Yarra Valley Foodie Tour, Devonshire Tea, Cheese and Chocolate

An Honest Look at the Yarra Valley Foodie Tour: Cheese, Chocolate, and Scenic Charm

If you’re like us, you’re probably dreaming of a day exploring the Yarra Valley that’s more about tasting local delights than just swilling wine. This Yarra Valley Foodie Tour offers a balance of authentic flavor, breathtaking scenery, and personalized attention—without the crowds and hustle of larger coach tours. Though we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, it’s clear from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary that it’s a must for food lovers, small groups, and anyone craving a more relaxed, intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s small-group size—just four people—which means plenty of time for conversation and personalized service. Second, it focuses heavily on artisan foods and scenic stops, giving you a taste of local life rather than just winery hopping. Third, the guidance of local expert Mimi adds an extra layer of authenticity, blending local knowledge with friendly storytelling. The only thing to consider is that this is a food-centered excursion, so if wine tasting is your main goal, you might want to look elsewhere. But for couples or small groups seeking a genuine, leisurely adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Good To Know

• Intimate Small Group: Just four travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Artisan cheeses, chocolates, baked goods, and a traditional Devonshire tea.
• Scenic & Authentic Stops: Breathtaking lookout, historic cafes, and charming towns like Healesville.
• Flexible Pacing: Enough time at each stop to enjoy food, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Most meals, tastings, and transport are covered, offering great value for the price.
• Expert Guide: Mimi’s local insights and friendly approach elevate the experience.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The Chocolate Indulgence at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Your journey starts sweet—literally—with a guided tasting session at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. Here, an expert chocolatier takes you through a tasting of 12 Belgian Covelture chocolates, giving you a behind-the-scenes feel for the craft of fine chocolate making. Expect a 45-minute session filled with rich, smooth samples that showcase the quality and artistry involved. From reviews, we learn that this stop really sets the tone for a day of indulgence and is appreciated for its friendly, knowledgeable staff who make the tasting both fun and educational.

Scenic Lookout in Yarra Glen

Next, you’ll enjoy a quick 10-minute stop at a scenic lookout along Old Healesville Road. The view over the valley is said to be breathtaking, offering perfect photo opportunities and a moment to appreciate the lush landscape. One reviewer mentioned that the drive off the main roads reveals “better scenery than typical tours,” making this a highlight for photography lovers and scenery enthusiasts alike.

Artisan Brunch in Healesville

The heart of the tour is a visit to Healesville, a charming town famous for its boutique food scene. Here, you’ll indulge in a cheese board featuring five carefully curated artisan cheeses, paired with muscatels on the vine, fresh baguette, local fruit paste, and olives. The experience is described as a “delicious and thoughtful” taste of local craftsmanship, with Mimi sharing stories about each product. Reviewers appreciated how this stop felt both indulgent and authentic, avoiding the commercial feel of larger tours.

Devonshire Tea at the Historic Carriage Cafe

No visit to the Yarra Valley is complete without a proper Devonshire tea, and this tour delivers just that at the historic Carriage Cafe in Seville. Expect freshly baked scones, served with local jam, and a pot of tea or coffee. The one-hour stop is leisurely, allowing ample time to relax and chat. One reviewer called it a “beautiful stop,” praising the cozy atmosphere and the quality of the baked goods.

Local Baked Goods and More

Next, you’ll visit a local bakery in Kilsyth for an award-winning Bahn Mi. With options including roast pork, lemongrass chicken, or tofu, this quick 15-minute stop offers a flavorful, satisfying bite. The reviews highlight how this stop adds a bit of local culinary flair, rounding out the tour’s focus on delicious, authentic fare.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour package covers most of the food and tastings, including the chocolates, cheese, Devonshire tea, and Bahn Mi. You’ll also get bottled water, WiFi on the vehicle, and air-conditioned comfort—making the whole experience seamless and comfortable. However, if you’re keen on wine or gin tastings, those are optional extras at local wineries and distilleries, not part of the core tour.

Transportation & Group Size: Travel in Comfort

The entire tour is operated in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a friendly local guide driving you through scenic routes. The small group size of four travelers guarantees a quiet, personalized experience. Pick-up is from Lilydale railway station, and the tour concludes at Mooroolbark station, making it easy for travelers to continue their day exploring or heading back to Melbourne. The 4-hour duration includes travel time, so expect some scenic drives between stops—an extra bonus for those who love a relaxed, unhurried pace.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Multiple reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides, especially Mimi, who is described as “lovely,” “very friendly,” and “full of local insights.” One says, “Enjoyed the scenery, conversations, and the many different foods,” which hints at a cozy, engaging atmosphere. Food lovers particularly appreciated the focus on artisan products, with some noting that the tour feels more like a private experience due to its small size.

Reviewers also loved the scenic drives, with many mentioning that the back roads and lookout stops offer better views than larger, more commercial tours. The focus on local food and scenery seems to resonate strongly with those who want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is ideal for small groups, couples, or friends who enjoy good food, scenic landscapes, and relaxed pacing. It’s especially suitable if you prefer artisan foods over wine, or if you’re simply looking for a more intimate way to explore the Yarra Valley. The small group size, comfy transport, and thoughtful stops make it a great choice for those who want a more personal and memorable experience, without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

With a $142.73 price tag, the tour offers good value considering the inclusive tastings, meals, and scenic stops. The personalized attention and focus on local craftsmanship elevate the experience beyond a simple sightseeing trip. It’s a flexible, well-rounded day perfect for foodies, scenery lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape from city life.

The small group size, combined with expert local guidance and beautifully curated stops, makes this an appealing option for those who value quality over quantity. While it doesn’t include wine tastings, it compensates with an authentic, flavor-filled journey that will leave you with a true taste of the Yarra Valley.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes all travel in an air-conditioned vehicle from Lilydale station to Mooroolbark station, with pickup and drop-off arranged for your convenience.

Can I join this tour if I don’t like wine?
Absolutely. The focus here is on food and scenery, with optional wine or gin tastings available but not mandatory.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is small, accommodating just four travelers, which allows for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Are meals and tastings covered?
Yes, most food and tastings—chocolates, cheese, Devonshire tea, and Bahn Mi—are included in the price, making it good value.

What should I wear?
Since stops include scenic lookouts and outdoor spots, comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Is this suitable for kids or families?
The tour is best suited for adults or older children who can enjoy the tastings and scenery at a relaxed pace.

In The Sum Up

The Yarra Valley Foodie Tour offers a delightful mix of local artisan foods, scenic landscapes, and intimate group settings. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a more authentic and relaxed alternative to the typical wine-focused day. With knowledgeable guides, gorgeous views, and thoughtfully curated stops, this experience is well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to savor the flavors of the Yarra Valley at a gentle pace.

If you’re eager to explore beyond the wine and dive into the local flavors and scenery, this tour will leave a lasting impression—and perhaps even inspire your next culinary adventure.