History & Heritage
It's easy to say "You'll feel like you're in another world". But in the lush Adelaide Hills, you really will. That's even more evident when you visit some of these heritage sites and take a step back in time.
Bridgewater Mill
Flour mills were built throughout the Adelaide Hills during the nineteenth century, and historic examples can still be found at Birdwood, Mount Barker, Nairne and Bridgewater, where the giant waterwheel, known as The Old Rumbler, still turns.
Callington
Situated on the Bremer River, Callington is a well-preserved microcosm of a mid-nineteenth century Australian mining community. The whole township is included in the Register of the National Estate and the Bremer Mine site, together with individual significant buildings within the township, are also listed on both the Register of the National Estate and the State Heritage Register.
Hahndorf Historic Village
Settled by German immigrants in the 1840s, Hahndorf is Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Many of the original buildings are still intact, including the Hahndorf Academy housing several galleries and a German heritage museum.
Hans Heysen's The Cedars, Hahndorf
The historic home and studio of famous artist Sir Hans Heysen. Visitors can take a guided tour of Heysen's house and studio, which includes many original artworks and tools. The famous Heysen Trail also traverses the property.
Johnston's Oakbank Brewery
Established in 1843 by the Scottish Johnston brothers, who settled Oakbank and Woodside. Open to visitors.
Jupiter Creek, Echunga
Take the self-guided Jupiter Creek Heritage Trail, which offers an insight into the gold rush era that swept through the Adelaide Hills in the mid 1800s. Don't forget your torch for the 80 metre Phoenix Tunnel underground walk.
Mount Lofty House
Built between 1852 and 1858 by prominent politician, lawyer and businessman, Arthur Hardy, as the family's summer home. All but destroyed by the Ash Wednesday bushfires in 1983, it's now been restored and boasts a grand boutique hotel and restaurant overlooking beautiful Piccadilly Valley.
Mount Torrens
Officially declared a State Heritage Town, Mount Torrens is one of the Adelaide Hills' most well-preserved historic towns.
National Costume Museum, Lobethal
A fascinating collection of original gowns, suits, handbags, buttons, hats and much more from 1812 to 2000. This great showcase of fashion evolution is on display in the old finishing room of the former Onkaparinga Woollen Mill at Lobethal.
National Motor Museum, Birdwood
Look through Australia's motoring history. There's more than 300 vehicles here, from all eras.
Prospect Hill Museum
This pioneer museum has a large range of exhibits housed in period buildings, primarily displaying the dairy industry of the area. It opens from 2pm to 5pm Sundays.
