Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Only 15 minutes from Adelaide CBD, Mount Lofty House is a iconic boutique hotel with panoramic views over Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills. Mount Lofty House is the premier destination for luxury escapes, overnight accommodation, fine dining, boutique day spa experiences, conference retreats and weddings. Built in 1852 by Arthur Hardy, Mount Lofty House became a venue for the most lavish parties, where Arthur would take great delight in hosting Adelaide's high society. Relax in our Gatekeepers Day Spa, or indulge at one of the state's most awarded and decadent fine dining restaurants Hardy's Verandah Restaurant. Feeling more adventurous? Explore the 30 acre estate or maybe a glass of our own Sequoia sparkling while looking out over the beautiful Piccadilly Valley. Celebrating a tradition of Luxury. Mount Lofty House.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Accor Hotels.
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
Powered by AI
Mount Lofty House & Estate in the Adelaide Hills is celebrated by guests for its plentiful amenities such as the luxurious spa and exquisite dining with views. The hotel's service is repeatedly commended for its attentive and professional staff. Elegance meets comfort in the well-appointed rooms, especially those with Piccadilly Valley views, which visitors find to be of great value, justifying the expense with luxury and historical allure.
The cleanliness and atmosphere of the hotel are notably exceptional, with an elegant and inviting ambiance. Nestled in a scenic location, the hotel offers easy access to Adelaide and nearby wine regions, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Elegant
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Extraordinary
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Exceptional
Amenities
Well-appointed
Was this helpful?
Tripadvisor is not responsible for this summary or the opinions in it. For more information, please read the traveller reviews and learn more about how the site works.
Being a local Adelaide boy and having spent a fair bit of time in the Hills it's a surprise I hadn't visited Mt Lofty House before. Sure glad I've done it now. The location is stunning perched atop the Piccadilly Valley with views east to the horizon. The building is a survivor of classic South Australian Federation style and being a premium hotel experience, the rooms have been tastefully decorated and furnished with an eye to the past and today. The dining was a delight and the extensive wine list was extraordinary. Staff were extremely courteous and there when you needed them. Can't fault it.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 16 Sept 2024
Dear deafener, We were delighted to welcome you as guests of Mount Lofty House in the stunning Adelaide Hills. Thank you so much for the fantastic review and kind words about our passionate and hardworking team, they are all so dedicated to providing good old-fashioned hospitality to every guest, so this review really means the world to us all and I look forward to sharing it with them. Our talented team are committed to creating the perfect space to relax, unwind and indulge in all our fantastic house has to offer, and we are so glad we were able to treat you for this special stay. I hope it isn’t too long before we are welcoming you back to Mount Lofty Estate. Kindest regards, Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Reading through the reviews I can only reiterate other 5 Star review comments.
A glorious property with sublime views, fantastic staff, beautiful food and wine all added up to a perfect stay. My family joined me to celebrate my 80th Birthday for dinner and the evening at this wonderful venue. From the welcome drink to the farewell gift it was perfection all the way. Having glorious weather and being able to enjoy a swim in the heated pool overlooking the beautiful Piccadilly Valley before enjoying a sumptuous breakfast made it very hard to leave the next morning. Being a History Buff I enjoyed Christopher’s tour and cocktails and meeting other guests. Congratulations to Christopher and his team - you have got it so right! A jewel in South Australia’s Hospitality Crown.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2024
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 15 Feb 2024
Dear Merrilyn F, Thank you so much for your kind words and feedback. It was an absolute pleasure to welcome you to the stunning Mount Lofty Estate and for such a special milestone for you. I am so glad to see you were able to enjoy so many aspects of our hotel and we are truly grateful to have the beautiful Adelaide Hills as our backyard. The history and welcome tour is the highlight of my day, so I am beyond happy to read that you enjoyed it so much, thank you for your kind words about myself and the team they really mean a lot to us as we strive to continuously enhance our experience offering and the level of service we provide to all of our guests. We look forward to welcoming you back again to the Estate soon. Kindest regards Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
The best service from Christopher in his role of Personal Relations I have ever experienced in my life. From the moment he opened the door on arrival to the moment he closed the taxi door on departure he was the ultimate gentleman and provided a service of rare sensibility. His charm, warmth, sense of humour and genuine concern made him the real treasure at Lofty HouseUltimate
Read more
Date of stay: January 2025
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: I think it’s important to have a car while staying at Lofty House
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear Rosemaryn613, It was our pleasure to welcome you to Mount Lofty House for your getaway. We are so delighted to read that you enjoyed your recent stay with us. We appreciate your kind words. Thank you again for your stay, and we hope it isn't too long before we get to welcome you back through our doors. Kindest regards, Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My husband and I stayed at Mount Lofty Estate in the Adelaide Hills as a staycation getaway to mark the beginning of my 50th birthday celebrations.
We were very fortunate to be able to schedule a 3-night stay in the Piccadilly Suite over a weekend.
The check-in experience was delightful and a glass of local estate champagne was poured as a welcome and the staff were extremely welcoming and professional. Immediately we sensed that our stay was going to be amazing.
Our room was stunning. I believe there are two Piccadilly suites, and the view from the bed, balcony and conservatory were fabulous. A lovely welcome message was hand-written to us as well as homemade muffins on arrival.
On our first night we went out to dinner at a local Japanese restaurant called Yuki in the Hills. We used Uber to get a taxi there and back and we were quite surprised at the low cost considering the distance.
Our second night we had dinner in the Hardy’s Restaurant and it was such a magnificent experience. That level of dining was perfect and unforgettable. All the food was fantastic.
The third night we ate at the Mount Lofty Estate bar and the menu was fantastic as was the food. We are Accor Plus members and we were granted our 50% discount at the bar which i think is very generous for the quality of food we received.
Prior to dinner at the bar my parents came over and attended the free estate tour which was wonderful. It was great to hear so many fabulous stories about the history of the estate and to walk around and see some of its beauty. Going into the wine cellar was incredible.
As an All Accor and Plus member, i felt the service and style was second to none. I would love to go back one day, particularly in Autumn where the views must be spectacular
The breakfasts every morning was outstanding. Thank goodness we were there for 3 nights so we could experience several of the breakfast options. They were all fantastic.
Overall the stay was magnificent.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Uber to local area’s is relatively cheap.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 19 Sept 2024
Dear Z5313OTtaras, It was a pleasure to welcome you and your family to Mount Lofty Estate and the Adelaide Hills. Thank you so much for the kind words about our dedicated staff, I can’t help but agree - they are truly sensational and we would not be able to offer the level of service and good old-fashioned hospitality that we do, without them! We are also happy to hear that you have had a fantastic dining experience. Z5313OTtaras, I hope it isn’t too long before we are welcoming you back through those doors! Kindest regards, Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed 2 nights in a Piccadilly view room eating in Hardy's restaurant both nights. Room 24 was lovely with fantastic panoramic views over the valley. A nice balcony down the side. Bathroom maybe a tad small but worked for us; a good shower. May want to draw one curtain from poolside as pool guests on loungers can see into the room. With 3 other big windows not an issue. A highlight was the history tour. Jamie from Milton Keynes was the best guide we had on our 3 week Aussie tour. He kept the enthusiasm going and one hour flew by. The art on the walls also adds to overall ambience. Mount Lofty being a wedding and function venue can't quite achieve a relaxed boutique feel and breakfast may be a touch busy at peak times but otherwise doesn't impinge too much on relaxed vibe. Breakfast is a waitered service to your table ordered from the menu. One or two exotic options may not be what you expected but interesting and good. Be careful choosing your breakfast table; one or two tables have double the a/c vents and it can be a chill wind as the a/c is cranked up. Get their early if you want a front row table with a view.
Hardy's Verandah Restaurant was a delight. The standard of food was among the best if not the best we had in Australia. Each dish well put together presented and cooked to perfection. Only note of caution if staying 2 nights menu doesn't change but there are 3 main options and did offer a different pud. Service was engaging and professional. A shout out to the sommelier. Tough job as he had lots of amateur wine buffs engaging in conversation on wine pairings and he was very good in imparting his knowledge and keeping guests happy. We went for the standard Aussie wine pairing first night and it was a bit hit and miss eg Mount Lofty fizz is good, a bit Franciacorta like and great outside on a hot day, a cocktail at a function or by the pool. But as an opener on a tasting menu the slight sweetness and cloying warmth didn't keep the palette fresh. A tough gig to use just South Australia wines for matching. The Scallop dish cried out for a crisp Sancerre. Maybe allow Tasmania into the Aussie mix will get something Sancerre like. Really enjoyed the introduction to Chasing Daisies (Grenache Blanc Roussane Clairette). My musings on the wine are a positive reflection on the interactive sommelier experience. 2nd night we just went for a white and red glass having had a good 2 weeks of over indulgence. Again sommelier sorted us out.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 4 Dec 2024
Dear 69albertz, It was our pleasure to be your hosts at Mount Lofty House on this trip to the Adelaide Hills. We want to thank you for such kinds words about our staff; our talented team are committed to creating the perfect space to relax, unwind and indulge in all our fantastic house has to offer, and we are so glad we were able to treat you for this special stay. It was a delight to read about your experience in The Hardy's Verandah Restaurant, I can’t help but agree, it really is a special place. What better way to spend an evening, then with decadent food, delicious wine and then that stunning view as well, it’s hard to beat. Thank you again for taking the time to write about your experience at the Estate and we hope to see you again on the next trip to Australia. Kindest Regards, Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Spending our first two nights at Mt Lofty House was a perfect way to start our Honeymoon!
After checking in we did some pre-wedding photos around the grounds. We then headed to Mt Lofty Summit for a sunset celebration; and were pleased to be able to travel just the 2 minutes back after the ceremony and reception (Note: there is a one-bride policy at Mt Lofty House - check with them before making arrangements).
The Piccadilly Valley Suite was romantic in style, with breathtaking views to appreciate from anywhere in the room, as well as from the outdoor balcony. The staff were kind and hospitable, ensuring were felt welcome and comfortable. The grounds were immaculate, and we made good use of them to relax in with a drink, including by the heated pool. With the Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens a small step away, we made sure to make good use of these with an afternoon stroll through the stunningly presented gardens.
The food and drink was high quality and helped make the stay that bit more special.
We look forward to returning on our anniversary!
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 1 Jan 2024
Dear Patrick G, Thank you so much for the fabulous 5-star review, it was our absolute pleasure to have you stay at Mount Lofty House. I am delighted you enjoyed your beautifully appointed Piccadilly Valley View Room; they offer a stunning outlook and are the perfect spot to get lost in that view. Thank you so much for the kind words about our team, they pride themselves on providing good old-fashioned hospitality to all our guests. It’s also great to read that you enjoyed some time by our pool, summer so far has been a bit hit and miss, so its great to see you got some nice weather to enjoy it. Hope to welcome you back again in the not-too-distant future Kindest regards Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Staff were exceptional across all amenities; Mt Lofty House itself, the Gatekeeper's Spa, accommodation, reception, housekeeping and we enjoyed excellent dining experiences for both the Valentine's Day dinner at Martha's Kitchen and at breakfast in the morning. The theme was maintained in a stylish and refined manner across the board. The room was spotless and beautifully prepared and we enjoyed all the little extra treats and flourishes that made our stay truly special. When we cheekily requested to inspect the Sequoia suites we were readily and warmly accommodated with a personal tour. We were not rushed in any way and could not have asked for more friendly and professional treatment. Well done to ALL the staff at Mt Lofty House.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 24 Feb 2023
Dear Teresa C, It was our absolute pleasure to welcome you for a relaxing Valentines stay at Mount Lofty Estate! I am so delighted that you were able to experience and enjoy so much of what we have to offer here at the Estate, isn’t the Gatekeepers Day Spa a true delight, the perfect spot for some R&R! If you would like to book Sequoia Lodge, our gorgeous 6 star property, please reach out to the helpful team on stay@sequoialodge.com.au and they would be happy to assist. I hope we are able to welcome you back soon Teresa! Kindest regards Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mount Lofty House is absolutely amazing! The warm welcome from the time you arrive (with champagne on arrival) to the time you check out with a memorable gift from the awesome staff - you will want to come back again. The tour of the house is definitely recommended - it only takes 45min and you will appreciate the history of Mount Lofty House so much more. After the short tour, have a cocktail in the cocktail lounge and soak up the atmosphere around the open fires. The rooms are large, clean and very comfortable. The rooms are modern and every little detail in our room had been taken care of including a handwritten welcome card and biscuits as a gift. Dinner and breakfast at Martha Hardy's kitchen is to die for. The food is amazing, the service is first-class and the views of the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens are fabulous. Would definitely recommend staying here.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 28 Apr 2023
Dear Matthew, Thank you for your wonderful review, it was a joy to read! It was our absolute pleasure to welcome you to the stunning Mount Lofty Estate, and I am thrilled that you enjoyed your warm welcome with a glass of bubbles, it's how we like to set the scene for a wonderous stay! It's great that you found time to enjoy Hardy’s Bar, there is no better spot to enjoy a cocktail, and even better if you are fortunate enough to grab the open fire or Picture window with those breathtaking views over the Piccadilly Valley. Matthew, I really hope it isn’t too long before we are welcoming you back again Kindest regards Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We recently stayed for our anniversary, we had been told the experience is one to be had but Mt Lofty exceeded our expectations, absolutely amazing experience from the customized check in and welcome drink to the History Tour conducted by Christopher at 4.30 with more welcome drinks in a friendly group atmosphere. Dinner was faultless in Martha Hardy's as was breakfast the next morning, no standing around a buffet at Mt Lofty, the customized meals brought to your table with the stunning view would suit any discerning diner. Can not wait to return.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 5 Apr 2023
Dear Kath, It was our absolute pleasure to welcome you to Mount Lofty Estate to celebrate your anniversary, happy anniversary again from the team! I am so delighted that you enjoyed our beautiful Martha Hardy’s Kitchen – it really is an incredible space to sit and enjoy a delicious meal whilst overlooking those fabulous views. And it was my pleasure to talk you through the history of this illustrious house, the history and welcome tour really is the highlight of my day, so thank you for joining me. Kath, I hope we are able to welcome you back soon! Kindest regards Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed for 2 nights in mid-December. It was brilliant from start to finish. We arrived early and were immediately shown to the bar where we had coffees with a great view whilst they sorted our room out.
We had booked High Tea which was great - with lots of food (sweet and savoury) and an exceptional selection of teas. Service was great with everything well explained.
Our room (a Picadilly Valley room) was stunning, it includes old features but with all the modern amenities needed - air con, mini bar etc. The view over the Picaddily Valley was incredible with a sunrise to die for!
Overall the food was great. Breakfast was a particular highlight and the tasting menu in the HVR was great. The second dining option in Martha's restruarant is in the room behind the main restaurant so felt a little bit strange but the food was pleasant enough.
The spa was excellent - so much so my other half went twice!
Highly recommend the house tour and visiting venues on the Adventure Trail. Deviation Road, Grunthal Brewery and Howard were highlights. Take the map/print out with you to get the discounts.
We also walked up to Mount Lofty summit and saw a wallaby! The view of Adelaide was amazing - recommend going early in the morning due to the heat.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Christopher Speck, Guest Services / Front Office at Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear Getaway693843, It was our pleasure to welcome you to Mount Lofty House for your two-night getaway. We are so delighted to read that you enjoyed our latest offering, the 'Adelaide Hills Adventure Trail'. A journey through the Adelaide Hills curated by our guest relations team is a real highlight for our guests when they get to experience the fantastic offerings so close to our doorstep. We can't wait to pass on your feedback to the venues which you enjoyed so much! Thank you again for your stay, and we hope it isn't too long before we get to welcome you back through our doors. Kindest regards, Christopher and the Mount Lofty Estate Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi Chloe,
I hope if you had problems with their service, staff or deal that you took it up with their management. You have not indicated what the problem was, so it is difficult to give any helpful advice. Mt Lofty House is generally well run & open to suggestions & feedback.
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
