The Northern Adelaide Hills has its own rhythm, a little wilder, a little quieter, and full of places that reward those who slow down. From Inglewood to Tungkillo, up through Kersbrook and across Mount Crawford, this corner of the Hills feels like discovery country. Here is how to spend a day wandering north.
WANDERING NORTH
Inglewood to Birdwood, the quiet way
1. Inglewood and Cudlee Creek
Start in Inglewood, where the old Inglewood Inn serves farm-to-plate fare with sweeping Para River views. Just around the bend, Glen Ewin Estate sits in the valley, once a jam factory, now a cellar door. Come fig season, you can wander the terraced orchards with a basket in hand, or taste their fig gin if picking feels like too much work. At Paracombe Premium Perry, pears become cider and weekends mean wood-fired pizza under the trees. Families head for Cudlee Creek, where Gorge Wildlife Park delivers koalas, meerkats, otters and plenty of shady gums for a picnic.
2. Kersbrook and the wineries
North again, Kersbrook Hill Wines & Cider pairs platters with live music, while nearby Malcolm Creek Wines, by appointment, offers a rustic stone cellar door surrounded by gardens made for lazy afternoons.
3. Gumeracha and the Big Rocking Horse
In Gumeracha, you will spot the Big Rocking Horse before you arrive. Climb it, then browse the Peregrine Store or roll out a rug in Federation Park while the kids explore the creek. Wine lovers can sip at Mt Bera or Talunga Estate, both with knockout views.
4. Round it out in Birdwood
Birdwood is one of the highlights of the Northern Hills. The National Motor Museum tells Australia's motoring story, but the town is just as rewarding for its antiques, art and cafes. It is the perfect way to round out a northern Hills day.
MAKE A DAY OF IT
Two adventures, one region, and plenty of reasons to wander north. Pick a few stops, leave room to slow down, and let the quieter corner of the Hills surprise you.
Header photo: Inglewood Inn. Body photos: RegionVisitor90 via Wikimedia Commons, CC0.