Gumeracha, South Australia - Country Charm and the Big Rocking Horse in the Adelaide Hills

Wander * Explore * Discover
May 31, 2023
2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Gumeracha, South Australia - Country Charm and the Big Rocking Horse in the Adelaide Hills

Gumeracha is a charming small town in the heart of the Adelaide Hills, surrounded by vineyards, dairy farms, orchards and market gardens. Located just 37 kilometres east of Adelaide, it’s an easy and popular day trip from the city and a favourite stop for families exploring the hills.

Gumeracha is best known as the home of the Big Rocking Horse, the largest rocking horse in the world and one of South Australia’s most iconic roadside attractions. But beyond the big attraction, the town itself offers a relaxed country feel, friendly hospitality and a glimpse into the Adelaide Hills’ rural past.

Exploring Gumeracha Town Centre

Gumeracha may be small, but it has everything you need for a comfortable visit. The town features a general store, a hotel, a café and a selection of homewares and specialty shops, making it a pleasant place to stop for a coffee, browse and enjoy the slower pace of Hills life. The surrounding countryside adds to the charm, with lush paddocks, rolling hills and productive farmland creating a classic Adelaide Hills landscape.

The Big Rocking Horse

No visit to Gumeracha is complete without stopping at the Big Rocking Horse, one of South Australia’s most recognisable “big things.” Constructed from steel, the rocking horse stands an impressive 18.3 metres high and weighs around 25 tonnes, making it the largest of its kind in the world.

Visitors can climb inside the rocking horse and make their way up to several viewing platforms, with the highest platform located in the horse’s head. From the top, you’re rewarded with wonderful views across the surrounding Adelaide Hills countryside.

Wildlife Park and Toy Factory

At the Big Rocking Horse complex, you can also wander through the wildlife park, where visitors have the chance to hand-feed kangaroos, wallabies, sheep, goats and alpacas. It’s a relaxed and family-friendly experience and a great opportunity to get up close to some Australian animals.

The site also includes a café, restaurant and picnic areas, making it easy to spend a few hours here. Inside the Wooden Toy Factory, you’ll find a large range of wooden toys, educational games and Australian soft toys — a nostalgic and fun stop for both kids and adults.

Gumeracha Heritage Walk

After visiting the Big Rocking Horse, take some time to explore the town itself on the self-guided Gumeracha Heritage Walk. This easy stroll leads you past a number of historic sites throughout the town, each marked with informative plaques explaining their historical significance. The walk offers insight into Gumeracha’s early settlement, rural industries and community life, adding another layer of appreciation to this small Adelaide Hills town.

Why Gumeracha Is Worth Visiting

Gumeracha is more than just a famous roadside attraction. With its welcoming town centre, surrounding farmland, family-friendly experiences and local history, it’s a lovely place to slow down and enjoy the Adelaide Hills. Whether you’re visiting with kids, exploring the hills on a scenic drive, or ticking off South Australia’s iconic “big things,” Gumeracha makes for an easy and enjoyable stop just outside Adelaide.