THE WHEATBELT & NEW NORCIA day tour of history, taste & nature.

Imagine a day away from the hustle of Perth, exploring some of Western Australia’s most charming rural spots, rich in history, natural beauty, and local flavors. That’s exactly what the Wheatbelt & New Norcia day tour offers. As a travel writer who values authentic experiences and thoughtful itineraries, I find this tour to be a well-rounded journey that balances scenic beauty with cultural richness, all within a small-group setting that guarantees personal attention.

Two things immediately catch my eye about this experience: First, the variety — from lush botanical gardens and birdwatching to cheese tasting and exploring a historic monastic town. Second, the intimate group size of no more than five guests, which promises a relaxed, flexible pace and plenty of chances for genuine engagement.

One potential consideration? The full-day nature of the trip means you’ll want to be prepared for a long day, especially if you’re not used to touring or early mornings. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, cultural exploration, and tasting local produce without feeling rushed.

If you’re someone who loves uncovering local stories, savoring farm-fresh flavors, and appreciating natural landscapes without the crowds, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Max 5 guests for a VIP feel and relaxed pace.
• Diverse Highlights: From botanical aviaries to historic New Norcia.
• Taste of WA: Farm-fresh cheese, honey, and a local beer brewed by monks.
• Rich in Nature & Wildlife: Over 450 bird species and lush gardens.
• Historic & Cultural Insight: The only working monastic town in Australia.
• Value for Price: Includes lunch, tastings, entrance fees, and beverages.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup & Early Start

The tour begins with a complimentary pickup from Perth city hotels, or you can meet your guide outside The Bell Tower in Barrack Square. Meeting at this iconic Perth spot early in the morning sets a lively tone for the day. The small group size means you’ll likely be greeted by Cara, the personable guide, who sets the pace and provides commentary throughout.

Limestone Park Stud: A Vibrant Oasis

Leaving Perth at around 8 am, your first stop is Limestone Park Stud, a lush sanctuary hidden within the Wheatbelt. Here, you’re treated to tropical gardens and free-flight aviaries featuring over 450 bird species — a birdwatcher’s dream. We loved the way the gardens brought a splash of color and calm, making it a peaceful start. It’s a great opportunity for photos and to breathe in that clean country air.

Local Goat: Artisanal Cheese & Gelato

Next, the tour takes you off the grid to a charming goat cheese farm called Local Goat. This is where you get to indulge in handcrafted cheeses and homemade gelato, both crafted with evident passion. Gerald, the cheesemaker, makes for a friendly host, and the tasting sessions allow for a real taste of local craftsmanship. One reviewer noted it as “a delightful and very personal trip,” emphasizing the authenticity and warmth of this stop.

Little Eeden Farm Honey & Apiary: Sweet Discoveries

Continuing your journey, you arrive at Little Eeden Honey Farm for a honey tasting session featuring WA bush honey. Surrounded by nature, you learn about the health benefits of different honey varieties while sampling their products. The emphasis on local produce helps you appreciate the unique flavors of WA’s flora. It’s a sweet highlight, especially for honey lovers.

Passing by Australia’s Deep-Space Antenna

A quick pass-by gives you a glance at the 35-meter deep-space antenna, an intriguing piece of technology in the Wheatbelt. While not a stop, it adds a touch of modernity amidst the pastoral scenery.

Historic New Norcia: The Monastic Town

The star of the afternoon is New Norcia, Australia’s only working monastic town. Here, you’ll walk through centuries-old streets and visit the Benedictine Abbey. The town’s architecture and spiritual atmosphere provide a fascinating glimpse into monastic life and its influence on Western Australia. One review lauds the town as “a place to walk in the footsteps of pioneers,” highlighting its historical significance.

The Visitor Centre & Local Products

A quick visit to the New Norcia Visitor Centre offers the chance to browse for monastery bread and handcrafted olive oil — perfect souvenirs to take home. The quaint gift shop also stocks historical literature and souvenirs, making it a good spot to remember your visit.

Wrapping Up With a Toast

Before returning to Perth, you’ll enjoy a complimentary Abby Ale, brewed from the monks’ original recipe, or a local gin and tonic. Alternatively, a fresh Australian orange juice is available for non-drinkers. This relaxed moment caps off the day while reflecting on what you’ve experienced.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $182.90 per person, this tour covers a lot: transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all entrance fees, tastings, a substantial lunch, and beverages — plus the personalized small-group experience. The inclusions mean you won’t be surprised by extra costs, and the thoughtful itinerary ensures you get a well-rounded taste of WA’s rural life, history, and natural beauty.

Transportation & Comfort

Traveling in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle allows you to relax between stops and enjoy the scenic drive. The itinerary is paced thoughtfully, with frequent stops that aren’t overly long but enough to appreciate each location.

Group Size & Personal Experience

With a maximum of five travelers, this tour feels like a private excursion. This small group size means your guide can offer more tailored insights, making the experience more engaging and less rushed. Several reviews mention the personal touch, like Eric’s comment about it being “delightful and very personal,” especially when they had the rare chance of just two guests.

The Balance of Activities

The tour strikes a good balance: you get some physical activity walking through gardens and historic streets, but it’s not overly strenuous. The focus on local produce and wildlife means you’ll probably find something to delight every sense.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, local food, and cultural history. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed, yet enriching day that avoids the crowds and commercialism often found in popular tourist spots. Nature lovers will enjoy the birdwatching and gardens, while history buffs will value the visit to New Norcia’s heritage sites. It’s perfect for those who prefer a balance of outdoor activities and cultural insights without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

The Wheatbelt & New Norcia tour offers a genuine glimpse into Western Australia’s rural charm, blending scenic landscapes, historic towns, and farm-fresh flavors into a manageable and memorable day. The small-group format makes it feel personal and flexible, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

If you’re after a day trip that combines natural beauty, local craftsmanship, and cultural history, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy leisurely exploration paired with meaningful tastings and authentic encounters.

Overall, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of WA’s inland treasures while indulging in some of the best local produce and stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers lunch, bottled Australian spring water, entrance fees to Limestone Park, Local Goat Cheese, and Honey Farm, as well as entry to New Norcia and a complimentary Abby Ale or local gin and tonic.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup from Perth city hotels or outside The Bell Tower.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, mainly for walking at gardens, historic streets, and the towns.

Can I get a vegetarian or special diet meal?
While specific dietary requests aren’t detailed, the included lunch is standard. It’s best to inquire directly if you have special needs.

What makes this tour unique compared to others?
The small group size, personalized approach, and a mix of nature, history, and local food tasting make it stand out. It’s a well-rounded day that balances scenic drives with engaging stops.

This tour is a great way to see a different side of Western Australia — one filled with stories, flavors, and landscapes that many travelers miss. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, the Wheatbelt & New Norcia experience offers something memorable for every kind of curious traveler.