Barossa: Enjoy Wine, Lunch, Brewery, Chocolate & Wildlife

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure through South Australia’s most iconic region, the Barossa: Enjoy Wine, Lunch, Brewery, Chocolate & Wildlife tour by Groovy Grape Adventures offers just that—and more. This isn’t just a standard wine tasting trip; it combines scenic stops, wildlife encounters, delicious food, and some quirky surprises, all wrapped up in a friendly, laid-back vibe.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the variety of attractions, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to really soak in the local vibe—all at a reasonable price. The only potential hiccup? The day can feel a little packed at times, so if you prefer a slow, leisurely pace, keep that in mind. This tour suits travelers eager for an engaging, fun-packed day that mixes sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing in equal measure.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary with wine, beer, chocolate, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints
• Expert guides who enhance the experience with local insights and fun stories
• Great value for money considering the variety of activities and tastings included
• Comfortable transportation with a well-organized schedule and small group feel
• Authentic experiences like wildlife encounters and visits to iconic landmarks
• Perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and fun

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to the Barossa Tour Experience

Starting Off: Wildlife Park and the Big Rocking Horse

The adventure kicks off with a drive through the picturesque Adelaide Hills toward Gumeracha, home of the Big Rocking Horse—a quirky, larger-than-life icon of the region. We loved the charm of this stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just enjoy playful roadside attractions. Climbing up the horse offers a surprisingly good view of the surrounding countryside, making it a fun photo op.

Immediately after, you’ll get to interact with the resident kangaroos and wallabies at the wildlife park. The entry fee is just $5, but many reviews mention how worth it is for the chance to cuddle a kangaroo or watch the wallabies hop about. It sets a relaxed, friendly tone for the day and gives you a taste of Aussie wildlife, which is a highlight for many visitors.

The Whispering Wall: Acoustic Wonder and Fun Secrets

Next up is the Whispering Wall, part of the Mount Lofty Reservoir. This structure is famous for its exceptional acoustics—shout a secret at one end, and it will be heard clearly from the other. Reviewers have enjoyed testing this unique feature and the playful atmosphere it creates. It’s a quick stop but leaves a lasting impression, especially since it’s an engineering marvel with a touch of fun.

Heading Into the Heart of the Barossa Valley

Now, the true heart of the tour begins. The first winery stop at Kies Family Winery is a treat. Known for award-winning wines, Kies creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel special. Guests have commented on how the staff make the tastings personal and engaging. The vineyards here seem to stretch for miles, and you’ll get a real sense of the region’s wine-growing tradition.

Following Kies, the group moves on to Lambert Estate, where you’ll enjoy a personalized tasting. The setting is lovely, perfect for taking photos or simply taking your time to savor the wines. Many reviews highlight how the guides’ commentary adds depth to the tasting, making it more than just sipping.

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Lunch: Gourmet Pizzas and Good Vibes

Lunch is a highlight for many: a gourmet pizza feast with all the toppings you desire, served at Lambert Estate. Sharing a delicious meal with new friends adds a social feel to the day. The pizzas are freshly made, and the variety of toppings ensures everyone finds something to love. It’s a relaxed, flavorful break that lets you chat and enjoy the scenery.

Sweet Tooth Stop at Melbas Chocolate Factory

After lunch, it’s time for a sweet fix at Melbas Chocolate Factory. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. Sampling chocolates and exploring the factory shop offers a fun, sensory experience—many reviewers mention how tempting it is to buy a little bit of everything here.

Viewpoints and Tanunda Exploration

Next, the group heads to Menglers Hill Lookout, where panoramic views of the valley unfold before you. This is a prime photo opportunity, and the scenery is breathtaking, with rolling vineyards and distant hills. The photos taken here often become cherished memories.

In Tanunda, there’s about 50 minutes of free time. You can wander charming streets, visit local boutiques, or indulge in an ice cream or coffee. Many guests appreciate this flexibility, enjoying the opportunity to soak in the village atmosphere or revisit favorite spots from earlier visits.

Final Stops: Wineries or Breweries

Back in Tanunda, options are plentiful. Some choose to visit Z Wines, the family-run winery with a lively atmosphere and a history spanning five generations. Others might prefer a beer tasting at Rhen Bier Brewhouse, where locally crafted brews are the star. This flexibility caters to different tastes—whether you’re a wine lover or a beer enthusiast.

The Return Journey

As the day wraps up, the coach takes you back to Adelaide. It’s an excellent time to chat with fellow travelers, relive the highlights, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. The overall flow of the tour is well-organized, and many reviewers mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are—turning a busy day into a memorable experience.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes transportation by bus or coach, ensuring a comfortable ride between stops. While the exact group size may vary, reviews imply a small-group feel, which helps with personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. This makes it easier to ask questions and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

Duration and Schedule

The full-day experience lasts about 9 hours, typically starting in the morning. The schedule is carefully balanced to include all highlights without feeling overly hurried, though some stops, like the Tanunda free time, offer a chance to explore at your own pace.

Cost and Value

At $98 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the wide range of experiences included—from multiple tastings to a gourmet lunch and scenic viewpoints. The price also covers expert guides who enrich each stop with insights and humor, making the day more engaging.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour requires pre-determined pick-up locations around Adelaide CBD. Participants should also note that alcohol consumption is not permitted on the bus, which is standard practice to ensure safety and compliance.

Reviews and Guides

Guests consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, David, made the day very special, while others enjoyed Em’s lively commentary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and those eager for a mix of wildlife and scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you want to see the highlights of the Barossa without the hassle of planning or driving. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, the tour’s friendly vibe and varied stops make it accessible and enjoyable.

It also suits travelers who appreciate a good balance of guided insights and free time to explore. If you’re after a lively, engaging day with plenty of tasting opportunities and iconic sights, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, especially since it includes wildlife encounters and fun attractions like the Big Rocking Horse. However, parents should be aware of the age-appropriate activities and the schedule.

Can I customize the stops or activities?
The tour is pre-planned, but guests have the opportunity for free time in Tanunda to explore at their own pace.

How long is the free time in Tanunda?
You get about 50 minutes to explore, which is enough to enjoy a coffee, browse shops, or revisit a favorite spot.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The menu features gourmet pizzas with a range of toppings, and most tastings are standard. For specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, expert guide, wine tastings at two wineries, a gourmet pizza lunch, chocolate tasting, and a visit to the Big Rocking Horse and Whispering Wall.

Is alcohol allowed on the bus?
No, alcohol consumption on the coach is not permitted to ensure everyone’s safety.

How do I book or cancel?
Booking is straightforward through the provider or platforms like GetYourGuide, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

The Groovy Grape Barossa Day Out offers a lively, well-rounded look at South Australia’s famous wine region. With a mix of delicious tastings, stunning views, and fun attractions, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to experience the region without the stress of planning every detail.

The tour’s value lies in its diversity—not just wine but chocolate, wildlife, scenic vistas, and local culture—all led by friendly guides who make the experience memorable. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a social, interactive day that balances guided insights with free time to explore.

In short, if you’re after a fun, engaging, and authentic taste of the Barossa, this tour checks most boxes—and leaves you with plenty of stories to tell. Just be ready for a full day of adventure, laughter, and, of course, some fantastic tasting moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: