Wheatbelt & Historic New Norcia, Perth Day Tour with Lunch

Discover the Wheatbelt & New Norcia on a Perth Day Tour with Lunch

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines charming rural landscapes, authentic food experiences, and a slice of Australian history, this Perth day tour offers just that. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed itinerary and reviews paint a compelling picture of a well-balanced, authentic experience designed for small groups.

What really catches our eye is the emphasis on personalized attention—with a maximum of just five participants, you’re guaranteed a VIP feel. Plus, the mix of nature, food, and cultural heritage makes it a well-rounded way to break away from city life and get a genuine taste of Western Australia.

A possible consideration? The full day requires some patience and a keen interest in diverse experiences—if you’re not a fan of long drives or varied stops, it might be a little busy. Still, for those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path spots with knowledgeable guides, this tour fits perfectly.

It’s best suited for curious travelers who enjoy local food, history buffs, and nature lovers — especially those wanting intimate, meaningful encounters rather than crowded tourist spots.

Key Points

• Small group intimacy: With only five participants, expect personal service and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Diverse experiences: From bird aviaries and cheese-making to historic architecture and native honey tastings, variety is the spice of this tour.
• Authentic tastings: Enjoy freshly made cheese, gelato, and local honey, all crafted by passionate local artisans.
• Rich cultural insights: Walk through the historic streets of New Norcia, founded by Spanish monks, and see Europe’s influence blended with Australian outback charm.
• Flexible, relaxing pace: The itinerary balances sightseeing, tasting, and free time, making it a comfortable day for most travelers.
• Value for money: Combining multiple experiences in a single day, with transportation, guide, and tastings included, offers solid value for lovers of authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Wheatbelt & New Norcia Tour

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins with convenient pickup options at Crown Casino Perth or The Bell Tower—two well-known landmarks that make for easy meeting points. Taking a small group means you’ll hop into a black mini van driven by your guide, Cara, and leave the city behind promptly at 8:00 am.

This early start is perfect for maximizing the day, and the small group size ensures you won’t be just another face in a crowd. Expect a relaxed, friendly vibe as you start your journey northward into the Wheatbelt.

First Stop: The Botanical Aviaries and Wildlife

The first highlight is a tropical garden oasis filled with over 450 species of colorful birds. You’ll love the chance to get close to white peacocks, scarlet-breasted parrots, and vibrant macaws—an excellent way to kick off the day with some nature spectacle.

The free-flight botanical aviaries are a hit among visitors, offering an up-close encounter with chatty parrots and other feathered friends. Reviewers have praised the experience, noting how “we loved the way the aviaries allowed us to interact with the birds,” and how it’s “a delightful start to the day.”

Artisan Cheese and Gelato at a Goat Farm

Next, the tour takes you to a charming, off-the-grid goat cheese farm, where Gerald hand-milks goats every morning and Julie turns the milk into creamy cheese and gelato. This is a genuine artisan experience—no mass production here, just passionate craftsmanship.

Tasting the freshly made cheeses and homemade gelato is a definite highlight. Reviewers frequently mention the “authentic flavors” and how “the passion behind the farm shines through in every bite.” It also offers a peaceful countryside setting, far from the hustle of city life.

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Little Eeden Honey Farm and Native Honey Tasting

Afterward, you head to Little Eeden Honey Farm for a honey tasting session. Surrounded by native bushland, you’ll learn about the unique health benefits of different honey varieties. As you sample, keep an eye out for the emus, standing tall at around 2 meters—an amusing and memorable sight.

Guests have shared how the honey tasting was both educational and delicious, with one reviewer noting they appreciated “learning about WA bush honey’s health benefits while enjoying the natural surroundings.”

Lunch with Local Flavors

Midday, it’s time for a hearty, farm-fresh lunch that highlights local produce. The menu is thoughtfully prepared, and the tastings are generous. Expect a mix of local cheeses, fresh bread, and perhaps some seasonal vegetables.

While eating, you might catch sight of native wildlife, like emus wandering nearby. The relaxed pace of the meal allows for conversations and soaking in the rural landscape.

Exploring New Norcia: Australia’s Only Monastic Town

In the afternoon, the tour shifts gears to explore New Norcia, founded in 1847 by Spanish Benedictine monks. The town is the only working monastery in Australia, and its architecture reflects European influence blended with outback ruggedness.

Walking the streets, you’ll see historic buildings like the Abbey, St Gertrude’s College, and the Monastery Residency, all with Mediterranean-style architecture. The well-preserved Benedictine Abbey houses a grand Moser pipe organ and beautiful sgraffito murals—perfect for photography.

Reviewers often comment on how the town’s blend of European traditions and Aboriginal culture gives it a unique character. One visitor said, “It’s a fascinating blend of history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture—more than just a religious site.”

Inside the Abbey and Monastic Life

A guided tour inside the Abbey gives insight into monastic life and the history of the monastery. The experience is enriched by the chance to see the Abbey’s famous pipe organ and appreciate the art and craftsmanship that have been preserved over the years.

Beverages and Relaxation

Before heading back, guests have the option to enjoy a famous Abbey Ale, brewed from an ancient monastic recipe, or a gin and tonic infused with local botanicals. Non-alcoholic options like fresh Australian orange juice are also available—catering to all tastes.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

The scenic drive back to Perth takes about 1.5 hours, arriving around 5:30 pm. The relaxed pace and comfortable vehicle make the return trip a good opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights or simply enjoy the landscape.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who want more than just a quick sightseeing run. Food lovers will enjoy the tastings of cheese, honey, and gelato, while history buffs will appreciate the well-preserved architecture and cultural stories of New Norcia. Nature enthusiasts will find the bird aviaries and rural landscapes captivating.

Because of the small group size, it’s perfect for those who prefer intimate, personalized tours rather than large bus trips. Families with older children (8 and up) might get the most out of this, especially if they’re interested in food, wildlife, and heritage.

If you prefer a quick, superficial overview of WA’s attractions, this might feel a bit slow-paced, but for those seeking authentic, meaningful experiences, it offers excellent value.

Price and Value Analysis

Given the inclusion of tastings, guided tours, transport, and a substantial lunch, this tour offers good value. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more engaging and tailored. While some might find the price higher than larger coach tours, the quality of what you get—personal attention, authentic tastings, and rich cultural insights—justifies the cost.

The tour’s emphasis on local craftsmanship and genuine interactions makes it more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a chance to connect with WA’s rural life and heritage on a personal level.

Final Thoughts

This Wheatbelt & New Norcia tour offers a well-rounded, rewarding day out for those eager to experience Western Australia beyond the city. With its focus on local food, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, it captures a slice of the state’s authentic charm.

The small group size, expert guide, and diverse stops make it a standout choice for travelers who value depth and personal connection. It’s perfect for curious explorers who want to taste, see, and learn in a relaxed setting.

For anyone wanting a day that balances nature, history, and flavor, this tour delivers a surprising amount of quality in just a single day. It’s a memorable way to step into WA’s rural heartland and discover stories that will stay with you long after the wheels turn back towards Perth.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pickup is at 8:00 am, giving you a full day of exploration ahead.

Where are the pickup points?
You can choose from Crown Casino Perth or The Bell Tower, both convenient central locations.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of five participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, a professional guide, tastings at the aviaries, cheese farm, honey farm, and a generous lunch are included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 8, mainly because of the length and nature of the activities.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A black mini van driven by your guide, Cara, for a comfortable and intimate ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there free time at any point?
Yes, you’ll have some free time during the sightseeing phase to explore or take photos at your own pace.

This tour is a thoughtfully curated way to experience Western Australia’s Wheatbelt and New Norcia, blending nature, craftsmanship, and history into a memorable day—perfect for those seeking genuine local encounters with a small, friendly group.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby