Where to stay in the Adelaide Hills for easy access to the Heysen Trail, Mawson Trail, Mount Crawford Forest, Kuitpo Forest, and the patchwork of conservation parks in the Mount Lofty Ranges.
| Region | Adelaide Hills |
| Best base towns | Hahndorf, Stirling, Birdwood, Gumeracha, Balhannah |
| Budget options | From ~$20/night (forest camping) |
| Mid-range | From ~$130/night (hotel/B&B) |
| Luxury | From ~$350/night (boutique estate) |
Budget: Forest Camping
ForestrySA manages campgrounds in both Mount Crawford Forest and Kuitpo Forest, making them perfect bases for trail riding on the Mawson Trail and walking the Heysen Trail.
- Mount Crawford Forest Campground – Multiple campgrounds scattered through this beautiful pine and native forest near Williamstown. Right on the Mawson Trail route. Great facilities including toilets, fire rings, and picnic areas. From ~$20/night.
- Kuitpo Forest Campground – Peaceful forest camping in the southern Adelaide Hills, perfect for Heysen Trail walkers. Cool shaded sites, good facilities, and wildlife including koalas and kangaroos. From ~$20/night.
Mid-Range: Hotels, Pubs & B&Bs
- The Stirling Hotel – A beautiful heritage hotel in the village of Stirling, with comfortable rooms, a renowned restaurant, and a great atmosphere. Right in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. From ~$170/night.
- Adelaide Hills Accommodation Guide – South Australia Tourism’s comprehensive guide to accommodation in the Adelaide Hills, from B&Bs and farm stays to self-contained cottages and guesthouses. Great for finding unique smaller properties.
Luxury Stays
- Mount Lofty House – One of Australia’s most awarded luxury hotels, a grand 5-star property surrounded by gardens and bushland near the summit of Mount Lofty. Stunning rooms, award-winning restaurant, day spa, and vineyard. From ~$450/night.
Planning Tips
Heysen Trail access: The Adelaide Hills section of the Heysen Trail runs through Belair National Park, the Mount Lofty Summit, and the beautiful valleys around Balhannah and Charleston. Hahndorf makes an excellent base for this section.
Mawson Trail: The Mawson Trail passes through both Mount Crawford and Kuitpo forests. Camping in the forests puts you right on the route.
Wine region: The Adelaide Hills wine region is famous for cool-climate varieties. Many cellar doors offer accommodation – check the Adelaide Hills Wine Region website for cellar door stays.
Day trips from Adelaide: The Adelaide Hills is only 30 minutes from the city centre, making it easy to combine a city stay with Hills walking.
Guided tours: A range of guided walk and food and wine experiences operate in the Adelaide Hills. See our Adelaide Hills tours guide for guided walking and wine experiences.