Yarra Valley Foodies Tour with Chandon and Kangaroo Safari!

Imagine combining the best of Victoria’s renowned food and wine scene with a touch of Aussie wildlife—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. That’s precisely what the Yarra Valley Foodies Tour with Chandon and Kangaroo Safari offers. This carefully curated experience takes you through some of the region’s top tasting spots, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy spectacular views, learn about local products, and even spot wild kangaroos as the day ends.

What we love about this tour? First, the late departure time allows you to relax in Melbourne in the morning—perfect for those who prefer a slow start. Second, the variety of tastings—from sparkling wine and cheese to chocolates—means you’ll leave with a full belly and a happy palate. Third, the wild kangaroo sighting at sunset promises a unique and memorable end to your day. One possible consideration? The tour’s focus on food, wine, and wildlife might not appeal if you’re looking for a more active or adventure-heavy experience.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace, small groups for a more personal touch, and a good mix of culinary indulgence with nature. It’s especially perfect for those with a few hours to spare in Melbourne and a desire to experience authentic Aussie countryside charm.

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Key Points

Flexible schedule with a late morning departure, leaving your morning free.
Small group size (max 11 guests) for a more intimate experience.
Diverse tastings including sparkling wine, cheese, chocolate, and wine—ample opportunities to sample regional delights.
Wildlife spotting at sunset, with an ironclad guarantee you’ll see kangaroos.
Comfortable transport in a modern minivan with knowledgeable guides.
No included lunch, providing options to indulge where you prefer, with time to purchase food during the stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Yarra Valley Foodies Tour

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Starting Point and Timing

The tour departs from Federation Square in Melbourne at 11:30 am, offering a relaxed morning before heading out. This late start is a real bonus for those who like to enjoy a quiet breakfast or a bit of city shopping before heading into the countryside. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion that doesn’t cut into your evening plans. The small group size—limited to 11 (or 12)—means plenty of room for conversation, questions, and personalized attention from your guide.

The Drive and First Stop: Strawberry Farm

The journey begins with a comfortable one-hour drive through scenic countryside, giving you a preview of the lush Yarra Valley landscape. Along the way, a bonus stop allows you to pick up fresh strawberries—an adorable treat that adds a local, farm-fresh touch. It’s a simple but thoughtful inclusion, and reviews consistently mention how much guests appreciate the opportunity to enjoy farm-fresh produce.

Chandon: Sparkling Wine with a View

Your first major stop is Domain Chandon, part of the famous Moët & Chandon family. Here, you’ll settle into a table with panoramic views, where a complimentary glass of sparkling wine kicks things off. You’ll have time to explore the boutique shop for exclusive Chandon products and consider purchasing lunch from their lounge menu—note, lunch isn’t included, but the setting makes for a lovely meal with a view if you choose to buy one.

Guests often comment on the quality of the sparkling wine and the informative tour of champagne production. Megan, one reviewer, mentions that the experience here was memorable thanks to the “amazing tour guide” and the beautiful scenery. It’s a relaxing start, giving you a taste of local luxury without rushing.

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Cheese and Sweet Tastings at Yarra Valley Dairy

Next, the tour takes you to Yarra Valley Dairy, a family-run operation renowned for its soft cheeses. The tastings here are generous, offering a chance to try a variety of locally made cheeses. Ana Luiza describes the cheese experience as “brilliant,” highlighting how much she enjoyed the onsite samples. The small, boutique nature of the dairy means you get a more personal experience, often with private rooms for tastings—adding to the relaxed vibe.

For those with a sweet tooth, the next stop is the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery. This is a highlight for many guests, with private tastings of chocolates made with ingredients from their own gardens. The shop features over 200 products, so there’s plenty to browse for souvenirs or treats. Reviewers like Natalie and Jessica praise the chocolate tastings, noting how delicious and varied the flavors are.

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Yering Station: Wine Tasting in a Historic Setting

Following the sweet indulgence, the tour moves to Yering Station, Victorian’s first vineyard. Here, you’ll enjoy a private wine tasting session featuring cool climate varieties, especially Pinot Noir. The historic ambiance adds a sense of tradition and craftsmanship. Several reviewers, including James and Natalie, commend the guide’s knowledge of wines and the well-organized tasting experience, emphasizing the quality of the wines sampled.

Wild Kangaroo Safari at Sunset

The final part of the tour is dedicated to the iconic Australian experience: spotting wild kangaroos at sunset. The guide takes you into a known location during golden hour, maximizing your chances. Many reviews, including those from Jessica and Dana, mention how impressive the kangaroo sightings were—some even see mobs of them in their natural habitat. The tour guarantees you’ll see kangaroos, which is rare and exciting, especially for visitors from abroad.

Guests also appreciate the peacefulness of this sunset walk, often describing it as a perfect way to wind down after a day of tasting and sightseeing.

Returning to Melbourne

After the sunset, the comfortable van takes you back to Federation Square, arriving in the early evening. The relaxed schedule and the small group size make for a smooth, unrushed experience, leaving plenty of time to reflect on the day.

The Value of the Tour

At $115 per person, this tour offers a compelling mix of quality tastings, scenic views, and wildlife encounters. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the variety of stops means you’ll experience the best of Yarra Valley’s food scene without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of multiple tasting experiences—wine, cheese, chocolate—and the wildlife sighting makes this quite a comprehensive package for its price point.

Most reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the guides are, with Kurt and Craig singled out for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Many guests mention how this tour feels like a well-balanced day: enough time at each stop, not rushing between activities, and a perfect mix of leisure and discovery.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a modern, spacious minivan, you’ll find the journey comfortable and scenic. The guide’s attentiveness—like ensuring the vehicle is clean and everyone stays hydrated—adds a touch of care that many travelers find reassuring. This kind of attention enhances the overall experience, especially in regional areas where amenities might be limited.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who love good food and drink, are interested in Australian wildlife, and prefer small, intimate groups. It’s suitable for travelers with a moderate level of mobility (not wheelchair accessible), and it’s especially great for those who want a flexible itinerary, as lunch isn’t included and can be tailored to individual preferences.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. The Yarra Valley Foodies Tour with Chandon and Kangaroo Safari offers an authentic taste of Victorian countryside, combining excellent food, fine wines, and the thrill of spotting wild kangaroos. With knowledgeable guides, a relaxed pace, and a focus on quality experiences, it delivers a well-rounded day out. Whether you’re a foodie eager to sample regional specialties, a wildlife lover, or someone wanting to enjoy Aussie scenery without the hassle of planning, this tour ticks many boxes.

The small-group setting encourages interaction and a personalized touch, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a true taste of the Yarra Valley’s charm. All in all, it’s a fantastic choice for visitors looking to make the most of their half-day escape from Melbourne.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll have the chance to purchase food at Domaine Chandon or other stops during the day.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 11 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience where you can ask questions and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Will I definitely see kangaroos?
The tour guarantees you’ll see wild kangaroos, usually during sunset. While sightings are very common, wildlife can never be 100% guaranteed.

How long is the drive from Melbourne?
The drive to Yarra Valley takes about one hour in a comfortable minivan, with scenic views along the way.

Can I bring my children?
Children aged 3 and above are welcome. However, the tour is not suitable for children under 2 or wheelchair users.

Is this tour suitable for wine enthusiasts?
Yes, the private wine tasting at Yering Station features a selection of classic cool climate wines, including some of the Valley’s best Pinot Noir.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, camera, cash for purchases, and a reusable water bottle. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Limited dietary options may be available, but it’s best to inform the tour operator in advance if you have specific needs.

What is the tour’s duration?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, typically departing in the late morning and returning early evening.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced, well-organized day of food, drink, and nature. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the best of the Yarra Valley without rushing, all in a small-group setting that feels personal and authentic.