Mount Lofty Summit, South Australia - Panoramic Views Over Adelaide & the Coast

Wander * Explore * Discover
May 12, 2023
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Mount Lofty Summit, South Australia - Panoramic Views Over Adelaide & the Coast

Rising high above the city, Mount Lofty Summit is one of South Australia’s most iconic viewpoints. Located just 15 kilometres east of Adelaide in the Mount Lofty Ranges, the summit stands at 710 metres above sea level, making it Adelaide’s highest peak. From the lookout, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views stretching across Adelaide’s city skyline, the Adelaide Plains, and all the way to the coastline.

Being so close to the city, Mount Lofty Summit is an easy and rewarding stop — whether you’re visiting for sunrise, sunset, or a clear day when the views seem endless.

Cleland Conservation Park

Mount Lofty Summit sits within Cleland Conservation Park, a protected area of bushland in the Adelaide Hills known for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The park conserves an important section of native vegetation and provides a peaceful escape just minutes from the suburbs.

Throughout Cleland Conservation Park, a fantastic network of walking and cycling trails winds through eucalyptus forests, open ridgelines, and shaded gullies. These tracks introduce visitors to native wildlife, Aboriginal cultural heritage, and some of the most scenic views in the Adelaide Hills. Kangaroos, wallabies, and birdlife are commonly spotted along the trails, adding to the sense of being immersed in nature.

Walking Tracks & Scenic Trails

From the summit, several walking tracks branch out into Cleland Conservation Park, catering to a range of fitness levels. Short strolls allow you to enjoy the immediate area, while longer hikes connect Mount Lofty Summit with nearby attractions such as Waterfall Gully and sections of the iconic Heysen Trail. Whether you’re after a gentle walk or a more challenging hike, Mount Lofty is a fantastic starting point for exploring the Adelaide Hills on foot.

Summit Restaurant & Café with a View

The Summit Restaurant and Café is perfectly positioned to make the most of the incredible scenery. With wall-to-wall glass windows, the dining area offers uninterrupted views over Adelaide and beyond, making it a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, or a relaxed coffee stop. It’s a wonderful place to sit back, take in the view, and appreciate just how close the Adelaide Hills are to the city below.

The Flinders Column: A Touch of History

A short walk from the main lookout brings you to the Flinders Column, a stone obelisk erected in 1902 to commemorate Matthew Flinders. From nearby Kangaroo Island, Flinders was the first European to sight and name Mount Lofty in 1802.

The column adds a historical layer to the visit and serves as a reminder of the area’s significance in South Australia’s early exploration history.

Visitor Centre & Facilities

Mount Lofty Summit is well set up for visitors, with a visitor information centre, gift shop, and amenities on site. It’s a great place to pick up local souvenirs, learn more about the Adelaide Hills, or gather information about nearby walks and attractions.

The summit area is easily accessible by car, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Why Visit Mount Lofty Summit?

Mount Lofty Summit offers one of the best viewpoints in South Australia, combining spectacular scenery, accessible walking trails, and a strong connection to nature and history — all just minutes from Adelaide.

Whether you’re chasing views, enjoying a scenic coffee, or starting a bushwalk through Cleland Conservation Park, Mount Lofty Summit is a must-visit destination that showcases the beauty of the Adelaide Hills from above.