The White House in Hahndorf has always blazed its own trail. After winning
multiple awards and setting a new standard for food and wine tourism in the
Adelaide Hills, it’s taking another leap forward.
Originally built in 1858, the heritage-listed White House cottage is the former
family home of two of the most important figures in Hahndorf’s history.
Walter Wotzke, a water-colour artist and gallery owner, and his wife Elva
saved the historic Hahndorf Academy from demolition by the local council in
1996, at great personal financial sacrifice. In following years they then
financed and led the revitalisation of the grand building and established it as
a priceless showpiece of artistic and cultural heritage, effectively pioneering
cultural tourism in the area. Elva also established Hahndorf’s first ever cafe in
the Academy’s Heysen Room in the early 1970s.
The multi-award winning White House has carved a niche for itself in the
Adelaide scene with its quirky, individual approach to food and unique
events. We invite everyone to tickle your palate and tempt your tastebuds;
enjoy a stroll along the main street of Australia’s oldest surviving German
settlement before settling into a cosy perch. Soak up some rays on the lawn
or keep your cool in the shade. A balladeer, a bite and bubbles. But all the
fun and frivolity would be for nought without the core of our business – The
wonderful food and wine of the Adelaide Hills region.
The food, the wine, the building – everything has emerged from the soil of the
region. Unique and ever-evolving, our menu has delighted the many people
who have stopped to see what’s happening beside the quaint little cottage in
Hahndorf. A space that constantly draws comment from guests for its warm
appeal.
