Mount Lofty House

Location

Mount Lofty House is nestled among the leafy Adelaide Hills, with the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden on its doorstep. It offers wonderful views overlooking the Piccadilly Valley and out towards Cleland National Park, a bushland area home to the likes of koalas, kangaroos, wombats and wallabies. While very much immersed in nature, it’s also just a 15-20 minute drive from Adelaide city centre, therefore offering the best of both worlds: the sense of peace and seclusion that comes with a countryside retreat, while also being conveniently close to South Australia’s main city. The property dates back to 1852, when it was built as a summer residence by prominent statesman, Arthur Hardy.

Accommodation

The rooms and suites at Mount Lofty House evoke an ambience of timeless elegance, befitting of the building’s heritage status. Classic Rooms feature high ceilings and period furnishings, while Piccadilly Garden Rooms and Piccadilly Valley Rooms offer spacious balcony seating areas. Four-poster beds, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, smart TVs, plush bathrobes and Jurlique bathroom products are standard across all categories. If you’re looking for an elevated sense of luxury and extra space, consider one of the Conservatory Suites, which come with a large master bedroom, a conservatory-style sun room and a separate sitting area. The Tower Suite, meanwhile, is split across two floors and comes with its own spa bath, contemporary lodge bedroom and lounge overlooking the pool and gardens.

Dining

Culinary excellence is central to Mount Lofty House, which offers a variety of exceptional dining experiences accompanied by fabulous views of the surrounding nature. Hardy’s Verandah serves sumptuous high teas and delectable dinners on its elegant verandah overlooking the Piccadilly Valley, accompanied by exquisite wines from its extensive, 175-year-old cellar. Martha Hardy’s, meanwhile, offers a refined à la carte menu showcasing the finest local produce from the Adelaide Hills, served in a cosy heritage setting. Head upstairs and you’ll find Hardy’s Bar, a sophisticated yet laid-back spot for a glass of wine or an after-dinner whisky, with open fireplaces and plush leather chairs. In the warmer months, it opens out to an outdoor terrace area with views across the Piccadilly Valley.

Facilities

Mount Lofty House offers a whole host of signature experiences and top-class amenities designed to immerse you in the beauty and tranquility of the Adelaide Hills. The outdoor pool and sun terrace is a perfect spot to relax in the sunshine overlooking the Piccadilly Valley, while the next door botanical gardens and national park are replete with an abundance of hiking trails. There’s plenty of space in which to unwind indoors, of course, whether in one of the cosy lounge areas, in the library or at the bar. The Gatekeeper’s Day Spa also offers a host of rejuvenating wellness treatments and packages, along with access to a sauna, hot tub and cold pool.