Small Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour

Discover the Flavors of Kangaroo Island With the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour

This small-group tour of Kangaroo Island promises more than just wildlife sightings; it’s a carefully curated journey into the island’s thriving food and drink scene. With a maximum of just six travelers, this experience offers intimacy, expert guidance, and the chance to truly savor the local produce. From honey and eucalyptus oils to award-winning wines and spirits, you’ll get a taste of what makes Kangaroo Island’s food scene so unique.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the personalized vibe thanks to the smaller group size. Secondly, the focus on local artisans ensures authentic, high-quality tastings. Finally, the flexible drop-off options make it easy to fit into your broader travel plans. The only consideration? It’s a full-day experience if you opt for the full itinerary, so be prepared for a day packed with flavor and scenic stops.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those keen to explore Kangaroo Island beyond its famous wildlife. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth day with expert guides and premium tastings, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized and relaxed experience
• Includes a gourmet lunch with local produce at Cactus Cafe
• Tastings of award-winning wines, gins, and spirits from local artisans
• Expert driver and 4WD vehicle handle backcountry roads comfortably
• Flexible drop-off options make it easy to continue your day in Kangaroo Island
• Authentic local products like honey, eucalyptus oil, and lavender

Why Consider the Small-Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour?

This tour offers a fantastic blend of scenic exploration and culinary discovery, with the intimacy of a small-group setting. Travel becomes more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect to the local culture through its food and drink. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll gain insights into the island’s rich artisan scene, making each tasting and stop feel special.

The tour’s cost of $257.90 per person may seem steep at first, but when you factor in the inclusions—tastings, lunch, premium transport, and personalized service—the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for quality experiences and insider access, rather than just ticking off sights.

A highlight for many travelers is the expert guidance of Luca, who was praised for his friendly demeanor and impressive knowledge of Kangaroo Island. This personal touch, combined with the small group size, ensures a relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and the experience feels tailored to your interests.

The Itinerary Breakdown – What to Expect

Let’s explore what each stop provides and why it’s worth your time.

Clifford’s Honey Farm

Starting with Clifford’s Honey Farm, you’ll discover one of Kangaroo Island’s few honey producers operated by Dave and Jenny Clifford since 1965. What makes this stop special is the chance to see a working hive and learn about bee conservation and honey production. Visitors rave about the quality of the honey and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. With the admission ticket included, you can sample various honey flavors and better understand why local honey is highly prized.

Tip: As one reviewer pointed out, the farm offers a glimpse into sustainable beekeeping, adding an educational layer to the tasting.

Emu Ridge Eucalyptus

Next, the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery offers a peek into traditional Australian eucalyptus oil-making. It’s the only commercial eucalyptus oil producer on the island, and the process of extracting pure oil from the Narrow Leaf Mallee is fascinating. Besides the oils, you’ll find the famous Colony Cider, which is often praised for its crisp, refreshing flavor, a perfect complement to the natural eucalyptus aroma.

Expect a relaxed 30-minute stop that combines education with tasting. Reviewers love how the family-owned business is passionate about their craft, and many mention the distinct, authentic flavors.

Kingscote for Lunch at Cactus Cafe

A highlight for many is the lunch at Cactus Cafe in Kingscote, the only stop that’s optional if you choose the half-day tour. This cozy, outdoor-friendly eatery serves local produce, baked goods, and fresh juices, making it ideal for a relaxed, flavorsome meal. It’s also licensed, so you can enjoy local wines or beers with your meal.

Travellers have praised the simple yet delicious menu and the friendly service. One reviewer mentioned the “tasty simple local produce” and “great coffee,” emphasizing how the cafe captures the essence of casual, quality dining.

Kangaroo Island Spirits

The Kangaroo Island Spirits stop is a true gem—established in 2002, it’s Australia’s first dedicated gin distillery. Tourists love the story behind it, with the founders aiming to do things the traditional way. The gin tasting offers a chance to explore unique botanicals and learn about distillation techniques. Visitors often comment on the “expert” guidance, with one reviewer noting that the guide’s knowledge made the experience stand out.

Bay of Shoals Winery

Wine lovers will appreciate the Bay of Shoals Winery, where scenic views and a welcoming cellar door await. You can enjoy tastings of locally produced wines, complemented by the chance to purchase bottles to take home. Several reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the friendly atmosphere, making this a perfect spot for a leisurely tasting.

Emu Bay Lavender (Full Day Only)

For full-day tour participants, the Emu Bay Lavender farm is a fragrant finale. The farm spans over 51 acres, and visitors can sip coffee and nibble scones while taking in the calming scent of lavender fields—an experience described as “creating a lovely, peaceful end to the day.” Reviewers mention the friendly, fifth-generation family owners who are keen to share their passion.

Transportation, Group Size, and Timing

This tour uses a comfortable 4WD vehicle, perfect for navigating the island’s backroads and scenic routes. With a group capped at six to eight travelers, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to chat and ask questions. The tour begins at 10:00 am and lasts approximately 6 hours, including all tastings and meals.

The flexible drop-off options—hotel, ferry terminal, or airport—make it convenient to plan your day around this experience. The small group size ensures that the experience feels tailored rather than rushed, allowing for spontaneous stops or additional tastings if time permits.

Price and Value

At $257.90 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience blending tastings, scenery, and a quality lunch. When considering the inclusions—multiple artisan tastings, a gourmet lunch, and transport—the value is clear. It’s a chance to indulge in Kangaroo Island’s best produce without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Travelers have noted the tour’s expert guidance and authentic local products make it worthwhile. One reviewer even said, “Luca’s knowledge made the experience so much better,” highlighting the benefit of well-informed guides.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a delicious overview of Kangaroo Island’s food and drink scene in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect for food and wine enthusiasts, couples celebrating a honeymoon, or anyone interested in learning about local artisans. If you value personalized guides, scenic stops, and high-quality tastings, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if your schedule is tight or you’re not keen on full-day tours, consider the half-day options or other scenic excursions. This experience isn’t suitable for cruise ship arrivals, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Small Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour offers a wonderful way to experience the island’s local produce, scenic spots, and friendly artisans in a relaxed setting. With expert guides like Luca, you’ll gain insights into Kangaroo Island’s culinary heritage while sampling some of the best drinks and dishes the island has to offer. The limited group size enhances the experience’s intimacy, making it easy to ask questions and connect.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a foodie, or simply curious about Kangaroo Island’s artisan scene, this tour delivers a high-value, memorable day. The combination of authentic tastings, scenic views, and personal service makes it a standout choice for those wanting to add depth and flavor to their Kangaroo Island adventure.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 6 hours, including tastings, lunch, and scenic stops.

Can I choose to do only part of the tour?
Yes, the half-day option is available, which excludes Emu Bay Lavender farm and the full-day extra stops.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all tastings (wines, gins, honey, oils), a gourmet lunch at Cactus Cafe, coffee and scones at lavender farm, transportation in a 4WD vehicle, and small-group personalized service.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy food, wine, and scenic countryside. It’s not suitable for cruise ship arrivals.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor stops and possibly some walking or standing.

Can I be dropped off at my hotel?
Yes, the tour offers flexible drop-off options at your hotel, ferry terminal, or airport.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum of 2 travelers to operate, with a maximum of 8.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s best to book around 59 days in advance, as the tour is popular and books out early.

The Small Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour is a thoughtfully curated way to explore more than just the scenery—it’s about tasting and experiencing the true flavors of Kangaroo Island in a friendly, relaxed setting.