Exploring Adelaide’s Hahndorf
Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf, is as unexpected as it is beautiful.
The small town in the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia showcases architecturally fascinating buildings, foods to make your mouth water, and a diverse culture to explore.
The picturesque traditional European village features Australian style and modern international influences, as well as rich history, migrant artistry, and ancient folklore.
Each year thousands of people explore the pretty town of Hahndorf, just a 30 minute drive from Adelaide, so we rounded up a list of some of the best highlights not to be missed!
Hahndorf To-Do List
• Stroll the historic main street and browse the incredible range of goods on offer, most with a German flair.
From clothing, shoes, cuckoo clocks, hand-crafted leather wares, to traditional lolly shops, bakeries, and candle makers, you’ll find the perfect treasure to take home.
Amongst German goods you will also find Aboriginal art and South Australian opals.
• Get your fill of delicious foods with many restaurants, pubs, and bakeries serving traditional German fare.
If you’re feeling brave, take on the Hahndorf Hotdog Challenge at Hahndorf Inn. But beware, it’s a metre long!
Still hungry? Sample 50 varieties of handmade fudge at The Fudge Shop Hahndorf.
• Stay in a piece of history at The Hahndorf Inn built in 1853, the German Arms Hotel established in 1838, or the Hahndorf Old Mill Hotel which converts into a German beerhouse on the last Sunday of each month.
At all three you will find sausages, schnitzels, and sauerkraut, and if you’re lucky; a pig on a spit!
• Savour Australia’s most expensive blue vein cheese at Udder Delights ($300/kg) or one of the world’s most expensive chocolates; Chuao Chocolate at Hahndorf Hill Winery $27/50gm bar)
• Visit the boutique winery cellar doors in the main street to taste a huge variety of wines from across the region, or if local craft beer is more your style, try Gulf Brewery.
• For a culture fix, stop by the Hahndorf Academy. The 150 year old building is home to a migration museum as well as galleries and studios featuring the work of local artists.
• Take a guided walking tour to see the sights of this beautiful town, especially if you visit in autumn, as the colourful foliage makes for a stunning sight.
• Visiting from November to April? Pick your own strawberries at Beerenberg Farm! Or stock up on jams and condiments year round.
In a town this full of vivid history, local produce, and stunning architecture to admire, it’s easy to quickly fill a day (or two or three) with unique adventures and memories to last a lifetime.
Foodies, art appreciators, history fans, and adventurers alike will love the quirky traditional German town with something to appeal to every taste.
We can’t wait to pack our bags and head to this must-see getaway destination!
Have you explored this small South Australian town? Head to our Facebook page and share your experience with us!
Ready to explore other fascinating parts of Australia? Read our blogs on Brisbane’s Botanic Gardens, Top Places to Discover Wildflowers in Perth, Melbourne’s Best Gardens to Explore, Sydney’s Most Beautiful Gardens.
Want to send flowers to Adelaide? Head here.