Mount Lofty House

Tucked away within the Adelaide Hills wine region and set on the grounds of a beautiful botanic garden, this boutique, historic bolthole dates back to 1852. Overlooking the enchanting Piccadilly Valley, the 33 suites are spread across the main house, and there are also four charmingly restored cottages to stay in.

Sophisticatedly decorated interiors, flooded with natural light, feature luxurious touches and an eye-pleasing mix of period and contemporary furnishings. The self-contained cottages, which date back to the 1850s, encompass fully-equipped kitchens, lounges and dining rooms, as well as private gardens.

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, named after one of the house’s former residents, Arthur Hardy. This refined, garden-facing space serves exquisite dishes, paired with the finest local wines. The polished lounge is a more casual space, inspired by the second owner of the house, Arthur Waterhouse, and offering a sharing-style menu, and snug fireplace seating.

Today, the original stables of the house have been transformed into a tranquil spa, where guests can retreat for an indulgent face or body treatment. The encircling estate grounds are just as uplifting, and you can spend your time playing croquet on the lawn, partaking in a tennis match, paddling in the outdoor pool, or simply feasting on a prepared picnic or pizza from the wood-fired oven.