Things to Do
Activities and places to see around The Old Schoolhouse Balhannah
FOOD SCENE
Experience incredible food by Kane Pollard and his team. Casual share plates or the full formal dining experience awaits. Start with a wine tasting for wineries in the area that don’t have a cellar door (Silver Lining, Jericho, Turon and Artis), you may be lucky enough to catch Agnes- a well known Sommelier in the Adelaide Hills.
The Stanley Bridge is a great place to have a quiet drink in the front bar or a lovely meal in the dining room or garden. Recommend the Balhannah Sausages! You might notice the shingles on the underside of the roof in the front bar. These are the same type of shingles on the school roof that have been framed out in the school room.
Outstanding food - to enjoy either in cold weather or out in the gorgeous garden when the sun is shining. People come from near and far so booking is essential!
A quick walk across the road for a drink or a good pub meal in the dining room or in the newly refurbished alfresco/garden area. Highly recommend!
Great pub food and lovely beer garden.
Woodfire pizza, home of Udder Delights artisan cheese and a brewery. What are you waiting for!
WALKS
Generally lovely rural walks within a short distance from the school
If you want a quick stroll to get back to nature this is a lovely walk path that follows the mighty Onkaparinga River! Beautiful very old Oak trees and lots of quiet contemplation if you sit down near the bank of the river.
BIKE RIDE
The Adelaide Hills hosts the Tour Down Under annually, so seeing a bit of lycra around the place isn’t unusual!
Grab a bike and go for a ride! Up to 35km of track.
DISTILLERY
Amazing award winning gin a quick walk from the school. Lovely nibbles to accompany your tipple. Mention the old school airbnb during your stay for a free drink (they may want to see your voucher which is located in the blue folder!)
Ambleside Distillers - Hahndorf
Lovely gin in a pretty tree filled tranquil setting.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Take a tour with one of the volunteer guides. Well worth the visit to see the home and work of Hans and his daughter Nora.
A well known historic town full of cafes, antique shops, gift shops and general tourist place of interest.
Take a visit to this beautiful farm and find out so much about Lavender!
A well known local producer of a huge range of jams, sauces, picked and honey. Pick your own strawberries when in season or just have a look at their incredible range
Just a few kms down the road at Woodside, enter at your own risk!
We are a short 30 minute drive to Monarto Safari Park if you'd like to include a trip to see the newly arrived elephants! It is recommended that you book ahead if you aren't a member of SA zoos. Tickets $49 per adult (as at May 25)
WINERY
Personally, we think this is a great spot to enjoy a wine in the area. A gorgeous unspoiled vista through the vines awaits. Super convenient 2kms/ 5 minute drive from the school.
The closest of wineries to the school house accommodation! You could even take a walk as its only 2kms
Another great local winery, renowned for their bubbles!
Anderson Hill Cellar Door Restaurant
See above in the FOOD SCENE section.
GIFT STORE
Handy gift shop within a very short walk. Here you'll find an incredible range of bespoke items for home, garden and more
*Just in case you see the booking.com description of highlights around the school - please note booking.com use AI for their places of interest.