PETALUMA: VIP Equestrian & Private Wine Lunch with Olympian

PETALUMA: VIP Equestrian & Private Wine Lunch with Olympian — A Genuine Taste of Adelaide Hills

Looking for a memorable day that combines your love of horses, exquisite wines, and fascinating stories from an Olympic medalist? This 3.5-hour experience in South Australia’s Adelaide Hills offers exactly that — a chance to ride through scenic vineyards, enjoy a gourmet lunch with Olympian Megan Jones, and sip some of the region’s best wines. Priced at $297 per person, it’s a focused experience that balances adventure, gastronomy, and insights into top-tier wine production.

Two things we especially appreciated are the personalized nature of the guided trail ride and the unique opportunity to meet Megan Jones and see her medals firsthand. The ride itself isn’t just a generic trek — you’ll be guided through beautiful vineyard landscapes with commentary that enriches the visual experience. Plus, the private lunch in The Glass Room feels like a VIP moment, complete with a stunning ceiling installation of 540 wine glasses mimicking the hills.

A single consideration? The experience is best suited for adults and older teens since children under 18 aren’t permitted, and you’ll need to arrive prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera. Travelers who enjoy small-group, personalized experiences or want a true taste of the Adelaide Hills’ wine country will find this tour especially appealing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Personalized Guided Ride: Travel through vineyards on a horse with direct commentary from Megan Jones, making it educational as well as scenic.
Olympic Connection: Meet Megan Jones, learn about her journey, and see her medals — a special touch for sports enthusiasts.
Gourmet Lunch & Wine Pairing: Enjoy a three-course tasting menu with wines from Petaluma, Bay of Fires, and Croser, only available through this experience.
Exclusive Access: Photos with medals, merchandise sales, and special prices on wines create a VIP feel.
Stunning Setting: The Glass Room’s ceiling of wine glasses and vineyard views make for a memorable atmosphere.
Ideal for Adults: Not suitable for children under 18, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated, personalized outing.

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An In-Depth Review of the PETALUMA VIP Experience

Setting the Scene: A Day in the Adelaide Hills

Arriving at the cellar door, you immediately sense you’re about to enjoy something special. The Adelaide Hills are no stranger to craftsmanship — here, the rolling hills and vineyards create a perfect backdrop for this luxury experience. The tour is designed for small, private groups, ensuring personalized attention from Megan Jones and her team, which really enhances the intimacy of the day.

The Guided Trail Ride: A Blend of Scenery, Skills, and Stories

We loved the way the ride begins with a warm welcome and helmet fitting, immediately making you feel safe and prepared. Megan herself is a knowledgeable and approachable guide, sharing stories of her Olympic triumphs while helping you saddle up on a horse suited to your experience level. The horses are carefully selected from Megan’s own Hallmark Farm in Woodside, which adds a personal touch to the ride.

The 45-minute guided trail takes you through hills, vineyards, and scenic viewpoints. The commentary from Megan about the landscape and her career adds depth, transforming what could be just a ride into a mini cultural and sporting lesson. We appreciated her patience and support, especially for first-timers or less confident riders.

Stops for photos aren’t just quick snaps — they’re opportunities to admire magnificent vineyard views and discuss the regional wine scene. The ride is relaxed but engaging, with enough time to take in the scenery and learn about the area’s natural beauty.

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The Glass Room: An Artistic and Elegant Dining Space

After returning the horses, you’re led into The Glass Room, a space that visually captures the essence of the Adelaide Hills. The ceiling installation of 540 wine glasses arranged to mimic the rolling contours of the hills is a stunning feature that sets the tone for the meal.

Here, you’ll settle into your private table for a three-course tasting menu from Woodside Providore. The menu highlights local produce, emphasizing the region’s reputation for fresh, high-quality ingredients. The pairing of wines from Petaluma, Bay of Fires, and Croser is carefully curated, with generous pours that make each sip a pleasure.

Meet Megan Jones and Hear Her Story

Megan, a Silver medal Olympian, member of the Equestrian Hall of Fame, and dual Olympian with medals from the 2008 and 2016 Olympics, shares her fascinating journey. She talks about her world championship victories and the challenges of traveling horses around the globe. It’s a personal and inspiring conversation, especially when she shows her medals and recounts her experiences at two Olympic Games.

The opportunity to take photos with her medals or grab autographs adds a memorable personal touch. Her stories about her current plans to represent Australia at future world championships and Olympics reveal her ongoing passion for her sport.

Wine & Food Pairing: A Local Tasting Journey

The wine selection is a highlight — wines only available through this experience, so you won’t find them in stores. The Petaluma, Bay of Fires, and Croser labels are all household names in South Australia, but here, they’re presented in an intimate setting with ample tastings.

The three-course menu pairs perfectly with the wines, showcasing local ingredients and seasonal produce. For those with dietary restrictions, advance notice should be provided, but the experience is designed to be inclusive where possible.

Practical Details and Overall Value

Pricing at $297 per person can seem steep, but considering it includes the guided ride, lunch, wine, and personalized interactions, it offers excellent value for a luxury, all-in-one experience. The small group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the private setting enhances the personal aspect. The opportunity to purchase wines at special prices adds an extra perk for enthusiasts wanting to take a bottle home.

While transportation isn’t included, the meeting point at the cellar door is straightforward to reach if you’re in the Adelaide Hills or nearby. The experience is typically available in the morning, perfect for a day trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who appreciate fine wine, enjoy horseback riding in scenic settings, and are interested in hearing inspiring stories from Olympic athletes. It’s particularly appealing for those wanting a personalized, VIP feel — perfect for special occasions or a unique indulgence during a South Australian visit.

If you’re a sports fan, a wine lover, or someone seeking an elegant yet authentic adventure, this tour offers a compelling blend. Keep in mind that it’s not suitable for children or those who prefer a more active riding experience — this is more about enjoying the scenery, conversation, and fine wines.

FAQ

Is transportation to the experience included?
No, you need to arrange your own transport to the cellar door, which is straightforward if you’re in the region.

How long does the whole experience last?
Approximately 3.5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning.

Can I participate if I have never ridden a horse before?
Yes, the ride includes basic maneuvers and is supported by Megan, making it suitable for beginners with proper guidance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, and casual clothes. Bring your camera and water.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, but please specify your needs when booking.

Can children join this experience?
No, this experience is for guests 18 and older.

Is it possible to buy wines on the day?
Yes, exclusive access to purchase wines at special prices is included.

What makes the Glass Room special?
Its ceiling of 540 wine glasses arranged to resemble hills creates a striking visual setting for dining.

Who hosts the tour?
Megan Jones, a decorated Olympian, shares her stories and guides the experience along with the Hallmark Farm team.

What if I want to extend my wine tasting?
Additional wines are available for purchase at the venue, and merchandise is also for sale.

Final Summary

This VIP equestrian and wine experience offers a rare chance to combine scenic vineyard riding, a gourmet local lunch, and stories from a sporting legend. It’s a well-balanced blend of activity, culture, and luxury that delivers both sightseeing and meaningful personal interactions. Perfect for those who want to feel special, enjoy authentic regional flavors, and learn from someone who’s truly achieved greatness.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a horse lover, or simply after an authentic taste of South Australia’s Adelaide Hills, this tour offers a rewarding day out. Its intimate setting ensures you’ll leave with stories, photos, and perhaps a new appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and craftsmanship.