One of the most picturesque villages in the Adelaide Hills, Stirling is well known for the vibrant autumn displays put on by its largely deciduous trees. But there are a myriad of reasons to visit the town all year round. Here are just some of our favourite things to do in Stirling in any season.
Matilda Bookshop
One could easily spend hours browsing the shelves of this longtime Hills establishment, which has been delighting book lovers for more than 40 years.
Set perfectly beneath Stirling’s large oak trees, Matilda Bookshop is an ideal place to visit with the kids or to simply browse and find something special for a friend or loved one.
You’re likely to come across books you haven’t seen elsewhere.
A series of author talks and events are also held here throughout the year.
Stirling Markets
On the fourth Sunday of every month, Stirling becomes a bustling hive of locals and visitors exploring a variety of goodies on offer.
Druid Avenue is closed to traffic and stallholders settle in for a day of live music and people wandering among the wares.
Pick up something for the garden at one of the plant stalls or stock up on homemade jams, chutneys and preserves, home baked goods, local wines and oils.
Local artisans also showcase jewellery, needlework, cosmetics, soaps and candles, childrens clothes, hats, scarves and teddy bears.
A collection of pottery, books, antiques and collectables are also worth browsing.
The market is run by a dedicated group of volunteers and all proceeds made from their efforts go towards local community groups, schools and sporting clubs.
Stirling Laneways runs concurrently with the market from September to May, with food, entertainment and pop-up stalls taking over the town centre’s laneways and side streets.
Woorabinda
Arguably one of the most peaceful spots in Stirling, Woorabinda Lake is a bushwalker and nature lover’s retreat.
The lake is part of the Woorabinda Bushland Reserve, home to a variety of bird species, fish, reptiles and other wildlife.
Visitors can take a stroll around the lake, enjoy a picnic or do a spot of bird watching.
The area also hosts a network of walking trails through lush greenery and vegetation.
The tranquil oasis is maintained by local community and conservation groups, who put in time and effort to ensure visitors can enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area for years to come.
Steamroller Park
Bring the family or a group of friends to Steamroller Park to enjoy a picnic or celebrate a special occassion under the local heritage listed rotunda.
The kids will burn their energy on the play equipment, including the main attraction, a big 1900s steamroller.
The park has all the key facilities, including a drinking foundation, seating, public toilets and a free barbecue.
The play area is fully fenced and the equipment is suitable for kids of all ages, with baby swings, a mini slide and cubby house more suitable for tiny tots.
Bigger kids will enjoy the elevated boardwalk, cubby houses, slides, swings and climbing wall.
Sticky Rice Cooking School
Master the art of cooking Japanese, Thai, Moroccan or Mediterranean cuisine at this popular cooking school that offers private or group classes and luxury escapes.
Sticky Rice Cooking School on the outskirts of town takes guests on a journey through the senses as they’re inspired to try exciting flavours and put new skills to test.
There’s an array of different cuisines
to choose from.
The classes are hands-on and, most importantly, guests get to feast on their creations
at the end.
Book well in advance as spots fill up quickly.
Cafe culture
Stirling is home to many cafes scattered throughout the town from one end to the other.
Depending on what you’re after, Stirling’s cafes each offer something different, whether it’s coffee and decadent chocolate truffles at Red Cacao or a bruschetta and smoothie at the Organic Market and Cafe.
Hit up The Essence Cafe for a tasty brunch, or enjoy a pastry or sweet treat at the patisserie located within the Stirling Cellars.
Newbie on the block Marshi’s Kitchen is worth checking out for its contemporary Australian and Sri Lankan fusion while Charlie Boy’s Coffee is also seriously good at pouring the little (or large) cups of joy.