PETALUMA: VIP Equestrian & Private Wine Lunch with Olympian

A Unique South Australian Experience: Equestrian and Wine with an Olympian

When it comes to combining Australia’s stunning landscapes with exceptional local produce, few experiences manage to capture both quite like the VIP Equestrian Winery Tour with Olympian Megan Jones. While we haven’t personally saddled up through the vineyards, the detailed reviews and comprehensive itinerary paint a picture of an elegant, authentic excursion that’s perfect for lovers of horses, wine, and a bit of Aussie Olympian flair.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private guided ride through the charming vineyards of the Adelaide Hills promises scenic views and a chance to connect with the land on horseback. Second, the personal connection with Megan Jones, an Olympian and decorated equestrian athlete, adds a special touch that elevates this from a typical wine tasting to a memorable, story-filled experience. Lastly, the delicious three-course tasting menu paired with local wines makes the entire afternoon feel like a well-curated luxury escape.

On the flip side, it’s worth considering that this experience might be less suitable for those looking for a purely active adventure or families with children under 18. The focus on adult engagement, wine, and the detailed storytelling might not appeal to everyone. But if you enjoy a blend of nature, culture, and a touch of celebrity, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s best suited for couples, groups of friends, or anyone eager to indulge in a refined, yet relaxed day in South Australia’s countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Scenic Vineyard Ride: Guided trail ride through the picturesque Adelaide Hills.
• Personal Touch: Hosted by Olympic medalist Megan Jones with her engaging stories.
• Gourmet Dining: Three-course tasting menu paired with exclusive wines.
• Luxury Setting: The Glass Room, decorated with 540 wine glasses mimicking the hills.
• Authentic Insights: Megan shares her journey, medals, and future ambitions.
• Value for Wine Lovers: Access to wines only available through this experience at special prices.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Journey Begins: Meeting Megan and the Horses

Your day starts at the cellar door, where Megan Jones and her team from Hallmark Farm in Woodside welcome you. Megan, a dual Olympian, Hall of Fame member, and world championship medalist, immediately sets a tone of genuine enthusiasm and expertise. She’s not just here to guide you—she shares her personal stories, giving a behind-the-scenes look into her Olympic journey.

Getting fitted with helmets and meeting the horses is the first step. The horses are carefully selected based on your needs, meaning the experience is tailored whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer. One guest noted that Megan’s approachable style made even beginners feel supported as she demonstrated basic maneuvers; she’s clearly passionate about sharing her love for horses and riding.

The Guided Trail Ride: Views and Stories

Once saddled up, you’ll set off on a roughly 45-minute guided ride through the vineyards and rolling hills. The route is designed to showcase the best of the region, with stops for photos and commentary on the landscape, Megan’s career, and her favorite wines. Guests have highlighted the magnificent hill and vineyard vistas, with some describing the scenery as a “breathtaking backdrop to a unique adventure.”

The ride isn’t just about scenery; it’s also about the overall experience. Megan’s storytelling offers insights like her Olympic highlights and upcoming plans, such as aiming for future international championships. Her approachable style and genuine passion for her sport make these moments educational and inspiring without feeling overly formal.

More Great Tours Nearby

Post-Ride Relaxation: Photos and Care

After returning the horses, you’re encouraged to take photos, enjoy some time brushing down your steed, and simply relax while soaking in the views. Guests appreciated the opportunity to connect with Megan in a more casual setting, often mentioning how personable she was. The support team from Hallmark Farm ensures that everyone feels comfortable and well looked after throughout.

The Glass Room Lunch: A Feast for the Senses

Next, you’ll head into The Glass Room, a stunning space decorated with 540 wine glasses that mimic the contours of the Adelaide Hills—an architectural highlight in itself. Here, the focus shifts to food and drink, with an exclusive, private tasting lunch hosted by Megan and her team.

The menu is a three-course tasting experience from Woodside Providore, with meals designed to showcase local produce and culinary craftsmanship. Guests rave about the generous wine serves—featuring the best from Petaluma, Bay of Fires, Eddystone Point, and Croser—and how well these pairings complement the dishes.

During the meal, Megan shares stories of her travels, her Olympic experiences, and her ambitions to represent Australia again. She’s happy to chat and even sign autographs or sell merchandise, adding a personal touch to this intimate setting.

Wines and Additional Perks

The wines offered are exclusive to this experience, and guests can purchase bottles at special prices. For wine enthusiasts, this adds a significant value, allowing you to take home a piece of the day. The focus on local vineyards means you won’t find these wines in typical liquor stores, giving you a rare opportunity to sample and buy.

Practicalities and Considerations

The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a perfect afternoon escape. The tour is private, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Dress comfortably—think hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes—and arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

While the experience is designed for adults, children under 18 are not permitted, which keeps the environment quiet and refined. Reviewers appreciated the clear communication about dietary requirements, as vegetarian options or other requests are accommodated when specified in advance.

The Value of This Experience

At its core, this tour offers more than just a ride or a wine tasting—it’s a curated blend of activity, storytelling, and gourmet indulgence. The personal connection with Megan Jones adds an authentic layer that many guests find inspiring and memorable. The access to exclusive wines and the beautiful setting make it a worthwhile expense for those interested in premium, immersive experiences.

While it’s priced as a luxury experience, many guests feel that the quality of the guide, the scenery, and the food justify the cost. If you’re a fan of horses, wine, or Australian Olympians, this tour offers an appreciation of all three in a single, thoughtfully curated package.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value genuine stories, scenic views, and a touch of celebrity. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic day, friends looking for a fun and refined outing, or wine lovers eager to discover new local bottles. It’s less suited for families with children under 18 or those seeking a high-energy, physically demanding activity.

The flexibility to reserve and pay later also makes it a stress-free option for planning your South Australia getaway.

Final Thoughts

The VIP Equestrian & Private Wine Lunch experience offers a fine balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture. Meeting Megan Jones and learning about her inspiring journey adds depth to what could otherwise be just a scenic ride and a wine tasting. The stunning vineyard views, combined with the luxury of The Glass Room, create a memorable setting for any wine or horse enthusiast.

The attention to detail—from the carefully selected horses to the exquisite lunch menu—demonstrates a high level of quality and care. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply want a unique way to explore South Australia’s renowned wine country, this experience delivers in both authenticity and enjoyment.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, Megan and her team select horses suited to your experience level, and the ride includes basic maneuvers, making it accessible for beginners with proper guidance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and casual clothes are recommended. Bring a camera and water to stay refreshed and capture the scenery.

How long does the experience last?
The full experience is approximately 3.5 hours, including the ride, photos, and lunch.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, dietary preferences like vegetarian options can be arranged if specified when booking.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, there are generous servings of wine from exclusive local vineyards, and these are paired with the meal.

Are merchandise or souvenirs available?
Yes, Megan will have memorabilia and autographs available for purchase on the day.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the outdoor scenery and vineyard views suggest spring and autumn are ideal, avoiding the heat of summer or chill of winter.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins at the cellar door with coordinates provided: -34.9499626159668, 138.9041748046875. It’s best to arrange transport or check local options for easy access.

To sum it up, this tour offers a charming blend of equestrian adventure, fine local wines, and inspiring storytelling, perfect for those wanting a sophisticated yet authentic taste of South Australia. It’s a memorable way to connect with the land, its people, and its produce—all with the added thrill of meeting an Olympian.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby