Bunbury Geographe Forest, Wine and Brewery Tour

Discover the Bunbury Geographe Forest, Wine and Brewery Tour — a laid-back way to see some of Western Australia’s most charming spots while sampling local flavors. Whether you’re into wine, craft beer, or just love a scenic drive with a touch of quirky roadside attractions, this tour packs a surprising amount into just over six hours. It’s a great option for those who appreciate a small-group vibe, personal attention, and plenty of tastings without feeling rushed.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances nature, local culture, and tasty treats. The chance to visit Gnomesville, the whimsical village packed with thousands of gnomes, is genuinely fun and a bit eccentric. Plus, the scenic drive through Ferguson Valley and Wellington National Park offers some stunning views and photo-worthy moments. On the flip side, the tour is fairly structured, so if you’re hoping for a totally flexible day, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

This tour feels tailored for those who want a taste of everything — scenic landscapes, local wines and beers, and some quirky stops — all in a small-group setting that feels intimate and personalized. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace and appreciate engaging guides to enrich the experience.

Key Points

• Small Group: Max of 8 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Diverse Stops: From gnomes to wineries, the tour covers a wide range of sights.
• Tastings Included: Wine, beer, cider, and cheese tastings are part of the package.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy beautiful views of Ferguson Valley and Wellington National Park.
• Relaxed Pace: Ample time at each stop to explore and enjoy without feeling hurried.
• Value for Money: At around $143, the tour offers a good balance of experiences with food and drink tastings included.

The Itinerary in Detail

Gnomesville — A Quirky Beginning

The tour kicks off with a visit to Gnomesville, home to over 5,000 gnomes. Think of it as a roadside oddity that’s surprisingly charming. It’s a perfect photo-op and a fun way to get into the local spirit. The guide encourages everyone to bring a gnome along and personalize it with a sign showing where they’re from, which adds a little community vibe. Since the admission is included, there’s no extra cost or hassle.

One reviewer mentioned, “Overall great tour! Perfect for newcomers. Had ample time each stopover. Can enjoy the scenery & tastings without getting rushed.” That’s a good sign that the tour doesn’t feel overly hurried, even with a few stops packed into the day.

Ferguson Valley — Wineries and Scenic Drives

Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Ferguson Valley, which is known for its lush landscapes and wine-friendly climate. The highlight here is a visit to a local winery for tastings. The guide’s local insights can really enhance your understanding of the region’s wine-making traditions, even if you’re not a wine connoisseur.

This part of the tour is free to enter, so it’s more about soaking in the scenery and sampling some wines rather than a structured tasting session. It’s a nice breather after the gnome visit, offering a relaxed vibe.

Wellington National Park — Art Meets Nature

The drive continues into Wellington National Park, where you’ll see the famous mural ‘Reflections’ at the dam. The guide describes this as the biggest mural in the area. The landscape here is lush, with dense forest and tranquil water views. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a quick coffee break at the kiosk by the dam, giving you a moment to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty.

Harris River Estate — A Food & Drink Haven

Then, it’s time for a real treat — wine, beer, or cider tastings at Harris River Estate. The estate is well-regarded for its variety, and the guide can help you navigate your choices. Alongside the tastings, you’ll enjoy a fabulous grazing lunch that highlights local produce. With an hour at this stop, you get ample time to sample, chat, and maybe grab a bottle or two to take home.

Harvey Cheese — Dairy Delights

Next on the list is Harvey Cheese, where you’ll try their award-winning cheeses, including favorites like OMG and cultured butter. Visitors rave about the quality — “Try the award-winning variety of cheese including OMG and cultured butter.” The visit here isn’t just about tasting; you also get to meet the resident camels, Nala and Pumba, adding a charming farmyard touch. The gift shop makes a good spot to pick up some local goodies.

Brugan Brewery — A Caffeinated Finish

Finally, you head to Brugan Brewery, where you can enjoy a crafted beer or a coffee and cake if you prefer something lighter to wind down. This stop rounds off the day with a relaxed vibe, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What You Can Expect in Terms of Experience

The tour starts at 9:30 am from Bunbury and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day. Pickup is offered, so you don’t have to worry about transportation, and the tour is limited to just 8 travelers, ensuring a friendly, less rushed atmosphere.

The price of around $143.45 includes almost everything — tastings at Harris River Estate, cheese at Harvey Cheese, the gnome visit, and the grazing lunch. This is pretty decent value, considering the variety and quality of experiences packed into the day. The small group size makes the experience feel more personal, and the guide’s local knowledge adds a layer of authenticity.

We got positive feedback from a traveler who called it a “great tour” and appreciated the “ample time at each stop”. Most people seem to enjoy the relaxed pace and the chance to sample a good mix of regional highlights.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: About 6.5 hours, which is enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
• Price: For just over $140, you’re paying for a curated day of tastings, scenic drives, and personal service—a fair deal if you love a variety-packed experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 8, so expect a cozy, friendly atmosphere but be aware that it might fill up quickly — book early if you’re keen.
• Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it more inclusive.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change suddenly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re into discovering local wines, craft beers, or cheese, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a leisurely, guided experience with plenty of tastings and scenic views. The quirky stop at Gnomesville adds an element of fun that’s ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of kitsch. While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops are casual and engaging enough for older kids if they’re interested in farm animals and scenic drives.

This tour is less about adventure and more about appreciating the local flavors and landscapes comfortably, making it ideal for laid-back travelers, food and drink enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a relaxed way to explore the Ferguson Valley.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, older children might enjoy the cheese farm visit and the scenic drives. It’s best suited for those who can sit comfortably for a full day and have an interest in tasting local products.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers all tastings at Harris River Estate (wine, beer, cider), cheese tasting at Harvey Cheese, the grazing lunch, and the Gnomesville entrance fee. The guide’s insights and transportation within the itinerary are also included.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with plenty of time at each stop to explore, taste, and relax.

Is pickup provided?
Yes, pickup from Bunbury is offered, making it easier to start the day without worrying about transportation logistics.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, which gives some flexibility in planning.

What if the tour doesn’t meet the minimum number of travelers?
If the minimum isn’t met, the tour might be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring you aren’t left hanging.

In the end, this Bunbury Geographe Forest, Wine and Brewery Tour is a well-rounded choice for those wanting to see and taste the best of Ferguson Valley without the fuss. It’s perfect for travelers craving a relaxed, guided day soaking in scenic views, local flavors, and some quirky roadside fun. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s worth considering — especially if you appreciate the personal touch of a small group.