The Best Things to do in Hahndorf: Where To Eat, Stay & Play
Discover our guide to all the best things to do in Handorf - we're talking artisan cheese, luxury stays and some of the finest wines in all of South Australia.
Just a 30-minute drive from Adelaide’s CBD, Hahndorf is a charming village that feels like a slice of Bavaria nestled in Australia. Its picturesque beauty shines year-round—radiant and warm in summer, vibrant with autumn hues, lush and green in spring, and wonderfully cosy in winter.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll love exploring its quaint boutiques, traditional German pubs, and delightful cafes where you can relax and soak up the local charm. Discover the magic of one of the state's most beloved destinations with our guide to the best things to do in Hahndorf. Prost!
The Best Things to do in Hahndorf: Restaurants, Bars & Cafes
Ernest Delicatessen
Former fine-dining chef James Brinklow has infused Ernest Delicatessen in Hahndorf with his culinary flair, offering a delectable mix of deli sandwiches and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Enjoy light, airy focaccia sandwiches, house-made pastas, and vibrant small plates crafted from local ingredients. On Fridays, pasta night extends into the evening, featuring delights like spaghetti with lemon, chard, and bottarga, or rigatoni with ’nduja and vodka sauce.
48/50 Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Thiele's Shop
Steeped in history, Thiele's Shop, Hahndorf's venerable institution since 1839, continues its legacy as a vibrant hub for local entrepreneurs. Partnering with The PaintBox, it offers a unique space where emerging businesses, from artisanal bakeries to florists, flourish through innovative sponsorships. Visit this historic venue for exceptional coffee and pastries at Homeboy Cafe, and explore an ever-changing array of pop-up businesses. It’s a delightful glimpse into Hahndorf’s rich heritage and creative spirit.
100B Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
POT
POT is a haven for coffee and tea lovers. This new specialty coffee bar features locally roasted beans from 1645 Coffee Roasters, brewed to perfection. Discover their inviting space and indulge in a variety of speciality teas, blended locally by passionate owners. Enjoy fresh gourmet sandwiches and artisanal breads and pastries from local Adelaide Hills bakers. At POT, every sip and bite promises to elevate your culinary experience in the heart of Hahndorf.
1/76 Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Vine and Essen
Vine and Essen is the modern bistro and wine bar seamlessly blending old-world charm with contemporary flair in Hahndorf. Open in the warmer months, the expansive front deck offers an idyllic setting for brunch through dinner.
Browse the impressive 15-page drinks menu featuring an extensive selection of wines, spirits and cocktails, throw in the selection of small nibbles available after 3pm, and you've got the recipe for the perfect recipe for a well-spent afternoon.
33 Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Same But Different Café
Step into Same But Different for a relaxed brunch with tasty fare and excellent coffee from McLaren Vale’s Dawn Patrol Cafe. This family-friendly spot has quickly become a local favourite. Cozy up with a warming bowl of porridge, enjoy pastries from Lobethal’s Clara Cakes, or go for their loaded breakfast bagel, piled with egg, bacon, hash brown, cheese, avocado, tomato, sriracha mayo, and spinach. It’s the perfect place to kickstart your day with a delicious twist.
79 Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Adelaide Hills Wine Bar
Tucked in the heart of Hahndorf’s main street, Adelaide Hills Wine Bar blends modern flair with classic European charm, capturing the essence of the town. Whether you choose to stay cosy inside or bask in the sunshine on the verandah, the wine bar and restaurant offers a delightful menu of seasonally inspired share platters, pizzas, and tapas-style plates. Enjoy a curated selection of local wines and beers, or sip on expertly crafted coffees and refreshing soft drinks.
The Wolf Blass Gallery, 62 Main Street, Hahndorf
Grünthal Brew & Udder Delights Cheese Cellar
Cheese, beer, gin, wine, and pizza—Grünthal has it all! This ultimate local hang-out, created by the masterminds behind Udder Delights, offers a delightful mix of artisanal treats and unique experiences. Tuck merrily into their all-day dining menu brimming with tasty share plates like tacos and pizza, book a cheese-making class, or indulge in tasting experiences featuring beer, gin, cheese, and wine.
827 Mount Barker Road, Verdun
Fourth Hill Providore
Allow yourself a slow morning and take the time to appreciate the good things in life at Fourth Hill Providore. Their menu of ‘break your fast’, ‘toasty + cosy’ and ‘lunch with us’ is packed with delicious plates of varying sizes depending on your mood, alongside a trusty drinks menu featuring some of the best local wines, beers, spirits and hot beverages.
34 Onkaparinga Valley Road, Verdun
Hahndorf Inn
Das original. Das beste. South Australia's award-winning taste of Bavaria, Hahndorf Inn is the must-try dining spot in town for hearty German cuisine. Settle into the charming 1863 hotel with its exposed stone walls and wood-panelled ceiling, and get ready to feast. Enjoy ‘bock’ style beers of the month alongside hearty fare like bratwurst and sausage boards, giant hot dogs, wiener schnitzels, and classic pork knuckles. Each dish is served with traditional sides of sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, and rich gravy.
Trust us when we say, this is one of the best, most authentic things to do in Hahndorf.
35 Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Comida Hahndorf
Whether you’re a couple enjoying a leisurely lunch, a family on the go, or friends gathering for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Comida is the place to be. This stunning Spanish-inspired restaurant and bar opens onto a beautifully landscaped garden with a bar, pizza oven, and deck. Start your day with dishes like pan con tomate with poached eggs or sourdough crumpets. For lunch and dinner, choose from tapas and larger plates, and keep an eye on their socials for the seafood paella—best enjoyed with a carafe of sangria.
100C Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Stanley Bridge Tavern
Pop into Stanley Bridge Tavern in Verdun for a tasty refuel with starters, mains, and dessert, complemented by a diverse drinks menu featuring cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and soft drinks. Known for its warm hospitality, the tavern is perfect for anything from a casual lunch to a festive dinner. Enjoy their large beer garden with picnic-style tables and parasols, set amidst lush grass and framed by tall trees—ideal for gatherings of any size.
41 Onkaparinga Valley Road, Verdun
The Best Things to do in Hahndorf: Wineries
Nepenthe Cellar Door
A gem in the Adelaide Hills, the newly renovated Nepenthe Cellar Door boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, a spacious deck, and a Barrel Room that opens directly onto the lawn, ensuring stunning views from every seat. Just minutes from Hahndorf, you can enjoy their exquisite wines while gazing over picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.
93 Jones Road, Balhannah
Sidewood Estate
If you haven't already visited Sidewood Estate, we suggest adding this one to your must-visit list. Their opulent winery boasts an amazing restaurant, award-winning wines and beautiful timber outdoor decking.
It's a popular haunt in the warmer months, with their cellar door, games and outdoor VIP cabanas a hit among crowds, but it's also a super cosy space in the cooler months, where you can perch indoors next to the fireplace.
6 River Road, Hahndorf
Hahndorf Hill Winery
At the edge of Hahndorf sits boutique vineyard Hahndorf Hill Winery and its beautiful cellar door with views stretching across their growing vines.
Seated tastings serve up flights of mixed, red and white wines, or you could try something a bit different with their unique ChocoVino experience; expertly matching their wines with some of the world’s best chocolate to taste.
38 Pain Road, Hahndorf
The Lane
For the best of Hahndorf, seek out two essentials: exceptional wine and stunning countryside views. At The Lane, you'll be captivated by panoramic vineyard vistas that stretch across the Adelaide Hills, creating the perfect backdrop for their award-winning tastings. And don’t miss out on a leisurely lunch in their stylish dining room before you leave.
5 Ravenswood Lane, Hahndorf
The Best Things to Do in Hahndorf: Attractions
Beerenberg Farm
You can’t visit Hahndorf without stopping at one of the greatest South Australian institutions - Beerenberg Farm. Family-owned since 1839, the farm is best loved for its strawberry patch, where you can try your hand at strawberry picking between November – April (check their social media first to ensure the patch hasn't been picked empty!).
Open to visitors year-round, you can enjoy the farm café and its delicious breakfast, lunch and afternoon teas featuring their home-grown products, and visit the farm shop with exclusive flavours to purchase and take home.
The Beerenberg Family Farm, Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Gathered SA
Expect a delightful shopping experience at Gathered in Hahndorf, featuring the finest local South Australian products. Browse homewares, art, candles, jewellery, and clothing, and enjoy coffee, cakes, and weekend pop-up bars. Known for its vibrant pop-up markets, Gathered supports vendors by offering a unique platform to showcase their creations. You’re bound to uncover some hidden treasures!
102 Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
Gin-Making At Ambleside Distillers
If gin is your thing, then a trip to Ambleside Distillers is a must.
Stop in for one of their exquisite G&Ts and light share plates, or make your day extra special and book one of Ambleside’s experiences for gin-tasting flights or their expert masterclasses to learn the art of cocktails and blending your own gin.
1 Ambleside Road, Hahndorf
The Cedars
Lovers of fine art, charming gardens, and fascinating history will adore The Cedars. This 132-acre property was home to renowned landscape painter Sir Hans Heysen and his family. Explore his captivating artworks in their original home, visit the enchanting garden he planted, and step into his perfectly preserved studio. Guided tours reveal the rich history of a place that once hosted royals and celebrities.
68 Heysen Road, Hahndorf
Hahndorf Academy
The Hahndorf Academy is a treasure trove of art, history, and local charm. Stroll through its art gallery to be inspired by a dynamic range of exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists. Explore the German Migration Museum to uncover the fascinating story of Hahndorf’s early settlers and how they preserved the colonial charm that defines the town today. With its blend of artistic and historical experiences, the Academy offers something for everyone.
68 Mount Barker Road/Main Street, Hahndorf
Hahndorf Oktoberfest
Every October, South Australia’s own little Germany bursts with vibrant celebrations at its famed festival, dedicated to traditional German culture and heritage. Head to the Hills for a day filled with authentic beer, delicious food, lively music, and plenty of dancing. It's one of the best free events in Hahndorf—just be sure to don your lederhosen or dirndl for the full experience!
October
Alec Johnston Park, Hahndorf
The Best Things to Do in Hahndorf: Accommodation
Pavilions at Lenswood
Just 15 minutes from Hahndorf, Pavilions at Lenswood offers a stylish, luxe escape for couples. These modern, self-contained pavilions feature an open woodfire, kitchen, freestanding bathtub, and king-size bed with views of lush gardens and rolling valleys. Each pavilion adds a unique touch, from a free-standing hot tub to a plunge pool, making your choice a delightful dilemma.
Corner of Swamp & Leslie Roads, Lenswood
Ode to the Orchard
This rustically chic cottage hails back to the 1890s (one of the first in the region), beautifully restored and achingly romantic. Surrounded by the Adelaide Hills wine region and overlooking an old apple orchard, the two-bedroom cottage is like stepping back in time.
Savour wine by a cosy wood fire, whip up hearty meals on a charming vintage wood-fired Aga, and indulge in an outdoor clawfoot bath with breathtaking views of the rolling hills.
Location on request
Under the Oaks
Under the Oaks is a romantic haven nestled in the heart of Hahndorf, where historic charm meets modern luxury. Set beneath ancient oak trees, this beautifully converted 1858 church offers couples a serene retreat just moments from the vibrant main street.
Step inside to discover a light-filled sanctuary, complete with a cloud-like king-size bed, a luxurious bathroom with a divine bath, and a crackling fireplace for intimate evenings. Outside, a private courtyard beckons, inviting you to savour tranquil moments over morning coffees and afternoon wines.
For a romantic and relaxing escape, Under the Oaks is a top choice among things to do in Hahndorf.
Located just off Main Street
Luxury Private Farm Escapes
Three minutes out of Hahndorf will feel like you’re miles from anywhere with this luxury accommodation, set among the rolling Adelaide Hills on an organic farm.
Choose the Private Farm Escape complete with uninterrupted farm views, fireplace, outdoor fire pit and 2-person soak tub or the Tinyhome Private Escape perfect for two (or one) with a panoramic sauna, outdoor soak tub, cosy living space and complete privacy.
Location on request
The Haus Restaurant
As the premier accommodation provider in the Adelaide Hills, The Haus Restaurant collaborates with The Manna Group to deliver exceptional comfort and amenities. With over 85 4 and 5-star rooms across three properties, you can choose from motel rooms, luxury split-level apartments, or rustic lodges, all just a stone's throw from Hahndorf’s main street. Enjoy the convenience of having the Haus Restaurant right on site, making your stay both relaxing and delicious.
Ready to discover more of the Adelaide Hills area after uncovering the best things to do in Hahndorf? We've rounded up the best wineries to visit, restaurants for every kind of dining experience and accommodation for a stylish stay.
