Adelaide Hills offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and local craftsmanship, making it a prime spot for memorable tours. It’s a region where you can cycle through native bushland, meet adorable koalas, explore biodynamic farms, and sample top-tier wines—all within a few hours. We especially like the Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit, which combines the thrill of cycling with close encounters with native Australian animals, making it a great choice for active travelers who want an authentic experience. Whether you’re into wildlife, wine, or unique regional products, Adelaide Hills delivers.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the three top tours we recommend, each offering something different: an adventurous bike ride, a behind-the-scenes farm visit, and a refined wine and food experience. All provide insight into what makes Adelaide Hills special.
1. Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit
At number one, this tour combines off-road cycling from Mount Lofty’s summit with a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park. The 4-hour experience begins with a guided bike ride down the mountain through native bushland and Cleland Conservation Park, offering stunning views and plenty of opportunities to see kangaroos, emus, and native birdlife. The highlight is the chance to feed kangaroos and pet koalas—a rare up-close encounter that truly captures Australia’s unique wildlife.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of adventure and animal encounters. The guide shares local insights, and the ride is designed to suit most fitness levels, though some off-road riding experience is helpful. A stop for morning tea with cakes and coffee adds a relaxing break. Priced at $112 per person, it’s a great value for a half-day adventure, especially considering the wildlife interaction and scenic ride.
This tour is ideal for active travelers who want both physical activity and wildlife experiences in a single outing. Be prepared for a bit of mud and a lot of fun—this isn’t just sightseeing, it’s doing.
Bottom line: A lively blend of cycling and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
2. Adelaide Hills: Jurlique Private Immersion
At number two, this intimate Jurlique Private Immersion offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Australia’s leading natural skincare farms. For around 1.5 hours, you’ll explore Jurlique’s biodynamic farm with a personal guide, learning how botanicals are grown and harvested for their products. This tour is tailored to your interests, providing exclusive gifts and access to products only available at the farm.
What makes this experience unique is the chance to connect with nature while discovering the secrets of all-natural skincare. The tour emphasizes biodynamic farming practices and sustainable harvesting—an eye-opener if you care about the origins of your beauty products. The shop at the end allows you to purchase exclusive products, making it a nice souvenir or gift.
Priced at $125 per person, it’s a more relaxed and personalized option, perfect for those who enjoy learning about local craftsmanship and green practices. It’s best suited for travelers interested in health, beauty, or sustainable farming, and it’s a great choice if you want a quiet, informative experience without much physical exertion.
Bottom line: An exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at biodynamic farming that appeals to eco-conscious travelers and skincare enthusiasts.
$125 per person
3. Petaluma: Expressions of Chardonnay & Seasonal Platter For 2
At number three, this tasting at Petaluma offers a relaxed, stylish way to sample some of the best cool-climate Chardonnay in the Adelaide Hills. For just 45 minutes and $30 per person, you get a bespoke guided tasting of their premium wines in a modern cellar door with breathtaking views.
The highlight is the opportunity to compare different expressions of Chardonnay, learning how subtle differences in climate, soil, and winemaking techniques influence flavor. Along with the wines, you’ll enjoy a seasonal platter designed for sharing, making this experience as much about food as it is about wine. If you’re a wine lover, this is a taste of regional excellence in a setting that showcases the rolling hills and vineyard views.
Guests often comment on the beautiful setting and high-quality wines, making it a good option for a quick but meaningful tasting. It’s best suited for those on a short trip who want a relaxed, elegant experience—maybe as a pre-dinner stop or a light afternoon activity.
Bottom line: A sophisticated wine tasting paired with seasonal food, ideal for wine aficionados or couples celebrating a special day.
$30 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Adelaide Hills
When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests and travel style. If you love outdoor adventure and wildlife, the Mount Lofty Bike Tour & Wildlife Park offers a fun, active morning. For those curious about local products and sustainable farming, the Jurlique Farm Tour provides a quiet, educational retreat. Finally, if wine tasting and scenic views are your priority, the Petaluma Chardonnay experience offers a stylish, relaxed afternoon.
Budget, time, and personal interests will guide your choice. Active travelers or families will enjoy the bike and wildlife tour, while foodies and wellness-minded visitors might prefer the farm tour. Wine lovers will find the tasting session the most rewarding, especially if paired with good company or a romantic getaway.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out.
Adelaide Hills truly shines with its diverse tour options—whether you want to pedal through native bushland, learn the secrets of skincare, or sip world-class Chardonnay. Consider what excites you most, and then plan your visit accordingly. Each of these tours offers a genuine taste of the region’s unique character.