One my favourite seasons in Adelaide is autumn and there is nothing quite like a trip to the Adelaide Hills during this time when the autumn colours are at their breathtaking best. Whilst we were very disappointed to be missing out on the big overseas adventure we had planned this year an unexpected bonus was being able to enjoy Adelaide in the autumn for the first time in many years.

If you are keen on taking a wander amongst the autumn foliage there is nowhere better than the Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens. Try to choose a bright, sunny blue skied day for your journey and leave plenty of time to visit the cafes, bars and shops (and maybe even a winery or brewery or two!) in the area.

The gardens are just a twenty-five minute drive from the Adelaide CBD. I recommend combining a visit with a trip to the pretty village of Stirling (stunning in autumn when the main street is lined with trees covered in the most beautiful, bright red leaves) for a delicious ice cream at Hokey Pokey, lunch at the Stirling Organic Market and Cafe or a meal and drink at the Stirling Hotel.

On the trails

There are loads of different walking trails within the botanic gardens to enjoy and Layla and Etienne loved exploring amongst the leaves, trees and pretty flowers. You can either follow your nose and see where it takes you, like we did, or plan a route if you are wanting some more serious exercise or to see some particular flora.

Packing a picnic is also a great idea and there are plenty of places to roll out your rug and let the kids run free whilst you relax (in theory!).

Treasure hunting

My two little explorers loved ‘treasure hunting’, looking on the ground for beautiful fallen leaves, gum nuts, flowers and other of nature’s jewels. Perfect to save for rainy day craft activities when autumn turns to winter.

Floating leaves down the water way

Of course, children never miss the opportunity for a little water play so my two were very happy when they found this little ‘stream’ where they could turn their leaves into boats.

Time for a break

Make sure you leave enough time for some ‘forest bathing’. Finding somewhere to sit, breathe, become quiet (if you can convince the kids to join you!) and listen, watch and appreciate all the beauty there is to be found in the natural world.