Ultimate Bickley Valley: Wine, Gin & Cider – Small Group Tour

Our review of the Ultimate Bickley Valley: Wine, Gin & Cider Tour offers a closer look at an experience that promises a relaxed, authentic taste of Western Australia’s hidden gems. Though I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture.

What makes this outing stand out? First, the small-group experience ensures a cozy atmosphere where you can really get to know the local producers. Second, the focus on artisan beverages—from boutique wineries to craft gin distilleries and award-winning cider houses—means you’ll taste some genuinely unique products. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides, like Paul, bring stories and insights that add a personal touch.

That said, it’s an adults-only tour, so it’s not suited for families or kids, and it runs rain or shine—so dress accordingly. As for who it’s best for? If you love local craft drinks, enjoy meeting passionate producers, and prefer a laid-back, intimate tour over large bus outings, this could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Authentic Small-Group Experience: Limited to 11 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and access to venues that larger groups can’t reach.
• Diverse Tasting Opportunities: Sample boutique wines, artisan gins, and award-winning ciders at multiple local producers.
• Meet the Makers: Get up close with the owners and producers, hearing their stories and learning about their craft firsthand.
• Gourmet Lunch Included: Enjoy a seasonal, farm-to-table platter that complements your drinks and highlights local produce.
• Pickup & Convenience: Door-to-door pickup from Perth CBD, Northbridge, or Crown Perth, with a flexible option in Fremantle.
• Value for Money: At $95.35 per person, the tour offers a full day of tasting, scenery, and expert insights in a curated setting.

An In-Depth Look at the Ultimate Bickley Valley Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am with a door-to-door pickup—a big plus for those who prefer hassle-free logistics. From there, you’re whisked away into the lush surrounds of the Perth Hills, a region known for its vineyards and orchards. This area remains somewhat of a local secret, and that exclusivity is part of the charm.

The first stop, Up Close and Local Tours, introduces you to the region’s boutique producers. As one reviewer, Louise, shared, “Paul was a fantastic guide with heaps of local knowledge,” highlighting the value of engaging guides who genuinely care about sharing the region’s stories. Expect to meet the owners, often pouring tastings themselves, which adds a layer of intimacy you won’t find on busier, commercial tours.

Exploring the Vineyards and Orchards

In the Perth Hills, the focus is on more than just tasting—it’s about understanding the passion that drives these craft producers. Since this is a small, boutique scene, you’re likely to meet the winemakers or owners personally, giving you insights into their brewing philosophies and what makes their products special.

The scenery here is stunning, with endless vineyards and orchards stretching into the horizon—perfect for snapping some photos or simply soaking in the peaceful views. This region is less commercialized than larger wine regions, so the tasting experiences tend to be more personal and less rushed.

The Artisanal Drinks: Wine, Gin & Cider

The highlight? Visiting a boutique winery where you can sample some award-winning wines. Based on reviews, expect a selection of quality wines that showcase the region’s potential, often with a personal touch from the vintners.

Next, the tour ventures into a gin distillery where local artisans craft small-batch spirits. Expect to learn about the distilling process and perhaps even hear stories about how the recipes are developed—adding more context to your tasting experience.

Finally, a cider house known for its farm-to-table approach serves up some of the best local ciders, garnished with seasonal produce and a friendly atmosphere. As Louise says, “meeting the owners and producers of some amazing wines, gins and ciders” was a highlight, emphasizing the authentic connection with the creators.

Lunch with Local Flavors

The gourmet platter lunch is a thoughtfully curated part of the tour, showcasing seasonal, locally sourced produce. It’s the perfect way to refresh your palate and enjoy the region’s flavors in a relaxed setting. The emphasis on farm-to-table offerings makes this more than just a meal—it’s an extension of the region’s dedication to quality and sustainability.

The Experience’s Intimate Nature

Because the tour is limited to 11 travelers, you get ample opportunity to ask questions, chat with guides, and engage with the producers. It’s an experience that values quality over quantity, which clearly resonates with travelers.

Practicalities: Timing, Price, and Comfort

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending in the late afternoon. The price of $95.35 per person includes tastings, lunch, and transportation, representing good value when you consider the personalized experience and quality of the venues visited.

Transportation is comfortable, and the door-to-door pickup service minimizes hassle. Being an adults-only experience, it’s best suited for those aged 18 and up who are keen on alcoholic tastings and engaging with local artisans.

Authenticity, Value, and Unique Experiences

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is guides like Paul, whose local knowledge adds depth and personality to the day. They’re not just drivers but storytellers who can tell you about the region’s history, the producers’ journeys, and the nuances of each drink.

The small group size ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Unlike large bus tours, you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd—this is about savoring each moment and connecting with the people behind the products.

The regional scenery alone makes this tour worthwhile. Rolling vineyards, orchards, and scenic views provide a stunning backdrop for your tastings, making photo opportunities plentiful.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, craft spirit lovers, and anyone interested in discovering authentic local producers. If you enjoy meeting passionate makers and prefer small, intimate outings over large group excursions, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed day with plenty of tasting and storytelling. Since it’s an adults-only experience, it’s not recommended for children or teenagers.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

For $95.35, this tour offers a full day of engaging, personalized experiences that go beyond just tasting. The focus on local producers, combined with the chance to chat directly with the owners, creates a memorable insight into the region’s craft beverage scene.

The inclusion of a gourmet lunch and door-to-door pickup adds convenience, making it an easy, stress-free way to explore Western Australia’s lesser-known but vibrant wine and cider country. The consistent five-star reviews, especially praising the knowledgeable guides and excellent selection of drinks, reinforce that this tour delivers on its promises.

Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and delicious day in the Perth Hills, this small-group experience deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 hours, starting around 10:00 am and concluding in the late afternoon.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup from Perth CBD, Northbridge, or Crown Perth. There’s also an option for pickup in Fremantle.

What is the maximum group size?
This experience is limited to 11 travelers, ensuring a more personal and intimate atmosphere.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Most dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, can be catered for with prior notice. Just inform the organizer at booking.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s an adults-only experience (18+), primarily because of the alcohol tastings involved.

To sum it up, the Ultimate Bickley Valley tour offers a genuine taste of Western Australia’s boutique beverage scene in a relaxed, personal setting. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to connect with passionate local producers, enjoy scenic views, and indulge in quality drinks—all without the crowds or rush of larger tours. Perfect for curious travelers who appreciate authenticity, this small-group outing combines fun, flavor, and storytelling into a memorable day out.