Mornington Peninsula Luxury Lunch, Wine Tasting & Pt Leo Art Walk

If you’re considering a day trip from Melbourne to the stunning Mornington Peninsula, this private tour offers a mix of wine, art, and delicious food—all in a comfortable, luxurious setting. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a well-curated experience that promises a relaxing day, especially if you’re into wines, scenic sculptures, and enjoying top-notch local cuisine.

What we really like about this tour is the attention to detail and the small group size, which tends to make for a more intimate and relaxed experience. Plus, having a private guide and luxury vehicle adds a layer of comfort and flexibility that’s hard to beat. On the flip side, some might find the overall duration a bit on the shorter side, especially if you’re craving a full day of exploring.

This experience would suit travelers who appreciate quality over quantity—those who want a taste of the region’s best without the hassle of planning. It’s also a good pick for couples or small groups looking for a personalized day out, with enough time for wine, art, and a leisurely meal. If you’re after a quick, well-organized trip with plenty of standout moments, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Intimate experience: Limited to just 2 people, making it a personalized day out.
• Luxurious comfort: Travel in an air-conditioned Mercedes with Wi-Fi.
• Diverse highlights: Wineries, sculpture gardens, cheese tasting, and a seasonal lunch.
• Flexible and convenient: Pickup offered from Melbourne, with a clear, well-structured itinerary.
• Value for money: A comprehensive 7-hour experience at roughly $193 per person.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights.

What’s Included and What You Can Expect

This tour offers a combination of wine, art, and food, which makes it a well-rounded day. Let’s break down each part and what it means for you as a traveler.

Luxurious Private Transport

Traveling in a luxury Mercedes Valente, you’ll enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride with Wi-Fi on board. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be part of a large group, allowing for more flexibility and personal attention. The pickup service makes it easy to start your day without fuss, and the small group size (up to 6 travelers) keeps things intimate.

The Scenic Drive to Mornington Peninsula

The tour kicks off early at 10:00 am, giving you a head start on exploring the region. The Mornington Peninsula itself is a well-known wine region, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, with plenty of scenic views along the way. It’s a good choice if you prefer a relaxed day without the chaos of large tour groups.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Stop 1: Montalto – Wine Tasting & Sculpture Walk

Your first stop is Montalto, a standout for its premium wine tasting and sculpture garden. The tasting includes a selection of wines, and if you’re into art, the sculpture walk adds a contemporary twist to the experience. Reviewers mention that the stops were terrific, and the guides share interesting insights about the region and the art.

One guest noted, “Terrific wine tour. Nikki is a fabulous guide,” emphasizing how the knowledgeable guide can make a big difference. The sculpture walk is a highlight for many, providing a scenic stroll that blends art with nature.

Stop 2: Red Hill Cheese – Local Cheese Platter

Next, you’ll indulge in a local cheese platter at Red Hill Cheese. This stop is perfect for food lovers, offering a tasting of regional cheeses in a warm, welcoming setting. It’s a good chance to relax, enjoy some delicious bites, and learn about the area’s cheese-making tradition.

Stop 3: Pt. Leo Estate – Sculpture Walk

At Pt. Leo Estate, the focus is on the impressive large-scale sculpture walk. The open-air sculptures, set against the backdrop of the rolling hills and coast, make for a memorable experience. Travelers have described this as a highlight, with one reviewer calling it a “scenic sculpture garden walk” that’s both inspiring and calming.

Stop 4: Quealy Winemakers – Barrel Room Tasting

The tour continues at Quealy Winemakers, where you’ll enjoy a barrel room wine tasting. This offers a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process and a chance to taste wines directly from the barrel, which enthusiasts find quite special.

Stop 5: Merricks General Store – Seasonal Lunch & Wine

Finally, the day finishes with a 2-course seasonal lunch at a local restaurant, Merricks General Store. The reviews describe the food as delicious, with a warm ambiance. Guests typically enjoy a glass of wine with their meal, rounding out the day with good food and conversation.

How the Day Comes Together

This itinerary balances wine, art, and food perfectly, giving you a well-rounded taste of the region. The stops are spaced out enough to avoid feeling rushed, and the total duration of roughly 7 hours means you get a full, satisfying day without it dragging on.

The reviews highlight that guide Nikki is fabulous—very knowledgeable and friendly, which elevates the experience. Guests appreciate the scenic views and the opportunity to learn about the region and its wines. The small group size, combined with the private guide and luxury transport, makes it feel exclusive and personalized.

Price and Value

At approximately $193.66 per person, this tour offers a lot for the money. Given that it includes luxury transportation, wine tastings at multiple estates, a cheese platter, and a full lunch, it’s a competitive package for a premium experience.

However, some reviews note that the duration feels a bit short, especially considering the time spent traveling. For those craving a full-day adventure with more time at each stop, this might seem brief, but for many, the quality and intimacy outweigh the shorter length.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Booking in advance: Most travelers book about 57 days ahead, so if you’re keen, it’s wise to reserve early.
• Timing: The tour starts at 10:00 am, giving you a relaxed morning start.
• Accessibility: The tour is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach the starting point.
• Group size: Limited to 6 travelers, so it stays intimate.
• Weather: Since many stops are outdoors, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
• Pace: If you prefer a longer, more leisurely day, communicate this with the provider—they sometimes can adjust the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for small groups or couples looking for a luxurious, personalized day out. It’s ideal if you want to sample top regional wines, enjoy art in natural settings, and indulge in good food without having to plan each detail yourself.

It’s particularly good for wine lovers and art enthusiasts, or those simply wanting a relaxing escape from Melbourne with a blend of culture and culinary delights. The intimate setting and knowledgeable guide will make it memorable for anyone who appreciates quality and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This private tour hits many of the right notes for a sophisticated yet relaxed day trip. It’s thoughtfully curated, with standout stops that showcase the best of the Mornington Peninsula’s wines, sculptures, and local cuisine. The small-group approach and luxury vehicle elevate the experience, making it feel more exclusive and personalized.

While some might wish for a longer day or more time at each stop, the balance of activities, food, and scenic views makes it a fantastic way to explore this beautiful part of Victoria, especially if you value quality over quantity. If you’re after a well-organized, intimate experience that combines wine, art, and food in one package, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
This experience is designed for small groups and adults, focusing on wine tastings and art walks, so it may not be ideal for young children or families with kids.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, multiple wine tastings at different estates, a local cheese platter, and a seasonal two-course lunch with wine.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not eligible for refunds.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including transfers, stops, tastings, and lunch.

What kind of vehicle is used?
Travel is in an air-conditioned Mercedes Valente, providing comfort and Wi-Fi during the day.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Epicurean Tours, a reputable operator known for curated food and wine experiences.

If you’re after a refined, small-group day exploring the best of Mornington Peninsula’s wines and arts, this tour offers a memorable, comfortable way to do it. Just be sure to book early and prepare for a day full of beautiful scenery, excellent food, and excellent company.