Winery Lunch by Helicopter to Levantine Hill in Yarra Valley

Imagine soaring above Melbourne’s eastern suburbs in a helicopter, then touching down right on the lawn of a top-tier winery for a five-course gourmet meal with wine pairings. This is precisely what the Winery Lunch by Helicopter to Levantine Hill experience offers—and it’s receiving glowing reviews. If you’re seeking a special day out—perhaps for a birthday, anniversary, or just a memorable adventure—this tour promises a blend of excitement, luxury, and authentic wine country charm.

Two things stand out about this experience: the breathtaking aerial views of the Dandenong Ranges and the rolling green hills of the Yarra Valley, plus the chance to indulge in some of the region’s best wines paired with a thoughtfully curated meal. The only caveat? It is a premium experience with a premium price, which might be a lot for some budgets. Still, if you’re after a one-of-a-kind scenic and culinary adventure, this trip is likely to deliver. It’s especially well-suited for those celebrating a special milestone or seeking a luxury activity with a romantic or private feel.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Melbourne’s suburbs, Dandenong Ranges, and the Yarra Valley.
• Private helicopter transfer, landing directly on the estate’s lawn—no fuss, just luxury.
• Gourmet five-course shared dining with acclaimed Levantine Hill wines.
• Flexible, personalized experience with group discounts and private tours.
• Excellent reviews highlight warm pilots and unforgettable memories.
• Weather-dependent, with cancellations or rescheduling if conditions aren’t suitable.

An Authentic Look at the Experience

This tour is designed for those who want more than just a wine tasting—it’s a full-day adventure wrapped in luxury and scenic beauty. Starting at Melbourne’s Essendon Fields, you’ll hop into a helicopter for a 30-minute flight that offers sweeping views of Melbourne’s rooftops, the mountain landscapes of Mount Dandenong, and the lush vineyards of the Yarra Valley. The sight of the city shrinking behind you as you ascend is often described as awe-inspiring, a perfect start to a memorable day.

The Flight and Arrival

The flight itself is a highlight, not merely a mode of transport but part of the experience. It’s a comfortable, private journey that provides plenty of photo opportunities. As you approach the Levantine Hill Estate, your pilot will land directly on the estate’s front lawn, giving you a sense of exclusivity and convenience that’s hard to beat.

Many reviewers emphasize how personable and professional the pilots are. One shared: “Ed our pilot was so warm, welcoming and professional. Ed really did make us feel like VIPs for the day and most of all gave us a lasting memory.” This personal touch helps elevate what might otherwise be a straightforward helicopter ride into a truly memorable experience.

The Estate & Its Setting

Levantine Hill Estate is renowned for its elegant architecture and scenic location. It’s an award-winning winery and restaurant that oozes class without losing the feeling of being part of nature. The estate’s manicured lawns and stunning views create an ideal backdrop for your gourmet meal. The restaurant itself offers a shared dining experience with five courses—think beautifully plated dishes that allow you to savor the flavors alongside Levantine Hill’s premium estate wines.

The Food & Wine

The tasting menu is crafted to be both refined and approachable. While the exact dishes aren’t specified, the reviews praise its quality and the pairing with local wines. Guests can expect a degustation-style lunch that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and expert wine pairing. Many reviewers mention how the whole experience “went above and beyond expectations,” highlighting the quality of the food and the attentiveness of the staff.

Levantine Hill’s wine selection is equally impressive. Guests consistently praise the wine tasting experience, describing the wines as “excellent” and “some of the best in the region,” which speaks to the estate’s reputation for fine wines. The pairing elevates the meal, making the entire experience feel special and luxurious.

Duration & Timing

The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, with about 2 hours at the estate for lunch and wine tasting. The helicopter flight adds another 30 minutes of flying time, so you’re looking at a carefully curated, well-paced journey. Travelers appreciate that it’s a private tour—your group will be the only ones on the helicopter and at the estate, adding a layer of intimacy and exclusivity.

Practical Considerations

The tour departs from Essendon Fields and is highly booked, usually 9 days in advance. Pricing is around $1,068.69 per person, which on paper might seem steep, but when you factor in the helicopter transfer, luxury lunch, tastings, and the exclusivity, many consider it a worthwhile splurge. It’s advisable for travelers to be aware of the weight limit (287 lbs per person), which is standard for helicopter safety.

Weather is a crucial factor—if conditions aren’t suitable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, but the provider offers a full refund or alternative date if this occurs. This makes it a good idea to plan flexible days around your booking.

Why This Tour Works

Many reviewers are impressed by how this experience surpasses typical winery visits. The helicopter adds a sense of adventure, while the estate’s elegant setting and high-quality food make it clear this isn’t just a quick tasting. Instead, it’s a thoughtfully curated, luxurious experience that feels both exclusive and authentic.

One guest shared: “The whole experience was simply incredible. Ed made us feel like VIPs and gave us a lasting memory.” Another emphasized it being “the most magical way to spend a surprise birthday,” highlighting its suitability for special occasions.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave luxury, stunning scenery, and exclusive experiences. It’s ideal for celebrating milestones—birthdays, anniversaries, or even a romantic getaway. It also appeals to those who appreciate fine wine and gourmet food but want to elevate the experience through scenic travel and personal touches.

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys a bit of adventure combined with sophistication, this is a compelling choice. Just keep in mind the price point and weather considerations, and you’ll be rewarded with a truly unforgettable day.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This helicopter winery lunch is an exceptional way to see the Yarra Valley from a perspective few get to experience—high above vineyards, mountains, and forests. The private helicopter transfer, combined with a gourmet meal and wine tasting, makes it a standout for those seeking a luxurious, memorable day out.

It’s especially suitable for special occasions or if you’re looking to splurge on something truly unique. The views and the wine are praised consistently, and the personal touch from the pilots and staff adds warmth to the luxury.

While it’s an investment, the feeling of exclusivity, the scenic aerial sightseeing, and the quality of the food and wine combine to justify the cost for many. If you’re after a blend of adventure and elegance, this experience deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate in the helicopter ride and lunch.

How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including the helicopter flight, landings, and dining.

What is the flight duration?
The helicopter ride is about 30 minutes in total, offering panoramic views of Melbourne, Mount Dandenong, and the Yarra Valley.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Rotor One in Essendon Fields and returns there at the end of the experience.

Is this suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but weight restrictions (287 lbs per person) apply, and weather conditions can affect scheduling.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 9 days ahead, as it’s a popular experience.

What is included in the lunch?
A shared five-course degustation paired with Levantine Hill’s estate wines.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
The experience is non-refundable, but cancellations due to poor weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

If you’re looking to combine scenic flight, excellent wine, and a gourmet meal into one memorable day, this tour offers a rare chance to do so with style and ease.