A DAY IN....
Balhannah
Only 30km from Adelaide, the leafy Hills town of Balhannah is home to vineyards, bakeries and stylish shops. It's perfect for a day trip.
Words: Andrew Rasch
Established in 1839 by publican James Turnbull Thomson, Balhannah served as a junction station for the Mount Pleasant railway line between 1918 and 1964.
The town is still on the main line for The Overland train, which travels between Adelaide and Melbourne.
See
With world-class wineries on Balhannah's doorstep, why not take advantage? Book a guided tasting at Nepenthe and sip some finely crafted red or white wines while learning about the winery's sustainability practices.
At Shaw + Smith, indulge in a glass of its famous sauvignon blanc – bottled on site and perfectly suited to the cooler Adelaide Hills climate.
If art's your thing, look for Silvio Apponyi's black granite Le Peloton sculpture – part of the Adelaide Hills Sculpture Trail – and the Balhannah Overpass Kaurna mural.
Wine tasting at Nepenthe.
Shop
For a unique gift, visit Field Trip Balhannah and browse its ethically made products, including jewellery, clothing, handmade ceramics and toasty Japanese knitwear.
At Living by Design you'll find furniture, kitchenware, comfy cushions, scented candles, art and much more, all guaranteed to turn your head.
Visit Kidman Flower Co's farm gate to buy a fresh bunch of flowers, with more than 60 seasonal Australian and South African varieties to choose from. It's open from April to November.
Designer homewares at Field Trip Balhannah.
Eat and drink
Love bakeries? You're near one of SA's best, so pop into the Balhannah Bakery and treat yourself to a chunky steak pie or vegetarian pasty. Don't forget to get yourself something sweet for dessert.
With its renovated outdoor space, the Balhannah Hotel is ideal for a pub lunch or dinner. If it's chilly, sit by one of three fires and be warmed by a spicy pepperoni pizza or pulled brisket burger.
At the Olive Branch Café, enjoy a caffeine pick-me-up and a tasty snack while you view some original artworks. Two Sundays a month, tap your feet to local musicians belting out a few tunes at one of the café's 'club acoustica' sessions.
Kidman Flower Co.
Stay
Modern luxury meets old-world charm at The Old Schoolhouse. This fully restored 1858 schoolhouse features church-like architecture, gothic windows and a statement staircase.
The Winemaker's Hut offers an idyllic break from city life, with mod cons and continental breakfast included. You may even share it with some friendly neighbourhood kangaroos.
At the aptly named Farm Stay Picturesque views accommodation, enjoy hills scenery, free Wi-Fi and pure relaxation. Pull up a seat, watch the sunset and enjoy life's pleasures.
IMAGES: Field Trip Balhannah, SATC, Visit Adelaide Hills.
