Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail

If you’re searching for a way to combine excellent food, stunning scenery, and a bit of local flavor in Melbourne’s surrounds, the Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail promises just that. This full-day experience takes you beyond the city limits, exploring both the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas with stops at renowned wineries, breweries, and scenic viewpoints—all sprinkled with delicious tastings and a relaxing cruise on Port Phillip Bay.

We’re particularly drawn to how this tour balances wine and beer tastings, a scenic cruise, and iconic sights, all wrapped into one seamless package. Plus, from the glowing reviews, it’s clear that guides like Margaret and Brooke truly elevate the experience with their local knowledge and friendly attitude. The tour’s value seems especially high given the included lunch and all tastings, making it a full-day adventure with plenty of variety.

One thing to keep in mind is that, at around 10 hours, it’s quite a long day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full schedules. If you’re a fan of scenic drives, local wines, and scenic coastal vistas, this tour has plenty to offer without feeling rushed or superficial.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day experience covering two regions with diverse tastings.
• Excellent value with included lunch, tastings, and cruise.
• Knowledgeable guides and smooth organization elevate the trip.
• Stunning scenery and iconic sights like Bathing Boxes and Murray’s Lookout.
• Relaxing cruise with dolphin sightings, adding a unique touch.
• Small group size (max 21 travelers) for a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Geelong Waterfront

The day begins at Geelong’s beautiful waterfront, where you can breathe in the fresh ocean air and enjoy a leisurely walk along the esplanade. This part of the tour sets a relaxed tone and offers a quick glimpse of the area’s lively coastal vibe. One reviewer loved this intro, mentioning the “brilliant day from pickup to drop off,” appreciating how the guide, Margaret, made everyone feel at ease right from the start.

Scotchmans Hill Winery

Next, we head to Scotchmans Hill Winery on the Bellarine Peninsula. Set amidst lush vineyards, this winery is housed in a charming French provincial-style barn. Here, you’ll get to sample a variety of wines in a picturesque setting—an experience that fans of wine will appreciate. The reviews highlight the quality of the vineyards, with one guest noting the “outstanding” vineyards and brewery. The tasting here offers a good introduction to the region’s wine scene.

Jack Rabbit Vineyard and Lunch

The lunch stop at Jack Rabbit Vineyard is often singled out for being a highlight. Known for its breathtaking views and acclaimed eateries, this spot feels like a favorite local hangout. The house of Jack Rabbit Café provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed meal, paired with a glass of wine, which the tour includes. Reviewers mention the “epic eateries” and the sense of being in a place that locals often don’t want to leave, emphasizing the quality of both the food and the setting.

Scenic Searoad Ferries Cruise

After lunch, the tour takes a delightful detour onto Port Phillip Bay via the Searoad Ferries. During the ferry ride, you can enjoy a Devonshire tea—a quintessentially Australian treat—while watching for dolphins that occasionally swim alongside. One guest fondly recalled spotting dolphins from the ferry, making this part of the trip both scenic and interactive.

Beer Tasting at St Andrews Beach Brewery

Moving inland, the tour stops at St Andrews Beach Brewery, a craft brewery located in a former horse training facility. Here, the atmosphere is laid-back, and you can indulge in a beer paddle tasting while observing the brewers at work. Reviewers appreciate the experience, noting that the brewery’s unique history adds character. It’s a chance to see more of Australia’s craft beer scene, a favorite for those who enjoy a good local brew.

Murrays Lookout and Iconic Bathing Boxes

The visit to Arthurs Seat and Murrays Lookout offers sweeping panoramic views of the bay and Melbourne’s skyline—perfect for photo ops or simply soaking in the scenery. Later, the Bathing Boxes on the Mornington Peninsula provide a quintessential summer postcard backdrop. Their vibrant colors against the ocean’s backdrop are often called “to die for,” and many guests enjoy strolling past these famous structures, as one reviewer mentioned, highlighting the area’s iconic summer vibe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s price of $143.45 per person covers a lot. You get lunch at the vineyard, all wine, beer, and cruise tastings, as well as transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The small group size (up to 21 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

However, it’s worth noting that snacks and gratuities are not included, so you might want to bring some extra cash or snacks if you get hungry between stops. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, a clear, sunny day will make the sightseeing and cruise even more enjoyable.

The Value Proposition

Considering all the inclusions—lunch, tastings, scenic cruise, and guided commentary—this tour offers excellent value. Guests consistently mention how well-organized it is, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guides like Margaret and Brooke, who make the day both informative and fun. One guest described the day as “great value for money,” which echoes how many feel about the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food and wine lovers who appreciate a leisurely, curated day out. It’s also perfect for those seeking scenic coastal views combined with tasting experiences, without the hassle of organizing their own transport or bookings. If you enjoy small group tours with friendly guides, this one delivers.

It’s suited for travelers who are comfortable spending a full 10 hours on their feet, and are keen on a mix of relaxed sightseeing, tastings, and a bit of adventure on the water. Families, couples, and groups of friends will all find something to love here, especially if they’re looking to enjoy Melbourne’s surrounds in a well-paced, engaging way.

FAQs

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from central locations in Melbourne are provided, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 10 hours, giving plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes wine tastings at Scotchmans Hill, a glass of wine at Jack Rabbit, and beer tasting at St Andrews Brewery, as well as the cruise.

Is the cruise optional?
The cruise is an integral part of the itinerary, offering scenic views and dolphin sightings, so it’s included as part of the full experience.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
While tastings are included, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic cruise, sightseeing, and lunch, but should inform the tour provider in advance.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 39 days in advance, likely due to high demand, especially during peak seasons.

What’s the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 21 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the full day may be lengthy for very young children. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full itinerary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning views. Some snacks might also be handy if you’re a nibbling type.

Final Thoughts

The Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail offers a thoughtfully curated way to explore Melbourne’s surrounding regions with a focus on local flavors, scenic beauty, and relaxed enjoyment. Its combination of vineyard visits, craft beers, a scenic ferry cruise, and iconic sights makes it a well-rounded day out that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a scenic lover, or just looking for a fun, hassle-free way to experience the coast, this tour ticks all the boxes. The highly positive reviews, fantastic guides, and outstanding value all point to a memorable day—one you’ll likely want to repeat or recommend.

For those who want to indulge in local wines, enjoy breathtaking views, and discover the relaxed charm of Melbourne’s peninsulas, this experience is a superb choice. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to learn and taste in good company, appreciating a well-organized, authentic local adventure.