8-13 People Personal Tours

Looking for a flexible, personalized wine and food experience near Adelaide? This private tour option offers up to 13 guests the chance to craft their perfect day in South Australia’s renowned wine regions. Whether you’re into savoring celebrated wines, enjoying gourmet meals, or simply soaking in stunning scenery, this tour promises a tailored adventure with the comfort of your own guide and vehicle.

We love that this experience prioritizes customization — you set the pace, choose your destinations, and indulge in what interests you most. The private guide ensures insider knowledge and personalized attention, elevating the experience above typical group tours. But keep in mind, at around $744 for the entire group, it’s a pricier option that offers exclusivity and flexibility, which might be a consideration for budget travelers. This tour suits wine lovers seeking a bespoke day out, families, or groups celebrating special occasions who want a more intimate, tailored experience.

Key Points

• Fully customizable itinerary allows you to select your favorite wine regions and activities.
• Private guide and air-conditioned vehicle offer comfort and personalized insights throughout the day.
• Flexible pace lets you decide how long to spend at each stop, from tastings to dining.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for a hassle-free experience from Adelaide.
• Ideal for small groups of 8-13 people looking for an exclusive, intimate tour.
• Cost reflects value, offering an all-inclusive private experience with expert guiding.

Exploring the Private Wine Tour Experience

This private tour is designed to give you ultimate control over your day. Unlike standard group excursions, you won’t be stuck following a fixed schedule or sharing your experience with strangers. Instead, your guide works with you beforehand to craft an itinerary that highlights your preferences — be it wine tastings, fine dining, shopping for local products, or visiting key attractions.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. Though their names aren’t always specified, one reviewer mentions “Wazza,” who handled the group with grace, even when the singing got a bit off-key. Expect live commentary filled with useful insights about the region’s history, culture, and wine production, adding depth to your experience.

How does the itinerary work?

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Adelaide at 9:30am, ensuring your day starts smoothly. After that, the options are wide open. The client chooses which region to explore—Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, or McLaren Vale—each offering unique scenery and wine styles.

The Barossa Valley is a popular highlight, with its iconic vineyards and charming towns. Reviewers note that their driver, Wazza, made the day enjoyable and relaxed, even enduring lively singing with good humor. You can spend about 6 hours in the chosen region, with flexibility to spend more or less time at particular stops, depending on your interests.

What makes the private guide a standout?

Travelers consistently mention the guides’ extensive knowledge and friendly approach. One review states, “Easy process to set up our itinerary and pick-up location,” emphasizing how simple it is to tailor the day. The private guide also offers live commentary, making each visit more meaningful with stories about local history, wine-making, and regional personalities.

The vehicle and comfort

You’ll ride in a private air-conditioned vehicle, which ensures comfort during what can be a long day. This setup is especially appreciated in Australia’s warm climate and adds to the relaxed, luxurious feel of the experience.

What’s included and what’s not?

The tour includes driver/guide, private transport, and hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s important to note that alcoholic drinks are not included but are available for purchase at wineries. Also, lunch is not included, allowing you to choose whether to dine at a local restaurant or pack your own picnic.

Cost-wise, this private experience is more expensive than group tours. However, many travelers feel the personalized attention, flexibility, and insider access justify the price. It’s ideal for those valuing exclusivity and tailored experiences over the typical group format.

In-Depth Look at the Stops and Activities

Starting with the Barossa Valley

Most tours begin here, as it’s arguably South Australia’s most famous wine region. Expect to visit renowned wineries, sample celebrated wines, and enjoy the picturesque landscape. The valley’s rolling vineyards and rustic charm are certain to impress. Reviewers mention that the wines are top-quality, and the guide’s insights help you appreciate the nuances of each variety.

Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale options

If you prefer a cooler climate and lush greenery, Adelaide Hills offers a different vibe. Known for its boutique wineries and artisan produce, it’s perfect for a more laid-back day. Conversely, McLaren Vale boasts vibrant vineyards and a more lively atmosphere, often with more casual tastings and a focus on bold reds.

Tailoring your experience

The flexibility to customize your itinerary is a major perk. Want to focus on tasting sparkling wines? Or perhaps you’d prefer to dine at a renowned restaurant? Your guide can accommodate those preferences. One reviewer appreciated how easy it was to “set up our itinerary,” which added to the overall enjoyment.

Food and shopping opportunities

While lunch isn’t included, many clients take advantage of the opportunity to dine at highly-rated local restaurants or enjoy a picnic amid vineyard views. Shopping for local products, such as olive oils, cheeses, or souvenirs, can also be incorporated into your day.

The overall experience

From scenic drives to intimate tastings, travelers praise the relaxed pace and personalized attention. The small group size (max 13) fosters a more intimate, less rushed experience, allowing for meaningful conversations and a more relaxed atmosphere. As one guest put it, “Our driver Wazza put up with our terrible singing with grace,” highlighting how fun and friendly the day can be.

Why Choose a Private Tour?

The major advantage here is customization. You’re not bound by a preset itinerary, and the guide’s local knowledge can help you uncover hidden gems or get the best wine tastings tailored to your taste. The private vehicle also keeps the day comfortable and convenient, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

The cost might seem high upfront, but considering the inclusion of a private guide, vehicle, and the ability to customize your day, many find it offers excellent value. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off mean you don’t have to worry about arranging transport, saving time and stress.

Authenticity and insider tips

From reviews, it’s clear that guides often share stories about the region’s people and history, making the experience more authentic. The expertise on local wines and food enhances the enjoyment, especially if you’re keen to learn as you taste.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for small groups or families who want a personalized, flexible day exploring South Australia’s wine regions. It suits those who prefer to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more intimate, guided experience. If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to discover top wineries or a food lover wanting to combine tastings with local cuisine, this tour fits perfectly.

It’s also well-suited for special occasions — birthdays, anniversaries, or celebrations — where a bespoke experience adds a touch of luxury and exclusivity. However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer a more structured, budget-friendly tour, this private option might be less suitable.

Final Thoughts

This private wine tour from Adelaide offers a rare chance to customize your day in South Australia’s greatest wine regions. From the relaxed, insider-guided visits to the flexibility of choosing destinations and activities, it’s a highly adaptable experience that appeals to those looking for quality, comfort, and personal attention.

While the price reflects the exclusivity, many travelers feel that the tailored approach, knowledgeable guides, and premium comfort make it an excellent value for a special day out. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply wanting a memorable, hassle-free adventure, this tour is a fantastic choice.

In essence, it’s an experience that puts you in the driver’s seat—literally and figuratively—and lets you craft a wine journey that’s uniquely yours.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a private guide, air-conditioned vehicle, and hotel pickup and drop-off. You will need to purchase any drinks or meals separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable. You can work with your guide to choose the wine regions, stops, and activities that suit your preferences.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30am with flexible timing for stops and activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since alcohol consumption is optional and not included, non-drinkers or designated drivers can enjoy the scenic drives and sightseeing without issue.

How many people can join?
This tour is designed for small groups of 8-13 people, making it intimate and less crowded.

Are food and lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to dine at local restaurants or bring your own picnic.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 97 days ahead, but availability is generally confirmed within 48 hours of booking.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, and receive a full refund.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Bums On Seats, a reputable local operator known for personalized tours and excellent guides.

This private, customizable wine tour from Adelaide delivers a relaxed, personalized way to explore South Australia’s renowned wine regions. Perfect for small groups seeking a tailored, comfortable experience that highlights the best the area has to offer.