Adelaide Hills Wine Tour
Enjoy tasting in the Cool Climate of the Adelaide Hills
Discover the Adelaide Hills, a standout region in Australia’s wine country, celebrated for its cool climate that nurtures an impressive variety of wines. From crisp Chardonnays and elegant Pinot Noirs to vibrant Sauvignon Blancs and complex Shiraz, the Hills offer a diverse range of flavors to explore. As you journey through this picturesque landscape, you’ll uncover charming towns where each cellar door presents a unique tasting experience, showcasing the dedication of local artisans and producers. With its rich selection of wines, sophisticated flavors, and warm, welcoming hospitality, the Adelaide Hills is a must-visit destination for any wine lover seeking an unforgettable experience
Highlights
Experience the best of the Adelaide Hills with breathtaking views from Mount Lofty Summit, followed by a wine tasting at Golding Wines. Journey through the picturesque Onkaparinga Valley, where you can indulge in sweet treats at Melba's Chocolates and savor artisanal cheeses at Woodside Cheese Wrights. Step back in time as you explore the historic charm of Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German village. Enjoy panoramic vistas from the Nepenthe cellar door, spot koalas in their natural habitat as you wander through native forests, and immerse yourself in the quaint beauty of the Adelaide Hills villages.
Tour Details
Pricing
2 people - $299 per Adult
3 people - $265 per Adult
4 people - $250 per Adult
5 people - $230 per Adult
Please contact us for larger group prices
Tour code
AH28
Departs
9:15 am
Adelaide hotel pickups from 8:30 am
Returns
5:15 pm
What's included
Intimate, small group touring, morning pickup and post tour drop off from selected Adelaide Hotels, standard wine tasting at at least 3 wineries, visits to Woodside Cheese and Melbas Chocolates and informative commentary by a local guide, bottled water.
Regions visited
Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf
Itinerary
Begin your day with a warm welcome from your friendly guide, who will meet you at your hotel or prearranged pickup location in Adelaide. Dedicated to making your experience both relaxing and enjoyable, your guide is there to accommodate any special requests you may have throughout the day.
As passionate locals, our guides not only lead your tour but are also eager to share insider tips on other must-see attractions and hidden gems to explore during your stay in Adelaide.
Mount Lofty Summit & Lookout
Journey into the Adelaide Hills and arrive at Mount Lofty, the highest peak of the Mount Lofty Ranges, standing over 710 meters tall. Explore the gift shop for unique souvenirs and take a moment to browse the local history displays that offer a glimpse into the area's rich past.
As you take in the breathtaking panoramic views across the Adelaide city skyline to the coast, you'll gain a true appreciation for how Matthew Flinders first spotted Mount Lofty from the distant Kangaroo Island in 1802.
Goldings Wines
Travel through the picturesque Onkaparinga Valley to arrive at Golding Wines, located on the outskirts of Lobethal.
Established by Darren and Lucy Golding, the winery’s first vintage was bottled in 2002 using grapes from the family vineyard that Darren planted with his parents, Greg and Connie, seven years prior. Today, their expanded Western Branch Vineyard in the Lenswood appellation of the Adelaide Hills remains central to their operations, serving as the exclusive fruit source for their diverse range of wines.
At the cellar door, you can savor a selection of their wines, including crisp Sauvignon Blancs, elegant Pinot Noirs, and rich Shirazes. Stroll through their beautifully landscaped gardens, which enhance the experience and provide a serene backdrop to your visit, making the bustling cellar door and gardens a popular choice for a delightful day out.
Melbas Chocolate
Discover the sweet legacy of Melba’s Chocolates, which began in 1981 in a small wash house behind the Adelaide restaurant, ‘Melba’s’. By 1990, the growing popularity of their iconic South Australian treats, including Traffic Lights, Inch Licorice, and a variety of chocolates and confectioneries, led them to relocate to the historic Woodside Farmers Union Factory site.
Today, visit their factory shop to browse and purchase these beloved products while enjoying a charming display of antiques and collectibles. It’s a delightful way to experience a piece of local history and indulge in some delicious sweets.
Woodside Cheese Wrights
Experience the delightful world of Woodside Cheese Wrights, nestled within the picturesque Woodside Heritage Park. Guided by Kris Lloyd Artisan, a self-taught cheese maker with over 20 years of experience, this renowned cheese producer offers an exceptional array of artisanal cheeses.
From creamy Brie and Camembert cheeses to rich Cheddar and the unique Green Ant Fresh Goat Chevre, each creation reflects a deep passion for quality and innovation. A visit to Woodside Cheese Wrights is a delectable journey into the art of cheese-making and a celebration of local craftsmanship.
Nepenthe
At Nepenthe Wines in the Adelaide Hills, you'll embark on a journey through cool-climate winemaking at its finest. Set against the backdrop of rolling vineyards, your visit begins with a tasting of their award-winning Sauvignon Blancs, elegant Pinot Noirs, and a variety of other exceptional wines.
As you sip, you'll take in breathtaking views from the cellar door, offering a peaceful escape into the beauty of the Hills. The warm hospitality of the staff enhances the experience, sharing their passion and expertise in every pour.
A visit to Nepenthe Wines promises not just a tasting, but an immersive experience in the art of winemaking, set in one of the region’s most picturesque locations.
Hahndorf Township
Step into the charming world of Hahndorf, a picturesque German village settled by farmers escaping religious persecution in the late 1830s. With its rich, fertile soils, Hahndorf quickly thrived, spreading its prosperity across South Australia, including the renowned Barossa Valley.
Today, this delightful village offers a wealth of experiences, from wandering through historic buildings and artisan shops to exploring vibrant art galleries and studios. You can visit unique cellar doors and enjoy local brews at the village brewery. Savor a taste of Hahndorf’s culinary delights at traditional German-style pubs, cozy cafés, and diverse restaurants, each offering a range of delicious options to enhance your visit.
Take your time to immerse yourself in the village’s history and culture and indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of its many inviting eateries.
Continue exploring and tasting in the region
After your delightful visit to Hahndorf, continue your journey through the Adelaide Hills with a relaxed and enjoyable tour of the region. We aim to provide a stress-free experience, so you’ll have the opportunity to savor at least one winery for a tasting, with a chance to explore a second if time allows.
Take your time to fully appreciate each winery, without feeling rushed, ensuring a more pleasant and memorable visit. Potential stops include renowned wineries such as Artwine, Hahndorf Hill, The Lane, and Sidewood Estate, where you can experience a range of exceptional wines in the beautiful surroundings of the region.
Travel back to Adelaide
After a day of sightseeing and wine tasting, your tour continues with a leisurely drive out of the Adelaide Hills, offering the chance to spot koalas along some scenic back roads. As you journey through the suburbs, you'll head back to Adelaide, arriving by 5:15 pm. It’s the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and relaxation, leaving you with wonderful memories of the Adelaide Hills.
Adelaide Hills Wine Tour
What to Bring
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Comfortable walking shoes
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sunglasses
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hat
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camera
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warm/ wet weather clothing through the cooler months of the year.
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Sunscreen during the hotter months
Tour Bits & Tips
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The Adelaide Hills can become cool in the late afternoon during the warmer months, so it is always good to be prepared.
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The original Lutheran woman who settled Hahndorf use to walk their produce from the town to Adelaide 35 kilometres away whilst the menfolk worked the farms. Today 26 kilometres of the route has been turned into the Pioneering Women's Trail.
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Sauvignon Blanc is the largest white wine variety planted in the Adelaide Hills followed closely by Chardonnay, with Savagnin and Arneis being the least planted white wine varieties with 6 and 7 hectares of each respectively.
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The Adelaide Hills region is renowned for its unique microclimate, which not only supports premium wine production but also creates an ideal environment for growing rare and specialty fruits like the Adelaide Hills cherry, celebrated for its exceptional sweetness and flavor.