Yarra Valley Foodies Tour with Chandon and Kangaroo Safari!

Taking a day trip from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley offers a delightful escape into Australia’s renowned food and wine scene. This tour, organized by The Yarra Valley Touring Co, promises a relaxed yet comprehensive experience, perfect for those who want a taste of everything—fancy sparkling wine, creamy cheeses, decadent chocolates, and the chance to see wild kangaroos in their natural habitat. With a small group of no more than 12 travelers, it feels more like a day out with friends than a crowded bus tour.

What we love about this experience are the thoughtful touches—like the late start giving you the morning free in Melbourne, and the guarantee of spotting kangaroos, which can be a real highlight for nature lovers. We also appreciate how it balances top-notch tastings with scenic views and relaxed pacing. One potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for a meal during the day. This trip suits food and wine enthusiasts, wildlife fans, and anyone wanting a laid-back but enriching taste of the Yarra Valley.

Key Points

• Flexible Schedule: Late departure allows for a leisurely morning in Melbourne.
• Diverse Tastings: From sparkling wine to cheese, chocolate, and wine, the variety is impressive.
• Wildlife Guarantee: The tour promises you’ll see kangaroos—no wild guesses here.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 11 guests, promoting a relaxed, personal experience.
• Scenic Stops: Stunning vineyard views and countryside scenery.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who add context and fun to the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Yarra Valley Foodies Tour

This tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy the Yarra Valley without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. We know that many travelers want a balance of indulgence and adventure, and this trip delivers just that. The highlight for many is the carefully curated stops—each with its own atmosphere and specialty—that make this more than just a wine tour.

Two elements stand out: the timing and the variety. Starting at 11:30 am means you can have a late breakfast or a relaxed morning in Melbourne, and then head out for a day packed with tastings, scenic views, and wildlife encounters. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide can tailor the experience with hints and personal touches.

One of the most appreciated aspects—highlighted repeatedly in reviews—is the expert guide. Whether it’s Kurt, Craig, or Tom, the guides are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. The promise that you will see wild kangaroos—backed by reviews like “Avalon was the best” and “we saw so many kangaroos thanks to him”—means wildlife viewing is more than just a hope; it’s almost guaranteed.

However, keep in mind that lunch is not included, so budget accordingly at Chandon’s lounge or other stops. Also, wildlife sightings depend on nature, and while sightings are common, they are not guaranteed.

This tour is ideal for those who want an authentic, varied taste of the Yarra Valley—combining food, wine, scenic beauty, and wildlife—all in one manageable day. Whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, a foodie, or someone craving a bit of Aussie wildlife, you’ll find value here.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Melbourne

The tour begins at Federation Square behind the NGV, a central and easy-to-find spot. The group boards a comfortable, air-conditioned van for the roughly one-hour drive into the Yarra Valley. The early start is replaced with a leisurely late morning departure, giving you time to enjoy Melbourne’s vibrant morning scene.

Along the way, there’s a bonus stop at a strawberry farm, where everyone can pick up fresh berries to share—an unexpected treat that adds a personal, local touch to the trip. As reviews note, “We had a great time at the strawberry farm—fresh and delicious. It’s a nice way to start the day.”

Domaine Chandon

Your first major stop is Domaine Chandon, part of Moët et Chandon. Here, you’ll enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine while soaking in the views of the vineyard. This is a highlight for many guests, who love the chance to learn about bubbly production in a beautiful setting.

Guests often mention how well-paced the tasting is—ample time to sip and appreciate, with the option to purchase lunch from their lounge menu. Many reviewers praise the “fantastic views” and “knowledgeable guides” who share insights into champagne making.

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Yarra Valley Dairy

Next, you’ll visit a family-owned cheese producer, where soft cheeses are made onsite. This is a true boutique experience, offering a generous cheese tasting menu. We loved the way the guide explained the cheese-making process, making the tasting both educational and delicious.

Guests often comment that the cheeses are “amazing,” and the relaxed atmosphere makes it feel like visiting a friend’s farm rather than a commercial stop. It’s an opportunity to sample local produce and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bite.

Yering Station Winery

Yering Station, Victoria’s first vineyard, is a historic highlight. Here, you’ll indulge in a private wine tasting of classic cool-climate varietals, especially Pinot Noir. The setting adds a touch of history and elegance, making it feel more special than a standard tasting room.

Guests frequently note that the wines are “some of the valley’s finest” and that the guide’s explanations help deepen their appreciation. The tasting is well-paced, with enough time to savor each glass and ask questions.

Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Chocolate lovers are in for a treat at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. You’ll sample a wide variety of handmade chocolates, learning about their production and ingredients. Many reviews mention the “delicious” chocolates and the opportunity to explore over 200 chocolate and ice cream products in their shop.

It’s an indulgent break that satisfies sweet cravings and offers fun for all ages. The views from the shop and the chance to select some treats for later make this a memorable stop.

Sunset Kangaroo Safari

As the afternoon turns to evening, the tour heads into the lower Yarra Valley to hunt for wild kangaroos at sunset. The guide’s local knowledge ensures the best chances to see these iconic animals in their natural habitat.

Reviewers like “Avalon was the best” and “we saw so many kangaroos” highlight how successful this part of the tour can be. Wildlife sightings can never be absolutely guaranteed, but the tour’s timing and location maximize your odds. The chance to photograph kangaroos in the wild—often with the sunset in the background—is a highlight that many travelers cherish.

Return to Melbourne

After a full day of tasting, sightseeing, and wildlife watching, the group returns to Federation Square around 6:30-7 pm. This allows time for dinner or a relaxed evening back in the city.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Guides

Multiple reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides—like Kurt, Craig, Tom, and Elliott—who go above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable. Guests appreciate their storytelling, local insights, and the personal touch they bring to each stop.

The Tastings

The combination of wine, cheese, and chocolate makes for a deliciously varied day. The wine tastings at Yering Station are noted as among the valley’s best, with many guests saying they enjoyed the relaxed pacing and quality of the wines.

Scenic Beauty

Traveling through rolling vineyards and lush countryside gives the trip a peaceful, picturesque backdrop. Guests love the views from Domaine Chandon and the chocolate shop, often describing the scenery as “beautiful” and “breathtaking.”

Wildlife Experience

Spotting wild kangaroos is a big draw, and the exclusivity of the sunset stop makes this a memorable part of the day. The promise of seeing kangaroos—backed by countless positive reviews—is a major reason many travelers choose this tour over others.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusions—multiple tastings, scenic stops, transportation, and a guaranteed wildlife sighting—the tour offers great value. The reviews emphasize how well-paced and thoughtfully organized it is, making the cost seem justified.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Transportation: The van is comfortable and well-organized, with a small group size to ensure personal attention.

Timing: The 11:30 am departure allows for a relaxed morning in Melbourne, which is perfect if you want to explore the city first.

Meals: Lunch is not included, but there’s plenty of opportunity to purchase food at Chandon or other stops. Remember to bring cash or card for purchases.

Wildlife Viewing: While sightings are common, they are not 100% guaranteed. The best chances are during the sunset, at a known wildlife site.

What to Bring: a camera, ID or passport, cash for extras, and a reusable water bottle.

Age Restrictions: You need to be 18+ to drink alcohol, but children over 3 are welcome to join.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food and drink lovers eager to try local specialties without the hassle of planning. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the guaranteed chance to see kangaroos in their natural environment. It’s also a great choice for those seeking a laid-back, scenic escape from Melbourne with an emphasis on quality and authentic experiences.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who want to sample the best of the Yarra Valley in a small-group setting, this tour hits the right notes. It’s ideal for visitors looking for a mix of indulgence, scenery, and wildlife in a day that’s both fun and informative.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You will have time to purchase food at Domaine Chandon or other stops during the day.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 11 guests, creating a more intimate experience and allowing guides to give personalized attention.

Will I definitely see kangaroos?
While wildlife sightings are very common, they are never 100% guaranteed. The tour’s timing during sunset and the known location in the lower Yarra Valley give you the best chance.

How long is the drive from Melbourne?
The drive is approximately one hour, with a scenic route that includes a stop at a strawberry farm.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children over 3 years old are welcome, but you must be 18+ to consume alcohol.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers should consider the walking involved, especially at wildlife stops.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance via the tour provider’s platform.

Final Thoughts

This Yarra Valley Foodies Tour with Chandon and Kangaroo Safari offers a delightful mix of tasting, sightseeing, and wildlife encounters. Its thoughtfully curated stops and small group size make it an excellent choice for those who want a relaxed, authentic day out of Melbourne. The knowledgeable guides, quality tastings, and guaranteed wildlife sightings add up to a memorable experience worth the price.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or a wildlife enthusiast, this tour delivers a taste of the region’s best—without feeling rushed. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the scenic beauty of Victoria’s premier wine region while indulging your senses and perhaps capturing that iconic kangaroo photo.

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging, and authentic Yarra Valley experience, this tour is hard to beat. It’s the kind of day that leaves you with good memories, new tastes, and a story or two about the kangaroos you saw in the wild.

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