Woodside in the Adelaide Hills offers some of South Australia’s most inviting ways to explore wine country with a touch of adventure and luxury. Unlike many other wine regions, Woodside combines scenic vineyard landscapes with unique activities like horseback riding and exclusive dining experiences. We particularly enjoy the VIP Equestrian & Private Wine Lunch with Olympian for its combination of sport, wine, and gourmet food — it’s perfect if you’re craving something beyond the typical winery visit.
For those interested in a more relaxed, guided experience, the horseback riding tours stand out, offering a chance to see the vineyards from horseback while enjoying wine tastings. Whether you want a quick two-hour ride or a more luxurious, private afternoon, Woodside delivers a memorable taste of the Hills’ charm.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find three top-rated tours tailored to different interests. The Petaluma: Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting Tour offers a scenic trail ride paired with a guided tasting of Petaluma’s renowned wines (link). For a romantic twist, the Petaluma: Romantic Private Horse Ride & Wine Tasting Package provides a more intimate experience with additional treats like savory and sweet platters (link). And for those seeking the ultimate luxe experience, the VIP Equestrian & Private Wine Lunch with Olympian combines a private ride, a gourmet three-course lunch, and a chance to meet Olympian Megan Jones (link).
1. Petaluma: Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting Tour
At number 1, this tour is a fantastic way to combine outdoor activity with wine tasting. Over two hours, you’ll enjoy a guided trail ride through the vineyards of Petaluma, one of the region’s most picturesque wineries. The experience begins with a gentle ride where you’ll learn some basic horse maneuvers supported by a knowledgeable guide, making it accessible even if you’re new to riding.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to stop for photos and take in the sweeping views of rolling hills and lush vineyards. Your guide shares insider stories about the history of Petaluma, adding depth to your visit. After the ride, you’ll head to the cellar door for a guided tasting of Petaluma and Croser wines, allowing you to sample some of South Australia’s best wines in a relaxed setting. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 score from six reviews, highlighting the tour’s friendly guide and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a balanced mix of gentle riding, stunning scenery, and quality wine. It’s an experience that’s easy to fit into an afternoon and offers great value for the price.
2. Petaluma: Romantic Private Horse Ride & Wine Tasting Package
This tour elevates the experience with a private, romantic twist. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a personalized trail ride through the vineyards, perfect for couples seeking a special outing. The private guide ensures a tailored experience, and the scenic ride includes stunning views of the hills that surround Woodside.
After your ride, indulge in a guided wine tasting of Petaluma and Croser wines at the cellar door. To make it even more memorable, a platter of savory and sweet treats is included, paired with a glass of Croser Vintage. The tour emphasizes the regional history and your guide’s insights, making it much more than just a tasting session. While reviews are not available, the focus on exclusivity and romance makes this ideal for celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: A great choice for couples or anyone wanting a more exclusive and intimate experience, combining riding, tasting, and gourmet snacks in one package.
3. PETALUMA: VIP Equestrian & Private Wine Lunch with Olympian
For those wanting the ultimate experience, this 3.5-hour VIP tour delivers. It begins with a private guided horse ride through the scenic vineyards of the Adelaide Hills, led by expert guides. What sets this apart is the combination of riding with a private wine lunch hosted by Olympian Megan Jones, who shares her stories and shows her medals.
Your gourmet three-course tasting menu from Woodside Providore is served in The Glass Room, offering an elevated dining experience amid vineyard views. The tour also includes a selection of wines from Petaluma, Bay of Fires, and Croser, with the chance to learn directly from Megan about her equestrian journey and successes. The experience is highly personalized, blending sport, fine wine, gourmet food, and celebrity charm.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts who want luxury and exclusivity, as well as sports fans interested in Megan Jones’s inspiring story. Planning ahead is recommended for this premium experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting among these experiences, think about your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic ride with wine tasting, the first tour offers excellent value. For a romantic getaway, the private horse ride paired with gourmet treats adds intimacy. If luxury and exclusivity are your priorities, the VIP experience with Megan Jones is hard to beat.
Consider also the length of the tour and your activity level. The horseback rides are gentle but still require some physical comfort on a horse. Booking early is advisable, especially for the VIP tour, as spots are limited.
To sum it up, Woodside in the Adelaide Hills offers a range of memorable tours that combine nature, wine, and luxury. The Petaluma Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting is perfect for a relaxed, scenic adventure, while the private romantic ride caters to couples looking for something special. For those seeking a high-end, personalized experience, the VIP lunch with Olympian Megan Jones provides a unique glimpse into both wine and sport. Whichever you choose, early booking will help ensure you don’t miss out on these top-rated experiences.