Why visiting Hahndorf with your dog is a ‘must-do’ in Adelaide

When visiting new places with your pooch, it can be hard to know where you AND your dog will be welcomed with opened arms. Well, it seems that the little town of Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills is officially South Australia’s most pet-friendly destination. Find out why visiting Hahndorf with your dog is a ‘must-do’ in Adelaide.

According to a study that ranked the Top 100 Most Pet-friendly places around the globe, Hahndorf has made its way to the top 3 most pet-friendly places in Australia, landing in at number 21 globally.

Just 30 minutes drive south west of Adelaide’s CBD, Hahndorf is one of the must visit places in the Adelaide Hills. Settled way back in 1839 by Prussian Lutherans, the architecture harks back to that time, giving the town a real charm. Apart from the colonial buildings, it is widely known for its German food and beer, and it’s annual Octoberfest celebrations.

If you want to take the whole family out for the day, we’ve put together a list of our favourite places in Hahndorf, where you and your loyal companion can go to hang out. Whether you want to grab a glass of wine, some breakfast, lunch or a cup of coffee, your pooch will be right by your side.

Hahn and Hamlin

While you and your human friends devour treats from a mouth-watering menu, Hahn and Hamlin have dog bowls and doggie treats ready for your well-behaved woofer. Their provedore supplies all the essentials, from fresh loaves of bread and pastured eggs, to goodies from Little Acre Foods. We know you’ll find plenty of reasons to pay them a visit and take home a few delicious items.

Chocolate at No.5

Chocolate and dogs don’t usually mix, but Chocolate at No.5 is always welcoming to good dogs. They always supply doggy treats, and if it’s cold outside, everyone can come inside. If you’re really lucky they might whip up a frothy lactose-free beverage, designed for canine consumption––so no one misses out on the coffee stop. While they’re distracted, devour some Adelaide Hills artisan chocolate; it’s not good for dogs, but it’s some serious soul-food for us!

Leathersmith & Bush Gallery

These guys can make your pooch custom collars and harnesses, as well as gorgeous plaited leather dog and horse leads. They even have a couple of their own pets inside, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, two adorable fluffy rabbits.

The Haus

Man and his best friend are welcome to sit out the front of this pub for a couple of refreshments. Free water bowls are provided for your four-pawed pal while you sit back to enjoy some German specialities from their extensive menu. If your doggo is fond of lots of love and attention, then it’s the perfect spot to attract a few pets from passers-by.

Blue Belle Boutique

Furry friends are well looked after at this fashion boutique with the dog-loving store owner, Tracy, offering up tasty treats and water. While you shop, your bestie is more than welcome to sit inside or outside the store. And, if your pooch is happy to pose for a photo, you just might be featured on their Instagram page.

Max Noske & Sons

If they’ve been well-behaved all day, give them a pat on the back and take a special trip to Hahndorf’s favourite family butcher to give your dog a bone. While you’re there, stock up on some quality home-grown beef and authentic German smallgoods.

Of course, Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills are also speckled with wide green parks, perfect for a game of ‘fetch’.

And, one for the cat lovers!  Hahndorf now has its very own cat cafe at Gallery Gifts, the ‘Katze of Hahndorf’ where you can go and enjoy some time with their resident felines. they are inquisitive and always playful, but you will need to leave your pooch with a pet sitter or friend if visiting this one.

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly place to stay nearby, the Pooches at Play team stayed at the Dog ‘n’ Me Bridgewater which is just a short 10 minute drive away.  There is a pet-friendly Big 4 caravan park in Hahndorf, and plenty of other accommodation providers that will welcome you and your pooch in and around Adelaide as well.

Check out the Holidaying with Pets website if you’re heading to Adelaide with your pooch.