TOUR CODE: YV-S

OPERATES: Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 

TOUR DURATION: 8.5 Hours

MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Old Melbourne Gaol - 377 Russell St (opposite Space Hotel @ 8:45am.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Discover the Yarra Valley, Australia’s premier wine region
  
• Indulge in some sweet samples from the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice-Creamery
• The guests will be treated to three premium tasting experiences at some of the most impressive cellar doors in the Yarra Valley region
  
• Free time to explore the gateway town and heart of the Yarra Valley; Healesville (lunch at own expense)
• Relaxing afternoon tasting of sustainably grown and harvested cool climate wines with scenic vineyard views
• Unlike your typical wine tour, this one emphasizes quality tastings rather than quantity
  
• Reconnect with loved ones in a small group atmosphere

ITINERARY:

Calling all tastebud explorers for a one-day perfect combo, of travel and taste, as we sample our way through the stunningly exquisite Yarra Valley. While wine is a big part of that historically, these days you can delight in a plethora of options including fresh local produce, chocolate and learning about the process of Australian winemaking. As we get to sip award-winning vino and ciders, whilst chatting with the person who actually made it whilst being surrounded by spectacular landscapes and vineyard views.

Our day starts with an indulgent feast for your senses, at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice-Creamery with an exclusive behind-the-scenes chocolate tasting. Over 250 handcrafted chocolates are available for purchase, as well as a variety of free chocolate samples to enjoy. 

Guests will have the pleasure of visiting three boutique wineries and cellar-door estates, such as St Huberts, Yering Farm Wines and Medhurst Wines. In some cases, our itinerary and winery stops will need to be modified due to unforeseen circumstances, such as group sizes, special events and cellar-door closures.

We’ve added free time in Healesville, for guests to grab lunch and explore the gateway town to the Yarra Valley. This tour has been designed for our guests to be able to see the Yarra Valley through local eyes rather than being shuttled from one winery to another. Whilst in Healesville, we highly recommend exploring the local shops, cafes, and restaurants or you can even pop into Four Pillars Gin Distillery, Matilda Bay Brewery or Alchemy Distillers for a cheeky extra tasting if you fancy (at guest's own expense).

This unique wine tour explores all the treasures of the Yarra Valley district in a relaxed small group environment and away from the tourist masses. Highlighting some of our favourite premium wineries and local produce for everyone to enjoy. Giving our guests the opportunity to meet the maker along the way and truly enjoy what this world-class region has to offer. 

Driving Distance: 140km

*Our itinerary and winery stops may change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as group sizes, special events and cellardoor closures.

INCLUSIONS:

• 3 Premium wine tastings
• Local produce samples
• Time to explore the heart of the Yarra Valley; Healesville
• Relaxed small group social atmosphere
• Hosted by an experienced driver-guide
• Air-conditioned comfortable minibus travel
• Comprehensive local tour commentary
• Selected Melbourne inner-city pick-up/drop-off points

EXCLUSIONS:

• Any meals not indicated within the itinerary - at the guest’s own expense. We provide plenty of opportunities for guests to support locals and buy lunch/dinner along the way.
  
• Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
• Personal travel insurance is highly recommended
  
• Personal expenses
  

WHAT TO BRING:

Photo ID required, 1L refillable water bottle, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, warm clothing, comfortable shoes, small daypack 5-7kg, money for purchase produce along the way and a camera to capture every moment!

CHILD POLICY: 

Drinking age is 18+ yrs old. Not suitable for 17 yrs and under.

WEATHER:

• Mandatory passenger details are required at the time of booking: phone number date of birth.
• Minimum drinking age is 18 years old, photo ID is required.
• Not suitable for infants or children 17 years old and under, as it doesn’t include activities for children.
• Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the itinerary stops due to unforeseen circumstances, such as group sizes, special events and cellar-door closures.
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, you are asked to leave the tour you will not be entitled to a refund.  Please be advised it’s illegal to consume alcohol in a moving commercial passenger vehicle.
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, wheelchairs, walkers, prams or strollers. Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 5-7kg day bag per person.
• Please re-confirm your tour details within 7 days prior to departure on 03 9393 1333.
• Private touring is available on request.