If you’re after a relaxing day out that combines exquisite boutique wines, stunning scenic views, and a touch of local flavor, this full-day winery tour from Canberra to Murrumbateman fits the bill. For around $171 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours exploring six carefully selected wineries, enjoying a gourmet lunch, and soaking up the laid-back vibe of this renowned wine region.
Our guides, like Bishoy, bring warmth and knowledge, making the experience feel more like catching up with friends rather than a stiff tour. What really stands out is the chance to sample quality wines from boutique wineries—places that tend to keep things small and special, rather than the big commercial brands. Plus, the scenic lookouts in Murrumbateman add a delightful visual element to your day, letting you soak in the rolling vineyards and open skies.
A couple of considerations: the bus is a bit older, which might affect comfort slightly, and the timing of lunch can be quite late—something to keep in mind if you’re hungry or prefer to eat earlier. This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn and taste without the fuss of planning, or anyone wanting a fun, social day out with new friends in a relaxed atmosphere.
If you’re someone who enjoys local flavors, appreciates engaging guides, and values authentic winery experiences, then this tour will suit you well. It’s also ideal for solo travelers or groups looking for a hassle-free way to explore the Murrumbateman wine region without the need to drive.
Key Points
- Quality Boutique Wines: Taste from six carefully chosen wineries known for their craftsmanship.
- Scenic Views & Lookouts: Enjoy stunning vistas of vineyards and rolling hills in Murrumbateman.
- Gourmet Lunch & Snacks: Savor a relaxed meal with cheeses, dips, or a cheese platter, plus snacks along the way.
- Friendly, Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Bishoy keep the atmosphere lively and informative.
- All-Inclusive Experience: Wineries, tastings, lunch, soft drinks, bottled water, snacks, WiFi, and even phone chargers are provided.
- Social Atmosphere: Perfect for making new friends while sharing your passion for wine.
The Full Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour
Planning more time in Canberra? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour departs from in front of the Novotel Hotel on Northbourne Ave, conveniently located for travelers staying in Canberra. The transport is an air-conditioned bus, which is a plus on warm days, though some travelers note the bus is a bit older. While this might affect some comfort levels, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience. The journey to Murrumbateman takes roughly an hour, giving you time to settle in and enjoy your guides’ entertaining commentary.
The Wineries: What Makes Them Special?
You will visit six wineries, each offering its own unique charm. These are boutique establishments, meaning you’re likely to get a more personalized tasting experience compared to larger commercial wineries. As one reviewer said, “the places we were taken to tick,” indicating a well-curated selection that balances quality and variety.
Expect to sample a diverse range of wines, possibly including reds, whites, and sparkling options. The guides are described as helpful and friendly, making it easy to ask questions and get insights into the winemaking process. The focus on boutique wineries allows you to appreciate the passion and craftsmanship behind each bottle—something you might not always find in larger operations.
Scenic Lookouts & Photo Stops
One of the highlights is the lookout stops in Murrumbateman, where you can take photos of the sweeping vineyard vistas and rolling hills. These scenic moments add a relaxed, almost meditative quality to your day, giving you a chance to breathe and enjoy the landscape.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch and Refreshments
The gourmet lunch is described as relaxed, delicious, and filling, with some reviews praising the pizza and cheese platter options. Notably, some guests found the portions to be small and the lunch served late in the afternoon—something to consider if you’re used to an earlier meal or prefer more substantial food throughout the day. Along with the meal, you’ll have access to cheeses, dips, soda, bottled water, and snacks, ensuring you stay refreshed between tastings.
While you're exploring Canberra, here are other experiences we've looked into
Social Atmosphere & Guide Interaction
The tour’s social aspect is often praised. The guides like Bishoy are described as fantastic and entertaining, creating a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels at ease. This makes it a great choice for solo travelers, small groups, or couples looking to meet new people while sharing their enthusiasm for wine.
Additional Perks and Practical Details
Throughout the day, you have access to WiFi on the bus, phone chargers, and opportunities for photo shoots at scenic locations. This adds a modern touch to the experience, allowing you to share moments instantly. The tour also includes alcohol tastings at each winery, meaning a generous sampling that makes the price feel justified.
What Could Be Better?
Some travelers have noted that the bus is on the older side, which might affect comfort, especially on longer trips. Plus, lunch timing can be quite late, which could be a downside if you prefer to eat earlier or are not used to late meals. Still, these are minor inconveniences in an otherwise enjoyable day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is perfect for wine lovers eager to explore boutique wineries without the hassle of organizing transport or tastings. It’s also well-suited for social travelers who want to meet like-minded people and enjoy a relaxed day in beautiful surroundings. If you enjoy engaging guides and authentic regional experiences, this tour checks those boxes.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For the value—$171 for a full day of wine tasting, scenic vistas, a gourmet lunch, and the company of friendly guides—the Murrumbateman Wineries Full-Day Tour offers a genuine, hands-on experience of the region’s best small wineries. The chance to taste quality wines, enjoy breathtaking views, and socialize in a warm atmosphere makes it a standout option for those wanting a taste of the Australian wine scene beyond the city.
While the bus age and lunch timing are considerations, they don’t overshadow the overall value and authentic charm of the experience. It’s an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts, casual travelers, or anyone looking to escape the city for a day and indulge in some of Australia’s finest regional wines.
FAQ
How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit six wineries during the tour, each offering tastings of their boutique wines.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes wine tastings, visits to six wineries, gourmet lunch, cheeses, snacks, soft drinks, bottled water, WiFi, phone chargers, and a local guide.
Is the bus comfortable?
The bus is air-conditioned, but some reviews mention it is a bit older, which might affect comfort slightly.
What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID for wine tasting, and wear comfortable clothes. You might want to have sunglasses or hats for the scenic lookouts.
Are children or pregnant women allowed?
Pregnant women are not suitable for this tour, as it involves wine tastings and alcohol consumption.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, usually departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
Can I join alone?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome. The social aspect of the tour makes it easy to meet new friends.
Are there any additional costs?
Other than the tour fee, purchases at wineries or souvenirs are not included and are at your own expense.
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s a good idea to confirm specific needs when booking.
This full-day adventure from Canberra offers a genuine taste of regional charm, with top-notch boutique wines, friendly guides, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking for a relaxing day out, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances fun, education, and scenic beauty—just be prepared for a late lunch and a slightly older bus. Perfect for those craving a laid-back, social day among Australia’s celebrated vineyards.
You can check availability for your dates here: