Sydney Wine Tasting-Southern Highlands with Pick up & drop off

A day trip to the Southern Highlands offers a chance to enjoy some of New South Wales’ best cool-climate wines, charming villages, and exquisite scenery—all just about an hour and a half from Sydney’s bustling CBD. For $322.44 per person, this guided tour combines luxury transportation, expert local insights, and a carefully curated itinerary that takes you through five top wineries, a historic book barn, and a quaint village for lunch or a quick refresh. The tour lasts around 8.5 hours, ensuring a leisurely yet immersive experience that balances tasting, sightseeing, and relaxed exploration.

What we love most about this experience is the carefully selected stops, each offering a unique vibe—whether it’s the award-winning wines at Centennial Vineyards, the historic charm of Bendooley Estate, or Artemis Wines’ boutique elegance. The inclusivity of wine tastings and the private guide and vehicle make it feel personalized and seamless, freeing you from the stress of navigating or driving. Another highlight? The picturesque countryside vistas that are bound to leave a lasting impression.

One thing to consider is that lunch isn’t included in the price, but plenty of options exist in Bowral or at the estates themselves—so you can tailor your day to suit your appetite. Also, this tour is ideal for those who appreciate quality wine, scenic countryside, and a relaxed pace, making it perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

If you’re eager to enjoy a high-quality, well-organized wine tour that goes beyond just tasting, this is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value insider access, boutique wineries, and a scenic escape from Sydney’s urban energy.

Key Points

• Convenient proximity to Sydney makes it an ideal day trip for a scenic escape.
• Curated winery visits include boutique and award-winning estates, offering diverse tasting experiences.
• Private guide and vehicle ensure a personalized, relaxed day without worries about transportation.
• Flexible lunch options allow you to enjoy local fare at wineries or in Bowral.
• Scenic countryside vistas provide a beautiful backdrop to your wine tasting.
• Authentic experiences with insider access to some of the region’s best wineries.

A Detailed Look at the Southern Highlands Wine Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour is designed for those who appreciate the finer things—good wine, lovely scenery, and a taste of local hospitality. Starting from Sydney, the journey takes around 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to settle into the relaxed pace of the Southern Highlands.

Stop 1: Centennial Vineyards

Our first stop, Centennial Vineyards in Bowral, sets the tone for the day. Known for its award-winning cool-climate wines, this estate combines stunning landscapes with warm hospitality. Expect a tasting session that highlights the region’s signature crisp whites and elegant reds. The estate’s reputation for quality makes it a standout, especially if you’re into wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area.

The reviews praise the winery for its exceptional wines and welcoming atmosphere, with one visitor noting, “The wines were incredible, and the guide really knew his stuff.” During our visit, we loved the way the estate’s picturesque setting perfectly frames the tasting experience—think rolling hills and lush vineyards.

Stop 2: Peppergreen Estate

Next, we head to Peppergreen Estate in the historic village of Berrima. This estate offers a refined experience with its sophisticated wines and artisanal offerings. The tasting here is more curated, focusing on small-batch wines that embody elegance and balance. The estate’s charming setting and artisanal approach make it a favorite for those seeking something special.

Visitors have appreciated the blend of premium wines and lovely surroundings, with one review mentioning, “The elegance of the wines paired with the beautiful countryside made this a memorable stop.” Here, you might also have the chance to enjoy a bit of artisanal cheese or local produce to complement your tasting.

Stop 3: Bendooley Estate Book Barn

A visit to Bendooley Estate combines wine, history, and literary charm. The restored Georgian homestead provides a beautiful backdrop for your tasting, while the award-winning restaurant and book barn offer a relaxing atmosphere for a quick browse or a coffee break. The estate’s combination of historic architecture and modern elegance makes it a truly special stop.

We loved the way the estate’s ambiance transports you to a different era, making the experience more than just wine tasting. Many reviews mention the beautiful setting and high-quality wines, with one saying, “The historic charm mixed with excellent service made this a highlight of the tour.”

Stop 4: Artemis Wines

The boutique Artemis Wines offers a more intimate tasting experience. Known for small-batch wines that emphasize balance and sense of place, Artemis’s wines are crafted with passion and attention to detail. The winery’s location in the heart of wine country makes it a perfect spot to appreciate craftsmanship.

Expect to taste wines that are elegant and expressive, as one reviewer commented, “You could really taste the love and care in each bottle.” The boutique nature of Artemis means fewer crowds and more personalized attention.

Stop 5: Berrima and Lunch Options

Around midday, you’ll have about an hour to grab lunch. The tour suggests options at Peppergreen Estate, Centennial Vineyards, or Bendooley Estate, each offering a delicious menu of local favorites, from steaks to pizzas. Alternatively, Berrima features quaint pubs and cafes where you can enjoy a relaxed meal. This flexibility allows you to choose whether to have a leisurely estate lunch or explore Berrima’s charming streets.

Return to Sydney

After a relaxed afternoon, the return drive to Sydney takes approximately 1.5 hours. You can sit back and reflect on your day while the guide handles the driving, arriving back at your hotel refreshed and full of new flavors and stories.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

Transportation and Comfort: The tour includes a private vehicle and guide, ensuring you avoid the chaos of big groups or the hassle of driving. It’s an added comfort that makes the day feel more personalized and relaxed.

Price and Value: At $322.44, the tour covers all tastings and private transport, making it a good value for a full-day experience with insider access. Since lunch and wine bottles for home aren’t included, you might want to budget extra for a meal or to purchase a bottle or two from the wineries.

Duration: With about 8.5 hours, including travel and stops, this tour offers a well-paced day, giving you enough time at each estate without feeling rushed.

Group Size: Being a private tour, only your group participates, which is ideal for those who prefer intimacy or are celebrating a special occasion.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared, “Joey was an excellent guide, and took us to some incredible wineries. Thank you, will definitely do this tour again!” Such feedback highlights the quality of the guiding and the curated nature of the stops. Many travelers appreciate the stunning views and the excellent wine selection that each estate offers, making the day not just educational but genuinely enjoyable.

Several noted the beauty of the scenery—the rolling vineyards and lush countryside—adding to the sense of escapism. The fact that the tour is well-organized and private often stands out as a big plus, especially for those who value a tailored experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits wine lovers who want to go beyond the typical. The focus on boutique wineries and scenic beauty makes it ideal for those who appreciate quality over quantity. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups celebrating a special occasion, given its private setup. If you’re a curious traveler eager to learn about local wines and enjoy beautiful landscapes, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer a fully planned, hassle-free day with transport and tastings taken care of. However, if you’re on a tight budget or need extra flexibility with lunch plans, you might want to explore other options or customize your own day.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Sydney to the Southern Highlands?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable day trip from Sydney’s CBD.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, all wine tastings are included in the $322.44 fee, so you can enjoy multiple tastings without extra cost.

Is lunch included on the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are options available at the wineries or in Bowral, offering everything from gourmet estate meals to casual pub fare.

Can I buy wine to take home?
Wines for home are not included, but you’ll have the opportunity to purchase bottles from the wineries if you wish.

Is this tour private or shared?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

What’s the typical group size?
The experience is tailored for your group, with personalized guide service, but specific group size isn’t stated—it’s designed for small groups or private parties.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended for walking around the estates. Bringing a hat or sunscreen is wise on sunny days.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider for age restrictions if you’re bringing kids.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is curated but designed to be relaxed, allowing some flexibility at each stop for additional tasting or exploration.

Final Thoughts

A guided tour of the Southern Highlands’ wineries offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, insider access, and excellent wine. It’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free way to explore some of New South Wales’ best boutique estates without the stress of planning or driving. The private guide, seamless transport, and carefully curated stops mean you’ll focus on relaxing and enjoying each moment.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply eager to taste top-tier wine in a beautiful setting, this tour provides a memorable day out. The stunning views, charming villages, and quality wines will leave a lasting impression—and perhaps inspire a return visit.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience with a personal touch, this Southern Highlands wine tour hits the mark. It’s a smart choice for lovers of good wine and beautiful scenery who want to make the most of a day outside Sydney.