By Samuel Smith
Published: Wednesday, June 9, 2021
There’s no denying it – winter is officially here. Days spent lounging at the beach are now distant memories, but a short 30-minute drive from Adelaide, just up the freeway, lies a leafy land full of winter wonders.
Over the past year, many of us have opted to holiday here in South Australia, rather than fly the coop and venture interstate.
Boasting some of the country’s best beaches, wine regions brimming with award-winning drops and a balmy climate envied by – let’s face it – most of the world, it’s no surprise many South Aussies spent summer and spring getting re-acquainted with their beautiful backyard.
Now, as days get shorter and nights colder, leaving the comfort of Netflix and the couch can prove difficult. But in the Adelaide Hills, those who embrace the chill and venture outside are richly rewarded.
From pubs with toasty fireplaces, serving belly-warming meals, to charming towns filled with quirky characters and colourful histories, there are so many reasons to head to the hills this sweater season.
For those heeding the call to holiday here this winter, we’ve put together a guide to some of the cosiest, comfiest retreats the Adelaide Hills have to offer.
Cladich Pavilions, Aldgate
Luxury, privacy and cutting-edge design – Cladich Pavilions offer guests a modern Adelaide Hills escape, surrounded by nature’s timeless beauty.
The 3 pavilions, perched in leafy Aldgate, are all architecturally designed and furnished with Australian-made antique furniture. Living areas are spacious and bright, queen beds are dressed in crisp, white linen and floors are rich Tasmanian oak.
Each pavilion comes with a sleek, modern bathroom, stocked with Jurlique cosmetics, a smart TV and individually controlled reverse-cycle air conditioning.
Just a hop, skip and jump away from world-famous wine regions, restaurants, golf courses, national parks and walking trails, Cladich Pavilions offer the perfect escape for adventurers with discerning taste.
Sticky Rice Villas, Stirling
A fleeting 20-minute drive from the CBD, Sticky Rice Villas offer opulent accommodation amidst prime wine country.
The villas – Zen Villa, Yoko Villa and Bali Villa – are tucked away behind the award-winning Sticky Rice Cooking School, with Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, Mount Lofty Summit, Cleland Wildlife Park and the famous Heysen walking trail on their doorstep.
The villas are inspired by Balinese, Japanese and Thai architecture and designed to evoke the senses and inspire creativity. They’re also incredibly luxurious with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, private walled outdoor courtyards and individual gardens.
The Manor Basket Range, Basket Range
Step back in time to 1935, where your regal quarters await in the Adelaide Hills’ Basket Range.
The Manor Basket Range is a charmingly eccentric estate, formerly known as Camelot Castle. Beyond the imposing front gates, vine-covered stone walls, turrets and gardens that look like they’ve come straight out of a fairytale beckon curious guests.
Take your pick from 12 beautifully furnished townhouse-style rooms, all with kitchenettes, separate living area, balconies and upper-storey bedrooms with queen beds. In the morning, wake up to the sound of birdsong and fresh country air, with views over the rolling hills and orchards.
The grounds encompass multiple event spaces and can cater for large sit-down weddings, cocktail garden parties and intimate dinners.
Longview Vineyard, Macclesfield
Set on undulating slopes outside the picturesque town of Macclesfield, Longview has quickly risen to fame as one of the most awarded vineyards in the Adelaide Hills.
Since its first vintage in 2001, Longview’s premium estate-grown wines have been loved by locals and international connoisseurs alike, landing the vineyard a place in the South Australian Tourism Hall of Fame and countless accolades.
For those who want to sip and savour for longer, a range of opulent accommodation is available onsite. Select from luxurious King Suites, Longview Suites overlooking the gorgeous Homestead and spacious Vineyard Suites.
Mount Lofty House, Crafers
When it comes to Adelaide Hills accommodation, Mount Lofty House is the pinnacle of hospitality, elegance and class.
Situated just 15 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD, bordering beautiful Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, Mount Lofty House is a sprawling 5-star hotel, complete with a 3 Chef Hat-rated restaurant (Hardy’s Verandah), an indulgent day spa and beautiful grounds.
Mount Lofty House’s roots date back to 1853, when it was built by prominent statesman Arthur Hardy as a summer house. The grand manor quickly became synonymous with lavish parties, frequented by Adelaide’s elite.
Today, you can experience the grandeur of Mount Lofty House with a stay in one of their luxury suites, period rooms or cottages. Pamper yourself in the onsite spa, take a dip in the pool or enjoy a spot of tennis, all in stunning stately surrounds.
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