Area profile: Mount Barker, Littlehampton, Nairne
Whether buying or hanging out in the Hills, it’s best to think in regions. There are dozens of towns that make up the Adelaide Hills, each with their own unique character, vibe, and attractions.
Stirling is very different to Strathalbyn, just as Mount Barker isn’t like Mylor.
We’re going to explore the various clusters of towns that make up the different personalities of the Adelaide Hills. First up: Mount Barker, Littlehampton and Nairne – connected by the Old Princes Highway.
Mount Barker
Mount Barker, the CBD of the Adelaide Hills, needs no introduction. It’s one of the fastest growing areas in South Australia, and for good reason. As of October 2025, Mount Barker’s median house price is $750,000 – up from $410,000 in 2020. The house values are growing at an annual rate of 11.8%, compared to Adelaide’s 9% year-on-year growth.
It’s a really special place to live (and invest). Mount Barker’s population is predicted to grow to almost 65,000 by 2046. While the suburb has expanded exponentially, it has all the conveniences while still maintaining that Hills charm, especially on the outskirts.
A day out in Mount Barker can include farmers markets, walking trails, cafes, eateries, breweries, and wineries.
Must visits:
- Lady Luck Café
- Sazon Espresso
- Kitchen Farm Pantry
- Prancing Pony Brewery
- Auchendarroch House.
Littlehampton
Littlehampton is five minutes from Mount Barker, making it a great spot to live on the periphery. It’s historically been known as a residential area, not necessarily a place to drive to for things to do – but that’s changing.
Because of its beauty and location, its house prices have skyrocketed. The median house price as of October 2025 is $1 million. It’s cracked the $1 million mark before Adelaide (which is sitting at $990,000). Littlehampton has experienced a historic 12-month growth rate of 26.2%.
As of 2024, its estimated population was 4,315.
Must visits:
- Honey Honey Bang
- Nature’s Table Café
- Pizzafino.
Nairne
Nairne is another five minutes down the road from Littlehampton. What used to be a passer through town is now a hot area to live, given its proximity to Mount Barker and easy freeway access.
Its house values are also on the rise, with the October 2025 median price at $780,000. Narine is growing much slower than Littlehampton, at less than 1% in the past year.
As of 2024, Nairne’s estimated population was 5,764.
Must visits:
- Howard Vineyard
- Tin Shed Distilling Co.
- Pallett Home & Table
- Crowded Table food truck.
Green Valley Strawberries and Lot 100, just outside of Nairne are necessary spots.
We love the Adelaide Hills as much as you do. The entire Nitschke team is based here. Most of us have lived here for decades, so we know the area (and its houses) intimately.
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