Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail

If you’re considering a day trip from Melbourne that combines wine tasting, craft beer, spectacular scenery, and a touch of local charm, the Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail might just be your perfect match. This tour promises to show off some of the best food and drink producers along the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas, with the added bonus of sightseeing and a relaxing cruise across Port Phillip Bay.

We love that this tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending nature, culture, and culinary delights—all in one day. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful coastal views stand out, making it a memorable outing for anyone keen to explore beyond Melbourne’s city limits. That said, the extensive itinerary means a pretty full day, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule. If you’re after a relaxed pace with lots of time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those eager to pack in a variety of experiences, it’s hard to beat the value.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining wine, beer, scenery, and a ferry cruise
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Scenic stops including waterfront walks and lookout points
• All-in price covers tastings, lunch, and transportation
• Full-day experience ideal for active travelers eager to see it all
• Limited group size (max 21) makes for a more personalized tour

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

What makes the Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail appealing is its ability to condense the best of Melbourne’s nearby coastal regions into a single day. It’s designed for those who want a taste of local food, wine, and beer while savoring the natural beauty of the area. The fact that pickup and drop-off are included from central Melbourne makes it very convenient, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the region.

Two standout features are the variety of tastings—from two wineries to a brewery—and the scenic cruise across Port Phillip Bay. These elements turn a typical wine tour into an engaging adventure, with enough diversity to keep everyone interested. Another perk is the lunch spot; Jack Rabbit Vineyard’s restaurant offers a chance to enjoy seasonal dishes amid vineyard views.

A potential downside? It’s a long day—about 10 hours—so if you prefer a slow-paced, leisurely experience, this might feel a little hurried. Also, as with any organized tour, some may find the set schedule limiting. But if you love to see a lot in one trip, the value here is undeniable. This tour is especially suitable for food and drink lovers, scenic landscape enthusiasts, and curious explorers wanting a comprehensive taste of Melbourne’s surrounding regions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $157.08 per person offers solid value considering the full day’s itinerary. It covers all tastings—wine at Scotchmans Hill, a glass at Jack Rabbit, and beer at St Andrews Beach Brewery—as well as lunch and a scenic ferry cruise. Transport is taken care of in an air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes are included, so no hidden surprises.

What’s not included? Snacks beyond the tastings, so bringing a small snack or water might be wise if you’re someone who needs to nibble regularly. The tour operates most days, with a minimum of travelers required to run, but it’s good to know that cancellations are free if you need to change plans at least 24 hours in advance.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start at Geelong Waterfront: Your day kicks off with a quick stroll along Geelong’s picturesque waterfront. It’s the perfect way to get a breath of fresh sea air and set a relaxed tone. The waterfront offers stunning views and is a favorite for many, with one reviewer praising the “spectacular” setting and the chance to enjoy the coastal atmosphere early in the day.

First stop: Scotchmans Hill Winery: Set on the scenic Bellarine Peninsula, this winery is housed in a charming French provincial-style barn amid lush vineyards. Here, you’ll sample a selection of wines and enjoy the tranquil view of the estate. Many guests appreciate the informative tasting, which provides a real taste of the region’s quality wine-making. One reviewer called it “an excellent winery,” highlighting the high standard of the tasting experience.

Next: Jack Rabbit Vineyard: Known for its breathtaking scenery, Jack Rabbit’s restaurant offers more than just a meal—you get a chance to taste some of the Peninsula’s best seasonal dishes. The views are often described as “spectacular,” and the relaxed atmosphere makes this a memorable highlight. One guest mentioned that they “never wanted to leave” the local spot, emphasizing how inviting and authentic this experience is.

Ferry ride at Searoad Ferries from Queenscliff: The highlight here is a 45-minute cruise across Port Phillip Bay, during which you can indulge in a Devonshire tea. This is a leisurely way to take in the bay’s beauty and, according to travelers, watch for dolphins and other wildlife—adding a touch of nature’s thrill to the day. Reviewers rave about the “beautiful weather” and the chance to see dolphins from the boat, making this a relaxing and scenic interlude.

St Andrews Beach Brewery: Once a world-class horse training facility, this brewery offers a beer paddle tasting amid a bucolic setting. Craft beer lovers will enjoy sampling local brews and watching the brewers at work. One reviewer notes, “we were lucky enough to see kangaroos and some dolphins from the ferry,” adding to the day’s wildlife sightings and scenic diversity.

Arthurs Seat and Murrays Lookout: The tour then moves to Arthurs Seat, where panoramic views across the bay to Melbourne await. The lookout provides excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the region’s expansive beauty. Visitors often comment on how “spectacular” and “breathtaking” the vistas are, making it a fitting end to the sightseeing portion of the day.

Bathing Boxes on Mornington Peninsula: Finally, the colorful Bathing Boxes are an iconic symbol of summer on Australia’s southern coast. These brightly painted beach huts are a picture-perfect scene and a favorite among travelers. The lively, summery vibe and the chance to walk along renowned beaches leave many feeling they’ve truly experienced the essence of the area.

What Travelers Say

With a 5-star overall rating from 27 reviews, this tour clearly resonates with past participants. The guides, notably Gary and Brooke, receive praise for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. Guests frequently mention the excellent value for the price, noting that the combination of tastings, scenic stops, and sightseeing makes it a worthwhile investment.

Reviewers also appreciate the balance of activities—not too rushed, yet packed with variety. One guest described it as “a great mix of delicious local wine and beer, scenic coastal views, and a relaxing ferry ride.” Another pointed out the “sufficient time at stops” and the “outstanding vineyards and brewery,” emphasizing the quality of each experience.

The only critiques tend to be about the pace—some find the day full, but most agree that the activities are well-organized and enjoyable. The small group size (max 21 travelers) adds a personal touch, allowing for more interaction and flexibility.

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to ferry guests from Melbourne to the various stops. Pickups are available from central locations, easing travel logistics. The day starts early at 8:30 am and wraps up in the evening, making it a full but rewarding experience.

The group size keeps it intimate enough for personal attention but large enough to maintain a lively atmosphere. Most travelers find the timing suitable for fitting in all the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Best For?

The Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail is ideal for food and drink enthusiasts who want to explore the best of Victoria’s coastal producers. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of scenic views, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences—all within a manageable daytrip. Families, couples, or groups of friends who value guidance, convenience, and variety will find this tour offers excellent bang for your buck.

However, if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace with ample time at each stop, you might find this day a bit full. Similarly, travelers with limited mobility should check the itinerary’s walking requirements, especially at scenic lookout points and beaches.

In essence, this tour delivers a well-rounded snapshot of Melbourne’s nearby coast—offering hearty tastings, unforgettable vistas, and a slice of local life. For those eager to see and taste a little of everything on a single trip, it truly offers a memorable day out.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, lunch at Jack Rabbit Vineyard is included, featuring seasonal dishes with vineyard views.

Does the tour include wine and beer tastings?
Absolutely. You’ll enjoy tastings at Scotchmans Hill Winery, a glass at Jack Rabbit, and beer at St Andrews Beach Brewery.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending in the evening.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle picks you up from central Melbourne locations and drops you off at the end of the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

Is this tour suitable for kids or families?
The information doesn’t specify restrictions, but given the focus on tastings and scenic stops, it’s best suited for adults or families with older children who can handle a full day.

This tour provides a wonderful taste of Melbourne’s nearby coastal treasures—perfect for those eager to combine scenic sightseeing, local food, and drink into one memorable day.