Adelaide Hills offers a wealth of engaging tours and experiences that showcase its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and local flavors. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, gourmet food, or discovering local skincare secrets, this region has something for every traveler. We particularly love the Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit for its active pace and wildlife encounters, and the Petaluma Chardonnay & Platter for a relaxed wine experience with unbeatable views. Every tour provides a different perspective—whether you’re pedaling through native bushland or tasting top-tier wines amidst scenic vineyards.
If you’re planning your visit, consider what kind of experience suits your travel style—adventure, relaxation, or learning about local products. Each option below offers a unique way to learn about the Adelaide Hills’ charm.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include a thrilling downhill bike tour that combines native wildlife encounters with an off-road ride (Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit), a personalized skincare farm tour that reveals the secrets behind Jurlique’s success (Adelaide Hills: Jurlique Private Immersion), and a wine tasting experience that compares different expressions of Chardonnay while enjoying beautiful vineyard views (Petaluma: Expressions of Chardonnay & Seasonal Platter For 2). Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit
At number 1, this 4-hour adventure combines the thrill of cycling downhill from Mount Lofty with a chance to interact with some of Australia’s iconic wildlife. Starting at the mount’s summit, you’ll hop on a mountain bike and coast down through native bushland, passing through Cleland Conservation Park. The ride is designed for all levels, with off-road tracks that wind through scenic landscapes, making it both exhilarating and manageable.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of active outdoor fun and wildlife interaction. Along the way, you’ll stop at Cleland Wildlife Park, where you can feed kangaroos and pet koalas, enjoying Australia’s unique fauna. The tour also includes a morning tea with cakes and coffee, providing a perfect break amidst nature.
This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife encounters—perfect for families, adventure-seekers, or anyone looking to see the native animals in their natural habitat. With a 4.8/5 rating from nine reviews, it’s a highly recommended way to experience Adelaide Hills’ landscapes.
Bottom Line: An active, family-friendly tour that combines scenic cycling with unforgettable wildlife moments—great value for a memorable morning.
2. Adelaide Hills: Jurlique Private Immersion
At number 2, the Jurlique Private Immersion offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Australia’s most famous skincare brands. This 1.5-hour tour is tailored to your interests, providing an intimate experience at Jurlique’s biodynamic farm. You’ll explore the source of the botanicals used in their products and learn about their commitment to natural, sustainable skincare.
What makes this experience stand out is the personalized approach—you’ll get exclusive Jurlique farm gifts and the opportunity to purchase products available only at the farm. The tour is perfect for those curious about natural beauty, organic farming, or seeking a meaningful connection with local producers. It’s a quiet, relaxing way to deepen your understanding of how local plants are transformed into high-quality skincare.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the focus on connecting with nature and discovering the secrets of skincare makes this a compelling choice for wellness-minded travelers. It’s particularly suited for visitors with an interest in natural beauty or sustainable farming practices.
Bottom Line: An exclusive, educational experience that combines nature and beauty, ideal for travelers looking for a quiet, meaningful activity.
3. Petaluma: Expressions of Chardonnay & Seasonal Platter For 2
Rounding out our list at number 3 is the Petaluma Wine & Food Experience, a 45-minute guided tasting that showcases the diverse expressions of cool-climate Chardonnay. The tasting takes place at a modern and stylish cellar door with breathtaking views of the Adelaide Hills, letting you savor the nuances of each wine while soaking in the scenery.
What makes this experience special is the ability to compare several premium Chardonnay styles side by side, helping you appreciate how terroir and winemaking techniques influence flavor. Paired with a seasonal platter for two, it’s a relaxed way to enjoy local wines and regional produce without a long commitment.
This experience is perfect for wine lovers, couples, or anyone curious about wine tasting. The breathtaking views and modern cellar door create a memorable setting, and the tasting itself offers good value for those wanting a quick yet in-depth look at Adelaide Hills wines.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine aficionados seeking quality tastings with scenic views and a shared platter—perfect for a romantic or casual outing.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you love outdoor adventures and wildlife, the Mount Lofty downhill bike tour offers active fun with wildlife encounters. For a more personal, relaxing experience centered on local products, the Jurlique farm tour is ideal. If your focus is sampling local wines with stunning vineyard views, the Petaluma Chardonnay tasting hits the spot.
Think about your fitness level—this list includes energetic activities like biking but also offers quiet, contemplative experiences like the skincare tour or wine tasting. Budget-wise, the wine and wildlife tours are generally shorter and more affordable, while the farm immersion is more private and personalized.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer, to secure your spot. Each of these tours provides a genuine taste of the Adelaide Hills’ diverse offerings, whether you’re after adventure, luxury, or educational experiences.
In The Sum Up
The Adelaide Hills region offers an impressive variety of tours and experiences that cater to different interests. For those seeking outdoor activity combined with wildlife, the Mount Lofty downhill bike ride is hard to beat. If you want a peaceful, behind-the-scenes look at local skincare, the Jurlique private immersion is perfect. And for wine lovers, the Petaluma Chardonnay tasting provides a quick, scenic introduction to the region’s viniculture.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these top experiences. Each option promises a memorable way to explore Adelaide Hills—so pick what suits your interests and get ready for a great adventure.