Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Day Tour with Healesville Sanctuary

Experience the Best of Nature and N wine in One Day
If you’re visiting Melbourne and want to experience a blend of wildlife and wine without the hassle of planning, the Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Day Tour is a solid choice. For around $224 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring Healesville Sanctuary, tasting wines at two different wineries, and enjoying a delicious lunch with spectacular vineyard views. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a relaxed pace and authentic encounters—perfect for those who love nature and good food.

What we really love about this experience is how smoothly it combines close-up native animal encounters with premium wine tastings. Plus, the fact that hotel pickup and drop-off are included makes for a stress-free day. On the flip side, it’s a fairly structured tour, so if you’re seeking a completely free-form or super adventurous day, this might feel a bit curated. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of education, scenery, and culinary delights, and who want a trustworthy, well-reviewed experience.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with wildlife, vineyard visits, and tastings.
• Professional guides who are friendly, informative, and attentive.
• All-inclusive price covering entry fees, lunch, and tastings.
• Small group size (maximum of 11), ensuring a personalized experience.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and air-conditioning.
• Great reviews highlighting highlights like the sanctuary’s bird show and wine quality.

Discovering Healesville Sanctuary

We love Healesville Sanctuary for its focus on native Australian animals in naturalistic settings. Over approximately 2.5 hours, you’ll see kangaroos, koalas, emus, and other iconic species, often just a few steps away. The reviews frequently mention the bird flyover show and the opportunity to see rescue animals up close—a highlight for animal lovers.

One reviewer raved about the “very informative” experience and appreciated the time spent at the sanctuary, which was not too rushed. Others appreciated the chance to connect with a volunteer who stayed with the group, making the experience more personal. The admission fee is included in your tour, so you can focus on enjoying the sights without extra costs.

A common tip from travelers: wear comfortable shoes and prepare for weather, as the sanctuary is outdoors and offers stunning views but can get hot or rainy. The bird flyover is a must-see—an impressive display of native bird species soaring over the bushland.

Scenic Drive and Lunch at Yering Station

After the sanctuary, the journey continues into the Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s premier wine regions. Your first stop here is Yering Station, where you’ll indulge in a tasting of estate and reserve wines inside their historic cellar door. The modern restaurant offers a sit-down lunch, with a glass of wine included—something reviewers consistently praise for its quality and scenic setting.

Expect a relaxed, sit-down meal with options that might include seafood, vegetarian dishes, or other main courses (be sure to advise dietary requirements when booking). The views of vineyards from the restaurant are stunning, making this a picturesque mid-point that combines flavor and scenery.

Many guests note that the wine tasting at Yering Station is both informative and enjoyable, with a broad selection of reds and whites. The experience is elevated by the knowledgeable guides who share insights about the region’s winemaking and history.

De Bortoli Winery and Cheese Pairing

The day wraps up at De Bortoli Winery, set on over 450 acres of vineyards. Here, you’ll sample estate and premium wines, including their famous dessert wine. The cheese and wine pairing is a favorite part for many—an excellent way to finish the day while soaking in views of rolling hills.

Guests often comment on the high quality of the wines, and many mention how “the cheese pairing made a wonderful end to the day” or how they appreciated the chance to taste iconic wines in a beautiful setting. With one hour allocated, it’s enough time to relax, taste, and take photos before heading back.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s price includes all entry fees, a boxed lunch with a glass of wine, bottled water, and guided commentary. Pickup and drop-off at select Melbourne hotels make logistics easier, especially after a long day. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and the small group size generally results in a more intimate experience.

However, there are some extras to keep in mind. For instance, the Koala Encounter at Healesville Sanctuary costs AUD$30 per animal, and purchases of souvenirs or personal items are not included. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for the weather is wise.

Many reviewers highlight the value for money—considering the transportation, entry fees, meals, and tastings, it’s quite competitive. Plus, the consistent praise from hundreds of travelers (a 5-star average) speaks to its reliability.

A Day Perfect for Enthusiasts of Nature and Good Food

This tour is ideal for animal lovers, wine aficionados, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet enriching day outside Melbourne. It’s particularly suited for those who value well-prepared meals, small-group intimacy, and insider knowledge from guides like Rob and Paul, who frequently earn praise for their friendliness and expertise.

Travelers who appreciate a bit of education and authentic experiences—like getting up close to rescue animals or tasting boutique wines—will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors who want a structured day that covers highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings.

In-Depth: The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Healesville Sanctuary (2.5 hours)
Starting early, you’ll board your air-conditioned minibus with a friendly guide, often with hotel pickup included. The sanctuary habitat feels expansive and natural, not sterile zoo enclosures. Besides seeing iconic animals like kangaroos and koalas, you might catch the bird flyover show, which many reviewers call “not to be missed.” Visitors appreciate the chance to learn about rescue animals and conservation efforts, making it more meaningful than just a sightseeing stop.

The sanctuary’s outdoor layout means you should wear comfortable walking shoes and sunglasses. The time allotted allows for a leisurely walk, photo opportunities, and possibly a quick visit to the gift shop.

Yering Station (2 hours)
The scenic drive from the sanctuary to Yering Station takes you through lush vineyards and rolling hills. Once there, you’ll be welcomed into the historic cellar door, where a guided tasting of estate and reserve wines awaits. Many travelers comment on the knowledgeable staff who explain the nuances of wine production, helping you appreciate the region’s reputation.

Lunchtime is at the modern restaurant with views of the vineyards—a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy your meal. It’s a well-curated experience that balances culinary quality and landscape beauty.

De Bortoli Winery (1 hour)
The final stop is a sprawling vineyard offering wine and cheese tastings. De Bortoli’s dessert wines and the pairing platter often steal the show, according to reviews. It’s a great way to unwind and reflect on a day filled with natural encounters and flavorful experiences.

The Value of the Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Tour

When considering the cost of $223.74, it’s clear you’re paying for more than just transportation—you’re investing in a curated experience that includes entry fees, tastings, meals, and expert guiding. The inclusion of hotel pickup simplifies logistics, making it accessible for travelers who prefer not to navigate public transport or rental cars.

The consistent glowing reviews speak to delivery and reliability. Guests repeatedly praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the overall experience. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, making it more engaging and personalized.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those with a curiosity for native Australian wildlife and appreciation for quality wines. It appeals to middle-range travelers looking for value, with enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy small-group settings and guided commentary.

If you’re after a day of good food, stunning views, and wildlife encounters in a relaxed manner, this tour checks all those boxes. Travelers who emphasize authenticity and expert insights will find it particularly rewarding.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available at select Melbourne hotels, making logistics simple.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to the original meeting point later in the day.

Are the winery tastings included in the price?
Yes, both wine tastings at Yering Station and De Bortoli Winery, including the wine and cheese pairing, are covered in the price.

Can I customize dietary requirements?
Yes, please advise any specific dietary needs when booking so arrangements can be made for lunch and tastings.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—comfortable shoes for walking, and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if rain is forecast.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but note that wine tasting and related activities are for those 18 and over. The focus on wildlife and scenery makes it family-friendly overall.

To sum it up, the Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Day Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines Australia’s unique wildlife with its celebrated wines. It’s perfect for those who want a thoughtfully curated day with knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious food and drink. Whether you’re a nature lover, wine enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable escape from Melbourne, this tour provides great value and genuine moments—highlighted by friendly guides and positive reviews from hundreds of satisfied travelers.