Collie Hike & Paddle Gourmet Grazing Experience

If you’re after a day that combines nature, good food, and a splash of adventure, the Collie Hike & Paddle Gourmet Grazing Experience might just be the perfect fit. Though we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a thoughtfully curated day that appeals to both nature lovers and foodies alike. From kayaking along peaceful waters to sampling local wines and gourmet treats, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of Western Australia’s South West.

What we love about this tour is its seamless blend of outdoor activity with relaxing indulgence—think paddling calm rivers lined with majestic trees, enjoying scenic walks, and then unwinding with a cheese platter and local wines. We also appreciate the inclusion of a vibrant mural, adding an artistic flair to the day. The only thing to consider is the weather—since the tour relies heavily on outdoor activities, a poor forecast could impact the experience. This is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of gentle adventure, scenic landscapes, and good food in a small-group setting.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines kayaking, walking, and tasting experiences for a diverse day out.
• Authentic regional flavors: Features local gourmet grazing boards, wines, and craft beers.
• Scenic highlights: Includes the Wellington Dam mural and tranquil Collie River views.
• Expert guides: Known for knowledgeable, engaging guides like Mikie and Kym.
• Small group: Max of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Weather-dependent: As an outdoor-focused tour, good weather is essential for the best experience.

Discovering the Tour Overview

The Collie Hike & Paddle Gourmet Grazing Experience is a full-day adventure designed to showcase some of Western Australia’s most captivating sights and flavors. Starting from Baldivis, WA, the tour takes you through a carefully planned itinerary that balances outdoor exploration with culinary delights. It’s ideal for those who seek a less conventional way to explore the region, combining scenic views with a laid-back, social atmosphere.

This tour is priced at $0.00, which might seem odd at first glance, but it indicates that the experience is offered at no cost, perhaps as part of a promotional or package deal. What matters more is the value packed into the nine-hour journey, which includes everything from kayaking and hiking to tastings and local storytelling.

Itinerary Breakdown

Morning Start and Artistic Sightseeing

The adventure kicks off at the BP Baldivis Southbound meeting point, where your guides will greet you and set the tone for the day. The first stop is a coffee break at The Crooked Carrot Cafe, a chance to fuel up and get excited about the day ahead. Sipping on quality coffee, you’ll get to chat with your guides about what’s coming next.

The next highlight is a visit to the Wellington Dam Mural, the biggest in the world, painted by the renowned artist Guido Van Helten. This massive mural is a visual marvel, and the surrounding area offers excellent photo opportunities. The mural adds an artistic touch to the natural beauty and gives insight into local cultural pride.

Scenic Walk and Morning Tea

Following the mural, you’ll enjoy a 3 km guided hike around Honeymoon Pool, a tranquil spot perfect for stretching your legs. This walk offers a chance to appreciate the lush forests of jarrah and marri trees, which dominate the landscape. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of water cascading and the possibility of spotting kangaroos, turtles, or water birds, as noted in reviews praising the natural wildlife sightings.

After the walk, you’ll settle in for morning tea at the cascades — a peaceful pause amid nature’s splendor, giving you time to relax and enjoy the sounds of flowing water.

Kayaking and River Exploration

The central part of the day is a 2-hour paddle on the Collie River. This calm, scenic waterway is lined with tall jarrah and marri trees, providing a stunning backdrop as you glide along in your kayak. The tranquil waters make for an easy paddle, even for beginners, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife adds an authentic touch. One reviewer mentioned that, “the kayaking at Minninup Pool was a great spot,” highlighting how peaceful and picturesque this part of the tour is.

The small group size (max 10) ensures that guides like Mikie and Kym can provide personalized tips and a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Many found guides to be knowledgeable, fun, and calming—perfect for keeping the mood light and enjoyable.

Gourmet Grazing and Wine Tasting

After working up an appetite, the journey shifts to the Harris River Estate Winery. Here, you’ll indulge in a gourmet grazing board featuring local cured meats, cheese, chorizo croquettes, meatballs, Turkish bread, and dips. This is no rushed snack—reviewers mention the food as plentiful and hit the spot, offering a true taste of regional flavors.

Accompanying the grazing is a wine flight or beer/gin options, making this part of the experience a lovely, relaxed tasting session. Guests have shared that the wine selection is excellent, and the pairing with local cheeses and meats elevates the experience to something special. One reviewer noted, “we washed it down with a few wines,” emphasizing how well the pairing works in this scenic setting.

Final Relaxation and Reflection

The tour concludes with a return transfer back to Baldivis, leaving you with lasting impressions of natural beauty, good food, and new friends. Anyone who appreciates thoughtfully curated outdoor experiences and authentic regional flavors will find this tour both memorable and enjoyable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Mikie and Kym receive praise for their friendly, calming demeanor and deep local knowledge. They add a personal touch, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Stunning Natural Settings: From the mural to Minninup Pool to the Collie River, every stop offers beautiful scenery. The combination of water, forest, and art creates a well-rounded visual experience.

Delicious Food and Drink: The gourmet grazing board features locally sourced cheeses, meats, and dips, paired with a curated selection of wines or craft beers. Reviewers have described the food as plentiful and satisfying, ideal for a leisurely lunch.

Authentic Wildlife Sightings: The chance to see kangaroos, turtles, and water birds along the river adds an authentic touch that keeps the experience grounded in nature.

Small Group Size: With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour feels intimate, allowing for personalized interactions and less crowding during activities.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the tour boosts a high value for what it offers, keep in mind that weather plays a critical role. Since activities are outdoors — kayaking, hiking, and walking — poor weather could lead to cancellations or changes. The tour does offer a full refund if canceled due to weather or low numbers, so planning around the forecast is wise.

Participants should bring bottled water to stay hydrated, especially during the kayaking and walking segments. The tour includes snacks, hot drinks, and all necessary kayaking gear, so you only need to dress comfortably and wear suitable footwear.

Transport is provided to and from Baldivis, which makes logistics straightforward. The tour lasts around 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day—ideal for those wanting an immersive experience rather than just a quick outing.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy gentle adventure, scenic landscapes, and cultural touches like murals and local food. It’s also well-suited for small groups or friends looking for a relaxed, social day with plenty of opportunities to chat, relax, and indulge.

Travelers who want a break from typical sightseeing tours—combined with a healthy dose of nature, art, and regional flavors—will find this experience fulfilling. It’s also great for those who appreciate supporting local producers and want to enjoy authentic regional delicacies.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the kayaking is described as calm and suitable even for beginners. The small group size and guided approach make it accessible for most travelers, but children should be comfortable in water and on outdoor walks.

What should I bring?
Bring bottled water, comfortable clothing, and footwear suitable for walking and kayaking. Sunscreen and hats are recommended for outdoor exposure.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. You can opt for the beer/gin/wine tasting or simply enjoy the grazing board and non-alcoholic beverages available.

How long is the kayaking segment?
The kayaking lasts about 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the calm waters and scenic surroundings at Minninup Pool.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What is included in the tour?
All kayaking gear, life jackets, dry sacks, guided hike, snacks, hot drinks, a grazing board, and a wine/beer/gin tasting paddle are included.

What if the weather is bad on the day?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at BP Baldivis Southbound, 192 Leary Rd, and returns there after the day’s activities.

Final Thoughts

The Collie Hike & Paddle Gourmet Grazing Experience offers a rich, authentic taste of Western Australia’s South West. It masterfully combines scenic outdoor activities with gourmet regional flavors, all in an intimate setting with expert guides. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone looking to try something different, this tour provides a well-rounded day that delivers both relaxation and adventure.

With its focus on small-group intimacy, stunning scenery, and delicious local fare, it stands out as a meaningful way to explore this beautiful part of Australia. Just remember to pack your sense of curiosity and a weather-appropriate wardrobe, and you’re in for a memorable adventure.

Note: Always confirm weather conditions and booking policies in advance to ensure a smooth experience.