Venture into Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, and explore a slice of Europe in the Adelaide Hills. Whether you’re drawn by history, food, art, or wine, we’ve curated a guide to the best things to do in Hahndorf to help you get the most out of your trip.
This tiny town was founded in 1839 by Lutheran refugees fleeing religious persecution in Prussia. And, nearly two centuries later, the village still proudly preserves its heritage and old-world charm. Here’s where to start…
Why Visit Hahndorf?
We highly recommend you spend a chilled day here when visiting the Adelaide Hills – the timber-framed buildings create an authentic German village vibe that you won’t find anywhere else.
There’s plenty to keep you busy. Walk the tree-lined main street where bakeries serve fresh pretzels and strudel that actually taste like the real deal, and browse shops stocked with everything from traditional cuckoo clocks to quality locally-crafted goods.
But Hahndorf’s charm goes beyond just looks. The Bavarian spirit thrives in the food, community traditions, and genuine hospitality of locals who keep their heritage alive. This unique cultural pocket offers travellers an unexpected detour worth taking when exploring South Australia.
Things to do in Hahndorf
Hahndorf’s main street pulls you in from the moment you arrive: original German architecture frames both sides of this picture-perfect thoroughfare. Local artisans showcase their craft in galleries tucked between boutique shops selling goods you won’t find in city shopping centres.
Not sure where to start? Here are some of our favourite things to do and see:
Check Out the Local Wineries
No trip to Hahndorf would be complete without sampling some of the region’s award-winning wines. Hahndorf Hill Winery is one of the standout spots, famed for its delicious ChocoVino experience (chocolate and wine – what more could you possibly want?).
But that’s just the beginning. The wider Adelaide Hills wine region is home to over 50 cellar doors, many of them just a short drive from Hahndorf.
Want to make the most out of your visit? Book our Hahndorf & Adelaide Hills Winery Hop On Hop Off Tour and explore multiple wineries in just one day.
Admire Art at Hahndorf Academy
Art lovers will not want to skip Hahndorf Academy, a beautifully preserved heritage building that’s been nurturing creativity since 1857. Originally a German school, this charming stone structure now houses rotating art exhibitions featuring local and national artists.
Beyond exhibitions, the Academy functions as a cultural centre where visitors can connect through workshops, events, and a curated museum collection that traces Hahndorf’s German roots.
Go Strawberry Picking at Beerenberg Farm
For a taste of authentic Aussie farm life, head to Beerenberg – one of the country’s largest strawberry farms is just a short walk from the centre of Hahndorf. Between October and April, grab a basket and hunt for the perfect berries hiding under leaves in their sprawling fields.
Can’t visit during strawberry season? No worries – the farm shop stocks incredible jams, chutneys, and sauces made from their own produce year-round. Don’t miss their famous strawberry ice cream, served fresh from their on-site café with panoramic views of the Adelaide Hills.
Dine at The Haus Restaurant
Fuel your Hahndorf adventure at The Haus, a much-loved local spot that combines traditional German flavours with fresh South Australian produce.
Think a trio of wurst, hotdogs, and schnitzels crafted from local ingredients. Or opt for more seasonal dishes paired with wines from the nearby Adelaide Hills. Whatever you do, make room for an indulgent dessert (the gateau and strudel are popular – both are divine).
Explore The Cedars Art Gallery
Discover the former home of German-Australian landscape artist Hans Heysen at The Cedars, one of the most underrated spots in Hahndorf. This beautiful property showcases Heysen’s studio exactly as he left it, plus galleries displaying his iconic Australian landscape paintings and those of his talented daughter, Nora.
You could easily spend a few hours here. Wander through the heritage gardens that inspired many of his works, and experience the peaceful beauty that drew this master artist to call the Adelaide Hills home. Make sure you check for any exhibitions before you plan your trip.
Enjoy a Stein (Or Two) at Hahndorf Inn
Thirsty for the real German experience? Hahndorf Inn pours authentic German brews in proper steins. This buzzing pub matches impressive beers with plates of food that could fuel a small Bavarian village.
Head there in winter for authentic mulled wine that goes down oh-so-easily after a chilly Adelaide Hills afternoon. You’ll struggle to find it anywhere else in South Australia (or the entire country, for that matter), making it worth the trip alone.
Grab a Wurst at Wunderbar Dog Haus
Wunderbar Dog Haus flies slightly under the radar, but those in the know head here for what truly matters: incredible sausages and tangy sauerkraut to match.
Follow the locals (and the unmistakable smell) to this understated spot where the line moves quickly and the bratwurst disappears even faster. The Kransky is a fan-favourite – keep your eyes peeled for their lunch deals to snag a cheap meal.
Where to Shop in Hahndorf
Part of Hahndorf’s charm is wandering around its authentic shops. Here are a few you don’t want to miss:
The German Village Shop: A Hahndorf staple housing hand-carved treasures. Watch traditional cuckoo clocks tick alongside a battalion of characterful nutcracker figurines – remember to save some space in your luggage.
The Fudge Shop Hahndorf: Skip the keychain; handmade fudge makes the perfect sweet souvenir. Watch master confectioners create silky smooth fudge right before your eyes, then try flavours like German chocolate, Bailey’s cream, or classic vanilla.
Hahndorf Candlemaker: Browse hundreds of hand-dipped candles in every colour and scent imaginable. This cosy shop has been creating beautiful candles for decades, and you can even take a peek at the candle-making process in their workshop.
Adelaide Hills Chocolate Company: Because Germans truly know how to make tasty chocolate. These premium treats are crafted on-site using traditional European techniques.
Udder Delights: Home to Australia’s first fresh curd cheese, this local dairy creates award-winning cheeses, creamy yoghurts, and fresh milk products. Don’t leave without trying their signature cheese curds.
When to Visit Hahndorf
Book your trip to Hahndorf in the autumn if you can, particularly in April and May. This is when the deciduous trees planted by German settlers transform into a stunning display of reds, oranges, and golds, creating that perfect European village atmosphere. The weather is ideal too: perfect for wandering the cobblestone streets.
Spring (September – November) is another great time to visit with its blooming gardens. Bonus: it’s strawberry season at Beerenberg Farm, so you can pick your own berries, then enjoy them with cream and German cake back in the village.
