Sequoia Lodge - Exclusive Adults Luxury Retreat

Set in Hahndorf, Adelaide, Sequoia Lodge is an adults-only retreat on Mount Lofty Estate in the Adelaide Hills, designed for guests who want accommodation, nature and curated experiences in one place. The lodge has 14 suites and sits within a 30-acre setting adjoining the Adelaide Hills Botanic Gardens and national park. It is also close enough for easy access to the city, with the property describing itself as about 20 minutes from Adelaide CBD. Guests must be over 18, making this a particularly strong choice for couples and adults seeking a quiet break rather than a family stay.

The setting is central to the experience. A 150-year-old sequoia tree stands at the heart of the lodge, while the suites use local materials, earthy tones and broad valley views to connect the interiors with the surrounding landscape. Wallabies may be seen outside the balconies, and shared spaces include a private lounge with fireplaces, sunken seating, 180-degree valley views and a panoramic deck. There are artesian spring-fed hot pools, an infinity pool overlooking Piccadilly Valley and a Sleep Easy infrared sauna, with a Gatekeeper’s Day Spa available on the adjoining estate grounds.

A stay includes a changing programme of on-site experiences, most of which are complimentary for in-house guests. Depending on the season, these can include guided nature walks, Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens tours, morning yoga, stargazing, a unique bee experience, a South Australian Cheese & Wine Discovery Experience and opportunities to meet local makers. The lodge also offers wellness, food and wine activities, while personalised off-site itineraries can include winery visits and other South Australian experiences. Some activities, including premium dining, the day spa and curated picnics, incur an additional charge.

Dining is part of the wider Mount Lofty Estate offering. Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant is described as a three-hatted restaurant offering a seasonal degustation, with the website highlighting hay-smoked duck and fig ice-cream. Hardy’s Verandah High Tea, Martha Hardy’s Restaurant, Hardy’s Bar, a terrace bar, whisky and cigar lounge, and an extensive wine list of more than 1,300 labels are also listed among the estate’s options. Sequoia has received multiple tourism and hotel awards, and holds a 4.7 Google rating from 83 reviews. It suits romantic escapes, milestone stays and small private or corporate retreats, with event facilities available across the wider estate.