There’s nothing more enchanting than German Christkindlmarkts filled with hand-carved wooden ornaments and toys, steaming spiced wine, and the scents of roasting chestnuts and gingerbread.

However, you don’t have to go all the way to Germany to experience the magic of a European-style Christmas market.

Each year, the heritage-listed historic town of Hahndorf in South Australia hosts its very own Christkindlmarkt inspired by those in Europe, capturing the same sense of community, celebration, fun, laughter, and family found in many cities in Europe during the festive season—without the cold or the long flight.

Hahndorf is nestled within the picturesque Adelaide Hills, south-east of Adelaide and is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. The town’s leafy main street is lined with beautiful heritage German buildings and numerous German-inspired bakeries, pubs, galleries, and cafes where you can indulge in traditional culinary delights or even take home a piece of original indigenous artwork or cuckoo clock.

In the spirit of the German tradition, the Hahndorf Christkindlmarkt brings together local South Australian designers, artisans, and small businesses to deliver an unmissable experience. Featuring over 60 variety stalls, you can expect to find goods such as homewares, candles, flowers, jewellery, toys, art, clothing, gardening, and skincare. There’s plenty of entertainment to enjoy including a delightful Carols by Candlelight.

The markets offer a wide selection of mouth-watering German cuisine along with other global favourites including bao, dumplings, curries, samosas, Turkish gozleme, sweets, and treats, along with coffee and wine.

A visit to Hahndorf would be incomplete without sampling some traditional Bavarian cuisine, and the Hahndorf Inn takes pride in delivering premium, authentic products sourced locally and abroad from independent suppliers located in Bavaria and Austria.

Historic Strathalbyn 

On your way to Hahndorf, pay a visit to Strathalbyn on the outskirts of Adelaide, otherwise known as the gateway to the boutique Langhorne Creek Wine Region.

Unearth quaint, country-style markets, boutique shops, and beautiful heritage buildings in the historic main streets, enjoy brunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants, or stroll through the picturesque parklands on the banks of the River Angas. 

Savour the Southern Vales

No Christmas tour is complete without venturing through the Southern Vales—the birthplace of South Australia's wine industry. Here you can sample the collection at d'Arenberg Wines or enjoy a gourmet lunch at Serafino Wines.

Cruise the Murray River

An essential stop on a visit of South Australia’s south-east is the mighty Murray River. The best way to experience the river is by paddle boat aboard the Captain Proud. Built in 1977 as one of the original showboats on the Port River, Captain Proud now lives at Murray Bridge and offers guests delightful river excursions on the Lower Murray. Enjoy fine dining aboard as you cruise slowly past majestic scenery and witness the wildlife of the river in all its untamed natural beauty.

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This article is featured in the Spring 2022 issue of National Seniors Australia’s quarterly member magazine, Our Generation. 

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