Melbourne: Helicopter, Wine Tasting & Lunch in Yarra Valley

Imagine soaring above rolling hills and lush vineyards before settling into a cozy winery for a tasting and a delicious lunch. This helicopter tour combined with a visit to Yarra Valley’s renowned Hubert Estate promises a blend of adventure, fine wine, and culinary delights. The experience caters to those craving a unique perspective of Victoria’s wine country, paired with the comfort of a private, curated journey.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the scenic helicopter flight from Melbourne offers sweeping views you can’t get from the ground — perfect for photo ops. Second, the handpicked wine tasting at Hubert Estate showcases some of the best Victorian varietals, including Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. Third, the gourmet lunch at Quarters Restaurant provides a hearty yet refined meal, with the added bonus of exploring indigenous artworks at the Hubert Gallery.

A potential consideration is the price point, which is higher than typical winery tours, but the exclusivity and the experience of flying make it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a memorable day combining adventure, luxury, and authentic Australian wine culture. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to celebrate a special day with a bit of thrill and a lot of flavor.

Key Points

• Scenic helicopter ride offers unparalleled views of Victoria’s wine country.
• Exclusive private group experience ensures personalized attention.
• Wine tasting includes 8 premium wines, paired with cheese and charcuterie.
• Gourmet lunch at Quarters Restaurant features modern Australian dishes.
• Art appreciation at the Hubert Gallery adds a cultural dimension.
• Duration is approximately 4 hours, blending adventure and leisure seamlessly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

Your adventure begins at Rotor One – Melbourne Helicopter Rides. Expect a quick safety briefing lasting about 10 minutes, where professional guides will prepare you for the flight. This is an important step, especially for first-time helicopter passengers, and the team makes sure everyone is comfortable and informed before takeoff.

The Helicopter Flight

The highlight for many is the 25-minute scenic flight from Melbourne to Yarra Valley. The experience is designed to maximize the visual impact — you’ll glide over the city’s outskirts, then move into the rolling vineyards and hills. Travelers note that being seated by the window with noise-canceling headsets helps you really absorb the sights and sounds. The views are described as “breathtaking,” with some reviewers mentioning the chance to spot local wildlife and patchwork farmland from above.

Arrival at Hubert Estate

Landing directly at the estate lends a touch of exclusivity. Guests are greeted and escorted to the Hubert Estate’s Cellar Door, where the wine tasting begins. The estate boasts a substantial selection of 8 St Hubert’s The Stag wines, including notable Victorian Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Yarra Valley Pinot Noir. Reviewers mention that the wines are thoughtfully paired with cheese, heightening the tasting experience.

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Wine Tasting and Art Exploration

The wine and cheese tasting is more than just sipping wine — it’s an educational experience. Guests learn about the characteristics of each wine and how they complement the accompanying cheeses and charcuterie. Many reviewers appreciated the relaxed pace and the opportunity to ask questions.

Adding a cultural touch, the Hubert Gallery of Art showcases artworks by over 20 indigenous artists, including Polly Ngale and Yannima Tommy Watson. Visitors enjoy learning about the stories behind the artworks, gaining insight into Aboriginal culture and its connection to the land. One reviewer remarked how “the art display added depth” to the visit, making it more than just a wine tasting.

Gourmet Lunch at Quarters Restaurant

Following the tasting, guests are invited to dine at Quarters Restaurant, where the Hungry Hungry Hubert tasting menu features modern Australian dishes. Expect hearty vegetables, local meats, fresh seafood, and woodfired pizza made in an Italian Marana oven. The handmade pasta and pizza are particularly praised for their authenticity and flavor.

Guests often highlight the attention to detail in the menu, which pairs beautifully with the wines. The relaxed, rustic ambiance of Quarters provides a fitting backdrop for enjoying the meal and reflecting on the experience.

Return Flight and Final Moments

The return journey takes another 25-minute helicopter flight back to Melbourne. Some reviews mention that the sights from above on the way back are equally stunning, providing a fitting end to the day. The entire experience, including transportation and guided commentary, lasts around 4 hours, making it a full but well-paced adventure.

Practical Notes

• Group size is limited to private groups, ensuring a tailored experience.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating different needs.
• The experience includes skip-the-line access, saving time and adding convenience.
• It’s suitable for those over 3 years old and under 300 lbs (136 kg).
• Flexible cancellations allow full refunds if canceled up to 3 days in advance.

Analyzing the Value

While this experience is priced higher than standard wine tours, you’re paying for the unique combination of aerial views, exclusive private group attention, and curated tasting and dining. For special occasions, it offers exceptional value — blending adventure with gourmet pleasures. The inclusion of indigenous art also enriches the cultural aspect, making it more than just a wine trip.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for romantic getaways, special celebrations, or adventurous wine lovers eager to see Yarra Valley from a new perspective. It suits those who value quality and exclusivity and are willing to invest in a memorable experience. If you’re not comfortable with helicopter travel or are on a tight budget, more traditional tours might be better suited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 3 years old are welcome, but they must be able to sit safely in the helicopter. The tour is not suitable for children under 3.

How long does the entire experience last?
The whole tour, including the helicopter flights, wine tasting, art exploration, and lunch, takes about 4 hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the helicopter flight safe?
Absolutely. The guides provide a thorough safety briefing, and Rotor One – Melbourne Helicopter Rides is a professional operator.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample 8 wines, including Victorian Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Yarra Valley Pinot Noir, all curated to highlight the region’s best.

Is the lunch included in the price?
Yes, the gourmet lunch at Quarters Restaurant, featuring a variety of modern Australian dishes, is part of the experience.

Is there a cultural component to the tour?
Yes, the visit to the Hubert Gallery of Art adds an appreciation for indigenous artworks and stories from Australian Aboriginal artists.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a helicopter flight and outdoor sightseeing. It’s advisable to bring layers, as the weather can vary.

Can I request a private group?
Yes, this tour is designed for private groups, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne helicopter and wine tour offers a rare combination of aerial adventure, wine expertise, gourmet dining, and cultural discovery. It’s a perfect pick for those wanting to elevate their Yarra Valley experience beyond the usual. The blend of scenic views, premium wines, and local art makes it a well-rounded, memorable day out.

While the price may be on the higher side, the exclusivity and variety ensure that it feels like a true treat — ideal for celebrating a special occasion or experiencing Victoria’s wine country in style. For travelers craving something more than a typical winery visit, this tour delivers an authentic, carefully curated adventure that you’ll remember long after the helicopter lands back in Melbourne.

You can check availability for your dates here: