Mornington Peninsula Small Group Lunch and Wine Tasting Quealy

If you’re considering a day trip from Melbourne that combines scenic beauty, excellent wine, and good food, the Mornington Peninsula Small Group Lunch and Wine Tasting tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a clear picture of what to expect — and it sounds pretty appealing for anyone wanting a relaxed, well-organized day out.

What really makes this experience stand out is its focus on personal touches and variety. You’ll get a bit of everything — from leisurely strolls through sculpture gardens to tastings at boutique wineries, topped off with a locally-sourced, two-course lunch. Plus, the small group size (up to six people) promises a more intimate experience, which many travelers find more engaging than large bus tours.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is fairly structured around specific stops, so if you’re someone who prefers full flexibility or spontaneous exploring, this might not be your ideal fit. Still, if you love learning about wine, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate thoughtful guides, this experience could be a real treat. It’s especially suited for those who want a manageable, hassle-free day with plenty of chances to savor the local flavors and scenery.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience and meaningful interactions.
• Expert guide provides insightful commentary on the region and its wineries.
• Tasteful mix of sightseeing, wine tastings, and a delicious lunch.
• Beautiful scenery just an hour outside Melbourne makes for a relaxing day.
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury Mercedes Van adds a touch of class.
• Flexible cancellation policy for peace of mind if plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am, with the organizer offering pickup from your hotel — which is a real plus if you prefer to avoid the hassle of finding your way. The whole experience lasts about 7 hours, giving enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The group remains small — capped at six travelers — allowing for a more relaxed, conversation-rich environment. The luxury Mercedes Van is a comfortable way to travel through scenic routes, with the added bonus of knowledgeable guiding.

First Stop: Mornington Peninsula

Just an hour or so from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is famed for its maritime climate and wine production. Here, you’ll get a quick overview of the region’s landscape and vibe. While there’s no fee for this initial stop, it’s a chance to appreciate the coastlines and rolling hills that define this part of Australia.

Pt. Leo Estate: Sculpture Walk

Next, you’ll visit Pt. Leo Estate for a Large Scale Sculpture Walk. This is one of the more unique parts of the tour. The estate’s grounds are dotted with impressive sculptures, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Walking through this open-air gallery, you’ll get a sense of how art and nature blend in this part of the world.

The reviews highlight how engaging and enjoyable this stop is — “The tour was great and we enjoyed seeing the sights plus wine tasting,” said Lina_S, who appreciated the mix of visual art and scenery. The walk lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to absorb the art without feeling hurried.

Quealy Winemakers: Wine Tasting in the Barrel Room

Then, it’s time for a boutique wine experience at Quealy Winemakers. You’ll enjoy a barrel room tasting, which is often a highlight for wine lovers. Tasting directly from barrels gives a fresh perspective on the wine’s potential and craftsmanship. The guide’s commentary makes this even more informative, helping you understand the nuances of the wines and how the region’s terroir influences flavor.

According to reviews, Nicci, the guide, adds a warm and engaging touch, making the experience both educational and relaxed. With about an hour here, you’ll get a good sampling without feeling overwhelmed.

Lunch at Merricks General Store

After all that tasting, it’s time for some hearty, local fare. The tour includes a two-course lunch with a glass of wine at Merricks General Store. This spot is described as warm and charming — a perfect setting to unwind and reflect on the morning’s adventures. The food is seasonal and locally sourced, adding to the authentic regional flavor.

One reviewer called the lunch “delicious,” noting that the variety and quality exceeded expectations. The two hours here give a comfortable window to enjoy your meal, chat with fellow travelers, and savor the local wines.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up back at your initial pickup point, usually around 5:00 pm. It’s a seamless, well-paced day designed to leave you with memorable views, good wine, and new knowledge about the region.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides: The reviews praise the guide Nicci for her delightful personality and informative commentary, making the experience more engaging and personal.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights: From sculpture walks to vineyard views, the stops are curated to maximize visual and sensory appeal.

Quality of Food and Wine: With tastings at Quealy Winemakers and a thoughtfully prepared lunch, the tour balances education with indulgence.

Small Group Atmosphere: Traveling with just a handful of people means more intimate conversations, personalized attention, and a mellow vibe.

The Value of the Experience

At $186.48 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded day out, especially considering the inclusions: transportation, guided commentary, wine tastings, and a quality lunch. Comparing this to larger, less personalized tours, the small group setting and focused stops add real value. It’s the kind of experience that balances comfort, education, and leisure without feeling overly commercial.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts, casual sightseers, or anyone wanting a taste of the Mornington Peninsula’s best without the stress of planning. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group settings, quality local food, and scenic drives. Travelers who want a relaxed but informative day will find this tour hits the right notes.

The Mornington Peninsula Small Group Lunch and Wine Tasting tour appears to be a well-crafted way to discover one of Australia’s most scenic wine regions. With a thoughtful itinerary, friendly guides, and a mix of art, nature, and wine, it offers an experience that’s both enjoyable and educational.

If you’re someone who values personal attention and meaningful experiences over large crowds, this could be an excellent choice. The only potential downside is the fixed schedule and set stops — if spontaneity is your style, be aware that this tour is quite planned out. But for most, the balance of comfort, scenery, and tastings makes it a memorable day.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, making it easy to start your day without organizing transport yourself.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, from start at 10:00 am to return in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
Transport in a luxury Mercedes Van, guided commentary, wine tastings at Quealy Winemakers, and a two-course lunch with a glass of wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is geared toward adult travelers and small groups; specific family-friendly considerations aren’t mentioned, so it’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable with walking and wine tasting.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of six travelers ensures a more personalized experience and better interaction with the guide.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect beautiful views of the coast and rolling vineyards, along with the art installations at Pt. Leo Estate.

Is the lunch at Merricks General Store included?
Yes, a two-course meal with a glass of wine is part of the package, served at a cozy, inviting setting.

Can I choose different wine tastings?
The tour specifically includes tastings at Quealy Winemakers, with the guide providing insights into the wines and region.

What makes this tour different from other Mornington Peninsula experiences?
Its small group size, combination of art, scenic drives, and wine tastings, along with the quality of the lunch, set it apart from larger, more generic tours.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging way to explore the Mornington Peninsula, this tour offers a wonderful mix of scenery, culture, and local flavor. It’s a good pick for those who want a well-rounded taste of what this beautiful region has to offer without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.