By Lana Guineay
Paddock-to-plate dining, idyllic scenery, world-class wines…when it comes to local weekends away, the Adelaide Hills are hard to top. Better yet, the region is only a stone’s throw away (if you have impressive skills at throwing stones) from the CBD.
If you’re heading to the Hills, we’ve uncovered just five places to stay for your next overnighter:
Thorngrove Manor Hotel (not Hogwarts)
If you like…luxurious romance (with a dash of the dramatic)
Book: Thorngrove Manor
No, you’re not in Game of Thrones. You’re in Stirling, but it’s easy to picture dragons and swords when you’re in the middle of this castle complex, widely regarded as one of the most unique places to stay in Australia. With a swag of awards to their name, Thorngrove Manor has been listed on the World’s Most Luxurious Hotels every year since 1995. Step inside and it’s easy to see why. The landmark building prides itself on offering total privacy and a baroque, one-of-a-kind experience, with turrets, lavish furnishings, French tapestries and antiques at every turn. Take a step back in time (but keep the mod cons.)
A relaxed night at Crafers Hotel – fluffy robes essential. Photo copyright SATC
If you like… a luxe meeting of old and new
Book… Crafers Hotel
There comes a time when you need fluffy robes, room service and a large bathtub…that time is ‘always’, and the Crafers Hotel is here for you. Polished and pulled together, the 4.5 star, 7-room hotel carefully balances heritage character and modern facilities, with rooms that make the most of the 1839 building’s historic appeal. A dash downstairs will see you enjoy the hotel’s gastro-pub menu – featuring a buzzed-about crème brûlée. Come for the dessert, but stay for one of the most impressive wine lists in the country, with the resident sommelier curating everything from top-shelf Bordeaux to famous Australian names, to a selection of local drops. The crew behind the Crafers Hotel has recently turned their hand to nearby watering-hole the Uraidla Hotel, re-inventing the country pub after years of being boarded up; stop by for hearty pub fare and rustic appeal.
Spot the ducks. Photo courtesy Hahndorf Resort
If you like… family fun with a side of scenery
Book: Hahndorf Resort
In walking distance of Hahndorf’s main street, this popular tourist resort is the perfect place to take the kids and unwind. They’ll love the on-site activities including a jumping cushion, pool, and mini golf; you’ll love the self-contained, newly-updated lake-side cottages, scenic views, and proximity to the best Hahndorf has to offer.
The Japanese garden at Sticky Rice Villas, photo courtesy Sticky Rice Villas
If you like… a serene b’n’b (with an emphasis on the second b)
Book: Sticky Rice Villas
Taking inspiration from Asian décor and design, Sticky Rice Villas offer a luxurious gourmet retreat, with three private villas and a cooking school on site. Inspired by Japanese and Indonesian design, the eco-friendly villas are built with sustainability in mind, and feature tranquil indoor and outdoor spaces. In good news for foodies (AKA everyone), they offer cooking classes, gourmet tours, proximity to local markets, and if you’re feeling extra five-star, a private chef can even cook up a storm in your villa. How’s the serenity.
Local hang out. Photo courtesy SATC/Adam Bruzzone
If you like… warm, casual vibes in the heart of the Hills
Book: Stirling Hotel
Leafy and chilled, this local favourite has been at the heart of Stirling life for more than a century. The historic pub is the perfect choice for a time-poor overnighter, with a cellar, patisserie, fine dining, bistro, decking, and even a library all on site. Their boutique ‘5 rooms’ accommodation are as relaxed, warm and inviting as the hotel itself.
Need more accommodation ideas? Two SA hotels made the world’s Top 100.