Adelaide: Barossa Day Out: Wines, Brewery, Chocolate & Lunch

Thinking of a day trip that combines wine, wildlife, scenic views, and good food? The Adelaide: Barossa Day Out from See Adelaide & Beyond promises to do just that. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 12 reviews, this tour seems to hit the sweet spot for many travelers looking to experience the best of South Australia’s most famous wine region without the fuss of planning it all themselves.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the variety of experiences packed into a single day—from visiting world-class wineries to getting up close with kangaroos and giant sculptures, plus enjoying gourmet pizza lunch overlooking vines. Second, the knowledgeable guides and relaxed vibe seem to make the day both fun and informative, with plenty of authentic local insights.

Of course, no tour is perfect. If you’re not a fan of long days on a bus or have limited mobility, this might be a bit much—you’re on the go for about 8 to 9 hours, with some walking and standing. Also, children under 18 aren’t included, so it’s more suited for adults or older teens. But for those who love a balanced mix of wine, scenery, and a touch of wildlife, this tour is a solid choice.

If you’re after a comprehensive day in the Barossa with a friendly, small-group atmosphere, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially good for curious travelers who want a bit of everything without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple stops.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: Combines wine tasting, wildlife encounters, scenic viewpoints, and a gourmet lunch.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides are praised for their friendliness and insight, making the day both educational and fun.
• Comfortable Transport: The bus is clean, with plenty of legroom, making the long day more comfortable.
• Great Value: Despite multiple stops and activities, reviews highlight it as good value for money.
• Interesting Stops: Unique attractions like the Big Rocking Horse and Whispering Wall add memorable moments.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Pick-up options at multiple locations and easy cancellation make planning simple.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

Starting the Day: Scenic Drive & Gumeracha

Your day begins with a scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills, offering a preview of the lush landscape ahead. The first major stop is Gumeracha, home to the iconic Big Rocking Horse, the largest in the world. It’s a fun photo op and gives a sense of the quirky charm South Australia offers. The wildlife park here is a highlight—think friendly kangaroos and wallabies you can feed (for a small fee), along with the impressive sculpture of the giant horse from which the town gets its nickname. Several reviews mention this as a lighthearted, fun start that sets a cheerful tone.

The Whispering Wall: Acoustic Wonder

Next, you’ll visit the Whispering Wall, a section of the historic Barossa Reservoir famous for its astonishing acoustic properties. It’s a quick stop, but many find it genuinely fascinating—an unexpected scientific marvel nestled right in the landscape. As one reviewer put it, “This will blow your mind!” It’s a brief stop but a memorable one, especially for fans of quirky engineering and natural phenomena.

Wine Tastings at Kies & Lambert Estate

The core of the experience is, of course, wine tasting. The first stop, Kies Family Wines, is a family-run operation, where you’ll sample some award-winning wines in a welcoming setting. It’s a good intro to the region’s offerings—less snobbish than some larger wineries, but still professional and friendly.

Then, it’s onto Lambert Estate, where you’ll enjoy a tasting experience paired with a Gourmet Pizza lunch overlooking the vineyard. This is a standout part of the tour—great views, delicious food, and an opportunity to relax and chat with fellow travelers. Multiple reviews highlight this as a highlight, with one describing the lunch as “lovely” and the wines as “charming.” The relaxed atmosphere makes it more than just a tasting; it’s a social and culinary moment.

More Great Tours Nearby

Menglers Hill Lookout & Tanunda

Later in the afternoon, the tour visits Menglers Hill Lookout—a panoramic spot offering sweeping views of the valley. It’s perfect for photos and taking in the scale of the region. Many travelers comment on how stunning the scenery is from this vantage point.

Next, you get about 45 minutes in Tanunda, the heart of the Barossa. You can choose to visit Z Wines, known for its long family tradition and excellent wines, or Rehn Bier Brewhouse for a local beer tasting. Alternatively, just wander the charming streets, browse shops, and enjoy a coffee or ice cream. This flexibility seems to be appreciated by most, allowing you to tailor the experience further.

Final Stops: Beer & Shopping

The day concludes with a visit to the Rehn Bier Brewery for a tasting of local beers. This addition is often praised by those who enjoy craft brews alongside wine. Some reviews mention that the variety makes it a perfect ending for beer lovers or those wanting a different taste of the region.

Finally, you’ll have free time in Tanunda for shopping or more exploration before heading back to Adelaide. The bus ride back allows for reflection, light conversation, or a quick nap after a busy day.

The Transport & Group Size

Transport is in a well-maintained, comfortable bus with plenty of legroom—important for a day that involves a lot of sitting. The group size is kept small enough to ensure everyone feels part of the experience, which most reviewers appreciate. With a dedicated guide, the day is both smooth and engaging.

Value for Money

Considering the multiple stops, tastings, lunch, and guided commentary, many find this tour to be very good value. It’s not just about the tastings—it’s about experiencing the region’s scenery, wildlife, and local culture in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The reviews mostly agree that the price is justified, especially given the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults and older teens who want to enjoy a mix of wine, beer, scenic views, and wildlife. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who prefer a small-group setting with a knowledgeable guide, rather than going solo or on a large coach tour. If you’re after a relaxed day that covers a lot of ground without feeling rushed, this fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

The Adelaide: Barossa Day Out offers a balanced, engaging way to experience one of Australia’s most iconic wine regions. With visits to family-owned wineries, a delicious gourmet pizza lunch, and fun stops like the Giant Rocking Horse and Whispering Wall, it caters well to those who want a bit of everything.

The tour’s friendly guides and well-organized itinerary ensure a smooth day, and the variety keeps it interesting from start to finish. The price reflects the inclusions—tastings, lunch, transport, and a diverse itinerary—making it a worthwhile option for anyone wanting to maximize their time in the Barossa without the stress of self-driving.

It’s not perfect—long hours on a bus might be tiring for some, and it’s not suited for young children or those with mobility issues—but for most adults looking for a fun, relaxed, and authentic taste of the region, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re craving a full day of wine, wildlife, scenic vistas, and good food, all delivered in a friendly and professional way, this could be just the trip for you.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
While you’ll visit multiple wineries and have tastings, there are also opportunities to enjoy the scenery and food, like the pizza lunch and wildlife park. However, non-drinkers might find the wine tastings less engaging unless they’re interested in the region’s wines.

How long is the drive from Adelaide?
The tour departs from various central locations and includes a scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills, but the exact drive time isn’t specified. You’ll spend around 8-9 hours in total, including stops.

Is the tour family-friendly?
This tour is designed for adults and older teens—children under 18 are not included, possibly due to alcohol tastings and the nature of the stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended. It can be a warm day, so dress accordingly.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a gourmet pizza lunch overlooking the vineyard is part of the itinerary, which many reviews highlight as a lovely highlight.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Are the wineries and attractions worth it?
Based on reviews, sites like Kies Family Wines and Lambert Estate are charming and produce quality wines. The wildlife park is also a hit, especially for those who enjoy interactive experiences.

How big are the groups?
While not explicitly specified, the small-group nature is appreciated by reviewers, making the experience more personalized and less crowded.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Multiple reviews praise guides for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly attitude, making the day more engaging.

What if I want to explore Tanunda more?
You’ll have about 45 minutes here, with the flexibility to visit local shops, enjoy a drink, or relax in a café, based on your preference.

In all, the Adelaide: Barossa Day Out ticks a lot of boxes for those seeking a well-rounded, fun, and authentic day in South Australia’s premier wine country. It balances guided experiences with free time, ensuring you leave with not just great photos but also a genuine taste of the region’s charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: