Hahndorf is a Slice of 19th-Century Germany Right Here in Australia

Looking for a sojourn in Europe without leaving Australia? Hahndorf's your spot!

Just a short 26-kilometre drive from Adelaide, this charming town is Australia's oldest German settlement and it feels straight out of a fairy tale. Guten tag!

Hahndorf is a Slice of 19th-Century Germany Right Here in Australia

Step Back in Time

One of Adelaide Hill's most famous towns, Hahndorf is an ode to the quaint cobblestoned streets of Germany. 

Exploring Hanhndorf is like wandering through a storybook with charming craft shops, galleries, cafes, and museums around every corner. Not to mention the incredible foliage come autumn when the streets and laneways are ablaze in reds and golds. 

A Little Bit of Hahndorf History

Hahndorf is Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, rocking its original stone buildings and cottages with those distinct high gables. While the townsfolk have added a few modern touches here and there, the old-school charm is still very much alive.

Named after Captain Hahn of the immigrant ship (and "dorf" meaning village in German), the township was a key pit stop for stagecoaches back in the early 19th century.

Dating back to the late 1830s, German immigrants settled here and made it their new home. They rolled up their sleeves, worked the land, and raised livestock, quickly building a cosy community centred around a church. Family businesses flourished, and vineyards popped up, giving the place its unique vibe.
 

Fast forward to today, and Hahndorf has morphed into a tourist hotspot, offering a slice of artsy Europe in Australia. The village feel is still strong, with Main Street packed with eateries, souvenir shops, craft outlets, and galleries. It's a bustling mecca where history meets modern charm, making it a must-visit.

Things to do in Hahndorf

Sip Local Brews

Germany equals beer, and Hahndorf doesn't disappoint on that front! 

The main street is packed with artisan beer and winery outlets, while the surrounding hills are dotted with vineyards offering unique German flavours. We recommend checking out Hahndorf Brewing Co, the German Arms Hotel, or The Haus Restaurant.

Visit Beerenberg Farm

A must-visit on any trip to Adelaide's Germany!

Beerenberg Farm has been run by the Paech family for generations, and offers strawberry-picking, rose gardens to explore, and leisurely walks through the fields. It's a fun-filled day out with loads of fresh produce to explore.

Location: 2106 Mount Barker Rd

Peek Inside Misty Hollow Fantasy Cave

Perfect for kids, Misty Hollow Fantasy Cave features storybook dioramas of the whimsical Misty Hollow. It's a charming peek into a magical world the kids will love.

Location: 56 Main Street

Explore Hahndorf Farm Barn

A mix of a children's farmyard and wildlife park, where you can hold, feed, and interact with animals, the Farm Barn is an ideal spot for family fun, especially during school holidays.

Location: 2282 Mount Barker Rd

Stop off at Hahndorf Academy

Dating back to 1839, this historic building is now South Australia's largest regional art gallery, showcasing the town's rich cultural heritage and artistic pursuits.

Location: 68 Main Street

Stroll Down Main Street

No trip to Hahndorf is complete without exploring its bustling main street. Packed with eateries, craft shops, candlemakers, breweries, and galleries, it's the beating heart of the town.

Don't miss the Ye Olde Ice Creamery, Udder Delights Cheese Cellar, and The Menz FruChoc Shop for some local treats.

Location: Mount Barker Road

Dine Like a Local at Hahndorf Inn

Looking for the top spot to eat and drink while you're in town? Check out Hahndorf Inn, where hearty, homely vibes and great eats are the order of the day.

The 155-year-old gem blends German and Austrian traditions with classic Aussie hospitality. Inside, you've got options: a restaurant, a casual bar, alfresco dining, a cosy saloon bar, and a traditional German Bierhall. If you're starving, go for their giant hotdog loaded with sauerkraut, mustard, and tomato sauce – and pick your favourite sausage.

Location: 35 Mount Barker Rd

Indulge at The Fudge Shop

This spot is a sweet tooth's dream with over 40 flavours of handmade fudge, creamy gelato, sorbets, and more. It's the only confectionary store in town making their own fudge and it's absolutely worth a visit.

Location: Unit 4/56 Mount Barker Rd

Discover the Wineries

After soaking in the town's charm, head to the surrounding wineries like Penfolds, Hahndorf Hill, and Nepenthe Wines. Sip on a crisp white and take in the lush, vineyard-laden landscape.

Location: 38 Pain Rd

Hahndorf is where history, culture, and a bit of European charm come together most delightfully. Get ready to be enchanted!

More Unique Travel Ideas

Where to Sleep in a Treehouse in NSW
NSW's Crystal Castle Has the World's Largest Crystal
Sleep With the Animals at Australia's Best Zoo Sleepovers 

Have you signed up to our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!