Hahndorf: Pretzels, Gin and a Well-Run Dog
Hahndorf draws you in before you’ve even found a park. It’s the mix of old stone buildings, leafy streets and the steady drift of good smells. Pretzels, pastry, woodsmoke, and the occasional waft of sausage all encourage you to slow right down. We spent the better part of a morning wandering the length of the main street, and by the end of it, Zoe was well and truly knackered. She took her self-appointed job as footpath inspector very seriously.
We ducked into the Ambleside gin distillery early afternoon (well…ok, late morning), mainly for a look but also for a tasting paddle for Neil. The botanicals are all grown in the region, and the staff were happy to chat through the differences between each one. A couple of favourites came home with us, purely for educational purposes, of course.
Between distillery stops and window-shopping, we managed to demolish a pretzel or two before moving on to apple strudel. It felt almost mandatory. If you walk past a cafe in Hahndorf, your willpower halves instantly. The whole town leans into its German heritage, and the food makes the point better than any signage ever could.
Later in the afternoon, we took a short drive out to Beerenberg Farm. Stocking the moho pantry was the official excuse, but we both know strawberry jam is the real reason most people roll in. The shelves of condiments, relishes, and sauces made it impossible to choose just one or two, so we didn’t. The moho left heavier.
Hahndorf is one of those towns that works on every level…relaxed, tidy, full of character and easy to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing a slow afternoon, a good feed or a bit of history, it never misses. We’d recommend avoiding weekends, as the place can get paaaacked!
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Hahndorf
Settled in 1839 by Prussian immigrants, Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. Today it blends heritage charm with modern food, art, wine and farm experiences. Set in the Adelaide Hills, it’s an easy day trip from Adelaide and a favourite for both locals and travellers.
How to Get There
Hahndorf sits about 30 minutes southeast of Adelaide via the South Eastern Freeway. Access is fully sealed, with plenty of parking around the village (though it fills quickly on weekends).
What to See / Tours / Activities
What we did:
Wandered the historic main street with Zoe leading the charge.
Sampled local spirits at the Hahndorf Hill or Ambleside gin distillery.
Snacked our way through pretzels and apple strudel.
Visited Beerenberg Farm to restock the pantry (and maybe over-stock it).
Other highlights nearby:
The Cedars, home and studio of artist Sir Hans Heysen.
Hahndorf Academy for art, craft and local history.
Udder Delights Cheese Cellar for tastings.
Mount Lofty Summit and Botanic Garden for views and cool-climate walks.
Shaw + Smith, Nepenthe and other Adelaide Hills wineries.
Pick-your-own strawberries at Beerenberg during the season (Nov–Apr).
When to Visit
Spring and autumn are ideal, with mild days and golden hills. Winter is cosy with roaring fires and warm pastries. Summer is busy but lively.
Final Thoughts
Hahndorf gave us a gentle day of eating, wandering and filling the moho cupboards with far too many condiments. It’s an easy place to enjoy, and one we’ll happily return to whenever we’re passing through the Adelaide Hills.
What’s Nearby
A short drive east brings you to the rest of the Hills with vineyards, farm gates and cool-climate lookouts. Head west, and Adelaide opens up quickly.
Fast Facts
Location: Adelaide Hills, South Australia
Distance: 30 minutes from Adelaide CBD
Traditional Owners: Peramangk People
Access: Fully sealed, easy parking
Facilities: Shops, bakeries, distilleries, pubs, art galleries, parks
Walking Track: Short village walks; nearby Mount Lofty trails
Dog Friendly: Yes along the main street; some venues allow dogs outdoors
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn
Things That Could Kill You (Probably Won’t)
A semi-serious guide to surviving Australia. Mostly common sense, occasionally luck.
Pastry Overload: The danger is real…Pace yourself.
Weekend Crowds: Can sweep you sideways if you lose focus.
Gin Flights: Delicious, but they sneak up on you.
Other updates you may like…
With just one day in Adelaide, we crammed in all our favourites! Art, museums, botanic gardens and a market dash. North Terrace delivered its usual magic, reminding us why this city always feels good to return to.