From Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula Food & Wine Taste Trail

Imagine spending a full day exploring some of Victoria’s most picturesque scenery, tasting world-class wines, and enjoying a local’s perspective on the Mornington Peninsula. For $125 per person, this 8.5-hour tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, culinary delights, and engaging guides. It’s perfect for those who love good wine, stunning views, and a taste of the local lifestyle—without feeling hurried.

We found that what makes this experience special are the carefully curated stops and the personal touch of the guides. The visits to Point Leo Estate and Jackalope’s Rare Hare are highlights, each offering not only excellent tastings but also remarkable scenery. The winery lunch at T’Gallant provides a relaxed atmosphere amidst rolling hills, while the brewery stop at St. Andrews Beach Brewery adds a touch of local craft beer culture. And of course, the panoramic views from Arthurs Seat and the iconic beach boxes make this tour a well-rounded snapshot of the region.

A consideration? The tour might be a bit packed for those seeking a very leisurely, unstructured day. But if you’re after a lively, taste-focused adventure, it hits the mark. This experience suits travelers who appreciate expert guides, diverse tastings, and scenic outlooks—particularly those who enjoy discovering local gems through a well-organized itinerary.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: From wine tastings and brewery visits to stunning coastal views and beach boxes.
• Expert Guide: Friendly and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Scenic Highlights: Arthurs Seat Lookout and Point Leo Estate provide memorable vistas.
• Authentic Taste: Sampling at Point Leo, Rare Hare, and T’Gallant offers genuine regional flavors.
• Value for Money: The tour includes all tastings, entry fees, transport, and a substantial lunch.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is structured, so it’s best for those comfortable with a full-day tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inviting Start at Point Leo Estate

Our journey begins at Point Leo Estate, a feast for the senses. The estate combines art installations, rolling vineyards, and ocean views, creating a setting that feels almost too beautiful to be real. We loved the way the estate’s sculpture gardens encouraged us to stroll between tastings, turning each sip into a visual experience. The wine tastings here are generous, and the guide was able to tell us about the unique art and agricultural practices that make Point Leo special.

According to reviews, many travelers appreciate the “amazing” sculpture garden and the “generous” tastings, which include extra pours when you chat about different wines. This makes for a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for savoring both flavor and scenery. We also liked the fact that the estate’s location provides an excellent introduction to the region’s landscape—think cliffs, ocean breezes, and lush vineyards.

Visiting Rare Hare at Jackalope: A Prestigious Winery

After enjoying Point Leo, we moved to Rare Hare at Jackalope, a well-known winery that overlooks vine-laced hills stretching to the forest. Here, the focus is on top-tier wines in a stylish setting. The views are impressive, and the wines are some of the best in the region. The tasting experience is designed to highlight the estate’s craftsmanship, and the guide was happy to share insights about the different varietals.

One of the standout points from reviews is how much guests appreciate the quality of the wines and the scenic outlook, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a memorable visual and gustatory experience. The only critique? One traveler found Rare Hare a bit “disappointing,” which goes to show that taste is subjective, but overall, most visitors leave impressed by the elegance of the wines and the beautiful setting.

A Relaxed Winery Lunch at T’Gallant

Next up is T’Gallant, renowned as the birthplace of Australian pinot gris and pinot grigio. The restaurant is set among the hills, offering vivid vineyard views that make the meal feel like a true regional experience. The lunch menu features rustic, authentic pizza, paired with a wine tasting that showcases the estate’s signature varietals.

Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the lunch atmosphere and the quality of the food, describing it as “superb” and “very satisfying.” The experience here isn’t just about the wine, but about soaking up the ambiance—imagine sharing a glass of local wine while overlooking vineyards that have been producing excellent grapes for decades.

Craft Beer at St. Andrews Beach Brewery

The tour continues at St. Andrews Beach Brewery, a former horse training facility turned craft beer haven. Here, you can join locals for a beer paddle tasting while watching brewers craft their latest brews right in front of you. The setting is relaxed, with plenty of space to mingle and appreciate the skill that goes into each pint.

From reviews, we know that guests enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to sample multiple brews in one place. Plus, the history of the site being a world-class horse training facility adds an extra layer of interest. This stop balances out the wine-heavy earlier part of the day with a more casual, craft-beer vibe.

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Panoramic Views from Arthurs Seat

No visit to Mornington Peninsula is complete without heading to Arthurs Seat, where the views are truly breathtaking. We loved the way Murrays Lookout provides a sweeping vista from the cliffs, giving us a sense of the region’s scale and beauty. Whether you’re looking across the bay to Melbourne or down to the coastline, this spot offers one of the most memorable photo opportunities.

Guests consistently praise the stunning scenery, noting that the views alone make the trip worthwhile. The guide often shares local stories about the area’s geography, adding depth to the experience.

Iconic Beach Boxes and Coastal Charm

The final stop is a quick glimpse at Mornington Peninsula’s famous beach boxes—colorful, heritage-listed structures that have become symbols of summer. They’re located along the coast and provide a charming, quintessentially Australian scene. Many reviewers comment on how these bright boxes are a favorite photo spot, and they’re a reminder of the seaside’s longstanding leisure culture.

This stop is more about appreciating the area’s iconography and perfect for quick photos rather than a lengthy visit. Still, it’s a delightful way to wrap up a day full of scenic and sensory delights.

The Journey Back to Melbourne

After a full day of tastings, views, and stories, the return trip offers time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour concludes with transportation back to Melbourne, typically around early evening, making it a convenient escape from the city.

This experience provides a great balance of scenic beauty, authentic tastings, and local insights. The inclusion of all tastings, entry fees, and a substantial lunch at T’Gallant means you’re getting a lot of value for the price. Plus, the guided aspect ensures you won’t get lost or miss key sights, and the small group size keeps things intimate and engaging.

However, it’s worth noting that the schedule might feel a bit fast-paced if you prefer a more unstructured day. Also, stairs and uneven terrain may limit mobility for some travelers, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments.

This tour suits those who want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning, enjoy good food and wine, and love taking in spectacular coastal views. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone eager to experience the essence of Mornington Peninsula in one memorable day.

For travelers craving a full-day journey through Victoria’s best food and wine offerings, this tour hits many of the right notes. The combination of stunning scenery, high-quality tastings, and expert guidance ensures a satisfying and enriching experience. You’ll go home not just with a few bottles but with a deeper appreciation of the region’s culture and landscape.

If you’re after an efficient, well-organized trip that balances scenic vistas with culinary pleasures, this is a great choice. It’s perfect for those who value storytelling, authentic local flavors, and picturesque views—all wrapped into one enjoyable day.

This tour is especially ideal for travelers who appreciate friendly guides, generous tastings, and a touch of seaside charm. It’s a memorable way to experience the Mornington Peninsula without the stress of coordinating multiple stops yourself.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, typically starting in the morning and returning in the early evening.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all tastings at wineries and brewery, entry into Point Leo Estate Sculpture Park, a winery lunch, round-trip transport, and a knowledgeable guide.

Are drinks other than wine and beer included?
No, other drinks and snacks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or small snacks if you need a pick-me-up between stops.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Mail Exchange Hotel on Bourke Street at 9 am. There are alternative pickups at Southbank, Collins Street, and Exhibition Street, with details provided in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Child fares apply for ages 0-15, but unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel if plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for walking around estates and scenic outlooks.

Is the tour bilingual?
No, the tour is conducted in English, and guides are native speakers.

In a nutshell, this Mornington Peninsula Food & Wine Taste Trail offers a rich, well-rounded taste of Victoria’s celebrated regional flavors, scenic beauty, and local culture. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a lover of coastal vistas, or simply looking for a day of enjoyable exploration, this tour is a dependable choice that combines value with authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: