Adelaide Hills

Final stage of Hahndorf’s transformation begins

Hahndorf has undergone an exciting transformation from 'tourist town' to one of the State's freshest destinations for Adelaideans, spearheaded by a young and dynamic group of entrepreneurs converting kitsch souvenir stores into cool, must-see destinations.

The Adelaide Hills town’s transformation began four years ago, with a retailer attraction program aimed at enticing new and exciting businesses followed by a major rebranding program which included a new logo, messaging and images as well as a revamped Facebook presence.

The town’s European feel has also been captured with locals referring to parts of the main street as the ‘The French Quarter’, referring to its historic architecture, locally-made produce and the relaxed vibe with people relaxing over glasses of local wines, platters of cheese and coffee.

With the hard work complete and Hahndorf buzzing with energy, Hahndorf Business and Tourism Association Chair John Ashcroft says the last phase of the town’s revitalisation has begun: letting people know that Hahndorf has changed.

“From some of the finest cellar doors and trendiest bars, cafés, restaurants and wine bars, to handmade fashions and the delicious treats created by artisan producers, it's no wonder Hahndorf is earning itself a new name,” John says.

“While Hahndorf still has all its wonderful charm, German heritage and fresh produce that it is renowned for especially in the tourism market, it is becoming more and more popular with the local market which is attracted to the new cafés, wine bars, shops and restaurants.

“Hahndorf boasts some of the finest cafés in the state including the award winning Chocolate No 5, The White House offering the best in food, wine, music and film in a heritage listed cottage, The German Cake Shop and many more offering laid back alfresco dining overlooking the bustling main street.”

John says The Haus Café+Bar+Kitchen sets new standards for food and beverage experiences, with an 80-strong wine list, boutique beers on tap, and open seven days a week serving all day fare in a rustic and contemporary surrounding while the Hahndorf Inn and The German Arms are two famous pubs serving up delicious grub.

“There are more than half a dozen cellar doors in and around Hahndorf, producing award winning wines from cool climate grapes, and available for tasting and purchase in their fabulous cellar doors. You can even indulge in a wine and chocolate tasting at Hahndorf Hill Winery that will explode the senses,” he says.

John says Hahndorf has seen a revival in the trend towards artisan produce, with consumers seeking handmade, organic and natural goods directly from the producer and willing to pay a little bit more for the experience.

“We have definitely noticed that Hahndorf is attracting a younger demographic that is attracted to the boutique cafés, fashion stores and food producers, with many coming up in the morning for breakfast and making a day out of it indulging, and purchasing fabulous produce to take home,” he says.

“Not many towns can boast having the butcher, the baker and the candlestick-maker, but Hahndorf has dozens of family run producers including Noske & Sons Butchery, Otto’s Bakery, Heidi’s Kaffeehaus and Hahndorf Candlemakers that are extremely popular.”

For more information visit www.facebook.com/hahndorfsa

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