A Sneak Peek Inside the Summit Aquatic & Leisure Centre

This week, we were lucky enough to enjoy a special sneak peek of the Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre, and we’re thrilled to share just how close this incredible new facility is to opening its doors — and to our community at Aston Hills!

Just a 1km walk from Aston Hills, this stunning new hub for health and wellbeing is easily accessible via the scenic walking trail that winds from our neighbourhood through the Laratinga Wetlands and into the heart of Mount Barker.

After two years of construction, the Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre is now nearly complete, and it's already clear that this space has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate the beauty and character of its rural surroundings.

Set on a former farm site, the centre’s design carefully reflects its agricultural heritage. The beautiful stonework at the entrance was sourced from a local quarry, and the heritage barns on site provide a striking visual backdrop — especially from the hydrotherapy and learn-to-swim pool areas.

Sustainability has been built in, too. The carpark features a central rain garden, which is part of a water-sensitive urban design approach that helps manage stormwater naturally.

The Summit Centre isn’t just for gym-goers and swimmers — it’s been created as a welcoming community hub for everyone.

At the heart of the building is a public café — perfect for locals enjoying a walk on the nearby trail or families popping in for a post-swim treat. There’s also a community room available for meetings or workshops, and a creche to support young families.

A brand new health club will offer a modern gym, dedicated class space and a Pilates studio, while consulting roomswill host allied health services.

The aquatic facilities are truly world class:

• A hydrotherapy pool heated to 34°C offers a tranquil space for aqua aerobics, therapy sessions and rehabilitation. This space includes stunning views of the heritage barns, and a Changing Places facility with a hoist and adult change table, ensuring inclusive access for people with high needs.
• A dedicated Learn to Swim pool kept at 32°C provides a warm and welcoming space for children, with incredible views to Mount Barker Summit and easy access to family-friendly change rooms and the café.
• A 25-metre lap pool, maintained at 28°C, completes the aquatic offering. Already booked for upcoming regional swim meets, this pool is set to be a major drawcard for the broader Adelaide Hills.
• There's also a children’s party area, making the centre a true destination for families.

The Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre officially opens on Monday 18 August 2025, and we couldn’t be more excited to have such a beautiful, inclusive and inspiring facility so close to home at Aston Hills.

Whether you’re swimming laps, grabbing a coffee, or enjoying a walk past the wetlands, this incredible new space is just one more reason to love life at Aston Hills.