Margies Big Day Out Beer & Wine Tours

Exploring Margaret River with Margies Big Day Out Beer & Wine Tours

If you’re planning a day in Margaret River and want to sample the region’s renowned wines, beers, and chocolates, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this part of Australia so special. Priced at around $115 per person for approximately 6.5 hours, it balances in-depth tastings at three boutique wineries, a visit to a chocolate factory, and a final stop at a local brewery. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free experience, especially if you’re staying in Margaret River or nearby.

What we love about this tour is its small-group size, capped at just 15 travelers, which usually means a more personal and engaging experience. Plus, the lunch at a boutique winery with a complimentary drink, along with the variety of tastings across multiple venues, offers good value for the price. That said, some reviews mention issues like rushed tastings or variable guide energy, so it’s worth keeping expectations balanced. This tour suits those who enjoy a friendly atmosphere, a mix of wine and beer, and don’t mind a long day of tasting and sightseeing.

One potential consideration is the transport: some travelers have noted the bus is older and noisy, and timing can sometimes feel rushed or inconsistent, especially at certain venues. But if you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one taste of Margaret River, this tour hits many of the highlights.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who wants a taste of local craft beers and chocolates, this tour offers a compact, fun, and informative day out. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy a smaller group, personalized service, and a mix of tasting experiences.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal experience with just 15 participants.
• Variety of tastings include wine, beer, cider, and chocolates, offering a comprehensive local sampler.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy to relax and enjoy the day.
• Lunch at a boutique winery with a complimentary beverage adds value and a more intimate setting.
• Some reviews mention rushed tastings and variable guide energy, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Getting Started and Transportation

Starting at 10:30am in Margaret River, the tour begins with pickup from your accommodation. The vehicle, typically an air-conditioned bus, seats up to 15 people—a size that tends to foster a friendly, less hurried atmosphere. One thing to note is that some guests have commented on the bus being older or noisy, which might be a consideration if you prefer a quieter ride or modern transport.

The driver, often also your guide, will handle the navigation and provide commentary—though, as some reviews mention, a microphone can make a difference in hearing the explanation at each stop. Despite a few hiccups, the overall transport logistics tend to be smooth.

First Stop: Wineries and Tastings

The tour usually kicks off with visits to three boutique wineries. One popular stop is Jarvis Estate, which impresses visitors with its stunning views and high-quality wines. Guests describe the wines as “incredible,” and the sommelier as “amazing and entertaining.” We loved the way these smaller wineries often provide more personalized tastings, giving you a chance to really explore different varietals and learn from knowledgeable staff.

Some reviews mention that the tastings at certain wineries can feel a bit rushed—especially if the schedule gets tight—so be prepared to savor each sip. The tasting fees are included, which is a bonus, but at some venues, you might wish for a bit more time or more detailed information about the wines.

Chocolate and Food Experiences

A bonus stop at a chocolate factory adds a sweet touch to the day. While some travelers appreciated the chocolate tastings, others found the ice cream too basic or the experience a bit rushed. It’s a nice break in the middle of the day, and many enjoy the chance to indulge and buy artisanal chocolates.

Lunch is served at a boutique winery, where you can enjoy a solid meal paired with a complimentary glass of wine or beer. Several reviews highlight the quality of the lunch, with comments praising the “great lunch” and “excellent pizza.” It’s a satisfying, relaxed setting that offers a chance to chat with your fellow travelers and reflect on the morning’s tastings.

Final Stop: Breweries and Relaxation

In the late afternoon, the tour concludes with a visit to a local brewery, where you can purchase drinks at your own expense. Some reviews note that the brewery stop is a good chance to unwind and chat, though it’s not included in the tasting experiences. This final stop caps off the day with a different flavor—beers and ciders—adding diversity to your tasting adventure.

The Last Stretch and Return

The return journey is usually smooth, with the bus dropping you back at your accommodation. Keep in mind that the entire experience lasts about six and a half hours, so it’s best to start with a hearty breakfast and come prepared for a full day.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Positive feedback often centers on the knowledgeable guides, particularly those who foster a friendly atmosphere. Multiple reviews praise guides like Dan for being “fantastic” and “knowledgeable,” which really enhances the experience. Many guests felt the tastings were “great” and the variety kept things interesting.

On the flip side, some travelers have expressed disappointment with aspects like rushed tastings, old buses, or uneven guide enthusiasm. Comments about the bus being noisy or the guide’s microphone not working highlight that comfort and communication are sometimes overlooked. Also, a few felt the value for money was lacking—particularly if expectations of wine and beer tastings weren’t fully met or if the lunch was seen as basic.

Important to note is the feedback from those who felt the tour did not deliver on its advertised promise. Some reviews mention that tastings at breweries and the chocolate factory were limited or lacking, which could be disappointing if you’re expecting a comprehensive alcohol tasting experience.

Transport and Logistics

The transportation is a key part of the tour. The vehicle’s age and condition seem to vary, and noise levels or lack of microphones can affect your ability to hear the guide clearly. The group size being limited to 15 is a plus for intimacy, but some guests have noted that managing the bus’s operation (like opening doors) was a bit awkward, especially when the automatic door switch failed temporarily.

Timing is generally tight, especially at the wineries, where a few travelers felt they did not get enough time at each venue. The tour itinerary is ambitious, covering multiple locations, but this means some visits might feel rushed, especially if travel delays occur.

Value for Money

At just over $115, the tour seems reasonably priced considering the number of tastings, lunch, and hotel pickup included. However, some guests felt that the experience was overpriced relative to what was delivered—particularly if tastings felt hurried or if the bus conditions were less than ideal. Still, for those who prioritize convenience, variety, and a guided experience, it offers decent value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy small-group tours with a friendly, conversational guide. It’s ideal for wine lovers wanting to explore several boutique wineries without the hassle of arranging transport, and for those happy to sample local beers and chocolates along the way. If you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one day that combines food, drink, and scenic stops, this tour ticks many boxes.

However, if you prefer more in-depth wine education or a luxury transport experience, you might find this tour a bit basic or rushed. It’s also suitable for those with children, as kids are allowed and included in the group, with soft drinks and kids’ meals provided.

The Sum Up

In summary, Margies Big Day Out Beer & Wine Tours offers a friendly, well-rounded introduction to Margaret River’s famed food and drink scene. Its small group size and inclusive approach make it a good choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, social experience. With visits to three boutique wineries, a chocolate factory, and a brewery, it provides a satisfying variety of tastes and sights.

While some travelers have noted occasional issues with timing, bus comfort, or guide enthusiasm, many appreciate the quality of the tastings, the delicious lunch, and the personal atmosphere. It’s especially suitable for those who want a convenient, all-in-one tour without the hassle of self-driving, and who enjoy a mix of wine, beer, and sweet treats.

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Margaret River that balances variety with a friendly vibe, this tour can be a rewarding choice. Just go in knowing that some stops may feel a little rushed, and be prepared to enjoy the company and the scenery along the way.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Margaret River, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 10:30am.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, the included tastings at wineries, the chocolate factory, and the lunch are covered in the tour price. Drinks at the brewery are at your own expense.

Can children join the tour?
Absolutely. Children aged 4-17 are welcome, and they receive a kids’ meal and soft drinks or juice. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
A good idea is to wear comfortable clothing, bring some water, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sunny days. Remember that tastings are part of the experience, so come hungry and open-minded.

Is the bus comfortable?
Some reviews mention the bus being older and noisy, and the absence of a microphone can make it hard to hear the guide. This is something to keep in mind if comfort and clear communication are priorities.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most guests find the schedule a bit tight, especially at wineries, where some feel the tastings are rushed. If you prefer longer, more leisurely visits, this might not be the ideal tour.

Is this tour suitable for serious wine connoisseurs?
While the tour offers good tastings and a friendly guide, it’s more about general sampling than in-depth wine education. For serious connoisseurs, additional or specialized tours might be preferable.

In essence, Margies Big Day Out delivers a lively, manageable way to taste Margaret River’s best offerings—perfect for those who want a fun, social day with a touch of everything.