Barossa Valley: Gourmet Food & Wine Tour with Cheese Tasting

If you’re craving a full day of gourmet delights, stunning scenery, and authentic wine experiences, this tour offers a terrific way to explore South Australia’s most famous wine region. For around nine hours, you’ll travel with a small group (limited to 12 people) through charming villages and lush vineyards, sampling some of the region’s finest offerings. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll enjoy tastings of wine, cheese, cider, and chocolate, plus a gourmet lunch amid historic winery settings. The cost of $228 per person might seem a bit steep, but the experience of visiting iconic spots like Seppeltsfield and Chateau Tanunda, combined with the variety of tastings and scenic vistas, makes it a solid value for lovers of good food and wine.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see the hidden gems of the region, like the Herbig Family Tree, as well as the panoramic views from Menglers Hill Lookout, which truly capture the beauty of the landscape. Another highlight is the visit to Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, where you can taste her famous products on the very set of The Cook and the Chef. The only consideration might be the busy schedule—some may find the pace slightly quick, especially if they want a more leisurely experience. But overall, this tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic taste of the Barossa without sacrificing comfort or depth.

If you’re someone who appreciates thoughtful tasting experiences, stunning scenery, and small-group intimacy, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a curated day of indulgence without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate and personal experience.
• Diverse tastings include wine, cheese, cider, and chocolates, offering a well-rounded culinary experience.
• Beautiful scenic stops like Menglers Hill Lookout provide memorable views of the land.
• Historic winery visits at Seppeltsfield and Chateau Tanunda deepen your understanding of the region’s winemaking heritage.
• Gourmet lunch at a carefully selected winery elevates the whole experience.
• Flexible pickup locations make it easy to join from Adelaide CBD, Glenelg, or Hahndorf.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Your Day: Convenient Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day begins with complimentary pickup from your accommodation—whether you’re staying in Adelaide CBD, Glenelg, or Hahndorf—making the start hassle-free. As the van meanders through the rolling hills and picturesque villages of Stirling, Aldgate, and Bridgewater, you’ll get a sneak peek into the charming small communities that surround Adelaide. The drive itself is a treat, with glimpses of lush greenery and quaint cottages along the way.

Panoramas from Menglers Hill Lookout

One of the first highlights is the stop at Menglers Hill Lookout and Sculpture Park. Here, the views are spectacular—stretching across the vineyards and rolling hills of the Barossa. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the land that makes the region famous. The sculptures add an artistic touch, making this a memorable photo-op.

Cheese Tasting at Barossa Cheese Co

If you visit on a day when cheese tasting is available (except Tuesdays), you’ll love the award-winning cheese at Barossa Cheese Co. in Angaston. The cheeses are fresh, flavorful, and crafted locally, giving you a real taste of the region’s dairy excellence. Visitors have noted that the cheese tasting is a highlight, especially for cheese lovers or those wanting to explore regional produce.

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Exploring the Herbig Family Tree

A unique feature of this tour is the visit to the Herbig Family Tree—a living symbol of the area’s history. While details are limited, this stop offers a glimpse into the roots of the local community, adding a touch of history to the day. It’s a quiet moment that contrasts with the bustling winery visits.

Vineyard and Winery Experiences

The heart of the tour is visiting Seppeltsfield Winery, renowned for its historic grounds and impressive cellars. You’ll enjoy tastings of their well-known wines and explore the expansive estate with its beautiful gardens. The experience here isn’t just about drinking wine but understanding the region’s heritage.

Next, the visit to Chateau Tanunda offers a chance to see one of the oldest wineries in the region with its stunning architecture. Tastings here are complemented by the scenic setting, making it a favorite among visitors looking for both history and high-quality wines.

Optional Helicopter Flight

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, an optional helicopter flight over the valley is available at extra cost. While not included, this offers exceptional views of the vineyards and rolling hills, perfect for capturing spectacular photos or just adding a bit of thrill to the day.

Gourmet Lunch and Tastings

A carefully chosen winery provides the setting for a gourmet lunch, paired with wine tastings. The ambiance is refined yet relaxed, allowing you to savor regional flavors while enjoying scenic vineyard views. The lunch is a highlight for many, providing a chance to unwind and soak in the landscape.

Maggie Beer and Chocolate Tastings

A visit to Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop is a must for food lovers. You can taste her renowned products, and if you’re a fan of her work, you’ll enjoy the chance to take a photo wearing her apron on the set of The Cook and the Chef. For chocolate lovers, the Barossa Valley Chocolate Company offers decadent tastings that satisfy sweet cravings.

Whispering Wall

A fun and quirky stop is the Whispering Wall, where the unique acoustics will amuse you. It’s a brief but memorable experience—try whispering into one end and listening from the other; you’ll be surprised how well it works.

The End of Your Day

As the tour wraps up, you’ll receive a complimentary box of chocolates for the ride home, a sweet finishing touch. Drop-offs are available at Hahndorf, Glenelg, or Adelaide CBD, making the ending as convenient as the start.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $228 might seem like a significant expense for a day trip, consider what’s included: all tastings, a gourmet lunch, transportation, and the chance to visit multiple iconic sites. This setup removes the hassle and unpredictability of planning your own trip, and the small group size means more personal attention and flexibility.

What many travelers appreciate is the combination of scenic views, historical insights, and the variety of tastings—from cheese to wine to chocolates—creating a well-rounded experience. The guide’s local knowledge adds depth, making each stop more meaningful.

A Few Considerations

The schedule is quite full, and some might find the pace a little brisk if they prefer a more laid-back day. Also, the cheese tasting is unavailable on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. If you’re looking for a very relaxed day or want more time at each stop, this might feel rushed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to the Barossa, food and wine enthusiasts, and those eager to see scenic South Australia in a day. It suits travelers who enjoy tasting multiple regional products, learning about local history, and experiencing the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. If you’re traveling with a small group and appreciate expert guidance, this experience will suit you well.

Final Thoughts

The Barossa Valley: Gourmet Food & Wine Tour with Cheese Tasting offers a taste of everything for lovers of good food, fine wine, and beautiful landscapes. It strikes a good balance between guided discovery and free time, with memorable stops that highlight the region’s character. Whether you’re snapping photos from Menglers Hill or savoring Maggie Beer’s cheeses, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of South Australia’s crown jewel.

This tour caters to those who value authenticity, scenic beauty, and regional gastronomy. It’s a solid choice if you want a comprehensive, enjoyable day in the Barossa with friendly guides and carefully curated stops.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes wine, cider, cheese, and chocolate tastings, plus a gourmet lunch. Complimentary bottled water is also provided.

How long is the tour?
It runs for approximately 9 hours, making it a full day of exploration and tastings.

Where do I get picked up?
Pickups are offered from Adelaide CBD, Glenelg, or Hahndorf accommodations, with free pickups included.

Can I join if I don’t stay in the city?
Yes, as long as your accommodation is in one of the pickup areas, you can join the tour.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
While the specifics aren’t listed, the gourmet lunch at a winery is usually customizable—it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Are children allowed?
The tour is designed for adults, especially given the wine tastings, but families with older children might consider it.

What if I want to add a helicopter flight?
You can opt for the extra charge helicopter flight over the valley, which offers spectacular views.

Are the stops wheelchair accessible?
Details aren’t specified, so it’s recommended to inquire directly if accessibility is a concern.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Water bottles are provided, but extra snacks are optional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

This tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience South Australia’s famous wine region. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just love good food and scenic drives, it’s a day well spent.

You can check availability for your dates here: