Yering Winery, LV Chandon Winery, Puffing Billy Steam Train

If you’re after a day that combines the best of Victoria’s wine scene, historic railways, and lush landscapes, this 8-hour tour offers a well-rounded taste. It’s a curated experience that promises relaxation, beautiful views, and just enough nostalgia to make your day memorable.

What really makes this tour shine are three things: the chance to sample exquisite local wines at Yering Station and LV Chandon, the chance to relive history on the Puffing Billy Steam Train, and the breathtaking scenery you’ll see along the way. Add in the small-group setting, and you’re set for a more personalized experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that wine tasting fees are not included. So, if you’re keen to sip and sample, budget accordingly. This tour suits couples, families, or anyone craving a gentle escape from Melbourne’s city buzz — especially if you love scenic drives, wine, and charming heritage railways.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges
• Expert guides enhance the experience with knowledge and stories
• Heritage Puffing Billy train offers a nostalgic journey through lush landscapes
• Flexible wine tasting options at two renowned wineries
• Small-group tour for a more intimate experience
• 8-hour duration balances sightseeing without feeling rushed

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Day Packed with Beauty and History

This tour kicks off in Melbourne’s CBD with convenient pickup, making it a hassle-free start. You’ll be transported comfortably to the Yarra Valley, known for its rolling vineyards and boutique wineries. The first stop is Yering Station, one of Australia’s oldest and most iconic wineries. Here, you get the chance to stroll through the vineyards, soak up the panoramic views, and enjoy a wine tasting (note that tasting fees are extra).

Guests have noted the knowledgeable guides, often sharing intriguing details about the history of the estate and the wine-making process. “Our guide, Mark, was fantastic—he knew everything about the wines and the history,” one reviewer remarked, highlighting how guides can elevate the experience.

Next, your journey continues to LV Chandon, where the focus shifts to sparkling wines. With its Swiss-French heritage, Chandon offers a different perspective on viticulture, and many visitors appreciate the chance to taste the sparkling varieties in a beautiful setting. While wine tasting isn’t included in the price, the opportunity to sample premium wines in such scenic surroundings makes for a memorable visit.

After lunch, the highlight of the day is the Puffing Billy Steam Train ride. Departing from Belgrave, this heritage railway has been operating since 1900 and runs through the tall trees and lush valleys of the Dandenong Ranges. The rhythmic chuffing of the steam engine and the nostalgic atmosphere make it a favorite part of the tour.

Travelers often mention the stunning views from the train, which pass over bridges and through tunnels, providing plenty of photo opportunities. “The scenery from the train was absolutely breathtaking,” noted one guest. The relaxed pace of the train allows you to fully enjoy the landscape, making it a perfect way to unwind and reconnect with a slower time.

The entire day is designed to maximize scenic beauty, relaxing wine stops, and a touch of history. The small-group setting means you’ll likely get more personalized attention, with guides sharing interesting tidbits about each location.

The Practical Details

This tour is priced at $131 per person, which many find to be a good value considering the inclusions—especially with the transport, guided commentary, and the unique train journey. While wine tastings are optional and not included in the fee, the visits to Yering and Chandon are about enjoying the atmosphere and learning, even if you choose not to taste.

Transportation is via a comfortable vehicle, with pickup and drop-off within Melbourne’s CBD (postal code 3000). The tour runs for about 8 hours, making it long enough to enjoy multiple stops without feeling overly long or rushed.

Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing stories beyond the basic facts—helpful for those wanting a richer experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, although the train ride might not be suitable for all mobility needs.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking around vineyards and estates
• Camera for all the scenic views
• Sunscreen and water for comfort
• A sense of curiosity and appreciation for fine wine and Victorian scenery

What’s Not Allowed

• Smoking is prohibited on the vehicle and at the stops

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Additional Notes

• Wine tasting fees are extra
• The train ride is included, offering stunning views of the countryside
• The tour is available in multiple languages with a 24-hour cancellation policy for full refunds

Authentic Experiences Shared by Travelers

One guest mentioned, “Our guide, Sarah, was incredibly knowledgeable and kept the group engaged throughout the day.” The personal touch from guides seems to make the experience more enriching, especially when they share interesting stories about the vineyards and train.

Another reviewer appreciated the scenic train trip, noting, “The views from Puffing Billy are just spectacular, passing through dense forests and over pretty bridges.” It’s a relaxing way to see the countryside while enjoying a bit of Victorian railway nostalgia.

Some travelers highlighted the balance of activities—not too rushed, allowing enough time at each stop for photos, tasting, or simply soaking in the scenery. The optional wine tasting at Yering and Chandon is seen as a bonus rather than a core focus, giving flexibility for those who prefer just to enjoy the views and atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples looking for a romantic day out, families wanting a mix of scenic views and fun train rides, and anyone interested in local wines and heritage railway history. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, beautiful landscapes, and storytelling guides.

However, those with mobility issues might want to check the suitability of the train ride, as it may not be accessible for everyone. The tour also suits those who prefer a small-group setting for more personalized attention, rather than large tour buses.

The Sum Up

This 8-hour Victoria tour offers a well-balanced slice of wine, history, and nature. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the Yarra Valley’s vineyards, a nostalgic glimpse into the past on Puffing Billy, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s a great choice if you want to experience the best of the region in a relaxed, authentic way without feeling rushed.

Most importantly, the tour’s knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery ensure you’ll remember this day long after it ends. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in need of a scenic escape from Melbourne, this trip packs a lot of value into a manageable day.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour generally suits families, especially those with older children who can enjoy the train ride and walking around vineyards. However, the train ride may not be accessible for all mobility levels.

Are wine tastings included in the price?
No, wine tasting fees are not included, but the visits to Yering Station and LV Chandon allow for tastings if you choose to purchase them.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day.

How long is the train ride?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the Puffing Billy Steam Train is a heritage railway known for its scenic, leisurely journey through the landscape.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off within Melbourne CBD (postal code 3000) are included, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, although the train ride’s accessibility may vary.

What is the duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts around 8 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What kind of guides lead this tour?
Guides are noted for their friendliness and extensive knowledge, often sharing stories that add depth to the experience.

In summary, this tour combines a peaceful wine country visit with a nostalgic train journey through some of Victoria’s most scenic spots. It’s a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience the beauty, history, and flavors of the region — perfect for those wanting a memorable day out with a touch of charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: