An easy twenty minute drive south east from the centre of Adelaide transports you into a world of high hills, thick bush and stunning views. One of South Australia's favourite tourist destinations, the Adelaide Hills are bound to surprise you with their diverse range of attractions and the natural country setting that is in such close proximity to the city. With temperatures generally 2-4 degrees cooler than in Adelaide, there is a feeling here of English countryside meeeting Australian bush that is especially appealing to visitors in the warmer summer months. However with the four seasons felt very distinctly here any time of year will be uniquely attractive, and the wide range of attractions on offer can fill a long break as easily as they fill a weekend away.

The Adelaide Hills where one of the first places to be settled in Australia and as such has a rich and interesting history that is evident in its small, quaint towns. Mt Barker is the largest in the region with a population of 9000, but the most interesting town to visit is Hahndorf, which is Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Most of the original buildings still remain in a good condition, and century old elm and pine trees line the picturesque main street. They complement the ginger-bread style shops selling wursts, cakes and other decadent German confectionery. There is a very cultural feel to this town, with a number of museums, galleries and antique stores to be visited.

One of the most popular vestiges of the arts is the working studio of the famous artist Hans Heysen, set in his original gracious home 'The Cedars', which is still owned by the Hansen family. A guided tour will show you a magnificent collection of Hans paintings showcasing his skill and versatility, as well as his painting materials, tools, sketches, notes and more. Nearby is the Hahndorf Academy, a regional centre for arts and heritage built in a 150 year old building. There are 4 galleries here as well as a migration museum and a number of studios.

The Adelaide Hills are as beautiful as they are cultural, and there is lots of scenery and views to be taken in while you are here. The best view in the region can be seen from the summit of Mt Lofty, which at 710 metres above sea level is one of the highest peaks in the range. The Adelaide Plains stretch out before you, and in the distance the Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island can be seen. There is a large viewing platform here, and a restaurant and gift shop that play host to other amenities. A number of walks of varying lengths originate here, and will show you different views and let you experience the South Australia bush on a more intimate level.

On the eastern face of the mountain, in a dramatic landscape setting, lie the Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens. These come alive in a sea of colour in spring and autumn, but any time of year is worth a visit. There are walking trails that take you through the seven valleys of the gardens (each valley dedicated to a different plant group), and you can lose yourself for hours amongst the lush bush. Fern Gulley, the Woodland Gardens and Bog Gardens are favourite spots, and the tranquil lake system has the effect of calming one down on a walk around its shore.

The Adelaide Hills are known as the largest and oldest wine producing region in South Australia, with the first wines planted in these hills in 1839. The high altitude combines with the favourable climate to allow the grapes to mature at a slower pace than in other regions, which gives the wines a more wholesome flavour. A tour of the cellar doors will open your eyes to the history of wine here and how its produced, as well as introducing you to some of the characters responsible for the production of the wine!

Accommodation in the Hills is plentiful, and ranges from luxurious five star hotels to cosy family run bed and breakfasts to caravan parks. So no matter what your preference or your budget you will find a place to suit. Being so close to the city means you can incorporate a lot of activities into a daytrip here, so an overnight stay is not always necessary, depending on how much you want to see and do. A rental car will give you the freedom to explore the hills to your hearts content, so why not hire one through Discovery Rentals and begin your exploration of the Adelaide Hills?

Gavin Wyatt