Mornington Peninsula is home to some of Australia’s well-known wineries. Known for its exquisite wines, this region offers wine enthusiasts a perfect mix of coastal views and a wide range of winery experiences.


With its many wineries and vineyards, winery tours are a great way to explore its rich wine culture. In this blog, we rounded up the best Mornington Peninsula wine tours that offer the best ways to experience the region’s finest wines.

 

1.

Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour from Hop It

Hop It offers a flexible way to explore Mornington Peninsula’s wineries at your own pace. This self-guided tour allows you to hop on and off the bus at various wineries, giving you the freedom to choose where and how long you stay at each stop. Whether you’re going solo or with your partner, family, or friends, everyone is welcome to enjoy the tour. Hop It’s flexible schedule and itinerary offer you the luxury of flexibility, letting you fully enjoy wine tasting on the Mornington Peninsula without feeling rushed.

Tour Highlights:

  • Choose up to 4 places from over 20 wineries, including boutique wineries and larger estates.
  • Plan your itinerary by checking the orange route timetable, which covers all the stops you can choose from. If you change your mind later, don’t worry—you can always adjust your itinerary.
  • The hourly bus schedule means you’ll never feel rushed. If you find a winery you like, you can stay and hop back on when you’re ready.

What People Have to Say:

“Incredible service, price, timetable and friendly driver. This is my second time doing hop it and will be back.” — J.K.

“Great music in the comfy bus, great communication throughout the day, and I left feeling very satisfied that I supported small and local companies in the right way.” — Shannon B.

“It was an affordable ride that also allowed us the flexibility to pick and choose the wineries we wanted to explore.” — Caitlin C.

2.

Private Wine and Food Tasting Tour from Dancing Kangaroo Tours

For those who want a more intimate and curated tour of Mornington Peninsula’s wineries with family or friends, a private tour is the way to go. Dancing Kangaroo Tours offers various private winery tours on the Mornington Peninsula, each tailored to different tastes and group sizes. They can accommodate a small group of 4 to a larger gathering of up to 22 people, making it an ideal option for special celebrations or simply a fun day out with loved ones.

Tour Highlights:

  • Choose the pick-up and drop-off locations most convenient for your group.
  • You can plan your itinerary or choose from their local guide’s recommendations based on your tastes.
  • Their vehicles allow you to set the perfect mood for your winery tour and jam out to your favourite tunes, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.

What People Have to Say:

“It was a great experience! The guide was very friendly and interactive throughout the tour, uplifting the mood of the group.” — Luisa P.

“Trip was great value, experience and wine/food. Couldn’t recommend this experience more.” — Kenya T.

“The host was engaging and informative, extremely knowledgeable about the wineries we visited, and kept everyone abreast of the itinerary, and had some great tunes cranking.” — Andrew R.

3.

Large-Group Wine Tours from Wine Compass

If you’re planning to go on a winery tour with a large group of colleagues, family, or friends, Wine Compass can help you explore the best wineries in the region. Wine Compass can accommodate up to 56 people per group, with up to 3 buses available for a single winery bus tour on the Mornington Peninsula.

Tour Highlights:

  • Customise your own tour or leave it in their expert’s hands to create the perfect itinerary. From wineries to distilleries, breweries, cheese and chocolate makers—the possibilities are endless.
  • A local guide will accompany you to ensure your winery tour goes smoothly.
  • Their bus is fully equipped with a sound system, so you can play your own music from any device. Bring along your favourite road trip playlist and get ready to enjoy the ride.

What People Have to Say:

“Organised our office Christmas Party for 40 people with Wine Compass with a trip to Mornington Peninsula. Wine Compass bus was on time and the driver was great. Made everyone feel welcome and sorted out all the locations.” — Jane E.

“We visited 4 Mornington Peninsula wineries and had an amazing experience. The wineries were smaller and more intimate and the wines were delicious.” — Moira T.

“Tour guide was amazinggggg! So flexible and gave heaps of photo ops. Very organised, so much fun.” — Rosie S.

4.

Doggy Winery Tour from Gourmet Pawprints

This tour offers the “pawfect” winery tour experience for dog owners who want to bring their furry friends along for the adventure. Gourmet Pawprints allows you and your pup to explore 2 to 3 wineries in their dog-friendly bus with complete dog seat belts, seat covers, and blankets. Even if you don’t have a dog with you and you just want to do a winery tour surrounded by dogs and other dog lovers, this Doggy Winery Tour welcomes all!

With dedicated pet-friendly stops, gourmet tastings, and plenty of time for your dog to roam and play, it’s a fun and unique way to enjoy Mornington Peninsula’s wine region.

Tour Highlights:

  • While you enjoy your delicious 2-course lunch, your furry friend will be treated to a relaxing massage from Gourmet Pawprints’ staff, ensuring they feel pampered and cared for during the tour.
  • Enjoy opportunities for dog-friendly activities, such as vineyard walks or play areas at select wineries, where your pup can run freely and explore.
  • There’s a facilitated dog socialisation before you board the bus, so your furry mates can make new friends and mingle with other dogs.

What People Have to Say:

“After 11 trips with this company, very able to vouch for a great day out. Varied activities to choose from and best of all your bring your dog/s along with you!”

“Love that this tour welcomes and pampers your dog . Great wineries.” — Holiday T.

“My 2 dogs love the tour. They are always warmly greeted before the introduction session of getting all the dogs to know each other before the coach takes off.” — Alanah K. 

5.

Half-Day Tour from For the Love of Grape

Even though you may not have the luxury of time for a full-day tour, the half-day winery tours on the Mornington Peninsula still promise a delightful experience. For the Love of Grape’s Half-Day Tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy the best of Mornington Peninsula’s wineries even with their busy schedules.

Tour Highlights:

  • Spend a relaxing afternoon visiting up to 3 wineries of your choice.
  • Add an extra hour for lunch at a brewery or winery to savour a delicious meal paired with local craft beers or fine wines.
  • Sample a selection of premium wines at each stop. You’ll be guided by knowledgeable staff who can share everything you want to know about wines and the winemaking process.

What People Have to Say:

“Great winery tour!! The driver was awesome and the guide was easy to contact and organised a perfect day out to celebrate my 30th!” — Emma T.

“I loved the fact that I didn't need to think about anything and the guide was so amazing to deal with, we will most certainly be back.” — Josie J.

“Wonderful section of wineries. I would highly recommend. Thank you for a great day out.” — Ruth Q.

6.

Ride and Dine Package Tour from The Cups Estate

The Ride and Dine Package Tour of The Cups Estate offers an unforgettable experience of horse-riding and wine tour on the Mornington Peninsula. Start by tasting Mornington Peninsula’s signature wines and indulging in world-class food and delicacies. Then, hop on your designated horse for a peaceful ride along the scenic St. Andrews Beach, immersing yourself in the stunning coastal views as part of this unique wine and horseback riding experience.

Tour Highlights:

  • Enjoy a guided wine tasting at the Cellar Door, sampling a variety of their expertly crafted wines.
  • Savour a menu crafted with fresh, local ingredients, and perfectly paired with the estate’s premium wines.
  • Ride along the scenic trails of St. Andrews Beach and take in the breathtaking coastal views as you journey through the stunning landscape.

What People Have to Say:

“We spent the afternoon at The Cups and it was beautiful. The food was exceptional. I had the vegan/vegetarian options and felt they were so innovative and delicious.” — Jordyn C.

“This absolute gem of a place is not only the home of some of the best Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir in the country, but has a kitchen putting out mind blowing food.” — Josko B.

“Love everything about this place! It's actually one of my go-to places. Great price for excellent food.” — Jenny H.

7.

Hens Party Winery Tour from Rick’s Wine Tours

For the bride-to-be who wants a unique day out with the girls, the Hens Party Winery Tour from Rick’s Wine Tours is the perfect way to celebrate in style. The bride-to-be even gets a free seat, making her feel like the VIP she is. The hens winery tours on the Mornington Peninsula have party buses where your group can sing along to your favourite tunes and celebrate between stops. And with a fun host on board who will capture photos of your favourite moments all day, you can have plenty of memories to look back on.

Tour Highlights:

  • Customise your own itinerary and visit up to 4 Instagram-worthy locations.
  • Based on your preferences, you can add activities to make your girls' day out even more memorable, from cocktail-making, high tea, gourmet picnic, chocolate-making, and cheese-tasting.
  • Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the region’s top restaurants of your choice.

What People Have to Say:

“Had an absolute blast with our hens party group. The guide put up with our loud tone deaf sing-a-longs in between stops, made sure we had water and snacks, and became our personal photographer for some stunning group shots.” — Teagan P.

“We went on one of Rick’s wine tours for a hens party. Andrew was the BEST. Always there when we needed him. Professional but friendly and super flexible” — Michaela T.

“We did a couple rounds of wine tasting, a fruit tasting and a chocolate tasting.” — Hau F.F.

8.

Winery Tours by Limo from Fantasy Limo

Take the high road to Mornington Peninsula’s finest wineries with a touch of glamour and class. With Fantasy Limo’s limo winery tours on the Mornington Peninsula, you and your group can enjoy the most exquisite wines and stunning vineyard views while arriving in an elegant stretch limousine. With a full bar and entertainment system on board, and accompanied by a dedicated chauffeur, you’ll be treated like royalty from the moment you step into the limo. 

Tour Highlights:

  • Sip on champagne from the fully stocked bar, relax in plush seating, and enjoy an on-board entertainment system as you’re chauffeured to 4 to 5 wineries of your choice.
  • Take a break for a gourmet lunch at one of the region’s top winery restaurants, where you’ll enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking breathtaking vineyard views.
  • With the Gold and Platinum packages, you can indulge in locally handcrafted chocolate and gourmet cheese pairings.

What People Have to Say:

“Highly recommended. We used Fantasy Limos for a special occasion lunch at a winery and we could not have been happier with the cars and the service.” — Barbara T.

“We hired Fantasy Limousines for our best friends hens day. Our limo arrived perfectly on time and the red carpet and bubbly on arrival made our hen feel extra special.” — Rachael T.

“It so lovely was so accommodating and even got us our own red carpet!! We all had a blast, could not thank you more :)” — Georgia B.

9.

Food and Wine Taste Trail from Explore Australia

Explore Australia offers an experience that combines two of the things Mornington Peninsula is known best for: exquisite wines and scenic views. The Food and Wine Taste Trail invites you to embark on a delightful journey through the region’s finest wineries, breweries, and gourmet destinations. Then, before the day ends, unwind and take Instagram-worthy photos of the beautiful coastline views on the Peninsula. This immersive tour allows you to indulge in the region’s culinary delights while soaking in its stunning natural beauty.

Tour Highlights:

  • Visit 3 world-class wineries: Pt. Leo Estate, Rare Hare at Jackalope, and Montalto, each offering unique tasting experiences.
  • Hang like a local and have a taste of craft brewery from St. Andrews Beach Brewery.
  • Soak in the panoramic view of the region at Mornington Peninsula’s highest point: Murray’s Point. Then take picture-perfect moments with the iconic colourful bathing boxes at Peninsula Bathing Boxes.

What People Have to Say:

“We enjoyed the wineries/breweries chosen, all different styles/sizes. Lunch at one of the wineries was a delicious and filling pizza, with some starters. Highly recommended.” — Elsa B.

“The guide did an exceptional job at creating a genuine connection with us and helping us to enjoy our day to the best of our ability and enjoy different wineries at our own pace was great.” — Bill G.

“The winery and lunch options were great, the itinerary was perfect, and I had a great day!” — Nn C.

Tips for Planning Your Winery Tour

Mornington Peninsula’s rich wine culture is best experienced with a well-planned winery tour that allows you to savour both the wines and the breathtaking views of the region. To make the most of your experience, here are some helpful tips:

1.

Research Wineries

Before setting off, take the time to read reviews and research the wineries you want to visit. Each vineyard offers something different—from boutique wineries that offer small-batch wines in an intimate setting to larger estates known for their wide range of beverages in spacious tasting rooms. If you’re visiting with a large crowd, also take note of the wineries that can only accommodate smaller groups and adjust your itinerary accordingly. By knowing the policies and limitations of each winery, you can plan a more enjoyable and hassle-free winery tour.

2.

Plan Your Transportation

There are a variety of Mornington Peninsula winery tours and transport options that cater to different group sizes and preferences. Some provide shuttle buses for large groups, while others may offer luxury vehicles like limousines or vans. Some even allow you to play your own music in the vehicle. Make sure the transportation you choose is not only safe and comfortable, but also enjoyable as the destinations themselves.

3.

Book Ahead

Popular wineries tend to book out quickly, especially during weekends and holidays. Ask your tour operator if reservations are already part of the package, or if you need to book them separately. Make reservations in advance to secure a spot at extra vineyards not included in your tour itinerary.

4.

Dress Comfortably

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that allow you to walk around vineyards with ease. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, layering up or packing a hat and sunscreen if needed.

5.

Pace Yourself

Wine tasting on the Mornington Peninsula is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed. Savour the flavours and take in the beautiful vineyard views if you're visiting several wineries in one day. It’s okay if you don’t get to visit all the wineries on your list—this just gives you a great excuse (and an opportunity) to plan another trip.

6.

Talk to the Sommeliers

Many wineries in Mornington Peninsula are family-operated, so you may even chance upon the winery owners themselves facilitating the tastings. You can learn directly from the people who have been crafting the wines for generations. So, don’t be shy—ask questions, and the sommeliers can surely offer you valuable insights about the unique craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Embrace the Journey and Sip the Best of Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula’s wine tours offer more than just a chance to taste some of Australia’s finest wines. They provide a comfortable and fun journey to explore the heart of the region’s wine culture. Each winery and vineyard visit is an opportunity to savour the best wine experience Mornington Peninsula has to offer.

For a scenic and relaxing start to your journey, take a ferry ride to Mornington Peninsula through Searoad Ferries. The ferry ride between Queenscliff and Sorrento is not only picturesque but also saves you from the stress of driving long distances. As you travel across Port Phillip Bay, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal views, making it a great way to kick off your winery tour adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are winery tours worth it?

Yes! Winery tours are the most convenient way to experience the best wineries Mornington Peninsula has to offer. The winery tours in our list provide a structured itinerary that allows you to visit multiple wineries in a single day. Plus, you can relax and enjoy the scenery, knowing that transportation and logistics are taken care of.

What time of year is best to do a vineyard tour?

Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) are when the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are either in full bloom or painted with their beautiful colours of harvest. The mild weather during these months makes it perfect for exploring vineyards more comfortably.

How many Mornington Peninsula wineries are there?

Currently, the region boasts over 200 vineyards, 60 wineries, and at least 50 cellar doors, making Mornington Peninsula a go-to destination for wine aficionados.

Travellers rate us 4.5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor
Simple and enjoyable process
Really enjoyed taking the ferry. Not very busy, easy to get on and off with car and nice ship. Comfortable lounge and even had a sandwich. Really like the driving it saved us. Put us in great shape for starting the Great Ocean Road.
Enjoy the drive..Take The Ferry
Why would you bother driving through all that city traffic when you can just hop aboard the ferry to get from one side of the bay to the other?
Excellent way to cross the bay
We took the car over the bay. What an easy trip. No need to book. Boat is in excellent condition and crew were great. High recommended.