Discover the countryside charm surrounding Melbourne with an immersive full-day tour showcasing the region’s esteemed equine, viticulture, and brewing industries. Begin with an up-close encounter at Living Legends, a retirement home for champion racehorses, then indulge in a gourmet wood-fired pizza lunch paired with tastings at Gisborne Peak Winery. Afterward, explore the craft beer haven of Holgate Brewery, sampling their diverse range of ales. Throughout the day, you’ll uncover the rich heritage and captivating stories behind these quintessential Australian experiences. With an itinerary tailored to immerse you in the local culture, this tour promises to delight the senses and leave you with lasting memories.
Key Points
- Visit Living Legends, a racehorse retirement village, to meet champion racehorses and observe kangaroos in their natural habitat.
- Enjoy a gourmet wood-fired pizza lunch paired with a wine tasting at the renowned Gisborne Peak Winery.
- Explore the diverse range of craft beers during a guided beer-tasting session at the Holgate Brewery.
- Gain insights into the lives and achievements of retired racehorses, including Black Caviar and Makybe Diva.
- Discover the peaceful sanctuary where retired champion racehorses and kangaroos coexist in harmony.
Contents
- Key Points
- Morning at Living Legends
- Kangaroos in the Wild
- Gourmet Wood-Fired Pizza
- Winery Wine Tasting
- Brewery Beer Sampling
- Retired Racehorse Encounters
- Tour Inclusions and Requirements
- Booking and Availability
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Accommodate Specific Interests?
- Do You Offer Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Dining Options?
- What Is the Accessibility for Guests With Mobility Challenges?
- Can I Bring My Own Camera or Are Photos/Videos Prohibited?
- How Does the Tour Cater to Non-English Speaking Participants?
- Recap
Morning at Living Legends
The tour begins with a visit to Living Legends, a racehorse retirement village where guests can enjoy a guided tour and morning tea while meeting retired champion racehorses.
During the visit, guests will have the opportunity to observe the kangaroos living in the natural environment surrounding the facility.
The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the lives and backgrounds of the retired racehorses, sharing stories about their illustrious racing careers and the care they now receive at Living Legends.
This unique experience allows visitors to connect with these magnificent animals and learn about the important role Living Legends plays in providing a peaceful retirement for champion racehorses.
Kangaroos in the Wild
While exploring the grounds of Living Legends, guests can often spot kangaroos roaming freely in the natural environment surrounding the racehorse retirement village.
These iconic Australian marsupials are a common sight, hopping and grazing alongside the retired racehorses. Guests have the unique opportunity to observe the kangaroos in their natural habitat, getting a glimpse into the local wildlife.
The grounds provide the perfect sanctuary for the kangaroos, offering ample space and resources for them to thrive. As visitors stroll the peaceful paths, they may catch the kangaroos resting in the shade or bounding across the open fields, a true delight for nature enthusiasts.
This additional experience adds to the overall immersive journey of the full-day tour.
Gourmet Wood-Fired Pizza
Midway through the tour, guests indulge in a gourmet wood-fired pizza lunch at the Gisborne Peak Winery, savoring locally-sourced ingredients and the flavors of regional Australian cuisine.
The pizza features:
- A crisp, perfectly-charred crust made from premium flour and baked in a wood-fired oven
- A selection of premium toppings, including fresh vegetables, premium meats, and artisanal cheeses
- A drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of fragrant herbs to enhance the flavors
This gourmet lunch is paired with a tasting of the winery’s renowned wines, allowing guests to discover the nuances of Australian viticulture and appreciate the synergy between food and wine.
Winery Wine Tasting
After savoring the gourmet wood-fired pizza, guests embark on a wine-tasting experience at the renowned Gisborne Peak Winery. The winery’s expert sommelier guides them through a curated selection of the region’s finest vintages, highlighting the unique terroir, grape varietals, and winemaking techniques that contribute to the depth and complexity of each pour.
| Varietal | Vintage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chardonnay | 2020 | Bright citrus notes, crisp acidity, subtle oak influence |
| Pinot Noir | 2018 | Delicate red fruit, silky tannins, earthy undertones |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | 2016 | Full-bodied, dark fruit, hints of spice and vanilla |
| Shiraz | 2019 | Intense berry flavors, smooth mouthfeel, lingering finish |
| Merlot | 2017 | Soft, plush texture, ripe plum and blackberry notes |
Brewery Beer Sampling
Capping off the day’s culinary adventure, guests head to the Holgate Brewery for a captivating beer-tasting session led by the on-site brew master.
The expert guide takes visitors on a flavorful journey, showcasing the brewery’s diverse range of craft beers. Guests have the opportunity to sample a selection of ales, stouts, and lagers, each with its own unique character and taste profile:
- Holgate Brewery’s renowned Temptress, a rich and velvety chocolate stout
- The refreshing and hoppy Macedon Ale, a perfect pairing for the earlier wood-fired pizzas
- The sessionable Brewers Lager, a crisp and easy-drinking crowd-pleaser
With a deeper appreciation for the art of brewing, the tour-goers wrap up their full-day exploration of Melbourne’s culinary delights.
Retired Racehorse Encounters
The tour begins with a visit to the Living Legends, a retirement village for champion racehorses, where guests marvel at the opportunity to meet and interact with these equine athletes. The visit includes a guided tour, allowing visitors to observe the racehorses in their natural environment and learn about their stories and achievements.
| Horse Name | Breed | Age | Career Earnings | Retired Since |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Caviar | Thoroughbred | 12 | $7.9 million | 2013 |
| Makybe Diva | Thoroughbred | 15 | $14.5 million | 2005 |
| Might and Power | Thoroughbred | 18 | $8 million | 2001 |
| Phar Lap | Thoroughbred | 5 | $70,000 | 1932 |
| Winx | Thoroughbred | 9 | $26 million | 2019 |
Guests can observe the kangaroos that roam freely on the property, adding to the unique and immersive experience of this retirement village.
Tour Inclusions and Requirements
The tour includes several key offerings, such as morning tea, a gourmet wood-fired pizza lunch, and guided tastings of local wines and beers. Guests must be at least 18 years old to consume alcohol, and intoxicated or disorderly patrons won’t be permitted to participate.
The tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to:
- Explore the Living Legends racehorse retirement village and meet retired champion racehorses
- Savor the flavors of Australia’s renowned wines and beers at Gisborne Peak Winery and Holgate Brewery
- Observe kangaroos in their natural environment, providing a unique glimpse into the country’s wildlife
This full-day tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Melbourne’s culinary delights and natural wonders.
Booking and Availability
Booking this full-day culinary adventure in Melbourne is straightforward, with guests able to check availability for various starting times.
The tour lasts 8 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing visitors flexibility in their planning.
Guests can reserve their spots now and pay later, making it easy to secure their place on this exciting tour.
With a focus on Australia’s renowned wines, beers, and retired racehorses, this full-day experience provides a unique opportunity to take in the local culture and natural wonders.
Whether seeking a memorable day or planning a trip, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who participate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Accommodate Specific Interests?
Yes, the tour itinerary can often be customized to accommodate specific interests. Customers should contact the tour operator to discuss any special requests or preferences they have for the day’s activities.
Do You Offer Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Dining Options?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and gluten-free dining options. Guests can request these dietary accommodations when booking, and the tour provider will ensure their lunch selection meets their dietary requirements.
What Is the Accessibility for Guests With Mobility Challenges?
The tour offers good accessibility for guests with mobility challenges. Wheelchair-friendly transportation and guided tours at the venues are available. Guests should contact the tour provider in advance to discuss any special needs or requirements.
Can I Bring My Own Camera or Are Photos/Videos Prohibited?
Guests are generally permitted to bring and use their own cameras on the tour. However, some restrictions may apply at certain locations, such as the racehorse retirement village, so it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
How Does the Tour Cater to Non-English Speaking Participants?
The tour offers multilingual support, with guides available in several languages. Participants can request language-specific materials and assistance to ensure a seamless experience, catering to non-English speaking guests.
Melbourne: Full-Day Horses, Wine, and Beer Tour
“Tamara was the best tour guide. ***** Excellent knowledge of the area and each stop. My favorite part was the morning tea and horses. Highly recommend”
Recap
Discover the rich heritage and stories of Melbourne’s countryside on this full-day tour.
From meeting retired racehorses and spotting wild kangaroos to savoring gourmet pizzas and craft beer tastings, this experience offers an immersive look into the region’s iconic Australian attractions.
With a focus on conservation, sustainability, and local flavors, this tour provides a well-rounded and memorable day in the countryside outside of Melbourne.
You can check availability for your dates here: