In the spotlight: Mt Lofty House, Adelaide Hills

Food and wine make a good couple, but when you throw luxury accommodation into the equation, you’re on a winning ticket. Needless to say, when a famil opportunity popped up at the luxurious Mt Lofty House in the Adelaide Hills, I was quick to whip out the diary and lock in some dates.

Having heard only glistening reviews of the Hills, I had high hopes of the weekend ahead. And after a tough week in the office, some R&R was certainly in order. A pleasant 1.5 hour flight from Sydney and 15 minute drive from the airport took us to the heartland of the hills. And as soon as we pulled into the Mt Lofty House driveway, it quickly became clear we were in for the pampering we were after.

Dramatic hills glimmer in the distance, dotted with quaint houses and lush foliage far below. But the scenery is matched by equally impressive interiors. The manor house has retained its 1850s charm with traditional furnishings and cosy fittings. But luxury is still at its core, priding itself with fine dining, luxurious add-ons and boutique service.

General manager Craig Dodd was the perfect host as he escorted us around the 18 acre property. Starting with the flagship Piccadilly Restaurant, we saw the versatile conference spaces first hand. Catering for up to 200 guests, the space can be split into two separate rooms for weddings or functions, and arranged so that guests can spill out onto the balcony to take in the valley views.

It was then off to the Coach House – a favourite among wedding guests – and Alfred’s Lounge, which features a fireplace and ornate ceilings ideal for small meetings. With 10 small meeting rooms on offer, there is plenty on offer to appease all client types. Weddings are also a frequent occasion, with over 100 on the calendar this year alone.

After a good night’s rest and a fabulous breakfast courtesy of executive chef Girard Ramsay, we were keen to test what the rest of the Adelaide Hills had to offer. First stop – Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. Delegates can wander the quaint streets, stop in for a pretzel, or throw down a pint of German beer – all within minutes of iconic restaurants and wineries. There are also plentiful walking tracks to work off the weekend’s indulgence, and the Cleland Wildlife Park is certainly worth a look in.

After a packed day of sightseeing, the view at Mt Lofty House provides the perfect backdrop for nibbles and drinks, and is sure to leave delegates with warm memories of the Hills’ charm.