Wine Tours Sydney – Southern Highlands Day Escape, Full Day Wine Tasting Tour

Planning a day trip from Sydney that combines scenic landscapes, fantastic wines, and good company? The Wine Tours Sydney – Southern Highlands Day Escape offers exactly that. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, memorable experience. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a couple seeking a romantic day, or a group celebrating a special occasion, this tour seems to tick many boxes.

What really stands out about this experience are three things: the quick 90-minute drive that maximizes your time, the small-group or private option for a more personalized feel, and the all-inclusive nature—no hidden fees here. One possible consideration is that it’s a full day of activities; if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or busy schedules, it’s worth noting. This tour is ideal for those craving an authentic taste of Australia’s wine country with convenience and comfort.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary with visits to three high-quality wineries within a day
• Flexible options for small group or private tours cater to different preferences
• All-inclusive experience with tastings, lunch, and transport—no hidden costs
• Expert guides and drivers who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge
• Beautiful scenery and top-rated wineries like Tertini and Centennial Vineyards
• Great for various occasions: from leisure trips to hens parties or special celebrations

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Early Morning Departure

The day kicks off promptly at 9:00 am, with roundtrip transportation from your Sydney hotel. This is a serious plus: no worrying about finding your way or navigating—your transport is taken care of, and you can relax from the start. The vehicle is air-conditioned, providing comfort during the roughly 90-minute drive into the Southern Highlands.

First Stop: Tertini Wines

Tertini Wines often wins fans for their relaxed yet informative cellar door. As one reviewer noted, it’s a friendly spot where you can enjoy internationally awarded wines alongside a casual, welcoming atmosphere. With a 5-star James Halliday rating and awards in tow, they offer a signature range that includes single vineyard Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay, along with rarer Italian varieties like Lagrein and Arneis.

Expect to spend about an hour here, tasting premium wines that are often praised for their quality and character. Guests frequently mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who help make each tasting educational without being pretentious. The tasting room’s casual vibe lets you really savor the wines without feeling rushed.

Second Stop: Centennial Vineyard or Similar

Next, you’ll visit Centennial Vineyard, the first 5-star winery in the region, boasting over 1,000 awards. This stop showcases an extensive wine selection that pleases a variety of palates. It’s an excellent chance to sample some of the best local wines and learn from passionate staff. The reviews mention that the cellar door offers a broad range, ensuring there’s something for all.

Lunch at Eling Forest Winery

After two winery visits, it’s time to indulge in a delicious lunch at Eling Forest Winery. The highlight here is the spectacular view over the rolling hills of the Southern Highlands, providing a scenic backdrop as you enjoy a one-course meal paired with a glass of wine. Lunch lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you ample time to relax and chat with your companions.

Reviewers mention the delightful dining experience, often commenting on the delicious food and excellent wine pairing. There are options to upgrade to two or three courses if you’re feeling especially hungry, which enhances the value of the experience. The picturesque setting and quality food make this stop a true highlight—perfect for capturing photos and soaking in the scenery.

Final Winery Visit: Bendooley Estate or Similar

After lunch, your tour continues to a third winery, often Bendooley Estate or another popular local venue. The choice depends on availability and your preferences, which can be specified during booking. Bendooley’s famous Book Barn and beautiful estate grounds are often praised, and the wine tasting here is another opportunity to sample local favorites.

Guests have shared that the variety and quality of wines at this final stop are impressive, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to unwind and enjoy your last tasting of the day.

The Transport and Group Experience

One of the tour’s big selling points is the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you between wineries. Whether you opt for a small group or a private tour, the transport is designed to maximize comfort and convenience. The small group size helps foster intimate conversations and easy navigation, making the experience more personable.

Reviews frequently mention the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and drivers, with several praising Roman, Wally, or Russell for their knowledge, patience, and good humor. This personal touch really elevates the tour, making it more than just a series of tastings but a curated experience.

Timing and Pacing

This tour is approximately 9 hours long, starting at 9 am and returning in the early evening. The pace is well thought out, giving enough time at each winery to explore without feeling rushed. The timing of the lunch break is just right, serving as a relaxing midpoint and allowing you to recharge before the last winery.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At around $250 per person, this tour offers good value considering everything included. You get entrance fees to three wineries, a delicious lunch paired with wine, roundtrip transportation, and the expertise of guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Reviewers like the fact that there are no surprise fees—all tastings and lunch are included upfront. Plus, the option to request private tours makes it appealing for couples or small groups wanting a more exclusive experience.

While it is a bit of a splurge, the convenience of having everything organized, the quality of the wineries visited, and the scenic setting make it a worthwhile indulgence. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort and ease but still want an authentic, local experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for anyone who wants a full day of wine tasting without the hassle of planning transport or logistics. It suits wine lovers eager to explore the Southern Highlands’ top wineries, but also groups celebrating a birthday, hen’s party, or romantic getaway. The all-inclusive nature and flexible options make it appealing to a range of budgets and preferences.

Those who appreciate friendly guides and well-organized tours will find themselves well taken care of. Plus, lovers of beautiful landscapes and good food will find plenty to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts

The Southern Highlands Day Escape combines convenience, quality, and scenic beauty into one package. With visits to some of the region’s best wineries, a delicious lunch, and expert guides, it offers a rewarding experience for wine enthusiasts and casual tasters alike.

The small-group or private options, combined with the all-inclusive pricing, make it a no-stress way to enjoy a day in Australia’s wine country. Whether you’re celebrating, exploring, or simply relaxing with a glass in hand, this tour delivers a memorable taste of the Southern Highlands.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Sydney hotel, making the day hassle-free.

How long is the drive from Sydney? Approximately 90 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are meals included? Yes, a one-course lunch with a glass of wine is included, with options to upgrade to two or three courses.

Can I choose the wineries I visit? You can nominate your preferred venues when booking, or leave it to the guides’ expertise to select the best options.

What is the tour duration? The full experience lasts around 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the early evening.

Are drinks and tastings included? Yes, all wine tastings at the three wineries are included—no hidden costs.

Is this tour suitable for private groups? Absolutely, private tours are available upon request for a more intimate experience.

What is the group size? The tour can operate as a small group or private experience, depending on your selection.

Can I bring children or non-drinkers? The tour is designed for adults; non-drinkers can enjoy the scenery and food, but tastings are for those of legal drinking age.

What is the cancellation policy? Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds, making it flexible if plans change.

This tour offers a seamless way to enjoy the best of the Southern Highlands’ wine scene, pairing stunning landscapes with some of Australia’s top wines. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned connoisseur, it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances beauty, taste, and comfort.