Imagine soaring high above the Mornington Peninsula’s lush forests in a sleek gondola, then winding your way through rolling vineyards and olive groves before sitting down to a delicious farm-to-table lunch. For a total of around three and a half hours, this experience combines spectacular views with tasty regional cuisine, all for $145 per group.
What we really appreciate about this tour is its balance of adventure and relaxation. The Arthurs Seat Eagle offers a breathtaking ride over the treetops, giving you a whole new perspective on the area. Afterward, Green Olive at Red Hill combines culinary delights inspired by fresh, local ingredients with the chance to relax and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is best suited for those who love a mix of outdoor activity and culinary exploration. Since the timings are limited to specific hours and the experience is designed for private groups, it’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a personalized day out.
This experience made our article of The 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Main Ridge.
Key Points
Spectacular views from the gondola offer a unique perspective of the bay and forest canopy.
Farm-to-table dining highlights the region’s fresh olives, grapes, herbs, and more.
Exquisite local wines are included with your grazing plates and dessert.
A combination of adventure and relaxation makes for a well-rounded experience.
Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
A private group setting ensures a personalized, intimate outing.
The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers.
Cost-effective for what’s included: gondola ride, wine, food, and scenic views.
A Detailed Look at the Experience
While in Main Ridge, here are other experiences we've covered
Starting with the Arthurs Seat Eagle Gondola Ride
The journey begins at the Arthurs Seat Eagle, where you’ll board a state-of-the-art gondola. The ride lasts about 25 minutes each way, providing ample time to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Mornington Peninsula’s forests, hills, and coastline. We loved the way the gondola glided smoothly over the treetops, offering uninterrupted vistas of Port Phillip Bay and the city skyline in the distance.
The views are the star here, especially if you’re lucky with the weather. You may also catch glimpses of local wildlife, which adds an authentic touch to the experience. The gondola’s design ensures comfort and stability, making it accessible even for those wary of heights or with mobility concerns.
The Scenic Climb and the Panoramic Views
Once at the top, you’ll find yourself at one of the highest points on the peninsula, with sweeping views that stretch across the bay to Melbourne. It’s a perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The ride is not only thrilling but also a gentle reminder of nature’s beauty—ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers craving a peaceful escape from urban life.
Green Olive at Red Hill: The Culinary Highlight
After descending, your next stop is Green Olive at Red Hill, a farm that epitomizes the region’s fresh, local produce. The setting is idyllic—vineyards on one side, a lush kitchen garden on the other, and ducks paddling around a dam. The farm’s focus on olive oil, grapes, herbs, and vegetables ensures your meal is bursting with flavor and authenticity.
You’ll be treated to two grazing plates shared between you, featuring a selection of farm-inspired dishes. These are designed to highlight the region’s produce and are paired with estate wines, giving you a true taste of the local flavors. The included glass of wine, beer, or cider adds to the pleasure, and the dessert is a farm-made treat that balances sweetness with freshness.
We loved the casual yet refined atmosphere—it’s a perfect place to relax and discuss the day’s adventures while savoring good food and wine. The fact that your water, coffee or tea, and dessert are included adds great value, making this a well-rounded culinary experience.
More Great Tours NearbyPracticalities and Booking Details
The tour is available in both morning and afternoon sessions, with booking times at 11:45 am and 2:00 pm. It’s designed for private groups, which makes for a more intimate experience, free from crowds. The whole experience lasts around 3.5 hours, allowing enough time for both the gondola ride and lunch without feeling rushed.
The cost of $145 covers everything: the gondola ride, all the food and drinks, and the scenic views. Reviewers praise it as “good value for money,” noting that the combination of views, food, and wine make it a memorable and worthwhile outing.
While you're exploring Main Ridge, here are other experiences we've looked into
Accessibility and Considerations
The experience is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal, and the tour is hosted by English-speaking guides. The gondola operates daily from 10 am to 5 pm, excluding Christmas Day, and the lunch booking times are fixed, so planning ahead is advisable.
One potential consideration is that this experience is quite focused on quiet, scenic, and culinary elements—not ideal if you’re looking for an action-packed adventure. Also, since the lunch is at a single venue, those seeking a broader wine tour or multiple stops might want to explore other options.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery combined with good food and drink. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups, or anyone looking for a relaxed, private outing. If you love panoramic views, local wines, and fresh regional cuisine, you’ll find this a rewarding and peaceful way to enjoy the Mornington Peninsula.
Those with mobility concerns will appreciate the accessibility, but be sure to check specific needs in advance. It’s also ideal for visitors who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, enjoying both a scenic gondola ride and a farm-fresh meal in one seamless outing.
The Sum Up
This combined tour of the Arthurs Seat Eagle and Green Olive at Red Hill delivers a balanced experience of stunning natural scenery and authentic regional flavors. The gondola ride offers a unique perspective of the bay and forest, while the farm-to-table lunch showcases the best of Mornington Peninsula’s local produce, paired with excellent wines.
It’s a value-packed outing that feels personal and relaxed, thanks to the private group setup. The experience is well-suited for those seeking a scenic escape with delicious food, making it a fantastic choice for couples or small groups wanting a memorable day.
While it might not satisfy those craving a more extensive wine tour or adventure-heavy day, it excels at offering a peaceful, picturesque, and tasty slice of the region. If you want a harmonious blend of scenic views and culinary delights, this tour is worth considering.
FAQ
How long does the entire experience last?
The full tour takes about 3.5 hours, including the gondola ride and lunch.
Is the gondola ride suitable for all ages?
Yes, the gondola ride is designed to be accessible and comfortable for most travelers, including families with children.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a return gondola ride, a glass of wine, beer, or cider, two grazing plates, a farm-made dessert, and coffee or tea.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What are the booking times for the lunch?
Lunch bookings are available at 11:45 am and 2:00 pm.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.
What’s the best time of day to do this?
Both morning and afternoon sessions are available; choose based on your preference for daylight and temperature.
Are drinks included?
Yes, each person gets a choice of wine, beer, or cider along with water.
Is this experience family-friendly?
While primarily designed for small private groups and couples, the gondola’s accessibility makes it suitable for families, but check with the provider if you have specific needs.
With its blend of breathtaking views, regional flavors, and relaxed vibe, this tour offers a genuine taste of the Mornington Peninsula—an authentic experience worth adding to your itinerary.
You can check availability for your dates here: