Margies Big Day Out Beer & Wine Tours

Thinking about exploring Margaret River’s famed wine, beer, and food scene? This tour promises a relaxed, well-rounded day experiencing some of the region’s best producers, all wrapped up in a friendly, small-group setting. We’ve looked into what makes this tour a popular choice—and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your getaway.

What we love about this experience:
First, it’s clear the tour is designed for a personal touch, capped at just 15 travelers, which means more room to chat with guides and fellow guests. Second, the inclusion of multiple tastings across wineries, a brewery, and a chocolate stop makes for a genuinely tasty day—no grazing on a single sample, but a proper exploration of flavors. Lastly, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off removes the hassle of navigating public transport, allowing you to relax from start to finish.

One thing to consider is the variability in reviews—some guests rave about the guides and tastings, while others mention rushed stops or issues with transportation. If you’re after a super detailed, educational experience, you might want to dig a little deeper. But overall, this tour suits travelers who want a fun, hassle-free day sampling Margaret River’s best without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals to those seeking a social, relaxed day of wine and beer tasting with a bit of food indulgence. It’s perfect if you value small-group intimacy, transport convenience, and a variety of stops. If your priority is an in-depth regional wine education or a luxury experience, you might want to explore other options. But for most visitors craving a taste of Margaret River’s highlights with good company, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: capped at 15, making for a more personal and lively outing.
• Variety of tastings: includes wines, beers, ciders, chocolates, and a generous lunch.
• Convenient pickup: round-trip transport from your accommodation saves time and hassle.
• Multiple stops: visiting three boutique wineries plus a brewery offers diverse tasting opportunities.
• Mixed reviews: some guests report great guides and wine, others mention rushed stops or logistical issues.
• Value for money: generally well-received for the price, considering the variety and inclusions.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Hotel Pickup and Transport

The tour starts promptly at 10:30am with pickup from your accommodation in Margaret River. The transportation is air-conditioned and designed for comfort, with most guests appreciating the convenience of door-to-door service. A key aspect here is the group size—no large coaches, just a friendly small bus that makes the day feel intimate.

One recurring theme in reviews is the difference in guest experiences based on the driver/guide. Some guests, like Hannah and Chantelle, praised their guides for being friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating, with Dan and Simon receiving particular mention. Conversely, a few reviews mention issues like a noisy, old bus or a guide with limited communication skills, which could impact the overall vibe.

Start at the Margaret River Cheese Factory or Yallingup Cheese

Your first stop involves sampling local cheeses—though, as some reviews note, the cheese tasting is often just a quick entry to the factory rather than an in-depth experience. The Yallingup cheese is a favorite for its delightful selection, but current Covid restrictions mean the cheese tasting might be temporarily unavailable. Still, it’s a nice way to kick off the day and set the tone for local flavor.

Visiting Three Boutique Wineries

The core of the tour is the visits to three wineries, each offering a different vibe and style. For example, guests have raved about Jarvis Estate for its incredible wines and the entertaining sommelier, making it a highlight for many. The winery visits include tastings with fees covered in the price, allowing you to try a range of varieties without extra cost.

Reviewers like Darren and Alison said guides were very knowledgeable and helped bring the experience alive, making the wine tastings more than just sipping—more like learning with a laugh. Others, such as Greg and Steve, appreciated the variety and the relaxed pace, noting that the winery stops were enjoyable and informative.

However, some guests have expressed that the tasting times can feel rushed, especially at Knotting Hill, where tasting was a bit hurried, or that there was limited opportunity to fully savor each wine. A few remarked on the need for more time at certain stops, especially as some venues can get busy.

Lunch at a Boutique Winery

Lunch is included, with an offering of pizza with limited toppings or fish and chips, served at one of the boutique wineries. Many found this simple meal quite satisfying—a good quality pub-style lunch with a complimentary glass of wine or beer. Reviewers like Steve and Hannah loved the lunch, describing it as excellent and a good value add.

That said, a few reviews pointed out that the lunch options were limited, and drinks at the brewery afterward were at your own expense. If you’re hoping for a more elaborate or tailored meal, this might be a consideration.

Chocolate Stop and Other Attractions

A highlight for many is the chocolate tasting—an indulgent, sweet treat that keeps the mood light and fun. Guests appreciated the change of pace between wine and beer tastings. Some reviews mentioned that the chocolate shop is a popular spot, and while it’s not included in the main price, it’s a memorable addition.

Ending at a Brewery

The final stop is at a local brewery, where you can purchase drinks at your own cost. Guests like Hannah and Dan enjoyed hanging out here, appreciating the relaxed vibe and the opportunity to chat with fellow travelers. However, some reviewers found the brewery stop wasn’t quite as engaging as hoped, especially when tastings weren’t included.

Overall Experience and Value

For the price of $115.26 per person, the tour offers a good mix of tastings, sightseeing, and meals, making it a decent value, especially given the hotel pickup and drop-off. Many guests note that the inclusions—tastings, lunch, chocolate—add up quickly compared to similar tours.

That said, some reviews highlight that the experience can be variable, sometimes feeling rushed or limited in education. Experiences can differ depending on guides and timing, but generally, most guests walk away having enjoyed the day and made new friends.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed day sampling the best of Margaret River’s wines and beers without the hassle of organizing transport, this tour is a reliable pick. The small-group format adds a personal touch, and the inclusions of tastings and lunch help you feel you’re getting good value. It’s particularly suitable if you enjoy a social atmosphere and don’t mind some variability in stops and timing.

However, if your priority is a deep dive into wine education, or you prefer a more luxurious, unhurried experience, you might want to explore other options. There are also reviews that mention logistical hiccups and variable guide quality, so do consider your preferences for organization and guide interaction.

Overall, Margies Big Day Out offers a lively, tasty overview of Margaret River’s beverages and local treats—perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free, enjoyable day out with plenty of flavors and good company.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Margaret River, making the day seamless.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time to visit multiple venues without feeling rushed.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, tastings at three wineries, a chocolate factory, and a brewery are included, with tasting fees covered in the ticket price.

Can I buy drinks at the winery and brewery stops?
Absolutely. Drinks at each venue are available at your own expense, so you can purchase what you like and enjoy at your leisure.

Is food provided?
Yes, a simple lunch is included, typically consisting of pizza or fish and chips, with a complimentary glass of wine or beer.

What is the group size?
The tour is capped at 15 travelers, fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Children aged 4-17 are permitted but must be accompanied by an adult. They receive a kids’ meal and soft drink or juice.

This tour is a solid choice for those after a relaxed, friendly taste of Margaret River’s best offerings—perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers wanting an easy, enjoyable day.