The small town of Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement and many of its experiences are hard to find anywhere else.
The town offers a taste of Germany through its culinary delights (sauerkraut, schnitzels and bratwurst galore!) but also through its cultural experiences, architecture and artisanal products.
We’ve researched the best ways to spend time in this quaint town, unique for its rich cultural heritage.
Embark on a walking tour
Step back in time to Hahndorf’s founding days and immerse yourself in the stories of the village and its people. Hahndorf Walking Tours will provide you with sights you might have otherwise missed. Several tour options are on offer, including an after dark walk and meal at The Haus Restaurant and a Strudel and Stroll tour where visitors make their own classic German dessert, an apple strudel. The Hahndorf Strassendorf Walking Tour escorts guests to prominent locations at the southern end of the main street. The tour will also delve into the history of the Pioneer Women’s Walking Trail, which dates back to 1839 when the European women carried up to 22kg of fresh produce from Hahndorf to sell in Adelaide.
Feast on some German tucker
From freshly baked pretzels to bratwurst sausages with sauerkraut, Hahndorf’s pubs are renowned for dishing up impressive plates of traditional German cuisine.
The town’s three pubs, the German Arms, Hahndorf Inn and Hahndorf Old Mill, all offer a range of German fare alongside contemporary Australian pub grub.
Those who dare can take on the Hahndorf Inn’s Metre and Litre Challenge – known as the giant hotdog.
The metre-long wurst is topped with sauerkraut, pork jus, Bavarian mustard and tomato sauce.
Wash it down with a litre of Hahndorf Brewing’s Bier.
Those who accomplish the feat will earn a spot on the pub’s wall of fame.
Over at the German Arms, schnitty lovers can tackle the 1kg ‘Big Daddy Chicken Schnitzel’.
Appreciate some art
The Hahndorf Academy in the town’s main street is SA’s second most visited gallery, but it’s more than just a gallery with a museum and shop also onsite.
The gallery showcases the work of local, national and international artists from emerging and established backgrounds. The museum displays artefacts and stories from the First Nations Peramangk people and European settlers.
Visitors can also browse through The Hahndorf Academy Shop, which sells locally made jewellery, artwork and homewares.
Several other art galleries are scattered along the main street.
It’s best to grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafes and take a stroll.
Wineries
Hahndorf is home to popular wine spots including Hahndorf Hill Winery, known for its Austrian varietals such as Grüner Veltliner and Blaufrankisch.
Enjoy one of Hahndorf Hill’s delectable experiences, which include pairings of their drops with chocolate, ice cream or cheesecake.
Sidewood Estate is another favourite, especially among families and larger groups.
Pizzas, nibbles and drinks can be enjoyed in the garden or outdoor alfresco area, or more formal bites are available in the restaurant.
If the weather is good, have a game of lawn bowls or pétanque.
Hahndorf is also home to quaint cellar doors in the main street, including the elegant Somerled Wines and the Italian-inspired La Prova.
Beeline for Beerenberg
A visit to Hahndorf isn’t complete without stopping by Beerenberg Farm.
Beerenberg is worth a visit even outside the strawberry picking season (November to April), which is its busiest time of the year.
Beerenberg is home to a farm shop, cafe and ice creamery and visitors can also take part in gourmet tastings, high teas and scone masterclasses.
Strawberry Lane is a space dedicated to showcasing the journey of the Paech family and how the Beerenberg story began more than 200 years ago.
The Farm Shop is open every day except Christmas Day so you’re always able to sample and stock up on the much-loved jams, chutneys, relishes and sauces.
Shop and stroll
Hahndorf’s main street is home to dozens of shops and galleries where you’ll find gifts and wares that are truly one-of-a-kind.
There are hand-poured candle shops, an authentic cuckoo clock and beer stein store, a leathersmith, a beeswax skincare business, an opal shop, an art supplies store and many more.
It’ll be hard to leave the town empty-handed.
The best part about Hahndorf’s retail strip is that many of the shops are locally owned and operated by talented craftspeople who dedicate their livelihoods to the passing visitors and loyal locals.
