Bellarine Peninsula Public Winery Tour – Lunch Included

Introduction

If you’re looking to explore some of Victoria’s best-kept wine secrets without the fuss of a private tour, the Bellarine Peninsula Public Winery Tour offers a relaxed yet rich experience. This full-day adventure balances tasting, stunning scenery, and good company, making it ideal for those who want a laid-back but high-quality vineyard hop.

What we love about this tour is its curated stops that highlight regional specialties, the inclusion of a delicious vineyard lunch, and the small group format that makes the day feel intimate and personal. Plus, the tour’s flexibility allows for a genuine connection with local winemakers and cider artisans.

One possible consideration? The tour’s price of around $158 might seem high for some, but when you factor in the quality of wineries, the included lunch, and the personalized experience, it’s a solid value. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic wine experiences, scenic landscapes, and a bit of culinary indulgence—all within a comfortable day trip from Melbourne.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized attention
• Quality wineries like Scotchmans Hill and Leura Park Estate showcase regional excellence
• Lunch with wine at Jack Rabbit offers stunning views and regional flavors
• Diverse experiences, from premium wines to cider tasting at Flying Brick
• Efficient itinerary balances vineyard visits with ample tasting opportunities
• Convenient meeting point in Melbourne and easy booking with free cancellation options

Exploring the Bellarine Peninsula Winery Tour

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at 54 Russell St, Melbourne, bright and early at 9:00 am. From there, you’re whisked away on a comfortable vehicle, with a max group size of 10 travelers—ideal for a relaxed yet social atmosphere.

Scotchmans Hill Winery – A Classic Start

The first stop is Scotchmans Hill, a renowned, multi-award-winning winery. Its reputation as one of Victoria’s top 100 wineries is well-deserved. Visitors often comment on its secluded setting and cozy architecture, which create an intimate tasting environment. The winery has been a local favorite for over 30 years, emphasizing quality and tradition.

While admission isn’t included, the experience here is about appreciating their craftsmanship and history. If you’re a wine lover, you’ll appreciate the chance to taste an array of wines crafted with care in a setting that feels like a hidden gem away from the commercial hustle.

Jack Rabbit Vineyard – Scenic Lunch and Views

Next, you arrive at Jack Rabbit Vineyard, where a highlight is the panoramic view. The winery’s restaurant and cellar door are positioned to give sweeping vistas across the bay toward Melbourne, the You Yangs, and Geelong. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious vineyard lunch paired with a glass of their fine wine.

Guests have described Jack Rabbit as offering the “ultimate regional experience,” blending culinary delights with scenic beauty. The 1 hour 30 minutes allocated is enough to relax, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Leura Park Estate – French-Style Elegance

The afternoon includes a visit to Leura Park Estate, a boutique vineyard known for its 100% estate-grown, hand-picked grapes. Their wines reflect a French influence, with subtlety and sophistication. Visitors often remark on the “distinctive and delightful” wines that showcase grape integrity and traditional methods.

This stop is perfect for those interested in the winemaking process and the artistry behind boutique wines. The 45-minute visit allows ample time to taste and chat with staff about their meticulous approach.

Flying Brick Cider Co – A Refreshing Finale

For a change of pace, the tour ends at Flying Brick Cider Co, which offers something unique—a selection of maritime climate wines and craft ciders. This exclusive Bellarine operation produces cider and wines not available elsewhere in Australia, making it a special treat.

Guests have appreciated the variety here, noting that if you’ve had enough wine, trying the ciders provides a refreshing alternative. The 45-minute stop lets you sample and purchase your favorites, rounding out a well-balanced tasting day.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable vehicle, with a maximum of 10 travelers—ensuring a cozy, friendly atmosphere. This small group size helps facilitate genuine interactions with guides and winemakers, often cited as a highlight in reviews.

Duration and Timing

Spanning roughly 8 hours, the tour starts at 9:00 am and concludes back in Melbourne, making it easy to plan your day around. The schedule balances travel, tastings, and meals, so you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed.

Price and Value

At $158.05 per person, the tour delivers good value considering it includes tastings at four different venues and a substantial vineyard lunch. While not the cheapest option, the small group size, quality stops, and the scenic setting justify the expense for many travelers.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking is straightforward with a mobile ticket option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour gives flexibility in case your plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviews

While the tour doesn’t have reviews listed here, the provided feedback hints at what you can expect. Guests have described the experience as a “relaxed, high-quality fun day,” emphasizing the scenic views and excellent wines. The small group format and personal interactions seem to enhance the overall experience, making it less like a generic tour and more like a day with friends.

Tips for a Great Day

• Wear comfortable shoes for vineyard walks and scenic views
• Bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor tasting stops
• Arrive early to fully enjoy the scenic vistas at Jack Rabbit
• Prepare to purchase some bottles if you find favorites—many guests do!

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Victoria’s regional wines in a relaxed setting. It also appeals to food lovers, thanks to the scenic vineyard lunch, and those who enjoy small-group, personalized experiences. If you’re looking for a day of scenic views, quality tastings, and a touch of local charm, this tour is a solid pick.

However, if you’re after a more intense or commercial winery experience, or prefer larger groups, you may find this tour a bit laid-back. For most, it offers a delightful balance of education, indulgence, and scenic beauty.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides transportation in a comfortable vehicle from Melbourne, with a small group size.

How long is the tour from start to finish?
Expect the entire experience to last around 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Melbourne later in the day.

Are tasting fees included?
No, tasting fees at each winery are not included, but most guests find the experience worth the extra cost.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for walking around vineyards and scenic outdoor areas.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed to be relaxed and accessible.

How many wineries are visited?
Four main stops: Scotchmans Hill, Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Leura Park Estate, and Flying Brick Cider Co.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a vineyard lunch at Jack Rabbit is included in the tour price.

Final Thoughts

The Bellarine Peninsula Public Winery Tour offers a genuine taste of Victoria’s wine scene combined with stunning coastal views and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s especially suited for those who want quality over quantity, small-group intimacy, and a balanced mix of wine, scenery, and good food.

For travelers seeking an authentic, well-organized day out that captures the essence of Victoria’s regional wines and beautiful landscapes, this tour is a dependable choice. Its value lies in the curated stops, personal guide interaction, and scenic setting—all within a manageable, enjoyable day trip from Melbourne.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover, a casual sipper, or someone eager to explore Victoria’s wine culture, this tour offers a memorable, authentic experience that’s hard to beat for price and quality.