We think we’ve found Adelaide’s first guinea pig cafe complete with a tiny village and backed by a great initiative They’re scurrying through Hahndorf’s pint-sized main street dodging the leather shop and munching on autumn leaves as they go they might even stop by for a tiny stein of Hofbräu lager happily sipping under the blue umbrellas of The German Arms We bet you didn’t guess that we’re talking about a tiny gang of guinea pigs taking over a miniature version of Hahndorf’s village main street But there’s more to this adorable takeover than just some furry folk on the move These little critters are about to star in their very own guinea pig cafe right in the heart of Hahndorf’s actual main street We think it might just be the first of its kind in SA The cafe is part of a project put together by NDIS provider AHH Life Skills for the purpose of teaching barista skills to people with intellectual disabilities The program will impart its participants with valuable training and lead to a Certificate III in Barista Training “The program means there will be a cafe and a great outlet for people with intellectual disabilities,” AHH Life Skills Managing Director Adelaide Schiblhut says The cafe does more than teach valuable barista and hospitality skills and it started out with us teaching responsible social and digital literacy If you’ve got an intellectual disability “But if you’re filming guinea pigs and houses and telling stories in that way it’s a much safer environment for people with intellectual disabilities to engage with digital media,” Adelaide continues Once the cafe is up and running they’ll sell coffee and even sweet treats themed for each of the resident guinea pigs Two guinea pigs named Cherry and Lemon Fizz both already have their own sweet counterparts the guinea pig cafe will set up shop at 91A Mount Barker Road taking over the former premises of Udder Delights as the former cheese cellar on the bottom floor of the old building offers the perfect cool environment for the guinea pigs which means only about a dozen can stay in Hamdorf at once Once the current group has finished their Hamdorf holiday they’ll return to their usual homes across from Beerenberg Farm in Hahndorf and a fresh team of guinea pigs will be packing their tiny suitcases so far Hamdorf consists of tiny versions of the Hahndorf Leathersmith and Bush Gallery we may see even more local icons before Hamdorf is officially unveiled in June Behind all the glorious models is local artist Tatty K who has been leading internal arts and crafts groups for AHH Life Skills Each model starts with a disused dolls house which is painstakingly transformed into a bright new model fit for the finest of guinea pigs Animal cafes have risen to cult like status around the world especially in Japan where some people travel just to visit as many as they can in Tokyo Some countries have even been known to include guinea pig as a treasured delicacy on their menu This is an initiative bringing a lot of good to the local community and perhaps this winter it’ll put a smile on your face as you peruse the streets of Hamdorf What: Hamdorf, a new guinea pig cafeWhere: 91A Mount Barker Road, HahndorfWhen: Set to open June 2025For more information on AHH Life Skills, click here Over 100 South Australian wine producers are showcasing their best to international importers this.. South Australian councils can now apply for a share of $1.4 million in funding.. Enjoy a fun and interactive dining experience where you can make your own Okonomiyaki.. We think we've found Adelaide's first guinea pig cafe Cosmo’s Pizza is opening beneath Hindley Street Music Hall this May relaxed contemporary dining and polished retail quite like King William Road.. Glam Adelaide is a news website dedicated to bringing you the best of South Australia we pride ourselves in supporting local business We would like to acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the lands and waters of the Adelaide region Get the latest SA news for free via our iPhone app here: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/glam-adelaide/id1626204930 Get the latest SA news for free via our new Android app here: https://play.google.com/store/search?q=glam+adelaide&c=apps&hl=en&pli=1 Glam Adelaide has today launched an app for readers all over SA Following a viral video showing tensions in the community Adelaide has become home to many a High Tea spots that are perfect for.. Stephen Noonan is bringing his much loved show The Boy and the Ball to.. Wrong Turn At Lungfish is of exceptional quality and an unmitigated stand out South Australia will see mixed weather conditions Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon The best of Australia straight to your inbox We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Australia South Australia is the gift that keeps on giving. From the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale to the Flinders Ranges and Eyre Peninsula 🚘 The best day trips from Adelaide⭐️ All the best things to do in Adelaide🍷 Australia's best wineries to visit Photograph: South Australian Tourism CommissionWhat is it heritage-listed Hahndorf stands as Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement It’s the perfect day trip for those visiting Adelaide It’s hard not to fall in love with this charming village Wander along the leafy main strip and discover local artisans selling everything from German cuckoo clocks and candlesticks to traditional sweets It’s not a real trip to Deutschland without a frothy pint or two and there are twelve on tap at local favourite real-deal Vienna schnitzel and fresh pretzels Photograph: Melissa Woodley for Time OutWhat is it where the botanicals for Jurlique’s natural skincare have been grown for more than 35 years You can join a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the farm’s history or even harvest your own botanicals on a Handpicked Tour while the retail shop is also prime for stocking up on skincare and gifts Don’t forget to actually stop and smell the roses – they’re as lush as they come Photograph: South Australian Tourism CommissionWhat is it? Bordered by the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale the Adelaide Hills is one of Australia’s most underrated wine regions and it’s also one of the closest to a capital city The cool climate jewel is home to almost 4,000 hectares of vineyards including 50 big-name and boutique cellar doors RecommendedPhotograph: Kristy BillingWhat is it Chances are you’ve spread Beerenberg jam on your toast without even realising it this family-owned company is behind Australia’s number one jam – all made on its sixth-generation strawberry farm in Hahndorf (fun fact: Beerenberg actually means “berry hill” in German) Although Beerenberg now makes 75 different types of jams its strawberry jam remains the most famous picking your own fresh berries to take home for just $5 per person and $12.50 per kilogram Be sure to stop at the Farm Shop and Café too for fresh scones and German potato rostis.  Want more? Fruit fans can also go apple picking at Lenswood from February to May, or cherry picking at Birdwood in December Photograph: Tourism Australia | South Australian Tourism CommissionWhat is it Perched within the Adelaide Hills’ treetops this 97-hectare botanic garden is an oasis for nature enthusiasts and avid picnickers alike.  Lace up and hit one of the wonderful walking trails winding through the garden cool-climate plants that blush with spectacular hues in autumn and a trail of beautiful rhododendron (from spring to early summer) The tranquil lake is a good spot to reflect on the meaning of life or to have a picnic with your loved one Warning: parking in the lower car park is recommended as the hike to the upper car park is steep this exclusive adults-only lodge features 14 open-plan suites, with 32 signature inclusions and experiences included in every stay treat yourself to at least two nights at Sequoia Lodge This ultra-luxe property is everything your adult dreams are made of The 14 plush suites boast a large bathtub with panoramic views of the valley a sunken lounge room with a toasty fireplace and a moon window for stargazing before bed Also included in your luxury getaway are daily breakfast an artesian hot pool experience and morning yoga don’t miss a luxurious massage or facial at The Gatekeeper’s Spa Want more? The heritage-listed Mount Lofty House is right next door, offering equally epic views of the Piccadilly Valley. While you’re there, be sure to dine at the manor’s award-winning Hardy's Verandah Restaurant it’s easily one of Adelaide's finest restaurants with a 175-year-old cellar and a wine list boasting more than 1,300 labels The Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty summit walk is kind of an Adelaidean rite of passage The 7.8-kilometre hike takes around two hours return from Waterfall Gully car park but you can also drive to the summit if you've done enough walking for the day.  It's not Adelaide’s most popular hike for nothing but don’t let that trick you into thinking you're in for an easy ride The fairly steep hike will have you breaking a sweat there’s also food and drink available at The Summit Café Photograph: Tourism Australia | South Australian Tourism CommissionWhat is it? Step back in time and into the shoes of Hans Heysen, South Australia’s most renowned artist, at The Cedars and a delightful café serving high tea and lunch The heritage-listed homestead has barely changed since the Heysens renovated it in the early 1920s and is a treasure trove of colonial-style furniture textiles and artefacts belonging to the family is the chance to view 200 works by Hans Heyson and his daughter Nora Heysen (who was also the first woman to win the Archibald Prize) – all in the one place wander through the charming garden or stroll along the Artist’s Walk to discover some of Hans’ favoured painting spots Photograph: Melissa Woodley for Time OutWhat is it? A private picnic set amidst the ancient gum trees and rolling hills of The Lane Vineyard. Available from October to April, the estate offers five picturesque tables for visitors to enjoy a chef-made hamper with wines. Why go? The Lane Vineyard is a perfect escape from the city, even if only for a few blissful hours. Soak in the sunshine and charm of the Adelaide Hills with a peaceful picnic, featuring everything from baguettes and brie to charcuterie and chutney. After your leisurely meal, head to the Tasting Room for a wine flight, starting from just $15. Photograph: Supplied | CabnWhat is it? Set amidst 30 picturesque acres beside The Cedars, Cabn Hahndorf is the ultimate off-grid escape. The property offers nine private, eco-friendly pods, designed for two to four guests.  Photograph: South Australian Tourism CommissionWhat is it A wholesome conservation park home to more than 130 species of Australia’s most famous (and adorable) wildlife Why go? Cleland Wildlife Park feels worlds away from the city thanks to the wealth of natural bushland surrounding it Wander through 35 hectares of natural habitat as kangaroos bounce by and emus strut past and enjoy hands-on experiences like patting and feeding the animals Cleland Wildlife Park is also one of the rare places where you can cuddle a koala Other animal encounters include a breakfast date with the birds and night walks around the park to meet all the nocturnal creatures that call this place home Saddle up and explore the highlights of Hahndorf on a five-hour e-bike tour with Bike About.  This two-wheeled adventure hits all the Hahndorf hot spots and you won’t need a deso driver (score!) Your first port of call is Beerenberg farm where you can pick your own juicy strawberries during the season (November to April) you’ll ride through heritage-listed Hahndorf to Udder Delights a charming cheese factory where you’ll sample the region's finest dairy products And because cheese and wine are a match made in heaven you’ll wrap up the day with tastings at two of the region’s most beloved wineries: Shaw and Smith Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! tiktokfacebookAbout us Contact us Monday May 5, 2025: What's making news today CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) An Adelaide Hills wine has taken top honours at a major international wine competition shining a spotlight on the region’s cool-climate winemaking The team at Hahndorf Hill Winery is raising a glass (or several) after taking out a huge international award in Germany Their 2023 Reserve Grüner Veltliner has just been crowned Best Wine from Australia at the Frankfurt International Wine Trophy 2025 and they’re still wrapping their heads around it “I actually had to call Frankfurt to double-check the email,” laughs co-owner Marc Dobson “I didn’t fully understand what they were telling me Then they said our Grüner wasn’t just the top Australian wine even against the ones from Austria and Germany The award is a major win not just for the winery it’s quietly been building a name for itself with alternative varietals like Grüner Veltliner a white grape that’s hugely popular in Austria Hahndorf Hill was the first to plant Grüner Veltliner in South Australia bringing the variety to the Adelaide Hills back in 2008 Marc Dobson and Larry Jacobs saw its potential early on and that move helped spark an exciting shift in local winemaking with more producers now following their lead “We’ve been working with Grüner for about 16 years now,” says Larry Jacobs who co-founded the winery with his partner Marc and the 2023 Reserve really hit its stride more textured and more of a ‘sit-down and sip’ kind of wine,” Larry said “We make it in a similar style to top white Burgundies which gives it a beautiful complexity and depth.” It turns out 2023 was the perfect vintage to show off what this grape can do in Aussie soil “We had a really stable growing season,” Larry explains and lower yields—all of that adds up to excellent fruit.” This isn’t Hahndorf Hill’s first big win on the global stage Their 2019 Grüner was the highest-rated at the Decanter World Wine Awards a few years back and they’ve had glowing reviews from Austrian wine publications But this latest trophy feels like a real turning point “It shows that Grüner isn’t just a novelty down here in Australia it’s becoming part of the Adelaide Hills’ identity,” Marc adds “It’s already the fifth most harvested white variety in the Hills region and there are a lot of other producers doing great things with it The response from locals has been just as exciting “So many people have reached out with congratulations And for those who haven’t tried the award-winning drop yet Larry sums it up in five words: “Deliciously complex Hahndorf Hill WineryWhere: 38 Pain Rd, Hahndorf When: Monday to Saturday from 10am-5pm. They are closed on Sundays and public holidays. For more info, click here. An Adelaide Hills restaurant unveils a bold new menu inspired by Latin American flavours and local organic produce is embarking on an exciting new chapter with a fresh culinary vision led by their new head chef vibrant flavours of Latin America to the restaurant aromatic dishes that pair perfectly with the cool-climate wines for which the Hills region is known After nine years in Australia and a culinary journey that has taken him from South America to Melbourne’s bustling café scene and where he can blend his passion for Latin American cuisine with the abundance of local food has always been about telling stories and creating moments of joy around the table “I used to match food with wine in a tiny shop back home in Columbia and now I get to do it here with incredible ingredients and the flavours I love,” he says His experience of pairing bold Latin flavours with wine began long before arriving in Australia and is now coming full circle With a deep understanding of how food and wine complement each other Manuel has designed a menu at Mt Bera that celebrates both Latin American traditions and the unique terroir of the Adelaide Hills The new menu is a fresh take on South American-inspired dishes You can kick things off with small plates like tamari-dusted veggies or charred cos lettuce topped with dehydrated prosciutto Or try the chorizo and wagyu beef empanadas served with homemade chimichurri paired with yellow beetroot purée and native thyme oil combining Aussie ingredients with a Latin twist The roasted cauliflower with charred hummus and sambal goat’s cheese is a great example of how Manuel turns simple ingredients into something exciting hearty dish that will no doubt become a hero in the cooler autumn and winter months “The thing about Latin ingredients is they’re naturally complementary to wine,” he explains This philosophy is at the heart of the new menu where each dish is carefully crafted to complement the wines produced at Mt Bera with ingredients sourced locally and prepared with care I bake my own bread and change it every month the goal isn’t just to create great dishes – it’s to create an experience that makes people feel relaxed and at home “What I want people to experience when they come here is something small The intimate setting of the restaurant encourages guests to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food Manuel often steps out of the kitchen to chat with diners sharing his passion for the flavours on the plate “You come here with your friends or family for a relaxed I get the chance to leave the kitchen and talk to people The atmosphere at Mt Bera is one of warmth and intimacy making it the perfect place to spend a long leisurely afternoon with an incredible view “People don’t leave until 4pm,” Manuel laughs “And they say—where did the afternoon go?” allowing our guests to savour every bite and enjoy their meal without feeling rushed.” Whether you’re there for a quick bite or a long it’s a place where memories are made and moments are shared Mt Bera VineyardWhere: 198C Torrens Valley Rd, GumerachaWhen: Wednesday – Sunday 11am-5pmMenu here >> mtberavineyards.com.auFor more info >> mtberavineyards.com.au Kate Holland receives funding from the Australian Government Department of Climate Change Simmons has received funding for water research from various government and non-government organisations in the past He is currently serving as Chief Scientist for South Australia CSIRO provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU University of Newcastle provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU View all partners The Adelaide Hills are experiencing severe water shortages A prolonged dry period and not enough water tankers to meet unprecedented demand from people not connected to the mains water supply Thousands of residents and farmers are hurting as dams, tanks and streams dry up. Water tankers are becoming a common sight, carting in desperately needed water People are waiting weeks for expensive water deliveries The South Australian government has set up emergency water collection points to cope with the demand from off-grid families. More water tankers have been secured. But despite recent rain We found rainfall and flows into Adelaide’s reservoirs are at their lowest levels in 40 years Reservoir levels have dropped to 44% – the lowest for more than 20 years the city would be under severe water restrictions But the crisis shows many off-grid families farms and businesses need new options to plan for the future This is not the first time entire communities have run out of water Cape Town in South Africa nearly ran out of water in 2018. The city of nearly 4 million people was weeks away from “Day Zero” In Australia, several regional and rural country towns have hit their own Day Zero. Stanthorpe in Queensland officially ran out of water in January 2020 Truckloads of water were carted into town every day to meet residential demand Scientists have coined a new term, “hydroclimate whiplash” to describe the rapid swings between intensely wet and dangerously dry weather currently occurring across the globe This climate volatility amplifies natural hazards such as flash floods The January wildfires in Los Angeles happened when two wet winters were followed by an extremely dry autumn and winter What’s happening in the Adelaide Hills – and in other very dry places worldwide – demonstrates the need for careful The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 is to “ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all”. Water stress already affects more than 2 billion people – more than a quarter of the world’s population By 2030, the UN predicts 2 billion people will still be living without safely managed drinking water 3 billion without safely managed sanitation and 1.4 billion without basic hygiene services CSIRO is collaborating with industry, government and research organisations on research to overcome drought and build resilience for regional Australia Our researchers are testing how well each of these strategies might work in different regions during extended dry periods We calculate how much water can be collected and stored during the driest periods on record a subtropical island in the Pacific Ocean roughly 1,500km southeast of Brisbane with long runs of dry years in recent decades Our Norfolk Island Water Resource Assessment explored ways to help the community determine how to adapt and build resilience to drought Since this project finished in 2020 residential and commercial rainwater tanks have been upgraded and a new seawater desalination plant installed Other options to diversify water supplies included sharing groundwater bores Excess water from rainwater or recycled wastewater can sometimes be stored underground in natural reservoirs called aquifers for use during drought. This is called “water banking” or “managed aquifer recharge” The technique has been developed over the past 20 years and used to safely store water underground across Australia and overseas Brackish (salty) groundwater is a potential water source that could be unlocked during drought. A National Water Grid funded project is investigating ways to use groundwater that would normally be too salty along with renewable energy to power inland desalination plants The project is investigating the prospect of using brackish groundwater across Western Australia for the first time The Adelaide Hills water crisis is a microcosm of a global issue It’s a reminder action is needed now to secure our water future water tankers on standby and bigger water storages are all potentially part of the portfolio of emergency plans the Adelaide Hills water crisis will happen again if we are unprepared We have also seen the catastrophic effects of drought in Los Angeles – a tinderbox waiting to burn and insufficient water on hand to fight the fires We can and must prepare for natural disasters today By adopting more sustainable water management policies and practices in the longer term we can make sure the spectre of Day Zero does not become real for more communities around the world With thanks to CSIRO Senior Research Scientist and Hydrologist Matt Gibbs and Principal Experimental Scientist in Hydrogeology Andrew Taylor Embark on the Chardonnay May Trail this May in Adelaide Hills Collect stamps at local cellar doors and enjoy unique Chardonnay tastings This autumn the Adelaide Hills will come alive with the clink of glasses and the golden glow of Chardonnay as a brand-new wine trail winds its way through the region In an exciting addition to the Chardonnay May festivities the new Chardonnay May Trail is an immersive journey that will take wine lovers on a journey to sip savour and explore their way through one of South Australia’s most picturesque wine regions and cellar doors brimming with the region’s finest drops Trail-goers will collect stamps on a special Chardonnay passport as they visit five or more participating cellar doors treasure-hunt style adventure is the perfect excuse to get together some of your wine-loving mates as you discover some of the hills’ best hidden gems get to know the winemaking community behind some of the country’s most elegant Chardonnays All you have to do is collect your Trail Map from one of the participating cellar doors and visit at least five of the participating venues enjoy a tasting or participate in a Chardonnay May event Make sure to have each cellar door stamp your passport upload a photo of your stamped passport and enter your details via the QR code on the map and be in the draw for a chance to win some great prizes “The Adelaide Hills is a wonderland for Chardonnay lovers especially during May,” says Alex Trescowthick President of the Adelaide Hills Wine Region “We have so many producers making world-class Chardonnay from their small vineyards and boutique wineries that there is lots to discover The idea of a trail is to encourage people to make that discovery; to go beyond your usual favourite and taste the nuances of different Adelaide Hills Chardonnays.” The introduction of the Chardonnay May Trail offers a unique opportunity for both aficionados and casual wine drinkers to deepen their appreciation for the region’s viticulture and enjoy the exceptional quality of Chardonnay that the region is celebrated for This initiative is sure to enhance the wine-tasting experience and also to contribute significantly to the local wine tourism industry “With over thirty-five Chardonnay May experiences to choose from collecting five stamps on yourpassport within one month will be a breeze for Chardonnay lovers.” Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper the Chardonnay May Trail promises a laid-back flavour-packed experience that showcases the charm character and creativity of the Adelaide Hills in one unforgettable month Chardonnay May Trail Where: Participating Adelaide Hills Cellar DoorsWhen: 1st to 31st May, 2025For more information, click here Discover Adelaide Hills Whisky Co’s highly anticipated first release with an exclusive tasting event on May 17 flavour and the spirit of South Australian whisky May 17 — just in time for World Whisky Day — a quiet but significant moment will unfold in the Adelaide Hills There’s a new whisky brand in Australia and Rob Watt and Sam Brown founders of Route 9 Distillery are unveiling their first release from a long-anticipated passion project: Adelaide Hills Whisky Co will give whisky lovers the chance to taste what’s been evolving in the Hills and to get a rare peek into what’s still to come The guided experience runs for one hour and forty-five minutes and is priced at $50 per person This exclusive tasting event at the Balhannah distillery will feature three distinct whiskies each offering a different side of the story The centrepiece is a whisky aged in Madeira barrels fruit-forward and carries a complexity that speaks to the care behind the blend “I’m a barrel hunter,” Rob says.“Sourcing the Madeira barrels for our whisky was a fun and exciting project as the flavour these barrels have added to our first release whisky is incredible.” guests will taste a second whisky matured in traditional Kentucky bourbon barrels “The bourbon barrels we procured for our second whisky add a completely different and that’s what makes the blending process so rewarding,” Rob explains Rounding out the line-up is a special pre-release whisky it will give visitors an insight into the craft and evolution of small-batch production “We’ve taken our time to get this right,” Rob says The brand’s Founders Club will also be introduced at the event where members will enjoy exclusive access to future releases as well as a lifetime connection to the distillery’s journey Route 9 has already made its name with a celebrated range of gins barrel sourcing and careful ageing have led to this moment — and the first expression is finally ready to share For those lucky enough to be among the first to taste it this release offers a rare opportunity to witness a new whisky chapter unfold — done slowly An Immersive Whisky Experience – Saturday 17 May Held at the Route 9 Distillery in Balhannah this exclusive tasting event offers guests a chance to step into the story and the spirit of the Adelaide Hills Attendees will enjoy a personally guided tasting of three distinct whiskies: Route 9 DistilleryWhere: 37 Onkaparinga Valley Road, BalhannahWhen: Saturday 12pm-5pmFor bookings and more information, click here. The driest conditions in nearly two decades have left some South Australians reliant on water carters Others have been forced to leave their homes They can’t flush the toilet’: low rainfall in the Adelaide Hills has left thousands on the brinkThis article is more than 2 months oldThe driest conditions in nearly two decades have left some South Australians reliant on water carters “They can’t drink water. They can’t flush the toilet. They can’t wash their hands, their linen,” Adelaide Hills resident Robyn Saunders says. Those who are not on mains water, so rely on dams and tanks, are having to wait weeks for water deliveries. One of about a dozen water carters servicing the hills says they have 500 people waiting. Saunders had to leave her Aldgate home when it ran dry. Read moreShe’s frustrated that in a vulnerable environment where droughts are becoming increasingly likely due to the climate crisis there are no solutions when people run out of water It’s an “extraordinary” situation in a first world country “We’re not being provided with a basic human need.” Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s latest drought report most of South Australia – as well as the Northern Territory and Tasmania – had below average to very much below average rainfall in January Last year was Adelaide’s driest since 2006, prompting the state government to fire up the Adelaide desalination plant to produce 300m litres of water a day. That measure has meant Adelaide hasn’t had to impose water restrictions, which were last in place during the millennium drought where a desalination plant means more houses are on mains water and has managed to scrape together enough water to last her until a planned delivery in early March “I’ve been up in the hills for 30 years and we’ve faced shortages before ‘We’re not being provided with a basic need’: Robyn Saunders. Photograph: Sia Duff/The GuardianWater carter Jon Ker usually delivers water in his spare time. “Now I’m absolutely flat out running loads around my shifts, after night shifts,” the firie says. “One of the water carters is booked out until the end of April.” One water carter who did not want to be named said “rude, angry and desperate” people kept calling them. Another, who also did not want to be named after dealing with irate customers, said he received hundreds of calls and emails a day, but it was still a five-week wait for customers, and he had 500 on his books. He tells them to go to a mate’s house, join a gym or go to the pool to use showers. The ABC reported on Friday that some people faced waits of three months. The member for Mayo, Rebekha Sharkie, told parliament earlier this month that some parts of the state had had the lowest rainfall since records began. “While we’re accustomed to periods of drought, households in Mayo not connected to mains water are running out of water,” she said. “Some are making the heartbreaking decision to leave their homes.” She was talking to the state water minister about how to improve water deliveries, she said. Free newsletterGet the most important news as it breaks A state government spokesperson said it was an individual or business’s responsibility to ensure they have water. Those who run out might have to rely on commercial water carters, they said. “Due to the current and extended dry conditions through many areas, there is a high demand for water carters,” the spokesperson said. “It is highly recommended that landholders who are reliant on water tanks for their water supply regularly monitor their water storages and plan ahead to ensure that water can be supplied prior to storages running dry.” The water minister, Susan Close, told ABC radio on Friday she was working with councils and SA Water on a plan to allow people direct access to mains water pipes where they can fill up containers, as well as potentially repurposing milk trucks. People on the Fleurieu peninsula are also running out of water, Sharkie says. Rural Aid says farmers are also being hit hard, and that people along the Eyre peninsula are running short. Read moreRural Aid counsellor and community representative Dorothy Crosby says farmers are now meeting with bank managers to work out how to get through the year ahead every farmer’s just trying to work out how to make ends meet Lots of people around here have gone off-farm to make some money Some are suffering from anxiety as they try to cope But she adds that there’s an “incredible outpouring” of help with fundraising and awareness events across the state The state government announced an $18m drought support package for farmers in November last year One of the water carters warns the situation won’t get better any time soon with no rain forecast and hot weather continuing “We’re not even in the busy part [of the year] yet,” he said We’ve caught wind of another underwater town hidden beneath a reservoir in the Adelaide Hills South Australia’s history is brimming with fascinating stories we wrote about the hidden underwater town of Lovely Valley beneath the Myponga Reservoir Now we’ve caught wind of another underwater town hidden beneath a reservoir in the Adelaide Hills the Millbrook Reservoir is a 16,000-megalitre water storage reservoir that was built during World War I to control water flows in the upper River Torrens and provide water to Adelaide’s eastern suburbs The reservoir is named after the small town of Millbrook Millbrook was demolished during the construction of the reservoir thriving community located on the main northeastern road from Adelaide to Mount Pleasant Millbrook was named after a village of the same name in Cornwall and home to a small population largely comprised of gardeners The land around Millbrook was fertile for agricultural and pastoral purposes with a number of vineyards and fruit gardens established in the area alongside a small quantity of wheat crops Small quantities of gold-bearing quartz was once discovered in the nearby Millbrook Creek attracting some prospectors in the town’s early days Iron and copper was also uncovered in the area When construction on the reservoir began nearly 30 years later in 1914 and a small public school had been established inside the township the Government purchased Millbrook’s farming properties and most residents moved on to surrounding towns like Warren a number of roadways had to be reconfigured to divert traffic away from Millbrook but the old bridge near Sunning Hill was left intact when its removal was deemed an unnecessary expense That bridge became visible again in 1955 during a severe draught that dropped the reservoir’s water level to a record low and undergrowth before the official opening on July 5th though work on the reservoir wasn’t actually completed until December that year who was serving as Commissioner of Public Works at the time directed the flow of water from the weir through the inlet tunnel to the reservoir Reports indicate that a group of former residents gathered to witness the water rising over their old town located between Inglewood and Gumeracha along the Adelaide-Mannum Road was also demolished to prevent water pollution in the Millbrook Reservoir Chain of Ponds was established by the South Australian Company several cottages and the historic Morning Star Hotel The town became the namesake of Chain of Ponds Wines a winery established in 1985 just outside Gumeracha about 4km from where Chain of Ponds once stood In our story about Lovely Valley we wrote that some people have shared stories of how the top of a church steeple or the cross on top of its tower could sometimes appear above the surface A similar myth has circulated about the underwater town of Millbrook but a news piece published in 1929 confirms that the last of the buildings in the township were demolished in 1918 there are no buildings left standing beneath the Millbrook reservoir The Millbrook Reservoir now feeds back into the Torrens boosting the supply of water flowing into the Kangaroo Creek Reservoir For more information, click here and cool-climate wines at an inaugural autumn picnic in the heart of the Adelaide Hills There’s nothing quite like autumn in the Adelaide Hills As the temperature dips and the harvest winds down the vines trade their summer green for a technicolour patchwork dream coat calmer—like it’s taking a big deep breath after vintage is how that autumn glow ties into the rhythm of wine country and the winemakers are catching their breath the leaves are putting on their final performance before winter strips everything back the team at Tapanappa in Piccadilly has decided to invite you to celebrate the turning of their Chardonnay vines to gold The inaugural Tapanappa Autumnal Picnic will be held on Saturday 29 March on the lawns at the cellar door nestled at the foot of The Tiers Vineyard—the oldest in the Adelaide Hills and globally recognised for producing standout Chardonnay “You’ll feel like you’re part of something pretty magic,” says Molly Yang from Tapanappa and one of the best times to visit the Hills.” “Every day when I arrive at work and drive past the vineyards it feels like I can almost see the vines turning gold right before my eyes,” she adds Tapanappa is the heart and soul of legendary winemaker Brian Croser and his family dedicated to crafting top-quality wines from some of South Australia’s finest vineyard sites Adding to the Tapanappa line-up are the wines of DAOSA and Terre à Terre made by Brian’s daughter Lucy and her husband Xavier Bizot and his sparkling expertise shines through in every bottle of DAOSA—bringing a touch of French finesse to the cool-climate beauty of the Hills Friwi Crêpes and Co will be serving up traditional French sweet crêpes and savoury buckwheat galettes on the lawn what pairs better with Chardonnay or Champagne-style bubbles than a freshly flipped crêpe and a little joie de vivre The team at Tapanappa encourages everyone to embrace the season with warmth and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures—like good wine and a crêpe in hand on a perfect autumn day WHAT: Tapanappa Autumnal PicnicWHERE: 15 Spring Gully Road, PiccadillyWHEN: Saturday 29 March, 2025. 11am – 3:30pmMore info: tapanappa.com.au A Taste of the Hills Festival is making its highly anticipated return to LOT.100 this March promising a weekend filled with local food and unforgettable experiences in the stunning Adelaide Hills A Taste of the Hills Festival is returning to LOT.100 this March bringing the very best of the Adelaide Hills together in one epic location With unlimited tastings from more than fifty local producers this is an event that’s not to be missed Aussie rock legends KINGSWOOD will be headlining both days on the festival stage joined by a stellar lineup of local artists including Ella & Sienna Lucas Day, Blue Lucy, and DJ Tallie The Big Voice One uniquely special part of this event will be the interactive masterclasses that will run over the weekend Try your hand at blending your own bottle of gin with 78 Degrees or indulge in a wine and popcorn pairing with Simon Tolley Wines Mismatch Brewing Co will be hosting brewery tours and tastings or try your hand at a paint and sip with Brushflicks n Chill and Square 1 Gin if you’d rather take in the stunning views of the Hills hop on a scenic helicopter flight and see the festival from a whole new perspective Two lucky festival-goers—one on Saturday and one on Sunday—will have the chance to win a luxury VIP experience valued at $1,250 Imagine stepping out of your home to find a luxury Adelaide Hills Chauffeur BMW ready to whisk you away in style Your journey continues as you board a private helicopter with South Australian Helicopters soaring over the stunning Adelaide Hills before making a grand entrance at the festival This is more than just an arrival—it’s an unforgettable To enter the draw simply purchase a ticket before March 10th and make sure your details match your ticket The competition closes at midnight on March 9th there’s no need to worry about transport—shuttle buses will be running from Adelaide CBD but if a private ride’s more your thing Adelaide Hills Chauffeur & Limousine Services has you covered over the weekend If you’re looking to make a weekend out of the festivities stay with one of the festival’s accommodation partners like Sofitel Adelaide, The Manna LOT.100 is a premier food and beverage destination Ashton Valley Fresh and LOT.100 Restaurant Get ready for a weekend of food, wine, music, and unforgettable experiences—see you in the Hills! Tickets are selling fast, purchase yours now from www.atasteofthehills.com A Taste of the Hills FestivalWhen: Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th MarchWhere: LOT.100 Hay ValleyFor more information, click here Fig orchard Willabrand Australia has called out the nature of fruit fly restrictions for Adelaide Hills producers Adelaide Hills fig orchard Willabrand Australia has posted vision on their social media calling out the nature of restrictions regarding the early 2025 fruit fly outbreak Willa Wauchope of Willabrand and Glen Ewin Estate is looking for support for local producers and farmers to get through this tough period for fresh produce An outbreak of Queensland fruit fly was confirmed in Glynde a suburb in Adelaide’s northeast in late January Despite the outbreak’s metropolitan origins the effects have been felt by local regional producers particularly in the Adelaide Hills PIRSA restrictions have prevented Willabrand and other Adelaide Hills producers from distributing their produce as usual facing a significant loss of income until at least mid-May Here’s what Willa Wauchope of Willabrand Australia had to say: my name is Willa Wauchope from Willabrand Australia We’ve been growing figs in the Adelaide Hills for 35 years on a property that’s 180 years old I wanted to give an update on the effect of the fruit fly outbreak that’s in the city on our business.” “We’re currently three weeks into our harvest and our typical way of picking is to share our produce with the public in a pick-your-own manner We moved to that model because for us with our spray-free produce it’s the best way of sharing the produce at a fair price for the community.” “We’ve produced approximately 40 tonnes of fruit for the three weeks that we’ve already had of the season The produce has dropped on the ground.” “The fruit fly outbreak is a catastrophic failure of the system to support farmers and primary producers in the Adelaide Hills regions who are on the outskirts of this yellow zone We’re just metres from the green zone yet we’re not allowed to sell any of our fruit off the property.” The impact of the fruit fly outbreak on our business and the other primary producers who are affected by it.” “We’re looking for support from the public for the products we can make from our produce and we’re looking for some kind of support from the government to see what they can do to change this situation for us.” “We have grown some of the best fruit that we have ever grown this year and it is terrible that we have to see it go to waste and drop on the ground It is grossly unfair that the government has the power to shut down our business without offering us a handshake on the other side and some kind of support.” Willabrand isn’t the only one hit, with Adelaide Hills Berry Farm having to lay off at least a dozen casual employees as it takes up to a three-quarter of a million dollar loss The farm has also been caught right on the edge of the green zone on Swamp Rd To support Willabrand Australia, check out their Facebook There are still plenty of products you can purchase from Willabrand Australia and Glen Ewin Estate as they look to be able to sell produce off the property in the near future It's here. Glam Adelaide has today launched an app for readers all over SA. Following a viral video showing tensions in the community, the City of Charles Sturt... Adelaide has become home to many a High Tea spots that are perfect for... Stephen Noonan is bringing his much loved show The Boy and the Ball to... Wrong Turn At Lungfish is of exceptional quality and an unmitigated stand out! Over the next few days, South Australia will see mixed weather conditions, with Adelaide... Adelaide One such gem is Sequoia Lodge – an exclusive adults-only lodge sitting atop the misty Adelaide Hills.  Your luxury getaway also includes 32 complimentary perks Each of Sequoia Lodge’s 14 suites is identical meaning you’ll experience luxury at its finest I was immediately struck by the panoramic views overlooking the fiery foliage of Piccadilly Valley below Whether I was lounging on the plush king bed stretching out on the expansive daybed outside or soaking in the bathtub (after retracting the Chromecast TV and bedhead) the stunning scenery was always within reach each stylish suite features an original oil painting of native flora by resident artist Stephen Trebilcock My room’s floral hues complemented the warm wood and stone accents the fully automated lighting adjusts to suit different moods and times of day instantly setting the perfect tone for relaxation Perhaps my favourite feature of the room was the light-filled bathroom a multi-directional shower (imagine water massaging your back from five different angles) and a stone-walled courtyard with a trickling water feature where the stone-clad gas fireplace would be the perfect companion on a chilly winter’s evening With sparkling views of the Piccadilly Valley breakfast in the Sequoia Lodge lounge is the perfect way to start your morning Daily breakfast is included with every stay featuring everything from acai bowls and eggs Benedict to avo toast and banana pancakes spreads and granola – and if it’s not made in-house it’s sourced seasonally from local suppliers with the option to enjoy every meal available from the comfort of your suite.  While you’re there, be sure to dine at Mount Lofty Estate’s award-winning Hardy's Verandah Restaurant Other options at the manor include Martha Hardy’s Restaurant which is exclusively open to house guests from Friday to Sunday or Hardy’s Bar and Arthur Water Lounge for drinks in a relaxed setting I couldn’t fault the hospitality at Sequoia Lodge if I tried Venue manager Parth Tantry and his wonderful team treated me like a VIP from the moment I walked through the door offered me a warm towel to freshen up and escorted me to the lobby for a seamless check-in This standard of service was sustained throughout my stay the team happily organised complimentary morning yoga and a stargazing session in the evening Another highlight was the turndown service where the staff prepped everything for bedtime – think: blinds drawn towels replaced and even handmade truffles left on the table.  Located in a charming historic cottage just next door Gatekeeper’s Day Spa is the epitome of luxe Their holistic spa menu offers a range of facials and massages all using Adelaide’s very own Jurlique products I experienced their classic 60-minute relaxation massage it was the best massage I’ve ever had My wonderful masseuse worked wonders with Swedish-style techniques and I floated out of the spa feeling lighter and brighter Of Sequoia’s 32 signature inclusions the artesian spring-fed hot springs are a serious highlight Guests can reserve the pools for private 60-minute sessions End with a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the spectacular Piccadilly Valley or a sweat session in the infrared sauna.  Located just 25 minutes by car from the city centre and 15 minutes from Hahndorf Sequoia is the perfect staycation in the Adelaide Hills The luxury lodge sits atop the stunning Mount Lofty offering sweeping views of the Piccadilly Valley.  There are plenty of hikes and cycling routes in the surrounding national park with many of South Australia’s top attractions just a short drive away Cleland Wildlife Park and Penfolds Magill Estate It’s the perfect place to stay if you just want to get away from it all it’s hard to fault my stay at Sequoia Lodge Whether you’re after a romantic escape a getaway with the girls or a solo retreat this luxury property ensures you’re well and truly looked after.  Closest Transport Link: The closest bus stop is the 25 Summit Road - East side approximately a five-minute walk from the lodge Book Now: https://www.sequoialodge.com.au/  Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines About us Contact us Of course, you’re going to be spending a sizeable measure of time in the undulating Adelaide Hills sipping wine. We have that itinerary covered for you here, and dining, too. But there are plenty of other things you really should do on a visit to this beautiful region From strawberry-picking to ice-cream-licking you’ll find plenty of extra-curricular activities to complement your viticultural pursuits It’s worth adding an extra day or two just to ensure you can adopt a leisurely pace to explore more Here are 14 of the best things to do in the Adelaide Hills An Adelaide Hills institution, Beerenberg is a must-visit on your tour of the region The family name may be familiar from supermarket shelves across the country but here you’ll discover the provenance of flavour that makes Beerenberg’s jams Strawberry picking is a fun family activity (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission) head to the Hahndorf farm to pick your own basket of berries from the patch or pop in any time to enjoy breakfast lunch or afternoon tea at the farm cafe and shop Kids won’t leave without a visit to The Dairy thickshakes and homemade gelati will hit the insatiable sweet spot head-on (Image: We Are Komodo and Daisy Hofstetter) Fire up the wok and expand your signature dish repertoire with some culinary tuition at Sticky Rice Cooking School This well-run Adelaide Hills favourite has been honing the skills of home chefs since 2008 fine-tuning their dumpling-folding technique and crisping up their pork belly Join a culinary class covering Spanish and Middle Eastern cuisines but you’ll also find classes covering Spanish and Middle Eastern If you’re too full from your own masterful creations Take to two wheels for a fun way to wind through the Adelaide Hills. Bike About guides culinarily inclined cyclists on a tour of Hahndorf and her surrounds stopping at local wine and food producers along the way Stop by Shaw + Smith to try their signature wines (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission) The five-hour outing sees you pedal to Beerenberg to pick strawberries and onto Shaw + Smith to sip their award-winning wines Sample irresistable cheese at Udder Delights it’s relatively minimal given you’re issued with an e-bike for the journey – allowing you to enjoy the breeze on your face as you woosh past the stunning countryside Furred and fluffy locals hang about at Cleland Wildlife Park wowing visitors with their adorable cuddliness Cuddle cute koalas at Cleland Wildlife Park Most animals here live in a natural habitat but are quite accustomed to fawning parkgoers and will often willingly accept pats and feed and pose for the occasional photo Stay tuned for the soon-to-open educational hub where visitors can interact with koalas and learn about their conservation You can also see yellow-footed rock wallabies Even the most devout oenophiles need to cleanse their palate every now and then. Break up a wine-focused excursion with a visit to the Ambleside Distillery to try their selection of botanically infused gins (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission) Their spirited collection includes seasonal releases such as mandarin gin made from South Australian citrus and the blossom gin crafted with strawberries from Beerenberg and rose from Jurlique as well as their core range infused with local and native ingredients Try a selection with a gin flight at the distillery or sip one (or more) of their refreshing gin cocktails find a spot on the lawn and temper your tasting with some nibbles or a toastie Gather a few mates for a gin-tasting session To see how the cool-climate garden grows in the Adelaide Hills, carve out a little time from your rigorous wine-tasting schedule to wander the beautiful Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens Meandering over 97 hectares and planted with different gardens and gullies – including a fragrant rose garden – it’s the prettiest place for a stroll in any season Wander the beautiful Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens you’ll encounter a collection of sculptures as well as the Noel Lothian Viewing Platform which spoils visitors with a pretty tapestry of foliage The gardens come alive with colour in autumn It won’t take you long to discern something of a Bavarian theme in this charming Adelaide Hills town Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement and this identity has been cleverly parlayed into a tourist drawcard But apart from the toppings for your bratwurst there’s nothing all that cheesy about Hahndorf Explore the historic Grunthal Brewery in Hahndorf While there are a handful of German pubs, eateries and themed shops, it’s also just an adorable tree-lined town with historic buildings and a vaguely European vibe. Here you’ll also find the craft Grunthal Brewery, the chic Waldon’s General Store, and a stylish Spanish restaurant, Comida Catch up over a cold pint at Grunthal Brewery If you happen to arrive in the Hills on the weekend of this long-established monthly market, you’ll have struck artisan gold. The Stirling Market is a collective of makers and creators with a bit of everything on offer to tempt any type of shopper There’s also hot food and coffee and live entertainment lending a convivial atmosphere to this community event All the fine wining and dining done in the Adelaide Hills may call for a counterbalance of physical activity. The 7.8-kilometre return Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty summit hike is a good way to offset indulgence given it’s an uphill climb The steep hike is graded as ‘hard’ but should take no more than three hours up and back Walk from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit However, at the top, you will find The Summit Café and Function Centre where you may feel like rewarding yourself with an Aperol spritz and delaying your descent or calling for a pick-up Step into The Warehouse at Woodside for all things antique This artisan cheesemaker has been separating their curds and whey since 1994. The Woodside Cheese Wrights range includes cow and goat milk varieties made using local milk from surrounding dairies so you’ll be able to taste the distinct terroir of the region Their chevre is a cult product but swing by the Woodside cellar door to taste a number of deliciously creamy concoctions Best enjoyed with a crusty loaf of bread and a crisp Taste creamy delights at Woodside Cheese Wrights For 35 years, Jurlique has been hydrating hands and other body parts using naturally grown botanicals from their Adelaide Hills farm For skincare fanatics or anyone who enjoys a stroll around a beautiful garden add a tour of this B-Corp Certified company to your itinerary The 90-minute tour will take you behind the scenes of this beloved Australian skincare brand while explaining the nature and science that goes into their products opt for the eight-hour tour that includes an afternoon in the Jurlique Spa (Image: Adelaide Hills Wine Region/South Australian Tourism Commission) Need somewhere to rest your head? Choose from one of the best accommodations in Adelaide Hills. Working for many of Australia’s top publications Lara Picone has had the distinct pleasure of writing editing and curating content about the finer things in life for more than 15 years Graduating from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication her editorial foundation began at Qantas: The Australian Way magazine before moving on to learn the fast-paced ropes of a weekly magazine at Sunday Magazine and picking up the art of brand curation at donna hay magazine Pivoting a near-problematic travel lust into a career move by combining it with storytelling and a curious appetite her next role was as Deputy Editor of SBS Feast magazine and later Online Editor of SBS Food online She then stepped into her dream job as Editor of Australian Traveller before becoming Online Editor for both International Traveller and Australian Traveller Lara always has her passport at-the-ready to take flight on assignment for the Australian Traveller team as well as for publications such as Qantas Magazine and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Any wine-tasting itinerary deserves to be balanced with beautiful meals to complement your enjoyment Here’s our pick of the best Adelaide Hills res.. Looking for accommodation in the Adelaide Hills Make the most out of your escape with a stay in one of these holiday homes that will suit couples loo.. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway a convenient base to mark your map with some of South Australia’s best cellar doors or luxury accom.. A trip to this small town in the Adelaide Hills transcends time and continents combining a rich German heritage with a thriving artisan culture Australian Traveller Media acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Country on which we live and work Pause a day of weaving your way through cellar doors with a lunch break at one of the many produce-driven and seasonally-inspired Adelaide Hills cafes. Proliferated with gastronomic delights, these casual eateries may be more relaxed than the region’s fine dining restaurants but they’re certainly equal in flavour and devotion to the craft of eating well Start your day with a good coffee and breakfast lunch or a snack and graze your way through the hills As the sun rises over the charming stone cottage that is Fourth Hill Providore breakfast begins at 7.30am with house-made baked beans or perhaps a toastie filled with pastrami and provolone lunchtime appetites are well-provided with the likes of linguini with slow-cooked ragu or orecchiette with garlic and chilli Fourth Hill Providore is housed in a charming stone cottage the Italian-inspired menu here will convince you to take a seat on a white Adirondack chair on the sun-filtered lawn and tuck in wine-tasting is best undertaken on a full stomach Check out the fresh bread and pastries on offer at Fourth Hill Providore Pretty little cakes arranged in formation tempt even the most casual sweet tooth here pistachio and rose cream bun or a strawberries and cream lamington You may as well allow your eyes to grow as big as your stomach and sit down with a Meyer lemon meringue Danish and a good coffee The former church was transformed into a quaint cafe now known as Rise Artisan Bakers All sugary temptation is forgiven in this former church and schoolhouse in Nairne Take a loaf of fresh sourdough away with you and some provisions of jams and preserves for afternoon tea back at your place Pair a good coffee with pretty little cakes at Rise Artisan Bakers The second cafe from sisters of Mount Barker’s Lady Luck (scroll down for more on that gem), SUSA is a very attractive addition to the casual diner scene A stop-and-stare view sets the tone here for a minimal interior style that’s as slick as it is inviting but there’s a lot here to satisfy plant-preferring eaters such as a burnt Brussels sprout gnocchi or fried enoki on sourdough with dukkah Meat-eaters will relish an elevated bacon and eggs with polenta and parsley oil or a Cuban sandwich With a well-chosen wine list and chilled ambience Half-cafe, half-homewares store, FRED is an Adelaide Hills destination for dining with a side of shopping or the other way round if that’s how you roll FRED Eatery offers excellent fare from breakfast to lunch The stylish eatery serves an early breakfast all-day brunch and great lunch options that dart from South America to Asia and Italy It’s all good and can be enjoyed alongside a local wine Come Friday night to book in for The Chow Chow Session from 5.30pm Passionate purveyors of organic goods, this market and cafe in Stirling is your one-stop wholesome shop Turn to The Organic Market and Cafe for all things vegan snacks and sweets and settle in for a feelgood breakfast of avocado and peas on toast or order from the all-day lunch menu with the likes of bruschetta If you’re just after something small nibble on a vegan croissant with your espresso The Organic Market and Cafe is your one-stop shop for pantry staples and snacks You don’t often expect to find a patisserie in a pub this delightful spot is open every day from 7am to service your croissant and coffee needs Pick up a bottle of your favourite Adelaide Hills wine at the adjacent cellar while you wait for your coffee The thirty years of hospitality experience amassed by co-owners Chany Park and Cheryl Wood (the two Cs) has steered this local haunt into a welcoming and laidback eatery with underlying polish Local produce gets star billing with cheese from Udder Delights and spreads from Beerenberg Farm and you’ll find the menu wanders from Asian-style dishes to Spanish highlights and cafe usuals minus the German infusion of its neighbours Take note chocolate lovers, this Stirling Cacao is an imperative addition to your Adelaide Hills itinerary self-restraint may not come easily at this artisan chocolatier with packets of truffles blocks and boxes of chocolates lining the shelves This Stirling Cacao is an imperative addition to your Adelaide Hills itinerary sit and sip a coffee accompanied by the most lavish tiramisu you’ve ever seen waffles or just surrender to your cravings and opt for the dessert platter for two If you’re on the savoury side of the fence Sit and sip a coffee paired with fresh bread at Red Cacao This all-day cafe and function centre presides over the Adelaide Hills at 710 metres above sea level From such a vantage point you’re treated to a sweeping lay of the land woven with grape vines and undulating valleys and meadows you’ll find the menu to be equally as expansive with everything from pizza to burgers and brisket to schnitzel It’s also a great spot for an afternoon Aperol spritz The Summit Cafe overlooks sweeping views of the grape vines over Adelaide Hills Sitting pretty in the quaint town of Lobethal, this converted former garage is a light and uplifting space festooned with blooms and good food Not only will you find a cafe serving very good expressions of the classics but there’s also beautifully selected homewares and hampers Take your time to peruse and choose something savoury you can’t pass up the buttermilk banoffee pancakes This wholefoods coffee shop is keen on an all-day breakfast and is rather fond of cake – all with a healthy lean, of course. Gluten-free and vegan cakes are whipped up onsite and served with well-made coffee. For something more substantial, The Good Pantry caters to the Gumeracha community and wine-tasting transients with brunch-ish meals of French toast salads and burgers with optional (but highly recommended) hash browns Charlie Boys serves hot cuppas and cupcakes Pouring cups of local Adelaide Hills’ Husky Coffee Co, this casual Nairne spot pairs your brew with a rotating menu of breakfast to brunch to lunch eats finessed with regional produce It’s all friendly classics here with the likes of a Rueben smoked salmon bagel and eggs your way complete with all manner of upgrades Sisters Maddy and Taylah are the ladies behind this bright cafe, but luck probably has little to do with the delicious delights and good coffee at Lady Luck put it down to an astute curation of local produce and flavours for a menu with everything from warming mushroom and truffle toasties to pillowy pork dumplings and soba noodle soup Coffee is by way of De Groot and the interiors feature a fondness for cowboy boots Head into the city to continue your brunching tour of the region and start your day at these unmissable Adelaide cafes. A major shake-up is coming to the Adelaide Hills hospitality scene with construction on the Heysen Hotel set to kick off by the end of the year with construction on the Heysen Hotel set to kick off by the end of the year which has already secured planning approval will be the first new pub built in Mount Barker in over 160 years Located on Heysen Boulevard in the growing Mount Barker South precinct the three-storey venue is designed to be a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike The hotel will be able to accommodate more than 1,000 patrons and will feature a bistro Mount Barker businessman and real estate agent as well as a key representative of Business Mount Barker James Sexton highlighted the significance of the development “It’s incredible to think that it’s been over 160 years since a pub has been built in the area The Heysen Hotel will be a game-changer for Mount Barker creating new jobs and injecting fresh energy into the local economy,” said James Sexton the town had a population of just 1,500 people “The population of Mount Barker continues to grow at a phenomenal rate with 500 houses being built every year bringing in over $19 million in potential retail spend in the district each year so this new hotel project is much needed and welcomed by the community,” added James The visionary behind this project is Brett Matthews executive chairman of family-owned hotel operator Piermount Renowned for their successful portfolio of hospitality venues The District Hotel this new hotel will also be sophisticated in design and welcoming in atmosphere ensuring the Heysen Hotel becomes a must-visit destination in the Adelaide Hills “We wouldn’t be able to process with a project of this size if it wasn’t for the full and unwavering support of the District Council of Mount Barker The Council has been amazing and pivotal of encouraging and supporting this type development for the benefit of its community,” said Brett Matthews “We care excited about the new project and its location The elevation of the hotel will be a highlight of the venue where patrons can enjoy the balcony with unsurpassed views of the undulating Adelaide Hills the Mount Barker Summit and the twinkling lights of Mount Barker.” “We’re all about showcasing local and we truly embrace the Adelaide Hills This new venue plans to employ over 150 people and many of those will be locals.” With an expected opening date in mid-to-late 2027 anticipation is already building for what promises to be a new social hub in one of South Australia’s fastest-growing regions As Mount Barker continues its rapid expansion the Heysen Hotel is set to provide a modern yet timeless addition to its evolving hospitality landscape offering the perfect blend of contemporary amenities and classic charm Stay tuned as this transformative project unfolds—because great things are brewing in Mount Barker Play Duration: 2 minutes 49 seconds2m 49sBrought to you by A light from the Burnside Village Shopping Centre development has been seen clearly from kilometres away in the Adelaide Hills. The powerful glow illuminated the cloudy night sky, lighting up concerns for nearby residents & motorists. One Burnside Village shopper said, "Looks like either a stadium or something from outer space". A light radiating from Burnside Village Shopping Centre seen from the Adelaide Hills.(Nikki Dwyer, ABC) Published: 12h agoSun 4 May 2025 at 11:30pm Download the ABC listen app to text and call your favourite live radio Gewürzhaus Spice House has opened its second Adelaide store in Hahndorf the Adelaide Hills welcomed an exciting new hotspot for foodies and spice lovers alike Gewürzhaus is the ultimate haven for herbs and they have just opened their second Adelaide store in picturesque Hahndorf pronounced “Ge-voorts-house” and meaning “Spice House” in German was founded in 2010 by sisters Maria and Eva and their mother on the lively Lygon Street and featured spices from all over the world “We are delighted to be part of this beautiful heritage town Cooking from the home and heart has always been an integral part of preserving traditions for four generations in our family We can’t wait to share our passion and products with Hanhdorf customers and inspire them to create new recipes and traditions,” shared Eva In 2020 Gewürzhaus saw a successful opening of their first Adelaide shop Gewürzhaus has opened 14 self-scoop stores nationwide continuing its mission to inspire creativity in the kitchen The latest addition to their lineup of stores can be found on the main street of the historic township of Hahndorf next to the Hahndorf Academy and Adelaide Hills Wine Bar The stunning store not only has a fantastic lineup of herbs and spices but also dips so bringing the store to Hahndorf makes sense,” shared store manager The Hahndorf store is a journey that comes full circle for the brand “There’s nothing else like this in Hahndorf but Gewürzhaus is something different for the town.” With boutique retailers to suit everyone’s wishlist there’s no better time to get ahead on your Christmas shopping Head to Gewürzhaus to find the perfect gift or stock up on spices to make Christmas dinner perfect “There are a lot of easy cooking options for every level of experience here We have really good quality service and quality homewares lots of gifting options for the festive season as well and heaps of recipe inspiration for every cook or baker.” If you’re familiar with the Gewürzhaus store in Adelaide Central Market you’re sure to recognise the fantastic aromas that come with all the spices “The highlight of the store would have to be the way it smells we have daily tastings and between being able to smell all the spices and taste some of them it really gives you a good idea of how Gewürzhaus Gewürzhaus is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm with hours set to be extended with the upcoming Christmas Markets Gewürzhaus Spice HouseWhere: 64 Mount Barker Rd, Hahndorf SA 5245When: 7 days, 10am to 4:30pmFor more information, click here Play Duration: 2 minutes 50 seconds2m 50sBrought to you by Glen Ewin Estate at Lower Hermitage in the Adelaide Hills is on the cusp of the yellow fruit fly restriction area.  Fig producer, Willa Wauchope says the business has been 'terminally affected' following the Glynde fruit fly outbreak, and he's fearful for the future of his business and his family and employee's livelihoods. "If they have the right to take away our business", Wauchope said, "They should offer some kind of compensation or a package to support". Willa Wlaker from Willabrand Australia at his fig orchard at Glen Ewin Estate, Lower Hermitage, South Australia. Published: 15h agoSun 4 May 2025 at 8:00pm blends countryside charm with modern amenities An enchanting new wedding venue has opened in the Adelaide Hills with versatile function spaces and a charming setting Behind the project is Sam Worrall-Thompson and his team at EMBR Hospitality “I’ve been doing catering for weddings for the past 7 years We’ve done everything and anything you can imagine but the idea was always to have our own space to host these sorts of events Last year we locked in with Simon Hackett in McLaren Vale but some friends I’ve catered for reached out and said they had bought this sort of passion project and wanted to play with the idea of transforming it into this sort of thing,” Sam shared this rural retreat is in the heart of Ashton within the Adelaide Hills It’s only a short 25-minute drive from the city centre and 40 minutes from Adelaide Airport creating an authentic countryside experience without the long travel times “I think what we find with wedding venues is that they are all so far away We can do pre-drinks and bus pick up at Bar Lune and then an after party at Dolly If it’s what the guests want we can cover everything.” which previously was a privately held sheep and cattle farm has been transformed into an exclusive venue designed just for private functions With distant ocean views by day and twinkling lights by night Putpa Yaki is an impressive backdrop for any special event Guests can choose between outdoor and indoor options there is a 2000m2 grassed field with expansive views of the Ashton range and Adelaide cityscape ‘The Barn’ will allow for sit-down or cocktail functions but if the reception to The Field is positive then in the next few months we should see it up and running where guests can stay or use as they prepare for their special event guests will have exclusive access to the entire property There they can immerse themselves in the rustic setting complete with modern amenities Putpa Yaki has partnered with reputable wedding suppliers and have been selected to ensure a seamless experience for all guests Amenities include bus services to transport guests to and from Bar Lune in Kensington access to explore segments of the Yurrebilla Trail and recently refurbished accommodation for up to 9 guests in the Farmhouse The Farmhouse includes a generously sized kitchen and living areas As the latest project from the team at EMBR Hospitality Putpa Yaki joins an impressive lineup of award-winning Adelaide eateries and venues including Dolly EMBR is led by renowned Adelaide Chef Sam Worrall Thompson who handles the kitchen and event management The Field at Putpa YakiWhere: Ashton SA 5066Instagram: @thefield_adl To find out more about The Field at Putpa Yaki, click here Adelaide Hills Council have finished installing virtual wildlife fencing along a 1.4km stretch of Onkaparinga Valley Road The new technology installed between Riverview Road and Mappinga Road in the Oakbank/Woodside area aims to reduce the alarming number of vehicle strikes involving wildlife and domestic animals on this notorious 80 km/h road and rural areas and featuring lush greenery and views of the Onkaparinga River Onkaparinga Valley Road is popular among cyclists making it a vital part of the region’s outdoor and recreational appeal Its blend of scenic charm and community connectivity makes it an important thoroughfare in the area So the local council is taking action but you are probably asking yourself The innovative new tech activates when car approaches and their headlights trigger a short high-pitched sound and flashing lights designed to startle animals encouraging them to stay clear of the road until the vehicle has passed Council says that the area is “known for frequent wildlife crossings and these new devices are designed to reduce nighttime vehicle strikes” Council Open Space staff recently completed the first stage of installations with stage two of the project set to be installed soon along another hazardous section of Greenhill Road Council plans to closely monitor these trials to evaluate their effectiveness in reducing animal-vehicle collisions over the year This project is part of efforts to lower lives lost on our roads and to decrease the number of collisions between cars and kangaroos, which currently make up approximately 90% of all on-road wildlife-related accidents in Australia.  Volkswagen’s kangaroo-detecting device, RooBadge the RooBadge is able to calibrate a vehicle’s GPS coordinates with kangaroo distribution data with a disc then emits an individual sound alert for the kangaroo species situated in the vehicle’s specific location This smart solution not only protects our furry friends but also ensures a safer journey for drivers and was made possible through a partnership with the animal rescue organisation 1300Koalaz 1300Koalaz is dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of local wildlife particularly koalas as well as providing care for injured or orphaned animals and working on conservation efforts to support local wildlife populations The organisation often collaborates with local councils and communities to promote wildlife awareness and to make our roads safer for both wildlife and drivers “it’s devastating to see wildlife dying on our roads” “We’re committed to the safety of wildlife and road users alike The partnership with 1300Koalaz is an opportunity to trial a solution that is a win-win for both the community “We’ve seen some great results from other interstate trials of this technology so we are optimistic of a positive outcome when we review the data at the end of the trial.” Find out more here will allow visitors to enjoy unique spirit tastings is finally opening its doors to the brand new Nairne distillery on December 13th promising a unique experience that blends the art of distilling with delicious food and the stunning scenery of the Adelaide Hills the state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone for Tin Shed Distilling Co. which began its “journey in spirit” over 20 years ago in a humble backyard shed have transformed their hobby into a multi-award-winning brand “Making the move from our small distillery in Welland to opening our first distillery door is a milestone for us,” said Mr “We’re excited to welcome the public to experience our spirits just 23 minutes from the toll gate.” The new distillery door offers a complete sensory experience Visitors can enjoy tastings of Tin Shed’s premium whiskies A dedicated barrel room provides a glimpse into the ageing process while live music performances from some of South Australia’s top musicians every Friday through Sunday will create a vibrant atmosphere the distillery boasts a smokehouse BBQ dining experience authentic flavours showcasing produce sourced from the Adelaide Hills and across South Australia The distillery door will be led by industry veterans Jaime Fraser previously owner of Bibliotheca and Suzie Wong ensuring a top-notch hospitality experience Owner Ian Schmidt is confident that the new location situated on the former Chapman’s Meatworks site will become a thriving hub for both locals and tourists we get to have a cellar door so we can engage directly with our customer base and share with them the full experience of a whisky distillery,” he explains as well as educational experiences.”   Adding a touch of luxury to the experience the distillery features an outdoor concrete deck area with hydronic heating cleverly utilising waste heat from the distillery condensers “Customers will be able to sit under the stars sipping a cocktail or a dram of single malt whilst having warm feet With its combination of handcrafted spirits distillery door is poised to become a must-visit destination in the Adelaide Hills Bookings via www.tinsheddistillingco.com.au and live music at Karrawatta Wines’ Prawns on the Lawn festival in the picturesque Adelaide Hills Image: Karrawatta As what is sure to be a busy 2025 kicks off we are always looking for more things to do and places to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with friends and family the Prawns on the Lawn festival returns to the Adelaide Hills This event is perfect for gathering loved ones and escaping to the serene beauty of the Adelaide Hills Hosted at the beautiful at Karrawatta Wines Prawns on the Lawn celebrates everything we love—delicious food the festival will feature innovative and mouthwatering prawn-inspired dishes crafted by talented chef Oswald Barrett Renowned for his work at Penfolds Magill Estate Barrett is set to delight your senses with his culinary creations Seafood lovers and non-seafood enthusiasts alike will find something to enjoy Guests can start with aromatic stuffed fig leaves served with green yoghurt This is followed by SA king prawn brochettes paired with saffron potato spicy summer vegetable brochettes will feature the same delectable accompaniments All dishes are perfectly paired with Karrawatta’s Adelaide Hills Anna’s Sauvignon Blanc enjoy this exquisite lineup of food and drink while listening to live music performed by Karrawatta’s Brand Ambassador Set on the winery’s lush lawns with breathtaking views of the rolling Adelaide Hills the picturesque setting is sure to impress specialises in small-batch wines crafted from vineyards in the Adelaide Hills Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable day Prawns on the LawnWhere: Karrawatta, 164 Greenhills Road, MeadowsWhen: Sunday, 19 January, 12pm to 4pmFor more information, click here As sunflower season nears its end in the Adelaide Hills visitors still have a limited opportunity to explore the vibrant fields at Atkins Farm Sunflower season is about to come to a close in the Adelaide Hills sunflower lovers still have just enough time to check it out One of Adelaide’s favourite locations to pick sunflowers is Atkins Farm Located in Meadows only 50-minutes outside the city this family business has been a staple for tourists and locals alike over the past few summers “The farm has been in my husband’s family since his grandfather moved to Meadows in the 1920s,” shared owner “The farm itself has been a potato farm More recently we’ve been living there full time looking after the farm “I’m really into gardening and enjoy growing flowers so during Covid we brainstormed a few ideas of how we might be able to grow flowers on a mass scale on the farm It was a lot of trial and error seeing what we could grow in the Adelaide Hills the Hills are not normally known for growing sunflowers.” What started as a small passion project for Monika has grown way beyond what she could’ve imagined For this past season she planted five fields of sunflowers “We’ve had below average rainfall in the Hills and it’s been one of the driest starts to summer I think on record across the state We were not super confident that we would have any flowers at all we don’t irrigate we just use rainfall so given how dry its been; there were a few moments in the lead up to the opening that we didn’t think we would have a crop at all We’ve had the first one open since the start of the season and then we’ve got a second field where the flowers are looking fantastic That field should open up mid this week or towards the end of the week.” Monika says that they’ve been really lucky to open this season as some sunflower farms interstate haven’t had the flowers grow for them “We are definitely open through to the Monday public holiday We’ll be releasing tickets week by week but at the moment that’s our estimate It’s best for visitors to pre-purchase a ticket which can be done through our website “They’ll get about 50 minutes to an hour in the field and a number of sunflower stems is included in the ticket price My favourite time is the 7pm to 8pm session its just a beautiful time of day for picking flowers.” Keep an eye out on their socials to see when the season will officially end but if you’ve got a bit of time this week Sunflower picking at Atkins FarmWhere: Located near Meadows, address details will be provided to all ticket holdersFacebook: @AtkinsFarmMeadowsFor more information on Atkins Farm, click here RAA has welcomed new details revealed in Senate Estimates on Thursday that the Federal Government has committed $525 million toward the Adelaide Hills Freight Bypass project The $525 million Federal Government commitment towards the more than $1 billion total project cost will need to be matched by the State Government At this stage RAA understands the project will include: Senior Manager of Infrastructure and Road Safety Charles Mountain said the funding commitment was welcome news and RAA was eagerly awaiting more project details “The Adelaide Hills Freight Bypass has been a priority for RAA for a number of years,” Mr Mountain said “At this stage we understand the project will include the duplication of the Swanport Bridge upgrades to the Monarto interchange and realignment of key intersections and construction of overtaking lanes between Monarto and the Sturt Highway.”   Mr Mountain said the Adelaide Hills Freight Bypass was an important project to remove some large trucks from the South Eastern Freeway and the Adelaide’s outer ring route this freight bypass will improve productivity and make our regional roads safer,” Mr Mountain said “The bypass will enable some heavy freight vehicles – particularly the larger B-doubles and trucks – to be diverted around the back of the Adelaide hills “This would enable more freight moving east to west across the country to be diverted from the down track of the South Eastern Freeway Portrush Road and Cross Road to plug into the Sturt and Augusta Highways from the bypass in South Australia we’re all too familiar with the spate of tragic accidents at the bottom of the freeway from out-of-control trucks “This bypass will mean fewer trucks and a safer freeway and metropolitan roads.” For the latest news delivered straight to your inbox Privacy policy An Adelaide Hills winery has recently been awarded the title of Best Regional Restaurant by Adelaide Dining Magazine recognising its top-tier dining experience Adelaide Hills’ Sidewood Estate has recently been awarded the title of Best Regional Restaurant by Adelaide Dining Magazine The award was presented at a special event held at Mount Lofty House this month where the best and brightest in South Australian hospitality were celebrated “It’s an honour to receive this recognition Our staff are constantly striving to create the best experience,” the Sidewood Estate team said on the award As well as winning Best Regional Restaurant this month Sidewood Estate was also recognised in September with the Best Culinary Experience award from Great Wine Capitals was further praised for its Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Hugh Choi the restaurant offers a menu that showcases the finest expertly paired with Sidewood’s award-winning wines Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and lush gardens Sidewood Estate’s restaurant is in the heart of nature’s serenity featuring a jet-black exterior and warm interior materials The restaurant has a range of seating options to an 18+ outdoor courtyard with day beds and lounges Sidewood’s large hardwood deck has seating for both small and large groups with the option to dine under a shaded marquee complete with warming in-built heaters for winter Summer is an especially great time to visit Sidewood Estate One great event happening throughout December and January is their Sunday Sessions a selection of delicious Asian inspired dishes If you’re stopping by on a Friday evening be sure to take advantage of Sidewood’s Pizza & Cocktail specials enjoy mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas for only $20 and sip on refreshing cocktails for just $15 Guests can pair their meal with a selection of Sidewood’s fine wines Sidewood Estate is extending its opening hours adding Mondays to its schedule during December and January The additional days are December 23rd and 30th The restaurant is also open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday with dinner service on Friday and Saturday evenings What: Sidewood Estate RestaurantWhere: 6 River Rd, Hahndorf SA 5245For more info, click here Mount Barker is set to host the first AFL Summit Showdown between Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide at SSRP Mount Barker is set to host an exciting AFL event as Adelaide Football Club and Port Adelaide Football Club prepare to clash in a pre-season Summit Showdown at the Summit Sport and Recreation Park (SSRP) February 21st 2025 will be the first time that SSRP in Mount Barker will witness a confrontation between these crosstown AFL rivals “To have the state’s two AFL men’s teams play in the Adelaide Hills for the first time at the SSRP is going to be huge and we’re expecting thousands of city and country fans to come to Mount Barker and see the Crows and the Power battle,” shared Mount Barker District Council Mayor “There was a great buzz of excitement around the district when we hosted AFL Gather Round matches in 2023 and 2024 and acknowledging how much South Australians love the thrill of a Showdown anticipation will be at fever pitch given the long-standing rivalry between these two clubs “To help as many families as possible experience our unique Hills’ football festival atmosphere we’re keeping adult tickets at only $10 and offering free entry to children under 15.” highlighted the strategic importance of this event and enthusiasm in Mount Barker for AFL “It’s always exciting to see our team back in action after a long pre-season and we are looking forward to getting up to Mount Barker where the community has really embraced AFL football during Gather Round in the past couple of years,” Mr Silvers stated This sporting spectacle not only boosts local spirit but also plays a key role in the economic strategy of the Mount Barker District Council aiming to enhance the regional profile and drive economic benefits “Major events provide a boost to our local economy by attracting more people to the district promoting greater community connection which is important in a fast-growing area and helping raise our region’s profile,” Mayor Leach said “The Summit Showdown will be a valuable opportunity to showcase the SSRP’s capabilities and what can be achieved through high calibre strategic partnerships like the one we have with Adelaide Football Club “Mount Barker District Council was fortunate to receive substantial government funding that assisted us in building a national standard AFL oval at the Summit and we intend to capitalise on this by attracting more events to the oval and the adjacent soccer pitches.” The local community has a set timeframe starting from 12.30pm today until midday Wednesday 18 December to register for the Summit Showdown Local Resident Presale via the council’s website This registration period gives them access to a private link for early ticket purchases through Ticketmaster tickets for the general public will be available from 9am on Friday 20 December Local sporting associations and community groups are encouraged to participate in the event by selling food and drinks thereby providing them a platform for fundraising With the gates opening at 3 pm and the game kicking off at 5 pm the event promises to be a significant affair for both the sport and the local community