From Cairns: Atherton Tablelands Food and Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to combine stunning scenery with a serious focus on local food and drink, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a full 10-hour adventure that takes you out of Cairns into the lush, volcanic landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands, where you’ll sample everything from tropical fruits to boutique wines.

What really caught our eye about this experience is how it balances beautiful scenery with genuine culinary treats. Two things we love? First, the way the tour showcases local produce—from cheeses to spirits—giving you a real taste of the region. Second, the knowledgeable guides who make the day informative and relaxed.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is an adults-only tour, which might be a limitation if you’re traveling with children. Also, it’s a fairly long day, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full itinerary with plenty of tastings. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect day, this trip is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Local Flavour: The tour highlights the best of regional produce, from tropical fruits to boutique wines and artisanal cheeses.
• Scenic Settings: Expect breathtaking views at Lake Barrine and other lush landscapes.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides are praised for their passion and insight about the area.
• Diverse Stops: You’ll visit farms, distilleries, and markets, offering a well-rounded experience.
• All-Inclusive Tastings: Food, wine, spirits, and sweets are included, making it great value.
• Adults-Only: Suitable for travelers over 18, with limited options for children or mobility aids.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting in Cairns, the day begins with a pickup from your accommodation—whether you’re in the city, Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, or nearby beaches. The drive out to the Atherton Tablelands is about an hour, giving you a chance to settle in and get a preview of the lush countryside.

Lake Barrine: A Peaceful Start

Your first stop is Lake Barrine, a stunning crater lake surrounded by rainforest. It’s a calming spot to sip on local tea or coffee while taking in the scenery. The ancient rainforest and volcanic landscape make for some great photo opportunities and set the tone for a relaxing day.

Yungaburra & Local Food Tasting

Next, you’ll visit the charming town of Yungaburra, where Anna and Stu host a private tasting at their home. Here, you get an intimate look at regional produce—think homemade jams, cheeses, and snacks—paired with local stories. It’s a relaxed, down-to-earth experience that offers insight into the local lifestyle, not just the food.

Australian Platypus Park: Unique Lunch Spot

One of the highlights is the gourmet lunch at Australian Platypus Park. Instead of the usual sandwich, this lunch is a celebration of local meats like crocodile, kangaroo, and yabby (freshwater crayfish). These are served with fresh salads and paired with regional beers, ciders, or herbal teas. The setting is pretty special—a chance to spot platypuses in their natural habitat adds an extra layer of charm.

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Tasting Local Wines and Spirits

Post-lunch, you’ll enjoy tastings of tropical fruit wines and liqueurs made locally. Then it’s off to Mt. Uncle Distillery, Queensland’s first and most awarded distillery, where you’ll sample whiskey, gin, and rum—each crafted with native botanicals. Several reviews mention the quality and variety of the spirits, with one guest calling it “award-winning whiskey” and “premium spirits and liqueurs.”

Cheese and Sweet Treats

Gallo Dairyland is your next stop, a working dairy farm where you’ll sample freshly made cheeses and chocolates. The farm’s setting is picturesque, and the cheese tasting is praised for its freshness and craftsmanship. Nearby, Emerald Creek Ice Creamery provides a sweet finish with handcrafted ice cream or sorbet, made from the region’s freshest ingredients.

Markets and Local Goodies

Last stops include The Humpy, a local market and produce shop, offering tropical fruits, macadamia nuts, jams, and sauces—perfect for picking up some souvenirs or snacks for later. Many reviews appreciate the chance to sample seasonal local foods straight from top growers, making it a tasty shopping experience.

Scenic Drive Back

After a full day of eats and sights, you’ll settle into the bus for the scenic drive back to Cairns, often accompanied by reflection on the day’s highlights. The tours generally finish in the late afternoon, leaving you with plenty of time to relax or explore further.

What We Loved About This Tour

Most reviews praise the balance of scenic beauty and excellent food and drink. The stops at Lake Barrine and the picturesque farms make the experience feel authentic and relaxing. Guides are consistently described as knowledgeable, friendly, and entertaining, which really elevates the day, especially when navigating the various tastings.

Guests also mention the variety of food and drinks—from crocodile and kangaroo to tropical wines—offering a chance to try new things in a supportive, fun environment. The local spirit and cheese tastings are often highlighted as standouts, with many reviewers noting the high quality and the insight they gained into the region’s food scene.

The Authenticity and Intimacy

The private home tasting at Anna and Stu’s place is a big plus for those who enjoy a more personal experience. It’s not just a touristy stop—it’s an opportunity to see real local life and taste regional products in a warm, welcoming setting.

Value for Money

Considering the full day of activities, tastings, and scenic stops, many say the tour offers great value. The inclusivity of food, wine, spirits, and snacks means you’re not left shopping for extras, and the variety keeps everyone satisfied. Plus, the fact that it’s adults-only helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and focused.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suited for children or people with mobility challenges. Some stops involve limited walking, but if you have mobility concerns, bringing a walking stick is recommended.

The tour requires a minimum of 6 passengers to run, so if you’re booking during quieter times, there’s a chance it might be rescheduled or canceled. Also, it’s a long day, so travelers should be prepared for a full schedule and to pace themselves, especially if they’re not used to such a packed itinerary.

Since it’s adult-only, families with under-18s will need to look elsewhere. But if you’re after a relaxed adults-only experience filled with local food and scenic views, this is a strong choice.

Practical Details

• Duration: 10 hours
• Pickup: Available from multiple locations including Cairns North, Cairns City, Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, and Kewarra Beach
• Price: Offers flexibility with Reserve & Pay Later; value depends on how much you enjoy food and drink tastings
• Transport: Comfortable coach with a small group size—many reviews mention the friendly, personal atmosphere
• Dietary Needs: Gluten-free and lactose-free options available on request
• Restrictions: No luggage, large bags, mobility scooters, or wheelchairs allowed
• Languages: English

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and gluten-free and lactose-free options can be requested. It’s always best to mention dietary requirements in advance.

How long is the drive from Cairns to the first stop?
The drive to Lake Barrine takes about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, this is an adults-only tour, so travelers need to be over 18.

What should I bring?
Bring water, comfortable clothes, and a hat. If you have mobility issues, a walking stick is recommended.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, all tastings—food, wine, spirits, and sweets—are included in the tour price.

How many stops are there?
The tour makes about seven main stops, including farms, distilleries, and markets, with plenty of tastings at each.

What’s the best part of this tour?
Most travelers rave about the variety of local foods and drinks and the knowledge and friendliness of guides.

Is this tour a good value?
Considering the full-day experience, tastings, scenic views, and personalized service, many say it offers excellent value for the price.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re someone who loves discovering local flavors, trying new foods, and enjoys scenic countryside, this tour hits the right notes. It’s ideal for adults seeking a relaxed yet flavorful day out and those interested in learning about the region’s produce and spirits from passionate guides.

It’s a great choice if you appreciate small-group experiences, want to skip the hassle of planning multiple tastings, and enjoy a mix of nature and culinary delights. However, if you’re traveling with young children or have mobility challenges, you might want to look for more family-friendly options.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Queensland’s culinary heartland, paired with stunning landscapes and engaging storytelling. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply looking to experience a scenic part of Australia with delicious stops along the way, it’s a journey worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: