Southern Highlands Full-Day Wine Tour

Exploring the Southern Highlands with a Full-Day Wine Tour
If you’re looking for a blend of delicious wines, stunning scenery, and charming local villages, the Southern Highlands Full-Day Wine Tour might just be your perfect day trip from Sydney or Canberra. Priced at about $132 per person, this 7-8 hour experience offers a taste of everything—from large wineries to cozy country pubs, and even a glimpse of the region’s Georgian-era architecture in Berrima.

What we love about this tour is how flexible it can be—guided by a friendly, knowledgeable guide, you get to sample local wines at different stops, from big-name vineyards to smaller, family-run operations. Plus, the inclusion of a shared snacks platter and a glass of wine on arrival makes it easy to relax and start the day without fuss.

The only thing to consider is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for a stop at a local pub or winery restaurant—something many travelers find adds to the authentic country experience. This tour suits those who appreciate good wine, scenic vistas, and small-town charm—all within a short drive from the city. If you’re keen on a day out that combines wine tasting with a bit of sightseeing and some laid-back country atmosphere, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary with stops at 4-5 different venues including wineries, breweries, and pubs.
• Expert guides offer tailored experiences, ensuring you visit places that match your preferences.
• Affordable value with tastings included, a shared snacks platter, and a wine upon arrival.
• Charming villages like Berrima with Georgian architecture and boutique shops make for perfect photo stops.
• Stunning seasons—from winter’s fireplaces to summer vineyard views—offer varied scenery.
• Self-catered lunch allows you to choose your preferred spot for a relaxed meal.

What to Expect from the Tour Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the Southern Highlands’ wine and food scene within a manageable day. Starting in Bowral, you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable vehicle that’s just the right size—most tours have up to 25 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social and intimate. The tour is designed to be flexible so that the stops can be tailored to your group’s interests; whether you prefer large, well-known wineries like Centennial Estate or smaller, family-owned vineyards such as Joadja Estate, your guide will aim to include your favorites.

The first stop is typically in Bowral, an area famous for its boutique wineries, breweries, distilleries, and country pubs. Expect to spend about 60 to 90 minutes at each location, giving enough time to sample a variety of wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions directly from the vintners or staff. Many visitors comment that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the tastings more engaging. The inclusion of a shared tasting platter with cheeses and snacks helps to cleanse your palate and adds a convivial touch to the day.

The second stop is Berrima, a historic sandstone village with picturesque Georgian buildings, many of which house boutique shops, cafes, and the Surveyor General Inn, Australia’s oldest continually licensed pub. This visit provides a nice break from wine tasting and offers a chance to walk around, take photos, and soak in the ambiance of this charming town. Expect about an hour here, enough to browse or grab a coffee or local treat.

The Wines and Local Brews

The Southern Highlands is renowned for its cool climate wines, which tend to produce elegant reds and crisp whites. The tour’s variety of wineries means you’ll encounter both large commercial estates and small boutique vineyards, giving you a broad taste of the region’s diversity. Since tasting fees are included, you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and the guide’s insights help you understand what makes each winery unique.

Beyond wine, the tour can include visits to brewpubs and distilleries if your group prefers beer, gin, whisky, or vodka. This flexibility means your day can swing in whichever direction suits your preferences best.

The Scenic Beauty and Seasons

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the ever-changing scenery. The Southern Highlands is a place that wows in every season:
– Winter is perfect for cozying up by fireplaces in country pubs.
– Spring bursts with flower-filled gardens and the famous Tulip Festival.
– Summer shows the vineyards in full leaf, ideal for cooling off with a cold beer.
– Autumn dazzles with fiery foliage, especially stunning against the red and orange leaves of the vines.

Traveling in one of these seasons offers a different experience, and many guests find that the landscape alone is worth the trip.

The Practicalities

The cost of $131.56 includes tastings at multiple venues, your welcome glass of local wine, a snacks platter, and transportation. It’s important to note that lunch isn’t included, but stops at pubs or winery restaurants give you the option to dine at your own pace. The tour begins in Bowral and ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Most travelers find the pickup service convenient, especially since public transportation isn’t always ideal for rural regions. The group size is capped at 25, maintaining a friendly atmosphere where you can comfortably ask questions and engage with guides.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Travelers

While this tour is still gaining reviews, feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides who make the outing enjoyable and informative. One traveler mentioned, “The guide was fantastic—knew so much about the region and made each stop special.” The stunning views of rolling hills and vineyard landscapes are consistently praised, making it clear that the scenery is a highlight.

Some mention that the self-catered lunch enables flexibility, but others note that you might want to plan ahead if you prefer a sit-down meal or specific cuisine. The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, allowing changes if your plans shift.

This Southern Highlands Full-Day Wine Tour offers a well-rounded experience for anyone who enjoys wine, scenic drives, and small towns with character. It’s particularly suited for those who want to sample a variety of local beverages without the hassle of planning multiple visits. The flexible stops and friendly guides make it ideal for first-time visitors or those looking to soak in the country’s relaxed vibe.

Travelers who appreciate authentic country experiences—from seeing historic buildings in Berrima to tasting regional wines—will find this tour rewarding. It balances guided ease with enough freedom to explore on your own, making it good value for the price.

However, if you’re looking for a luxury, all-included dining experience, or prefer to avoid walking or standing during tastings, you might want to consider other options. But for a relaxed, informative, and scenic day out in the Southern Highlands, this tour is a fine choice.

Is transportation provided on this tour?
Yes. The tour includes transportation from the designated meeting point in Bowral, with a comfortable vehicle that carries the group for the day.

Can I customize the stops?
The tour is designed to be flexible and can include wineries, breweries, distilleries, and other local venues. Guides often tailor the stops to your preferences.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers tastings at 4-5 stops, a glass of local wine upon arrival, and a shared snacks platter. It does not include lunch, which you will need to purchase separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are children or non-drinking guests allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited to adults who enjoy wine, beer, or spirits. Children are typically not included in tasting activities but can enjoy the scenery and village visits.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While some stops involve walking around small villages or wineries, guide staff aim to ensure accessibility where possible. Check with the provider for specific needs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed, provided they are within regulation and under control.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 19 days ahead on average, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.

To sum it up, the Southern Highlands Full-Day Wine Tour offers a balanced mix of local wine tastings, charming villages, and beautiful scenery—perfect for those seeking a relaxed, authentic taste of Australia’s countryside. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a lover of scenic drives, or someone wanting to explore a lesser-known part of New South Wales, this tour delivers on several counts. Its flexible stops and friendly guides make it an experience that feels personal and genuine, making it well-suited for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.