Sip & Savour: Your Ultimate Guide to Bendigo Wine Tours
Located in the heart of Victoria’s gold rush region, Bendigo is a place where history meets good living. With its rich heritage, rolling vineyards and laid-back country charm, it’s the perfect destination for families and groups of friends. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend exploring the wineries, a cultural adventure with local art and food, or a scenic country adventure, Bendigo has it all.
This guide will show you the best times to visit the wine. Recommend some must-see spots and helpful tips to help you make the most of your Bendigo wine tour experience.
What is The Best Time of Year for a Wine Tour in Bendigo?
The best time to enjoy a Bendigo wine tour is in autumn, from September to November. This is a mild and pleasant time, perfect for exploring the vineyards without the summer heat. This is also harvest season, when the region really comes alive with grape picking, local festivals and cellar events.
The countryside turns a brilliant red and gold, perfect for family picnics, group tours and long lunches among the vineyards. Whether you’re enjoying a new bottle of wine or simply soaking up the scenery, autumn makes for a memorable Bendigo wine experience.
Which Wineries Offer the Best Family Experiences in Bendigo
Bendigo wineries are not just for wine enthusiasts, they are also great destinations for families and groups of friends. Here are some of the area’s most popular wineries, offering relaxing, family-friendly experiences that you can’t miss.
1. Sandhurst Ridge winery
Address: Forest Dr, Marong VIC 3515
Opening hours: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm | Friday – Sunday.
Sandhurst Ridge offers a warm and private wine tasting experience set among peaceful, green meadows. It’s perfect for families or groups of friends looking to unwind for the day. Guests can sample small-batch wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy a picnic overlooking the vineyards. The hosts are friendly and laid-back, making it an ideal spot for anyone keen to learn more about how this unique wine is produced.
2. Harcourt Valley Vineyards
Address: 3339 Harmony Way, Harcourt VIC 3453
Opening hours: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm | Sunday
Known as one of Bendigo’s oldest family-owned wineries, Harcourt Valley Vineyards is a warm and friendly destination, perfect for families and large groups. Established in 1976, it has won hundreds of awards for its excellent cool-climate wines, including Shiraz, Chardonnay and Riesling.
It offers the chance to sample handcrafted wines, along with unique local beers such as ginger beer and mead. With spacious lawns, scenic vineyard views and friendly staff, it’s an easy place to relax and enjoy a long afternoon. Whether you’re here for a casual wine tasting or a family outing, Harcourt Valley offers authentic country hospitality in every glass.
3. Sutton Grange Winery
Opening hours: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm | Sunday
Sutton Grange Winery combines stunning architecture with sweeping views of the countryside, making it a favourite destination for wine lovers and families alike. The winery is renowned for its elegant Syrah and cool climate wines, best enjoyed in the stylish tasting room or on the lawn under the shady trees.
Large groups can take guided tours of the vineyard, taste local produce and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon, just 30 minutes drive from the centre of Bendigo.
4. Mandurang Valley Wines
Address: 77 Fadersons Ln, Mandurang VIC 3551
Opening hours: 11 am - 5 pm | Saturday - Sunday
Tucked away in a picturesque valley, Mandurang Valley Wines offers a true country retreat. This family-friendly winery is renowned for its easy-drinking handcrafted wines and warm hospitality.
Families and groups can enjoy wine tasting in the rustic cellar door, stroll through the vineyards, or picnic under the eucalyptus trees. With its warm atmosphere and picturesque setting, Mandurang Valley is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of the Bendigo wine region.
What Are the Best Tips for Your Wine Tour?
To make your Bendigo wine tour as stress-free and comfortable as possible so you can fully enjoy every sip, keep these handy tips in mind that can make your trip go much more smoothly and conveniently
Bring the essentials: Prepare water, snacks and sunscreen as the weather in Bendigo can change quickly, and staying hydrated will help you enjoy the whole day more.
Check the information in advance: Confirm opening days, opening hours and book reservations at the places you visit as many cellars are only open on weekends.
Be flexible and enjoy your time: Don't rush, take your time to enjoy each stop and the beautiful countryside.
Limit stops: Two or three wineries per day is ideal for a relaxed pace, avoiding too many locations in one day.
Stay nearby: Choose accommodation close to the wineries for easy access. You can check out Bendigo Signature Accommodation, just 25 minutes drive from the famous wine cellars.
Family note: Consider the age of the children, but the tastings are only for guests aged 18 and over.
Bendigo Signature Accommodation: The Perfect Base for Your Wine Tour
If you’re travelling in a large group or with a large family, don’t worry as Bendigo Signature Accommodation is the perfect base for your wine adventure.
Choosing Bendigo Signature Accommodation, you can get:
Ample parking
Convenient door pick-up
A wide range of room types to suit everyone, from couples seeking a quiet retreat to families and bigger crews needing extra space. Explore: Top 7 Best Family-Friendly Accommodation in Bendigo
Full facilities and furnishings with a range of flexible budgets to suit your needs
Just a 30-minute drive from Bendigo’s cellars and local restaurants, it’s close enough to get involved in the action but quiet enough to relax after a day of tasting. Comfortable, friendly and conveniently located, this is your home away from home in the heart of wine country.
