Private Helicopter Winery Lunch at Jack Rabbit on the Bellarine

Planning a special day out in Victoria and looking for something that combines breathtaking scenery, fine food, and excellent wine? This private helicopter tour to Jack Rabbit Vineyard offers just that—an immersive experience that elevates your typical winery visit to a memorable adventure. While it’s priced at $985.31 per person, many find the combination of scenic flight, exclusive vineyard access, and gourmet dining well worth the cost.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the stunning aerial views of Melbourne and Geelong make the flight itself worth the splurge. Then, there’s the award-winning wines and a three-course gourmet lunch that showcases local flavors at the renowned Jack Rabbit Restaurant. Lastly, the personalized touch of a private landing at the vineyard ensures an intimate, distraction-free experience—ideal for special celebrations or a luxurious escape.

A possible consideration for travelers is the weather dependency—adverse weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling. So, flexible dates and a backup plan might be necessary. This tour suits those who love luxury travel, scenic adventures, and wine tastings, especially if you’re keen on combining aerial views with a gourmet experience.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Melbourne, Geelong, and the Bellarine Peninsula.
• Private helicopter landing ensures an exclusive experience.
• Gourmet three-course lunch with local wines at Jack Rabbit Restaurant.
• The award-winning wines include Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, and more.
• The tour is weather-dependent, so check forecast conditions.
• Ideal for celebrations, wine lovers, and adventure seekers.

An Unmatched Scenic Journey

Starting at Melbourne’s Essendon Fields, the helicopter ride offers an exciting way to see the city from above—something that appeals to both travel enthusiasts and those looking for a unique perspective on Victoria. Passing over the Melbourne CBD at 1,500 ft, the views are sweeping, with the city’s skyline gradually giving way to the lush landscapes of the You Yangs National Park and the Bellarine Peninsula.

The flight duration of about 1 hour and 15 minutes grants ample opportunity to enjoy panoramic vistas, snap photos, and soak in the scenery. Many reviewers have mentioned that the flight alone is a highlight, with one noting it was “an incredible way to see Melbourne and the surrounding areas from a whole new angle.” The fly-over Avalon Airport and docklands add interesting sights, giving you a comprehensive aerial tour of the region’s key landmarks.

The Exclusive Landing at Jack Rabbit Vineyard

After the scenic flight, you’ll land directly at the Jack Rabbit Vineyard, perched atop the Bellarine Peninsula. This private landing is a rare treat—most winery tours involve bus or car tours, but flying in offers a sense of luxury and exclusivity. Once on the ground, you’re welcomed into a setting that has earned multiple awards for both its food and wine.

The vineyard’s location provides sweeping views over the surrounding fields, with the winery’s cool-climate wines producing notable varieties like Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, and Cabernet Shiraz. A major advantage here is the personalized experience—with your own group, you get more attention from staff and a chance to ask specific questions about the wines, vineyard practices, and food pairings.

Gourmet Lunch with Award-Winning Wines

The culinary highlight of the tour is the three-course lunch at Jack Rabbit Restaurant, renowned for its fine dining and creative menu. Dishes like smoked kangaroo loin and confit duck leg showcase local ingredients prepared with finesse, while lighter options like the new vegan menu cater to dietary preferences. The sweetcorn fondant and warm pear and ginger quinoa cake are often praised as innovative and flavorful.

Each meal is paired with award-winning wines picked directly from the vineyard, allowing you to taste the difference that fine craftsmanship makes. Reviewers have remarked on the “delicious food and excellent wine,” emphasizing that it’s a perfect pairing of scenery and flavor. The restaurant’s elevated setting means you’ll enjoy your meal with spectacular views, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Scenic Flight Over the Bellarine Peninsula

After lunch, the helicopter circles back over Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, offering a bird’s-eye view of the coastline, beaches, and rolling hills. Many describe this part of the flight as “breathtaking,” with some noting how the views of the You Yangs and Geelong are particularly striking.

The entire experience, including the fly-over of the Bellarine, adds a sense of adventure and discovery, making the day feel like a well-curated escape. It’s a rare opportunity to combine wildlife, vineyards, and cityscapes during a single trip.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Duration: Just under 4 hours, which balances travel time, flight, and dining.
• Cost: $985.31 per person—premium pricing, but many feel the exclusivity, scenery, and gourmet experience justify the expense.
• Group Size: Private tour, so your group is the only one participating. This enhances intimacy and tailored service.
• Weather Dependency: Since the experience relies on good weather, poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Accessibility: Near public transit options, but most guests might find car or taxi the most convenient due to the location.
• Weight Limit: Each passenger is capped at 300 lbs, which is standard for helicopter safety.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While the experience is relatively new and thus has limited formal reviews, early feedback points to high satisfaction with the spectacular scenery and delicious food. One reviewer mentioned that “the views from the helicopter were worth every penny,” highlighting how the scenic aspect alone makes the tour a worthwhile splurge. Guests also appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to enjoy a luxury wine and dine experience in a beautiful setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for celebrating special occasions, such as anniversaries or milestone birthdays, thanks to its exclusivity and luxury vibe. It also suits wine enthusiasts eager to taste local varieties paired with gourmet dishes. Adventure lovers who want an unforgettable aerial view of Victoria will find this a perfect match.

However, travelers should be prepared for weather limitations and the high price point, making it more suitable for those seeking a premium, once-in-a-lifetime experience rather than an everyday outing.

The Sum Up

The Private Helicopter Winery Lunch at Jack Rabbit offers an impressive combination of scenic flight, exclusive vineyard access, and exquisite dining. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of Melbourne, Geelong, and the Bellarine Peninsula, paired with award-winning wines and carefully curated cuisine. It’s a luxurious escape that elevates a typical winery visit into a memorable adventure.

While the experience is priced at a premium, the intimacy, exclusivity, and stunning visuals provide significant value for those looking to splurge on a special day out. Whether celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself, this tour delivers a unique blend of adventure and indulgence—perfect for travelers with a taste for the finer things in life.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including the flight, wine tasting, and lunch.

What is the flight duration?
The scenic helicopter flight itself is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Rotor One – Melbourne Helicopter Rides at Essendon Fields and finishes back at the same location.

What is included in the lunch menu?
Guests can enjoy a three-course gourmet meal, with options including smoked kangaroo, confit duck, and vegan choices, paired with local wines.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but it is weather-dependent, and there is a weight limit of 300 lbs per passenger. It’s best suited for those who enjoy luxury and scenic adventures.

Can I reschedule or get a refund?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are group discounts available?
Yes, since the tour is private, it’s designed for your group only, with no mention of group discounts, but the exclusivity adds to the value.

This tour offers a luxurious way to explore Victoria’s stunning landscapes, sample award-winning wines, and indulge in a gourmet meal—all while flying in a helicopter. Perfect for those who want an extraordinary experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight.