Crafers
A historic gateway to the Hills
Crafers sits at the foot of Mount Lofty, just off the South Eastern Freeway, and has long been the first stop for travellers heading up into the Adelaide Hills. The town takes its name from David Crafer, an early colonial settler who established an inn here in the 1830s, and it remains one of the oldest settlements in the region. The Crafers Hotel, with origins among the earliest pubs in the area, still anchors the village and gives a sense of that long history.
Wild country on the city's doorstep
What sets Crafers apart is how quickly the leafy streets give way to bushland. The town is a natural base for Cleland National Park, including the much loved Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty walk, and sits within easy reach of Belair National Park and the Mount Lofty Adventure Hub trails.
What visitors do here
Walkers and cyclists come for the trails linking Crafers up to the Mount Lofty Summit and its sweeping lookout, while others linger over views across the Piccadilly Valley. A heritage stay or a meal at a Hills retreat rounds out an easy day from the city.
Visiting Crafers - frequently asked questions
What is Crafers known for?
Crafers is best known as a historic gateway township to the Adelaide Hills, sitting at the foot of Mount Lofty. It is one of the oldest settlements in the region and serves as a handy base for exploring Cleland National Park and the surrounding bushland.
How far is Crafers from Adelaide?
Crafers is very close to the city, roughly a 20-minute drive from the Adelaide CBD. It is reached via the South Eastern Freeway, with the Crafers and Mount Lofty exit clearly signposted, which makes it one of the easiest Hills towns to visit from town.
What is there to do in and around Crafers?
The big draw is the outdoors, including the popular Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty walk in Cleland National Park and the trails around the Mount Lofty Adventure Hub. Nearby you can also reach Belair National Park and the Mount Lofty Summit lookout over the Piccadilly Valley, then settle in for a meal at the Crafers Hotel.
When is the best time to visit Crafers?
Crafers is a year-round destination, but spring and autumn are especially rewarding for walking the Cleland trails in mild weather. The Hills are notably cooler and greener than the Adelaide plains in summer, while autumn brings colour to the gardens and surrounding valleys.
Is Crafers a good base for walking the Mount Lofty trails?
Yes. Crafers is one of the closest towns to the Cleland National Park trail network, with routes linking through to the Mount Lofty Summit. Its position at the foot of the mountain makes it a practical starting point for both short strolls and longer hikes.
Things to do in Crafers
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