Australia immediately conjures images of the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, big-wave surfing, miles of Outback and a rather strange, and endearing, assortment of animals. While the country’s main cities offer charm, glamour, unique festivals, a well-preserved historical heritage, fabulous beaches and fun events, it’s also a land of immense contrast and captivating nature. The nation offers something for just about everyone – from water lovers, desert wanderers and canyon climbers, to arts and culture buffs, historians, and foodies. The country’s vast size makes it almost impossible to take it all in during a single visit, but you can pick and choose a perfect holiday according to your personal preferences.
The region known as the Adelaide Hills is located in the state of South Australia, just 30 minutes from the city of Adelaide. Technically part of the Mount Lofty Mountain Range, this area makes a popular weekend retreat with its cool climate and sylvan surroundings. Begin at the prominence of Mount Lofty Lookout, before checking out the nearby Botanic Gardens (famous for its rhododendrons and magnolias) and the Cleland Wildlife Park, where emu, kangaroo and pelican sightings are commonplace, and you can visit wombat enclosures and even cuddle koala bears. The town of Hahndorf makes a popular base, with German bakeries, art galleries and the Beerenberg Strawberry Farm to visit, while the National Motor Museum in Birdwood houses an impressive collection of more than 300 vehicles.
