Kangaroo Island: Food and Wine Guided Day Tour

Traveling to Kangaroo Island offers an escape into pristine landscapes and unique wildlife, but if you’re a foodie and wine lover, this guided tour is a rare chance to dive into the island’s best flavors. Without having been personally on the tour, we’ve pieced together what makes it stand out — from private tastings of olive oils and honey to a gourmet picnic amidst nature, topped with some top-tier wines and spirits.

What we love about this experience is the perfect balance it strikes: intimate, educational, and delicious. The private tailgate tasting in a family-owned olive grove feels authentic and personal, while the Pacific oysters in American River promise a fresh oceanic burst. The gourmet picnic with local wines and beers offers a satisfying midday break, and the visit to the distillery for gin or cocktails caps off the day with a splash of creativity.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite full – eight hours packed with stops and tastings. If you’re not a fan of a busy schedule or have limited mobility, some parts may feel rushed. However, if you love immersive, food-focused adventures in small groups, this tour hits many high notes.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to taste, learn, and connect with Kangaroo Island’s local producers. It’s perfect for foodies, wine enthusiasts, or anyone looking to explore South Australia’s culinary scene in a relaxed, guided setting.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences: Private tastings and visits to family-run farms and vineyards.
• Diverse tastings: Olives, oils, oysters, honey, wines, and spirits.
• Gourmet picnic lunch: Fresh, smoked meats served with local drinks.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants for a personalized experience.
• Educational insights: Learn about farming, honey, and winemaking in Kangaroo Island.
• All-inclusive pricing: Includes most admission fees, tastings, and lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at the tour: what to expect and why it matters

Starting in Cygnet River: a window into Kangaroo Island’s farming roots

The day kicks off in the Cygnet River farming region, known for crops like barley, wheat, canola, oats, plus lamb and beef. This area is the backbone of the island’s food scene. The guide shares insights into the island’s agricultural history, helping you appreciate the land’s productivity. Passing by farms like Kangaroo Island Pure Grain—an operation emphasizing GM-free, traceable grains—you get a sense of the local commitment to quality and transparency.

Olive oil tasting at Kangaroo Island Olives

Next, you’ll visit Michael and Dom’s family-run olive farm, where the passion for their 5,000 trees shines through. The tailgate tasting here is more than just olives—expect to sample their flavorful oils and olives that reflect both the Mediterranean climate and immigrant influences. Reviewers have noted that this stop feels intimate and genuine, with a chance to ask questions directly to the producers.

Coastal stop at American River and oyster tasting

As you head towards American River, the scenery becomes more rugged and coastal. A visit to Kangaroo Island Oyster Farm Shop offers a chance to taste Pacific Oysters harvested straight from Eastern Cove. Depending on the season, you might enjoy oysters directly at the farm or at a secluded picnic spot. Travelers love the freshness and quality, with one describing the oysters as “deliciously plump and salty.” The oyster farm’s tranquil waters create a picturesque setting perfect for a relaxed tasting.

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Gourmet picnic in the great outdoors

Midday, the tour offers a gourmet smoked meats picnic lunch served alfresco, with options for local wines, beer, soft drinks, and water. The setting is carefully chosen for its scenic views and peaceful ambiance. The lunch is described as hearty yet refined, with fresh salads and smoked meats, giving you a true taste of regional flavors. Some guests have appreciated the generous portions and thoughtful presentation, making it feel more like a special lunch than a quick snack.

Honey farm visit: sweet insights

Post-lunch, the group heads inland to Cliffords Honey Farm. Since 1973, the Clifford family has produced honey from Ligurian bees. The experience of tasting different honey varieties and sampling Jennys Honey Ice Cream is a highlight for many. Reviewers mention the farm’s warm, family-run atmosphere, and the insight into honey production makes the visit feel educational and authentic.

Fine wines at The Islander Estate Vineyards

Next, the focus shifts to the island’s wine scene at The Islander Estate Vineyards. Known for producing excellent reds and whites, the winery’s tasting room offers a chance to sip wines crafted by Jacques Lurton, a Bordeaux-trained winemaker. The small-group setting allows for personalized conversations about winemaking techniques and the unique terroir of Kangaroo Island.

End with spirits at Kangaroo Island Spirits

The tour wraps up at the award-winning Kangaroo Island Spirits distillery. Here, you’ll sample a variety of gins and liqueurs, many of which have won international awards. Reviewers praise the quality and creativity of their spirits, and the tasting experience often includes a chance to learn about the distilling process. A gin paddle or cocktail adds a fun, interactive element to close the day.

The practical side: transport, group size, and value

Transport is in a small, comfortable vehicle, with the entire day covering a diverse range of locations. Limited to just 10 participants, the small group size ensures plenty of one-on-one time with guides and farm operators. The price of $393 per person might seem high at first glance, but when you factor in all tastings, the gourmet lunch, and guided insights, it offers impressive value—especially for those wanting an immersive experience.

The tour runs for about eight hours, typically starting in the morning. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate mobility who are comfortable with a busy schedule. Children under six are not recommended, likely due to the length and nature of stops.

Additional notes from reviews

Guests have appreciated the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative. The small group setting fosters a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, allowing questions and interactions. The variety of tastings—ranging from olives to spirits—keeps the day lively and engaging. Reviewers also mention the beautiful scenery and quality of local products as key highlights.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to connect with Kangaroo Island through its flavors, this guided food and wine tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate good food, fine wines, and the stories behind the products they enjoy. The combination of farm visits, tastings, and a scenic picnic ensures a memorable day, especially if you value small-group intimacy and expert guides.

While it’s priced at $393, the inclusion of multiple tastings, a gourmet lunch, and visits to several premium producers makes it an excellent value for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of Kangaroo Island’s culinary scene. It’s best suited for curious, food-loving travelers who want a curated, educational experience that’s both fun and delicious.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll travel in a small, comfortable vehicle suitable for small groups, making for a relaxed journey.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers all admission fees, tastings at farms and wineries, a gourmet picnic lunch with drinks, and a knowledgeable guide.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 6 years old are not suitable for this tour, likely due to the full-day schedule and outdoor activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a positive attitude for sampling and learning. Snacks or extra water are optional but not necessary as drinks are provided.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Absolutely, soft drinks and water are available, and the focus is on tasting and learning rather than drinking alcohol.

This Kangaroo Island food and wine tour offers a thoughtful, delicious exploration of the island’s producers and landscapes. It’s a treat for those wanting to taste the real flavors of South Australia while enjoying the intimate, scenic beauty of Kangaroo Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: