Exploring Coonawarra: Caves, Cabernet, & Kangaroos Day Tour & Lunch
Imagine spending a day in South Australia’s famous Coonawarra wine region, exploring natural wonders, sampling iconic wines, and meeting adorable native kangaroos — all in just 8 hours. For $428 per person, this private tour offers a well-rounded blend of stunning scenery, delicious food, and authentic Australian wildlife.
Our guide, Mick, was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making every stop engaging. Two things we particularly enjoyed: the chance to walk through a UNESCO-listed limestone cave filled with stalactites and fossils, and the opportunity to interact with rescued kangaroos in a private sanctuary — not something you find on every tour.
A potential consideration is the weather, as outdoor activities like feeding kangaroos are weather-dependent. Still, this tour suits those with a curious spirit eager for a mix of nature, history, and wine. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic experience but still prefer a structured, guided day to cover a lot in one go.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Natural Wonder: Visiting a UNESCO World Heritage limestone cave with impressive formations and fossil remains.
- Wine & Gin: Tasting the iconic Coonawarra wines and a unique gin flight at Parker Estate.
- Wildlife Encounter: Private kangaroo sanctuary visit offering close-up interactions.
- Local Cuisine: Delicious regional lunch with locally sourced ingredients.
- Historical Insights: Exploring Wynns Coonawarra winery’s legacy and cellar.
- Balanced Experience: Combines natural, cultural, and culinary highlights in one seamless day.
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A Full Breakdown of the Coonawarra: Caves, Cabernet & Kangaroos Tour
This tour offers a thoughtful mix of nature, history, gastronomy, and wildlife — a compact experience that packs a punch. Here’s what you can expect, step-by-step, with insights into why each part is meaningful.
Starting Point: Convenient Pickup & Transportation
Your day begins with a pickup from your Penola or Coonawarra accommodation. The transport is comfortable and private, meaning you won’t be stuck in a crowded bus with strangers. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, with Mick, your guide, adding context and answering questions along the way. This kind of setup is ideal if you prefer tailored commentary and a relaxed pace.
Visiting the UNESCO Naracoorte Caves
The Naracoorte Caves, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, are the first highlight. Walking into the Victoria Fossil Cave feels like stepping into a prehistoric world. The cave’s natural formations — stalactites and stalagmites — are impressive, but the real draw are the fossil remains of extinct animals that tell stories of Australia’s ancient past.
We loved the way the guide explained not only the geology but also the fossils of giant marsupials, ancient reptiles, and even the bones of the extinct marsupial lion. The soft lighting accentuates the natural beauty and creates a mysterious atmosphere. The cave tour is accessible and educational, giving you a solid grounding in the area’s natural history.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch at Ottelia: A Taste of Regional Flavors
Next, we headed to Ottelia, a restaurant renowned for showcasing local produce. The menu strikes a balance between modern Australian dishes and international flavors, making it an enjoyable culinary stop. While drinks are at your own expense, the focus on regional ingredients means every bite offers a taste of Coonawarra’s fertile soils.
The dining experience is relaxed, with plenty of time to enjoy your meal and chat about the morning’s adventures. The quality of the food and the fresh ingredients add a layer of cultural authenticity to the day.
Exploring Wynns Coonawarra Winery
No visit to this region is complete without a stop at a historic winery. Wynns Coonawarra, founded in 1896, is the birthplace of the region’s wine legacy. The private tasting of the Wynns Icon series is a real treat, with senior staff guiding you through the nuances of their signature wines.
The tour of the original cellar reveals the rich history and enduring legacy of this pioneering estate. We appreciated the detailed explanations about the wine-making process and how the cool climate of Coonawarra influences the flavors. The tasting bench experience is intimate, allowing you to ask questions and really get a sense of why Wynns’ wines are so celebrated.
Gin Tasting at Parker Estate
Adding a twist to the wine-focused day, the visit to Parker Estate introduces you to three distinct gins crafted on the property. The vertical tasting includes the Signature Dry Gin, Cabernet Gin, and an aromatic Rose Gin.
This part of the tour is a delightful surprise. The gin flight is served in a luxurious setting, and you get to learn about the distillation process and the flavors that differentiate each gin. It’s a great way to appreciate the diverse spirit-making traditions in the region, and many will find it a fun, memorable highlight.
Encounter with Kangaroos at a Private Sanctuary
The final stop is truly special: a private wildlife sanctuary in Penola. Here, the owners care for kangaroos that have lost their parents and cannot survive in the wild. You’ll have the chance to feed these adorable animals, under the guidance of the owners.
We found this part deeply touching. The owners’ dedication is evident, and seeing these gentle creatures up close creates a meaningful connection. It’s a chance to witness Australia’s unique wildlife outside of a zoo environment and to support conservation efforts directly. Keep in mind, the experience might be affected by weather, so outdoor comforts can vary.
Ending the Day & Return to Accommodation
After a full day of exploration, tastings, and wildlife encounters, your guide will escort you back to your lodging, concluding a well-rounded taste of Coonawarra.
Why This Tour Fits Specific Travelers
This experience is perfect for those who value diversity in a single day — natural beauty, history, regional cuisine, and wildlife. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group tours for a more personalized touch and are eager for authentic encounters rather than cookie-cutter sightseeing. If you’re curious about Australia’s wine heritage, history, and wildlife, this tour hits all those marks.
While it’s a comprehensive day, it’s not overly strenuous. The pace is comfortable, with enough time at each stop to soak in the surroundings and ask questions. The price reflects the quality of experiences, private tours, and insider access, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking depth rather than surface-level attractions.
The Sum Up
This Coonawarra tour offers a genuine look at what makes this region special: spectacular caves, world-class wines, artisanal gins, and rescued kangaroos. It’s a carefully curated mix that provides a well-balanced taste of South Australia’s natural beauty, history, and hospitality.
Ideal for culture and nature lovers, this tour delivers memorable moments in a comfortable setting. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast wanting to explore iconic labels, a wildlife admirer eager to interact with native animals, or simply someone curious about Australia’s natural wonders, this experience has something for you.
The tour’s standout features — the knowledgeable guides, stunning cave formations, and excellent wine tastings — truly enhance its value. If you’re after a day that combines learning, tasting, and authentic encounters, this is a superb choice.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 18, mainly because of the nature of the activities and adult-oriented tastings.
How long is the drive between stops?
While the exact distances aren’t specified, the tour is designed to be efficient, with manageable travel times to keep the day enjoyable and not rushed.
Are drinks included in the tour?
Drinks are not included with lunch, but tastings at Wynns and Parker Estate are part of the experience. You should budget for additional beverages if desired.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through caves and possibly outdoors at the kangaroo sanctuary. Weather can affect outdoor activities, so check the forecast.
Is the tour private or group?
This tour is conducted with a private group, ensuring a tailored experience with your guide’s full attention.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Outdoor activities, like the kangaroo sanctuary visit, may be affected by inclement weather. The tour provider will advise on any adjustments or cancellations.
In sum, this tour provides a fantastic snapshot of South Australia’s natural wonders, culinary delights, and wildlife. It’s thoughtfully designed for those who want an authentic, immersive experience — all wrapped into a single, memorable day.
You can check availability for your dates here: