Mornington Peninsula Boutique Wine and Lunch Small Group Tour

If you’re looking to spend a day sipping fine wines, enjoying spectacular coastal views, and indulging in locally sourced food, this Mornington Peninsula Boutique Wine and Lunch Tour might just be what you need. From the comfort of a premium midi-coach, you’ll explore some of the region’s most unique wineries and scenic spots, all while learning about Australia’s winemaking techniques and enjoying delicious tastings.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the access to off-the-beaten-track venues like Green Olive Estate with its pickleball court at a winery and Trofeo Estate, where ancient winemaking techniques are still alive. Second, the expert guides consistently receive praise for their friendly, knowledgeable commentary, making the journey both fun and educational. Third, the combination of scenic viewpoints and artful landscapes, especially at Pt Leo Estate, offers more than just wine—it’s a feast for the senses.

One potential consideration? The day runs for about 8 hours, which is perfect for a full experience but might be a long day for those with limited mobility or tight schedules. Still, with guaranteed window seats and comfort-focused transport, most travelers find it a relaxing way to see the region.

This tour is ideal if you’re keen on wine tasting, love scenic drives, and want to combine food, art, and nature in once seamless experience. It suits those who appreciate expert-guided trips with small groups, offering a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Good To Know

• Exclusive Access: Off-the-beaten-track wineries and ancient winemaking techniques.
• Comfort & Convenience: Premium midi-coach with WiFi, guaranteed window seats, and dual pickup points.
• Scenic Highlights: Arthur’s Seat lookout and Pt Leo Estate Sculpture Park.
• Gourmet Experience: Locally sourced lunch served with wine and the region’s best tastings.
• Authentic Insights: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local commentary.
• Value for Money: Well-curated 8-hour experience with multiple stops and personalized touches.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Melbourne’s Arts Centre

The journey begins at the Arts Centre Melbourne, where you’ll hop aboard a plush midi-coach. From there, a local guide takes you through the early morning city views, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The transport itself is a highlight, offering panoramic windows and comfortable seating that make the drive through Victoria’s picturesque landscape a pleasure rather than a chore.

The Scenic Drive to Mornington Peninsula

The 1-hour drive from Melbourne to the Mornington Peninsula is an experience in itself. We loved the way the coach’s large windows framed the rolling hills, vineyards, and coastal vistas. Our guide shared insightful commentary about the region’s history and winemaking scene, making the journey engaging and informative. Many reviewers, like Samantha, appreciated the friendly guides—she specifically mentioned Mike, who was both “friendly and informative,” adding a personal touch to the trip.

Arthurs Seat: A Must-See Viewpoint

Next, there’s a gentle 45-minute climb to Arthurs Seat, where you’re treated to sweeping views of the peninsula and Port Phillip Bay. The guided walk is easy, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops. Reviewers like Tatum loved the experience, remarking that their guide Theresa “added a lot of fun and knowledge” to the tour. The views here are truly breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for a quick photo or just to soak in the scenery.

Green Olive Estate: A Gourmet Lunch and Unique Wines

Lunchtime is at Green Olive Estate, a special place that combines a working vineyard with a focus on innovative and sustainable practices. The highlight here is the gourmet grazing platter, packed with local delicacies—think fresh cheeses, cured meats, and crusty bread. For wine lovers, Green Olive offers unique tastings, including their famous pickleball court at the winery, which adds a fun, quirky twist. Many guests, like Kim, found the food “amazing,” and appreciated the relaxed atmosphere surrounded by rolling hills.

Ten Minutes by Tractor: Celebrated Winery

After lunch, the tour visits 10 Minutes by Tractor, one of the region’s most acclaimed wineries. Here, you’ll sample cool-climate wines in a setting praised for its elegance and quality. Reviewers loved this part—Kim highlighted that the “wine tasting was a great experience,” and the winery’s international recognition speaks to its reputation. The knowledgeable staff and beautiful vineyard setting make it a highlight for oenophiles.

Trofeo Estate: Ancient Winemaking Techniques

Next stop is Trofeo Estate, known for its teracotta-aged wines and 6,000-year-old amphora winemaking. The guided tasting explores a variety of unique varietals crafted with age-old methods, offering a glimpse into ancient wine traditions. Guests like Samantha appreciated the “offbeat” aspect of this visit, and the opportunity to taste wines made with ancient techniques adds to the tour’s authenticity. The estate’s boutique vibe means you can indulge in more personalized tastings away from crowded wineries.

Pt Leo Estate: Art, Sculpture & Coastal Vistas

The afternoon concludes at Pt Leo Estate, where you can stroll through a world-class Sculpture Park overlooking the coast. With panoramic views to Phillip Island, it’s a peaceful spot to unwind with a glass of wine. Reviewers repeatedly mentioned how special this part of the tour was—Kim called it “a perfect combination of art, wine, and relaxation.” The estate’s setting, combined with stunning artworks, makes it more than just a winery; it’s an outdoor gallery paired with breathtaking scenery.

Return Journey and Reflection

As the day winds down, the coach heads back to Melbourne. Most travelers find this return hour perfect for reflecting on the day’s highlights, sharing stories, and perhaps planning their next visit to this wine region.

Practical Details & What You Need to Know

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is in a premium midi-coach with WiFi, offering a comfortable ride with guaranteed window seats. The small group size—limited to 15 travelers—ensures a more intimate experience, as many reviews note. The coach’s plush seating and panoramic windows are a plus, making the journey as enjoyable as the stops.

Duration & Flexibility

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, spanning from 10:00 am departure from Melbourne to about 6:00 pm return. This comprehensive length allows plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. Plus, the dual pickup options—from Melbourne’s Arts Centre and Peninsula locations—add flexibility.

Pricing & Value

At around $138.79 per person, this tour offers great value considering the number of stops, expert guides, luxury transport, and gourmet lunch. Compared to private tastings or self-driven day trips, the price includes many premium experiences, making it a worthwhile investment for wine enthusiasts and scenic lovers alike.

Reviews & Reputation

The overwhelmingly positive feedback—rating 4.9/5 with 22 reviews—speaks to the quality and consistency of this experience. Guests rave about guides like Mike and Sheldon, describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. The wineries’ quality and the scenic stops continually impress, making this a well-loved choice for visitors.

Cancellation & Booking

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan confidently. The small group size and flexible booking policy make it easier to adapt if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for wine lovers seeking a curated, intimate experience with access to exclusive venues. It suits those who want a relaxed, scenic day with informative guides, quality tastings, and delicious food. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting to combine art, nature, and local cuisine in a single outing.

However, if you prefer a very flexible schedule or are less mobile, the full-day length might be something to consider. Overall, it’s a great fit for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a well-rounded, memorable day on the Mornington Peninsula.

FAQ

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit five distinct locations, including Green Olive Estate, Trofeo Estate, and 10 Minutes by Tractor, along with scenic viewpoints.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a gourmet grazing platter is provided for lunch at Green Olive Estate. The experience also includes tastings at other wineries.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed experience.

Are there any additional costs?
Most tastings and the lunch are included. You might find optional purchases at the wineries, but the tour price covers the main activities.

What is the tour’s duration?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, from Melbourne departure to return.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but the wine tasting age restriction is 18+. The scenic stops and walking make it more enjoyable for adults.

How can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour; afterward, no refunds are available. Rescheduling depends on availability.

In summary, this Mornington Peninsula boutique wine tour offers a thoughtfully curated day full of scenic views, exclusive wineries, and delicious local food. It’s excellent for those who appreciate intimate group settings, expert guides, and a blend of art and nature with their wine experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply eager to explore one of Australia’s most beautiful wine regions, this tour provides genuine value and memorable moments.