Personalised wine tour experience in the beautiful NSW Southern Highlands

A Tailored Taste of the NSW Southern Highlands: Private Wine and Scenic Tour

If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized day exploring the picturesque NSW Southern Highlands, this private wine tour offers a fantastic way to indulge your love of good vino, scenic landscapes, and authentic local experiences. Guided by Peter, a knowledgeable local driver and host, the tour lasts about six hours and costs around $166.11 per person, including visits to boutique wineries like Tertini and Sutton Forest Estate Wines. The best part? You choose what to see — no rigid schedule here, just a tailored adventure.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the flexibility to customize your day based on your interests and the chance to enjoy the company of a guide who truly knows the region. Whether you’re into small, family-run wineries or want to include cultural visits like the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame, this tour adapts to your preferences. A stop at the Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre also offers a perfect starting point to gather ideas and enjoy local cafes and picnic spots.

A potential consideration is the group size—this tour is designed for a small group, max four people, which is excellent for intimacy but might feel a bit limited if you’re craving a larger social setting. Also, booking about 37 days in advance indicates this is a popular choice, so planning ahead is wise.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy customized outings, wine lovers eager to explore boutique vineyards, or anyone looking for a relaxing day out that combines scenic beauty with cultural highlights. If you value local insight and a flexible itinerary, this is an ideal pick.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You decide which wineries and attractions to visit, with guidance from a knowledgeable local.
• Small Group Privacy: Max 4 people ensures an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: Includes visits to the Bradman Museum and scenic picnic spots.
• Flexible Itinerary: No fixed schedule—your day is tailored around your interests.
• Value for Money: For around $166, you get a full day of personalized touring, tastings, and cultural insights.
• Advance Booking: Popular enough to require planning about a month ahead, so early reservation is advised.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Start: Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre

Your day kicks off at the Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre. This isn’t just a typical starting point; it’s a chance for your guide, Peter, to gather your preferences and suggest hidden gems. Because this tour caters to a maximum of four people, it offers a highly personalized approach, which means the guide can take you to special cafes and picnic spots unknown to casual visitors. This flexibility adds a layer of authenticity and comfort that larger group tours often miss.

A reviewer, Frank, noted how Peter “personally introduced us at each winery, and made our lunch reservation for us,” highlighting the personal touch and local knowledge that elevates the experience. This kind of attention makes a difference when you’re looking to enjoy your day at a leisurely pace without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Boutiques: Wineries & Scenic Regions

The core of the tour revolves around visiting boutique wineries scattered across the Highlands. Peter is well-versed in the region’s wine scene, which is known for its distinct Highland ‘difference’—a term reflecting the unique climate and terroir that produce exceptional wines. You might visit must-see spots like Tertini and Sutton Forest Estate Wines, but the true value lies in the customization. Whether you’re into reds, whites, or sparkling wines, your guide can tailor the visits to match your preferences.

The boutique nature of these wineries means fewer crowds, more intimate tastings, and often a chance to meet the winemakers. As one guest noted, Peter “made our day enjoyable with his deep knowledge and friendly manner.” Expect to sample a variety of wines and perhaps pick up some local bottles—an ideal souvenir.

Scenic & Cultural Stops

Adding to the winery visits, the tour can include cultural highlights like a visit to the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame, a must for cricket enthusiasts or anyone interested in Australian sports history. Entry is included, adding value. The museum offers insights into Sir Donald Bradman, one of Australia’s most celebrated cricketers, blending sports culture with regional history.

Plus, you’ll likely enjoy the scenic drives through the lush Highland landscape, with stops at café-worthy spots or scenic picnic areas. Traveling in a private vehicle means you can pause for photos or relax without the pressure of a large bus route. It’s a leisurely way to soak in the views and perhaps chat about local history or natural features.

The Cultural & Leisure Aspect

Beyond wine, this tour can incorporate a visit to the Southern Highlands Welcome Centre, where you can gather local insights and plan your next stop. You might also find charming cafes or picnic spots for a leisurely lunch or afternoon tea, making the experience a perfect blend of tasting, relaxing, and exploring.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this experience apart is the level of personal service and regional expertise. Many tours follow a set itinerary, but this one empowers you to shape your day. This flexibility is perfect for travelers who have specific interests—whether it’s wine, local culture, or scenery—and dislike being herded onto a bus with strangers.

The small group size (just your party with a guide) means more personal interaction and tailored recommendations, which many travelers find invaluable. The reviews highlight this, with one guest praising Pete as “a knowledgeable, friendly guide,” who went out of his way to make the day special.

Analyzing the Value and Practicality

At just over $166 per person, this private tour offers remarkable value considering the personalized attention, private transport, and inclusions like museum entry. Compared to larger group tours, which might charge similar or higher prices for less flexibility, this experience provides a more intimate and customized day.

Booking about 37 days in advance indicates it’s a well-loved option, and early planning ensures you’ll secure your preferred date. Also, the tour’s flexibility means you can focus on what interests you most—whether that’s wine tasting, cultural visits, or scenic drives—making every dollar count.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits couples, small groups of friends, or families who want a customizable, relaxed day exploring the Highlands. It’s perfect if you value personalized service, enjoy small group intimacy, or have specific interests like wine tasting or sports history. The inclusion of cultural sites makes it appealing for travelers who want a well-rounded experience beyond just wine.

If you’re visiting Sydney and want to escape the city for a day of scenic beauty and local flavors, this tour offers a genuine taste of the region’s charm. Plus, the knowledgeable guide ensures you’ll learn about the area’s history and culture while enjoying the scenery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s designed to be flexible and inclusive, with service animals allowed and transport near public transit options.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 37 days ahead, so early reservation is recommended to secure your preferred date.

What is included in the price?
You get private transportation, visits to boutique wineries, and entry to the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame. Lunch reservations are handled for you.

Can I customize my day?
Absolutely. The guide will work with you to decide which wineries and attractions to visit based on your interests.

What if I want to visit specific wineries?
You can choose which wineries you’d like to visit, including some must-visit spots like Tertini and Sutton Forest Estate Wines.

Is the tour suitable for a family or small group?
Yes, with a maximum of four participants, it’s intimate enough for families or close friends seeking a relaxed experience.

Are there options to include scenic spots or cultural sites?
Yes, stops like the Bradman Museum and picnic spots can be incorporated based on your preferences.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing peace of mind for planning your trip.

To sum it up, this personalized Southern Highlands wine tour offers a rare combination of flexibility, intimacy, and local insight. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast eager to visit boutique vineyards, a culture lover wanting to explore the cricket museum, or simply seeking a scenic escape from Sydney, this experience delivers an authentic, enjoyable day out. The attentive guide, Peter, ensures that your day is tailored, relaxed, and filled with memorable moments. For those who value small-group experiences with personalized service and scenic beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes.