Exploring Signature’s Preferred Retreats in South Australia: Sequoia Lodge & Mount Lofty House

Two nights at Sequoia Lodge in the Adelaide Hills simply wasn’t enough. On a recent work trip to Adelaide, I wanted to experience Signature preferred properties firsthand—both Sequoia Lodge and the historic Mount Lofty House Boutique Estate. Now I know why both are extraordinary, must-include additions to any luxury South Australia itinerary.

The Arrival: Rapid Escape to the Serene Adelaide Hills

Located just 25 minutes from Adelaide Airport, the urban scenery quickly gives way to the rolling green beauty of the Adelaide Hills, where guests arrive at the majestic Mount Lofty Estate. Here, travelers enjoy a compelling choice between the grand, historic elegance of Mount Lofty House or the intimate, contemporary sanctuary of the adults-only Sequoia Lodge.

Crucially, guests staying at Sequoia Lodge enjoy seamless, full access to both properties—creating the ultimate blend of utmost privacy, exclusive wellness amenities, and historic estate-style living.

Curated Itineraries & Complimentary Estate Experiences

From the moment you arrive, it feels as though you’ve stepped onto a private country estate. To ensure every stay is tailored to individual passions, a dedicated Experiences Manager contacts guests prior to arrival to curate personalized itineraries.

I strongly encourage all guests to take full advantage of the complimentary curated experiences included throughout their stay:

• Guided nature hikes along the Heysen Trail through native bushland and hidden eucalyptus groves.
• Rejuvenating sunrise yoga sessions on the scenic wellness deck overlooking the morning valley mist.
• South Australian artisan cheese & wine tastings exploring museum-release vintages from the Adelaide Hills, Barossa, and McLaren Vale.
• Entertaining estate history tours: While sipping some of South Australia’s finest wines, guests are immersed in captivating tales of statesman Arthur Hardy (South Australia’s Jay Gatsby) and the colorful heritage that shaped this extraordinary property.

World-Class Dining: 3 Chef Hat Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant

Although my stay was brief, I packed in as much as possible. The combination of exceptional cuisine, genuine Australian hospitality, and thoughtful, personalized service left an unforgettable impression.

Dining is an undisputed highlight. Guests staying at either property should not miss a reservation at Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, the estate’s acclaimed Three-Hat dining destination. The multi-course degustation experience is a culinary tour de force showcasing the finest seasonal South Australian produce paired with rare museum-release wines from the 170-year-old subterranean cellar.

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden Views & Resident Kangaroos

Perched high above the expansive Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, the estate offers breathtaking vistas where vibrant flora and fauna flourish throughout the seasons. It is completely customary to spot wild kangaroos grazing peacefully on the estate lawns in the morning and late afternoon—adding an authentic, unforgettable touch to the Australian experience.

Unhurried Luxury & Artesian Hot Springs at Sequoia

For guests fortunate enough to stay longer than two nights, Sequoia Lodge truly comes into its own. Days can be spent unwinding with a glass of crisp local vintage overlooking the valley, enjoying a leisurely artisan cappuccino, soaking in the lodge’s private artesian spring-fed geothermal hot pools, or connecting with fellow travelers in its relaxed communal spaces.

There is zero pressure to adhere to a rigid schedule—simply embracing the stillness and natural serenity becomes the ultimate luxury. Sequoia Lodge isn’t just a place to sleep; it is a transformative destination designed to slow down time, reconnect travelers with nature, and immerse them in the very best of South Australia’s food, wine, wellness, and heartfelt hospitality.