Coonawarra is famous for its world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and the iconic “Terra Rossa” soil that makes its wines truly special. But beyond the vineyards, this region offers memorable lunchtime experiences that combine excellent food, rich history, and a touch of adventure. We particularly like the Coonawarra Highlights Wine Tour With Lunch because it offers a perfect taste of the region’s wines paired with a gourmet platter in a small-group setting—ideal for those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience. If you’re after a more exclusive, personalized day, the Private Full-Day Guided Wine Tour and Lunch stands out, with a private Mercedes-Benz and a delicious seasonal feast. For those craving a full-day adventure with wildlife and caves, the Caves, Cabernet, & Kangaroos Day Tour & Lunch combines sightseeing, wildlife, and top wines into one action-packed day.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top lunchtime tours in Coonawarra, each offering a different vibe. The half-day Highlights Wine Tour is perfect for a quick, immersive experience (see details). The full-day private tour provides a tailored, luxury experience (more info here). Lastly, the full-day adventure with caves and wildlife combines sightseeing with wine tasting (check it out).
1. Coonawarra Highlights Wine Tour With Lunch
For around $115, this 5-hour tour focuses on the essence of Coonawarra’s wine scene—specifically its celebrated Cabernet Sauvignon. The tour includes tastings at three exceptional wineries where you meet the makers and learn about the region’s unique “Terra Rossa” soil. The highlight is a gourmet produce platter paired with local wine, perfect for tasting regional flavors in a relaxed setting.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate small-group format, which creates a friendly atmosphere to ask questions and really connect with the winemakers. The guide shares insights into Coonawarra’s rich history, making it more than just a wine tasting. Reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and the high quality of the tastings, with a rating of 5/5 based on 10 reviews. This tour is best suited for those wanting a concise yet comprehensive introduction to the region’s wines, with good value for its price.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers short on time but eager to enjoy multiple wineries with a gourmet lunch in a friendly setting.
2. Coonawarra: Private Full-Day Guided Wine Tour and Lunch
At number 2, this 7-hour private tour offers a personalized exploration of Coonawarra’s top wineries. For $214 per person, you benefit from private luxury transport in a Mercedes Benz V-Class, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The tour includes a visit to the historic Wynns Coonawarra Estate—built in 1896—and the chance to meet local winemakers, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the craft.
The lunch is a fresh, seasonal feast, served in a picturesque setting that complements the region’s wines. The tour’s private nature means flexible scheduling and dedicated attention, making it ideal for couples, wine aficionados, or those celebrating a special occasion. Reviewers note the guide’s extensive knowledge and the boutique experience. This tour provides excellent value, especially for those wanting a more exclusive, in-depth look at Coonawarra.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a custom, luxury experience that includes history, top wines, and a gourmet lunch.
3. Coonawarra: Caves, Cabernet, & Kangaroos Day Tour & Lunch
This 8-hour shared tour is for the adventurous and wildlife lovers. For $428, you visit ancient limestone caves, where natural beauty is on full display. You also meet native kangaroos in a private wildlife setting—an experience that makes this tour genuinely unique. Naturally, tasting iconic cool-climate wines at the region’s birthplace is a key part of the day, along with a delicious local lunch.
What sets this tour apart is its mix of natural wonders, wildlife, and wine, making it suitable for travelers who want to combine outdoor activities with indulgence. The tour also includes superb gin tastings, adding a different flavor to the day’s highlights. Expect lively conversations and plenty of photo opportunities. Although this is a longer and more expensive tour, the variety of experiences justifies the price for those wanting more than just wine tasting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who love wildlife, caves, and a full-day adventure with wine and good food.
$428 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch in Coonawarra
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: if time is tight but you want a well-rounded wine experience, the Coonawarra Highlights Wine Tour With Lunch delivers excellent value. For a more exclusive, tailored day, the Private Full-Day Guided Wine Tour offers luxury and flexibility. If your idea of a perfect day includes wildlife, caves, and a mix of outdoor and wine experiences, the Caves, Cabernet, & Kangaroos Tour is a fantastic choice.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a small-group or private experience. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Coonawarra offers a variety of lunch experiences that cater to different tastes and interests. From quick, comprehensive wine tours to full-day adventures with wildlife and caves, there’s something for all. For travelers seeking a relaxed, educational experience paired with tasty local produce, the Coonawarra Highlights Wine Tour is hard to beat. If you want a luxurious, private day tailored just for you, the full-day guided tour is the way to go. And for those craving a lively, activity-filled day with diverse sights, the Caves, Kangaroos, & Cabernet tour provides a memorable adventure.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these fantastic lunchtime experiences in Coonawarra. Happy tasting!