Personalised wine tour experience in the beautiful NSW Southern Highlands

If you’re seeking a relaxed, tailored day exploring some of New South Wales’ most charming wineries and scenic spots, a private wine tour in the Southern Highlands might be just what you need. This curated experience offers the chance to enjoy boutique wineries, local attractions, and the company of a knowledgeable guide — all without the crowds and on your own terms.

We especially appreciate the flexibility to choose the wineries you visit, the intimate size of the group, and the chance to explore lesser-known cafes and picnic spots. That said, it’s worth noting that this experience is best suited for those who enjoy a flexible, personalized approach to wine tasting rather than a structured, group tour. If you prefer a bespoke day with local insights, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: You decide which wineries and local spots to visit, making each trip unique.
• Expert local guide: Peter’s regional knowledge ensures you get insightful commentary and tailored recommendations.
• Exclusive access: Entry to the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame is included, combining wine with a bit of local history.
• Comfortable private transport: No crowded buses—just your group in a private vehicle for maximum comfort.
• Flexible itinerary: The tour can include visits to boutique wineries, cafes, or picnic spots based on your preferences.
• Great for small groups: Limited to a maximum of 4 people, perfect for intimate, relaxed outings.

Why We Love This Tour

This wine tour hits a sweet spot for those craving a more personal, relaxed way to discover the Southern Highlands. The highlight for us was the ability to shape the day around our interests — whether that’s a specific winery, a scenic picnic, or a visit to local museums. Having a local guide like Peter means you get a richer experience, filled with insider tips and stories you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

Plus, the inclusion of the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame adds a fun cultural twist, making this a well-rounded day that combines wine, history, and picturesque scenery. The small group size fosters a cozy, friendly atmosphere, and the private transport ensures you’re not rushing or squeezed into a crowded bus.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves a fair amount of flexibility and customization. If you prefer a fixed itinerary with little room for changes, a more traditional group tour might suit you better. But for those who value a bespoke experience, the Southern Highlands wine tour delivered on that promise.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre

Your day begins at the Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre, which acts as a starting point for your adventure. Here, the tour provider can take you to lesser-known cafes and picnic spots that aren’t on the typical tourist trail, giving you a taste of local life and hidden gems.

Reviewers rave about this aspect, noting that your guide, Pete, knows exactly where to take you for authentic, quiet spots away from the crowds. For instance, Frank, a recent guest, said, “Pete was a knowledgeable, friendly guide. He personally introduced us at each winery, and made our lunch reservation for us. Top notch guide of the area, we enjoyed our great day with Pete!”

Stop 2: Boutique Wineries in the Highlands

The core of the tour is the visit to boutique wineries, including must-visits like Tertini and Sutton Forest Estate Wines. These smaller wineries offer a more personal tasting experience, often with the winemakers themselves involved, which rounds out the experience far better than large commercial wineries.

Travelers can expect to sample a variety of wines, enjoy scenic vineyard views, and learn about the regional winemaking style. The tour emphasizes the “Highland Difference”, a term that hints at the region’s unique climate and terroir affecting the wine’s character.

The flexibility here is a big advantage. You and your guide, Peter, can decide how long to spend at each winery or whether to add extra stops at local cafes or scenic lookouts. This makes each trip genuinely customized.

Additional Options: Scenic Spots and Museums

While the wineries are the main draw, the tour can also include visits to the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame—a highlight for cricket fans or those interested in Australian sports history. Entrance is included, making it easy to add an extra cultural layer to your day.

The guide’s local knowledge shines here; reviewers have appreciated the ability to explore different facets of the region. For instance, you might explore quiet picnic spots or stop for coffee at charming cafes only locals know.

Transportation and Duration

The tour lasts around 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am. The use of a private vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, with plenty of room for your group of up to 4 people. The fact that pickup is offered simplifies planning, and the mobile ticket format makes it easy to manage.

The private nature of this tour means you won’t be rushed by large groups, and the pace is entirely up to you. This is especially useful if you want to linger at a winery, take photos, or enjoy a relaxed lunch.

Pricing and Value

At $166.11 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the personalized service, private transportation, and inclusions like museum entry. When you consider the cost of individual winery tastings, transport, and the personalized attention you receive, it adds up to a worthwhile expense for an authentic, relaxed experience.

Since the tour is booked on average 37 days in advance, it’s clear that many travelers find this to be a desirable and flexible option. The chance to customize your day and skip the crowds makes it a compelling choice for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently rate this experience a perfect 5 out of 5. Frank, who traveled from the US, emphasized the quality of the guide, noting Pete’s friendly manner and extensive regional knowledge. His personal touch, like handling lunch reservations and introductions at each winery, can make a significant difference in creating a memorable day.

Others have appreciated the mix of scenic views, boutique wineries, and cultural stops, highlighting that the tour balances wine tasting with cultural exploration and local insight.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for small groups or families who want a flexible, intimate day exploring the Southern Highlands. It’s perfect for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, or those simply looking to enjoy a scenic drive with personalized stops. Since it involves some walking and winery visits, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a relaxed, day-long outing.

If you prefer structured group tours with set schedules, you might find this too adaptable. But for travelers craving a custom experience with local flavor, this tour offers a fantastic value.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a relaxed, tailor-made day exploring some of the best boutique wineries in the NSW Southern Highlands, this private tour offers immense value. The presence of a knowledgeable guide like Peter ensures you get insider insights and personalized attention, adding depth and authenticity to your experience. The combination of winery visits, cultural stops, and scenic spots makes it a well-rounded day out.

The small group size and private transport mean you’ll enjoy a comfortable, intimate atmosphere, perfect for conversation and exploring at your own pace. The flexibility to choose your stops, combined with the inclusion of museum entry, elevates this from a standard tasting tour to a memorable, customized adventure.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history buff, or simply someone looking to enjoy the beauty of the Southern Highlands without the crowds, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s a finely balanced mix of relaxation, discovery, and personal connection, making it a standout choice for a bespoke day in New South Wales.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

Can I customize which wineries I visit?
Absolutely. This tour is designed for you and your guide to decide together which wineries and spots to include, based on your preferences.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Service animals are allowed; while the tour is primarily wine-focused, the relaxed pace and private transport make it suitable for families with children or those with special needs.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 4 people, which allows for a more private, relaxed experience.

What attractions are included?
Entry to the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame is included, alongside visits to boutique wineries and local cafes.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 37 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $166.11 per person, which covers private transport, guide services, museum entry, and the flexibility of a personalized itinerary.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be flexible and accommodating.

What makes this tour different from other wine experiences?
The key difference is its personalized approach, with a local guide customizing your day, and the intimate group setting that avoids the typical bus crowds.

This personalized Southern Highlands wine tour combines the joy of discovering boutique wineries with the comfort of tailored, private experiences. With expert guides, scenic stops, and cultural highlights, it offers an authentic taste of regional Australia that’s hard to beat.