While winter might invite cozy moments in woollen jumpers and lazy days on the couch, it’s also an opportunity to venture out and explore the best of what the Adelaide Hills has to offer. With its charming landscapes and a long list of culinary experiences to indulge in, the region has an array of activities and attractions to help beat the winter blues.
1Explore The Cedars
This vast country property was once home to iconic landscape painter Sir Hans Heysen. Hans Heysen’s studio, Nora Heysen’s studio and the Heysen family home are filled with about 200 original works of art, as well as authentic furniture and homewares. Wander around the artist’s walk, take a peek into the space where the magic happened and explore the garden, which changes with the seasons. The art studio is scattered with Sir Hans’ original paintbrushes and sketches – almost like he just stepped out for a while.
2Find the best hot choccie
Indulge in a warm mug of hot chocolate at some of the State’s best chocolatiers. Head to Red Cacao at Stirling and give the Aztec hot chocolate a whirl with chilli and cinnamon bursting through dark hot chocolate. Also popular is the salted caramel hot chocolate. For an extra special treat, let the team expertly match two of their handmade truffles or ganaches to your chosen drink. Also check out Melba’s Chocolates and Confectionery factory at Woodside where chocolate literally flows on tap. Beat the chill with a warm mug in the café after stocking up on your favourite sweets.
3Winter Reds
Gather a bunch of friends and share a bottle of red around a firepit at one of the Adelaide Hills wineries opening their doors for the Winter Reds Festival. Cellar doors across the region will participate in the three-day festival in July, hosting long lunches, celebratory dinners and wine tastings. Those wanting to explore multiple venues in one day can hop on and off the pre-booked bus – but get in quick as spots often book out fast.
4Cosy up by the fireplace
Pull up a chair and warm your toes before a fireplace at one of the various spots in the Adelaide Hills. Many pubs and cafes across the region have cosy fireplaces that offer the perfect excuse to dwindle away an afternoon while it’s cold and rainy outside. Venues with delightful fireplaces include the Uraidla Hotel, Barrel Wine Bar at Stirling, Beerenberg Farm at Hahndorf, Grünthal Brew at Verdun, the Stirling Hotel and the Inglewood Inn.
5Meet the maker
Grab your wicker basket and stock up on a selection of locally grown veggies, fruits, eggs, meats, breads, oils, preserves and more at the Adelaide Hills Farmers Market, held each Saturday on Mann Street at Mt Barker. Keep your hands warm by cradling a hot cup of coffee while you browse the stalls run by friendly producers. Other local markets include the weekly Mt Pleasant Farmers Market and the Stirling Market, held on the fourth Sunday of each month.
6Travel back in time
Explore the stories of the cars – and the people who drove them – that have shaped Australian culture and history. The National Motor Museum at Birdwood is a fascinating journey back in time with 300 vintage, veteran, post war, classic and modern cars as well as motorbikes on display. The museum is bound to interest even non-motoring enthusiasts with displays showcasing the social history intricacies of years gone by.
