Wine Tours Sydney – Southern Highlands Day Escape, Full Day Wine Tasting Tour

Exploring the Southern Highlands: A Full-Day Wine Tasting Journey from Sydney

If you’re looking to escape the city for a day and indulge in some of Australia’s finest wines, the Wine Tours Sydney – Southern Highlands Day Escape offers an experience that balances comfort, authentic tasting, and scenic beauty. For around $257 per person, you’ll spend approximately 9 hours exploring three top wineries—Tertini Wines, Eling Forest Winery, and Bendooley Estate Book Barn—all just 90 minutes outside Sydney. Whether you prefer a small group setting or a private tour, this trip promises a relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to meet passionate winemakers.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour are the thoughtfully curated visits to renowned wineries where the focus is on quality and genuine stories, and the inclusive tasting and food options—no hidden fees or surprises here. The tour also offers roundtrip transportation from your hotel, making it easy to relax and enjoy without logistical concerns.

However, a potential consideration is the weather, as the experience is weather-dependent and may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor. Also, with a fixed start time at 9:00 am, you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. This tour suits those who love scenic drives, high-quality wines, and want a straightforward, well-organized day out from Sydney—perfect for food and wine lovers, small groups, or couples seeking a taste of Australia’s countryside.

Key Points

• Convenient Location: Only 90 minutes from Sydney, ideal for a day trip.
• All-Inclusive: Tastings, lunch, and transportation included, with no hidden fees.
• Flexible Options: Join a small group or request a private tour.
• Variety of Wineries: Visit acclaimed spots like Tertini, Eling Forest, and Bendooley Estate.
• Authentic Experiences: Meet passionate winemakers and enjoy genuine tastings.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pick-up ensure a relaxed day.

An In-Depth Look at the Southern Highlands Wine Tour

The Comfort and Convenience of the Tour

Starting early at 9:00 am, this tour is designed for those who want to maximize their wine tasting experience without the hassle of organizing transportation or driving. The roundtrip transportation from your Sydney hotel means you can sit back, relax, and soak in the views. The vehicles are air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, especially in warmer months.

You have the choice of joining a small group—which often means a more intimate, unhurried experience—or requesting a private tour for a more tailored day. This flexibility adds to the overall value, particularly if you’re celebrating a special occasion or traveling with a loved one.

The Wineries and Their Unique Charms

Tertini Wines

Your first stop, Tertini Wines, is a favorite among past travelers, thanks to its friendly and informative atmosphere. The tasting experience here lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to savor different wines and chat with the staff. Many reviews highlight the passionate and knowledgeable staff that make the experience educational and engaging.

You might also visit Centennial Vineyard, the region’s first winery, which adds a historical touch to your visit. The emphasis on personal storytelling and quality makes Tertini a perfect introduction to the region’s wine scene.

Eling Forest Winery

Next is Eling Forest Winery, where the highlight is an awesomely scenic view—one of the prettiest in the Southern Highlands. The included lunch (usually a delicious one-course meal) pairs seamlessly with a glass of wine. For those wanting more, upgrades to two or three courses are available, adding more variety and richness to your midday break.

Past guests rave about the delicious food and the stunning vistas, making this stop a memorable highlight. The 1.5-hour visit gives you time to relax, enjoy your meal, and soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Bendooley Estate Book Barn

Your final stop, Bendooley Estate, is often praised as one of the most requested venues in the region. After lunch, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting at the cellar door, set against the backdrop of a beautifully restored historic estate. Many travelers describe the atmosphere as charming and inspiring, perfect for winding down and savoring your last wines of the day.

The book barn adds a literary and cozy touch, making it a favorite for couples and those looking to combine culture with their wine adventure.

Authentic Encounters and Genuine Value

A standout aspect of this tour is the opportunity to meet passionate winemakers and hear their stories—something that makes the experience more than just drinking wine. Past reviews mention guides like Roman, Val, Russell, and Wally as friendly, professional, and knowledgeable—adding a personal touch that elevates the day.

The included tastings and lunch ensure there are no hidden costs, and reviews consistently mention the high quality of wines and food. Guests have raved about the delicious wine selections and the friendly service, making it clear that this is a well-organized, value-for-money option.

Practical Details and Tips

The 9-hour duration means you’ll have ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The tour’s fixed start time at 9:00 am helps with planning, but be prepared for a full day—comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around vineyards and estate grounds. While most travelers find the experience suitable for most ages and groups, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic drives, and wine tasting.

The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind—cancellations at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, which is helpful if weather or other plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups or couples who want to explore the Southern Highlands’ best wineries without hassle. It’s ideal if you appreciate authentic stories, stunning views, and high-quality wines. If you’re a foodie, the included lunch and the chance to meet passionate winemakers will satisfy your palate and curiosity.

Travelers who enjoy comfortable transportation, organized itineraries, and cultural touches like the Bendooley Estate Book Barn will find this tour a great fit. It’s especially suited for those looking for a balanced, relaxed, and insightful day trip from Sydney.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up from your hotel, making it convenient and easy to start your day.

How long is the drive from Sydney to the Southern Highlands?
The drive takes approximately 90 minutes, so you’ll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the vineyards.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch with a glass of wine is included at Eling Forest Winery. You can upgrade to two or three courses if desired.

Can I request a private tour?
Absolutely, you can request a private vehicle for a more personalized experience, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or traveling with a small group.

What is the tour duration?
The experience lasts about 9 hours, from pick-up to drop-off, with ample time at each winery.

Are the wine tastings limited to certain types?
The tour includes wine tasting experiences at each winery, often highlighting the region’s best selections, but specific varietals aren’t detailed.

Is this suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The focus is on wine tasting, so it’s best for adults. However, non-drinkers are welcome and can enjoy the scenery, food, and ambiance.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
Most of the experience involves walking around wineries and estates, so consider mobility needs when booking.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking a few weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and private options.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

For travelers seeking an efficient, well-organized day of wine tasting, scenic views, and meeting passionate winemakers, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want to experience some of Australia’s best wines without the stress of planning or driving. Small groups or couples will find the atmosphere intimate and friendly, with plenty of opportunities to learn and relax.

If your idea of a perfect day involves delicious food, beautiful vistas, and engaging conversations with vineyard owners, then this Southern Highlands wine tour is a smart choice. It offers good value for money considering the inclusive tastings, lunches, and transportation—all in a beautiful, accessible region just outside Sydney.

In essence, this tour delivers a relaxed, authentic taste of the Southern Highlands—ideal for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a taste of Australia’s countryside without the hassle.