Bellarine Peninsula Public Winery Tour – Lunch Included

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Victoria’s renowned wine scene without the hassle of planning, the Bellarine Peninsula Public Winery Tour might just be what you need. For around $161.25 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring some of the region’s most treasured vineyards, tasting a variety of wines, and enjoying a hearty vineyard lunch. This small-group experience, limited to 10 travelers, promises a relaxed, authentic day out in the countryside with plenty of scenic views—from Melbourne across the bay to the You Yangs and Geelong.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we loved the variety of wineries visited, each offering a different taste and vibe, from award-winning Scotchmans Hill to the maritime flavors at Flying Brick Cider Co. Second, the inclusion of a vineyard lunch really completes the experience, giving you a chance to savor local produce paired with regional wines.

One thing to consider is that admission tickets to the wineries are not included, so if you’re keen to go deeper into the wine cellars or taste extra, you might want to budget for that. This tour suits travelers who enjoy casual wine tasting, beautiful scenery, and a small-group atmosphere—perfect for those who want a taste of the Bellarine without the fuss of self-driving or big crowds.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience.
• Visit four unique wineries and cideries, each with distinct offerings.
• Vineyard lunch included, highlighting local produce and regional wines.
• Scenic views across the bay and towards the You Yangs enhance the journey.
• Flexible and relaxed pace allows for meaningful tastings and photo stops.
• Not included: winery admission fees, giving you the option to choose your level of involvement.

The Itinerary in Detail

Scotchmans Hill Winery: A Classic Start with Award-Winning Wines

Your day begins at Scotchmans Hill, a winery with more than 30 years of excellence. Its secluded location and cozy architecture set the tone for an intimate experience. Known for being a multi-award-winning winery, Scotchmans Hill offers a solid first impression of Victoria’s wine craftsmanship. While the tour does not include admission, we loved the idea of kicking off at a winery with such a reputation, giving you the chance to appreciate the tradition and care that goes into their wines.

The 45-minute visit allows you to soak in the peaceful surroundings and maybe sample some of their signature reds and whites if you choose to purchase tasting experiences independently.

Jack Rabbit Vineyard: Breathtaking Views and a Tantalizing Tasting

Next, you’ll head to Jack Rabbit Vineyard, which boasts some of the most stunning panoramic views in the region. Overlooking the bay, You Yangs, and Geelong, the vista is worth the trip alone. Their restaurant, winery, and cellar door offer a perfect blend of scenic beauty and wine quality.

For about 1 hour and 30 minutes, you’ll have time to enjoy tastings and take photographs of the spectacular landscape. The admission tickets are not included, but if you’re a fan of crisp whites or bold reds, you might want to indulge further here.

Leura Park Estate: Celebrating Grape Integrity

The third stop is Leura Park Estate, a boutique vineyard with a mantra of celebrating well. Their focus on estate-grown, hand-picked grapes and traditional methods highlights their commitment to quality.

In just 45 minutes, you’ll get a taste of their local wines, which are crafted with a clear sense of grape honesty. This stop offers a chance to experience something a little more personalized, small-scale, and authentic—great for those who appreciate craftsmanship.

Flying Brick Cider Co: A Unique Maritime-Flavored Experience

Finally, your journey wraps up at Flying Brick Cider Co., an exclusive Bellarine winery specializing in maritime climate wines and ciders. Their refined selection of wines and ciders makes for an interesting twist if you’re looking to switch gears from wine to cider.

In 45 minutes, you can sample the range of ciders or explore their wine offerings, many of which are unavailable elsewhere in Australia. This stop is perfect for those who enjoy variety and want a light, refreshing ending to their tasting day.

What to Expect and Practical Details

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses private transportation, providing a comfortable and hassle-free way to hop between stops. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the group stays intimate, allowing for a more relaxed and interactive experience. The meeting point is at 54 Russell St, Melbourne, conveniently located in the city center, and the tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your day around this experience.

Timing and Pacing

Starting at 9:00 am, the day is paced to give ample time at each vineyard without rushing. The 8-hour duration is ideal for a full immersion without feeling overwhelmed. The stops are scheduled to allow for tastings, photos, and a leisurely lunch.

Cost and Value

At $161.25, the tour is priced to reflect the full-day experience, including the vineyard lunch, transportation, and guided visits. While you’ll need to pay for winery admissions separately if you choose, the overall value lies in the curated itinerary and the small-group atmosphere. It’s an accessible way to explore Victoria’s wine region without the stress of planning or driving.

What We Like

We especially appreciated the variety of stops—each winery has its unique character—and the scenic drives between them, offering fantastic views. The lunch included was hearty and well-paired, adding to the sense of a true tasting tour rather than just a series of quick tastings.

Possible Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is that admission tickets are not included, so if you’re eager to go deep into the cellars or taste extra, you’ll need to budget for that separately. Also, since the tour is small, it’s best suited for those who enjoy intimate group settings rather than large bus tours.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to sample some of Victoria’s best-kept secrets in a relaxed setting. It suits travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, small-group intimacy, and local culinary highlights. If you’re someone who prefers guided insight but still loves a bit of freedom, this tour offers the best of both worlds.

Final Words

The Bellarine Peninsula Public Winery Tour offers a well-balanced day of wine tasting, scenic beauty, and regional cuisine. Its small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of a vineyard lunch makes it a worthwhile value for those wanting an authentic Australian wine experience. While not a deep dive into wine education, it’s a lovely way to explore Victoria’s diverse wine landscape without the fuss of arranging everything yourself.

Whether you’re a casual wine lover, a foodie, or someone simply wanting to enjoy a peaceful day in nature, this tour will leave you with fond memories and perhaps a bottle or two to take home. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a comfortable, scenic, and tasty escape from Melbourne.

FAQ

Are the winery admission tickets included in the tour price?
No, the tour fee does not include winery admission tickets. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase tastings directly at each winery if you wish.

What is the group size for this tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, creating a small, intimate atmosphere that fosters relaxed conversations and personalized attention.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from 45 minutes at Scotchmans Hill and Leura Park Estate to 1 hour and 30 minutes at Jack Rabbit Vineyard, allowing ample time for tastings and photos.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a vineyard lunch is included, giving you the chance to enjoy local produce paired with regional wines.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera for scenic photos. Tasting fees are not included, so carry some cash or cards if you plan to purchase extra.

Can I customize my experience?
While the itinerary is set, you are free to purchase additional tastings or explore beyond the scheduled stops if time permits. Just check with your guide for options.

This tour balances scenic beauty, regional flavors, and small-group comfort, making it a delightful way to experience Victoria’s wine country without the stress. Perfect for curious travelers who enjoy good wine, good views, and a relaxed pace.