Wheatbelt & Historic New Norcia, Perth Day Tour with Lunch

Exploring Western Australia’s Wheatbelt & New Norcia: A Personal, In-Depth Review of the Perth Day Tour with Lunch

If you’re craving a day trip that balances nature, history, and local flavors, this Wheatbelt & Historic New Norcia tour might just be what you’re looking for. As someone who’s seen a lot of travel experiences, I’d say this tour stands out for its focus on small-group intimacy and authentic encounters with local artisans and historic sites.

What really drew me in are two standout features: the chance to enjoy farm-fresh tastings—from honey and artisan cheese to homemade gelato—and the beautiful, preserved architecture of New Norcia. Plus, with only five people max in your group, you’re guaranteed a personalized experience that feels more like a trip with friends than a typical tour bus ride. However, be aware that it’s not suited for kids under 8, so this is more for those who really want to soak up the local culture without the chaos of large groups.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and food—and prefer a more relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Western Australia. If you’re after a full-day experience that offers genuine insights and tasty treats in a peaceful countryside setting, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Max 5 guests for a more intimate, personalized day.
• Diverse local tastings: Honey, artisan cheese, gelato, and more.
• Historical charm: Explore the well-preserved New Norcia monastery and architecture.
• Nature and wildlife: Bird aviaries and farm animals at the Wheatbelt.
• Relaxed pace: 9-hour day with plenty of time at each stop.
• Not suitable for children under 8: Best for adult travelers or families with older kids.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Wheatbelt & New Norcia Tour

This tour offers a combination of unique sights, delicious local food, and historical charm that balances well throughout the day. From the moment the small-group gathering begins, you feel the benefit of personalized attention, with a guide who shares interesting tidbits and makes the experience feel relaxed rather than hurried.

The Pickup & First Impressions

Starting at either Crown Casino Perth or The Bell Tower, your day kicks off early, with pickup around 8:00am. The scenic drive north is broken up with little surprises—like spotting native bushland and farmsteads—making the hour-long trip feel like part of the adventure rather than just transportation.

The Aviary & Farm Experience

The first stop is at a tropical garden oasis within the Wheatbelt, a true haven for bird lovers. The sight of over 450 species of colorful birds, including peacocks and parrots, instantly puts you in a cheerful mood. It’s not just about looking; you can get up close and personal with cheeky parrots and learn about the native birds, making this a highlight for nature enthusiasts.

Next, the visit to a charming goat cheese farm is a real treat. Gerald hand-milks the goats each morning, and Julie turns that fresh milk into creamy cheeses and gelato. The tasting session here is more than just sampling; it’s about savoring the craftsmanship behind each product. One traveler described it as “a charming countryside barn where tradition meets authentic flavor,” which sums up the feel perfectly.

Honey Tasting at Little Eeden Honey Farm

Moving on, the tour makes a stop at Little Eeden Honey Farm, where the focus is honey—an underrated natural product. You get to try different varieties of WA bush honey and learn about their health benefits. Surrounded by native flora, it’s a peaceful setting, and you might find yourself craving the pure, natural flavors of local honey long after the tasting.

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Lunch & Local Flavors

The included lunch is a time to relax and enjoy the farm-fresh offerings. From what’s shared in reviews, you’ll have ample opportunity to sample more local produce, and the setting makes it all the more enjoyable. Keep an eye out for Emu birds wandering nearby—they’re part of the farm landscape, and watching them is an amusing bonus.

Exploring New Norcia

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring New Norcia, Western Australia’s only living monastery founded by Spanish Benedictine monks. The town’s architecture is a delightful blend of Mediterranean-style buildings and Australian outback scenery, making for plenty of photo opportunities.

Highlights include a guided tour of the monastery, featuring the Moser pipe organ and sgraffito murals. You’ll also see the New Norcia Hostel, St Ildephonsus College, and other historic buildings, each carrying stories of the town’s deep spiritual and cultural legacy.

The tour emphasizes New Norcia’s blend of European traditions, Aboriginal culture, and religious history—making it more than just a religious site, but a place that reflects a complex, layered past.

The Final Touches

As the day wraps up, you’ll enjoy a refreshing drink—options include Abbey Ale, gin with native botanicals, or fresh orange juice—while soaking in the calm atmosphere. The scenic drive back to Perth takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a moment to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers appreciated the personal touch of the small-group setting, describing it as “a VIP experience” that allowed for more meaningful interactions. The local tastings—especially the cheese and honey—are often singled out as memorable highlights, with one saying, “You can tell they’re passionate about what they make, which makes all the difference.”

Some noted that the pace of the day is relaxed, giving enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed, which is perfect for those who prefer a more leisurely experience. However, a few pointed out that children under 8 might find the day’s focus on calm, cultural exploration a bit slow or quiet, so families with young kids should consider that.

Transportation & Practical Details

The tour is operated in a private mini-van, driven by a friendly guide named Cara. Pickup is included, either from Crown Casino or The Bell Tower, and return is to the same locations. The entire day lasts about 9 hours, providing enough time to really savor each stop without rushing.

Cost-wise, the experience offers solid value considering the personalized approach, the multiple tastings, and the cultural insights. It’s a well-rounded way to see a different side of Western Australia without breaking the bank.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys authentic local food experiences, historical sites, and quiet natural beauty, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for adults and older kids who appreciate learning about local culture and nature at a relaxed pace. If you’re traveling solo or in a small group looking for a more intimate day trip, the limited group size adds to the appeal.

On the flip side, if you’re after an action-packed, high-energy adventure or traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. It’s more about savoring the slower, meaningful moments of WA’s countryside and historic towns.

Final Thoughts

This Wheatbelt & New Norcia day tour offers a genuine slice of Western Australia—combining nature, history, and local craftsmanship in a way that feels both enriching and relaxing. You’ll enjoy the intimacy of a small group, the chance to taste some of the best local produce, and the opportunity to step into a beautifully preserved monastery town that tells stories of European and Aboriginal influences.

For travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look at WA’s rural charm and cultural depth, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who value quality over quantity, and who appreciate meaningful, peaceful experiences over fast-paced sightseeing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8, mainly because of the calm, cultural nature of the activities and the small group setting. Older kids who enjoy learning about history and nature should be fine.

What kind of food tastings are included?
You’ll enjoy farm-fresh gelato, cheese, and honey tastings, all crafted by passionate local artisans.

How long is the drive from Perth?
The drive to the Wheatbelt and New Norcia takes about 1 hour each way, with the return trip lasting roughly 1.5 hours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour guided?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide, Cara, will lead you through each stop, sharing insights and stories along the way.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers transportation, tastings, lunch, guided tours of New Norcia, and all entrance fees.

How many people are on the tour?
It’s limited to just 5 participants, making for a very personal and relaxed experience.

Where do I meet the guide?
Pickups are available at Crown Casino Perth or The Bell Tower—your guide will coordinate with you in advance.

If this sounds like a slice of WA you’d love to explore, it’s worth considering for your next day trip from Perth. It offers a peaceful, tasty, and culturally rich escape—perfect for slowing down and soaking up local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: