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

If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond the typical Perth day trip, the Wheatbelt & New Norcia tour promises a full day of engaging sights, delicious local produce, and a peek into Western Australia’s unique heritage. Designed for small groups—just five guests maximum—this tour offers an intimate, flexible exploration that feels more like visiting friends than a generic bus outing.

What we love about this experience are two standout features: first, the personalized touch that small group sizes bring, making every stop feel special and tailored; second, the blend of natural beauty and cultural history, from lush gardens and bird encounters to historic monastic life. The main drawback? The 10-hour duration means you’ll want to be ready for a full day on the move, which might be tiring for some travelers. But if you enjoy a compressed but rewarding itinerary, this tour suits those eager to get a genuine taste of WA’s countryside with minimal crowds.

This tour caters best to curious travelers who appreciate authentic regional experiences—those who enjoy local food, nature, and history without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive day exploring inland Perth’s gems.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 5 guests for a more personal, flexible day.
• Diverse Highlights: From botanical aviaries and farm tastings to historic New Norcia.
• Local Flavors: Sampling farm-fresh gelato, WA bush honey, and artisan cheeses.
• Rich History: Guided tour of WA’s only living monastic town.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup from Perth hotels and an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Value for Money: Includes entrance fees, delicious lunch, and beverages.

An Authentic Day Beyond Perth

This tour is a carefully curated journey into Western Australia’s heartland. It’s less about ticking boxes and more about experiencing the land and its people. The journey kicks off with a convenient pickup from Perth, where your guide, Cara, sets a friendly tone and offers stories about what’s ahead.

Limestone Park Stud: Nature and Bird-Watching

Our first stop is Limestone Park Stud, a lush oasis within the Wheatbelt. Here, we’re greeted by tropical gardens and free-flight aviaries. With over 450 bird species, this stop is a bird-lover’s paradise. The fresh air and vibrant scenery set a relaxed tone for the day, and the inclusion of a coffee break helps you settle in.

From reviews, travelers appreciated the personalized approach: “We had a delightful and very personal trip with Cara. In fact we were the only two customers that day due to a cancellation,” says Eric, highlighting how small groups lead to a more intimate experience, free of rush or crowded crowds.

Local Goat: Artisanal Cheese and Gelato

Next, we visit Local Goat, a charming, off-the-grid goat cheese farm. Expect to taste freshly crafted cheeses and homemade gelato. It’s a true farm-to-table experience, and Gerald’s passion for his craft comes through in every bite. You’ll also learn about traditional goat-milking techniques, making this stop not just tasty but educational.

Reviewers like Clive noted the value of visiting local food producers: “With visits to local attractions (Aviary/gardens), local food producers (Cheese, Ice Cream, Honey),” he says, emphasizing how these stops add a layer of authenticity few tours can match.

Little Eeden Farm Honey & Apiary: Sweet Discoveries

Our journey continues to Little Eeden Honey Farm. Surrounded by native flora, this stop offers a honey tasting session featuring WA bush honey. You’ll gain insight into the health benefits and the unique flavors of local honey varieties, making it a sweet highlight of the day.

Passing by the Deep-Space Antenna

A brief but interesting pass-by of the 35-meter deep-space antenna adds a touch of modern WA innovation to the trip, offering insight into the region’s scientific endeavors.

Historic New Norcia: Culture and Monastic Life

The day’s crown jewel is the visit to New Norcia, Australia’s only living monastic town. Walking through this heritage-listed town, you’ll encounter Spanish-style architecture, monasteries, and the stories of the Benedictine monks who have kept this place alive for generations. The guided tour offers a compelling look at spiritual life intertwined with local history.

The review from Eric notes how special this part of the trip is: “You walk in the footsteps of pioneers who built this heritage town,” giving you an idea of how immersive and meaningful the experience is.

The Visitor Centre & Local Products

A quick stop at the New Norcia Visitor Centre allows you to browse handmade olive oil and monastery bread, perfect souvenirs of your visit. The staff are friendly, and the collection of books and crafts reinforces the cultural depth of the town.

Wrap-up with a Local Brew

Before heading back to Perth, everyone gets a complimentary Abbey Ale brewed from monks’ original recipes, or options like gin, tonic, or fresh orange juice. It’s a charming way to toast a day well spent and reflect on the trip.

The Practical Angle: What’s Included and What to Expect

For $182.90, this tour offers excellent value when considering all inclusions. The price covers lunch, bottled Australian spring water, entrance fees to Limestone Park, Local Goat, and Little Eeden Honey, plus the guided tour of New Norcia and the Benedictine Abbey. The beverages, including a free Abbey Ale or local gin & tonic, add a relaxing touch.

The transport is an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort after a day outdoors, and the small group size means you won’t be packed in or rushed. Pickup is offered from Perth city hotels, making logistics simple.

While the tour does not include extra food or drinks beyond those listed, the focus on local produce and the variety of tastings provide a satisfying culinary experience. It’s worth noting that travelers should wear comfortable footwear and bring a sunhat—WA’s sun is no joke—and sunscreen is provided onboard.

The Experience: Authentic, Personal, and Educational

What truly elevates this tour is the personalized experience. As one reviewer mentioned, “Unlike other trips, the pace was set by us,” thanks to the small group size. You’re not just a face in the crowd but an active participant in discovering local stories and flavors.

The stops are well-chosen for their authenticity and variety. From lush gardens and bird encounters to historic streets and monastic life, the tour combines natural beauty and cultural depth seamlessly.

The tour’s duration ensures a full day without feeling rushed, though it’s a lot of ground to cover. Travelers should be prepared for a full day of walking, some dusty paths, and a fair amount of sitting in the vehicle. It’s ideal for those with moderate physical fitness and a curiosity about regional WA.

Final thoughts

This Wheatbelt & New Norcia tour offers an engaging blend of nature, food, and history, all wrapped in an intimate, small-group setting. It’s a compelling choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—who crave a meaningful connection to WA’s landscapes and local communities.

The value is clear when you consider the inclusions and the depth of the experience. You’ll leave with a collection of beautiful memories, authentic tastes, and a deeper appreciation of Western Australia’s inland treasures.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, this tour provides a well-rounded, genuine experience that small groups and personalized attention make all the difference.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking and some standing. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day outdoors.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 5 guests, ensuring a more personal and flexible experience.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included in the price, along with bottled water and tastings at the farm and honey stop. Additional food and drinks are not included.

Can I customize the experience?
The small group format allows for some flexibility in pacing, but the itinerary is fixed. The tour is best suited for those wanting a structured but intimate day.

What should I bring?
Bring a sunhat, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen (provided on board), and minimal luggage to keep things easy.

Is pickup available?
Yes, complimentary pickup from Perth city hotels is included. Alternatively, you can meet outside The Bell Tower in Barrack Square.

Does the tour run on specific days?
Yes, it operates on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, making it accessible for weekend plans.

This Wheatbelt & New Norcia tour showcases the best of inland WA’s natural beauty, flavors, and history—all in one rewarding day. It’s an experience that balances comfort with authenticity, perfect for travelers seeking a genuine connection to the region’s unique character.