; consequently, planning ahead can save time.
- Skip the schedule. The best memories often come from unplanned stops; after all, spontaneity adds magic to short getaways.
Final Thoughts
In the end, this two-day Adelaide Hills getaway gives you more than just a break—it offers a real connection to place, people, and pace. Above all, you don’t need to go far or plan much to feel refreshed. Sometimes, simply changing your surroundings can bring new energy and clarity.
As a result, every moment—from sipping coffee in a quiet village to walking beside native bushland—reminds you that travel doesn’t have to be rushed to be meaningful. Instead, it can be slow, rich, and beautifully simple.
So, next time you have a free weekend, don’t overthink it. Just pack light, head into the Hills, and let the weekend unfold one relaxed moment at a time.