Sydney Marijs Vrancken Sydney Marijs Vrancken

Best Team Building Activities Sydney 2025 | Prices, Packages & Venues

Getting your team out of the office isn’t just a fun break—it’s a smart investment. Sydney offers an incredible range of team building activities that boost collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills. From outdoor adventures to creative challenges, these shared experiences strengthen company culture and leave your team feeling more connected than ever.

Still doing trust falls and two truths and a lie? Your team deserves better than recycled corporate icebreakers from 1995.

After facilitating 500+ team-building experiences since 2016, we've discovered what actually works: shared adventures that create genuine connections, not forced awkwardness. Whether your team needs to blow off steam with axe throwing, bond over craft beer, or conquer the harbour together, we've got Sydney team-building activities that'll transform "just colleagues" into actual teammates.

The best part? Our luxury fleet means no one's stuck organising carpools or missing out as the designated driver. Everyone travels together, bonds together, and remembers it together.

View all our book now packages on the link below

Book now packages

Quick Navigation - Find Your Perfect Team Activity

Jump to your ideal team building experience:

1.    The Ultimate Mixed Bag Package - HOTTEST - From $184pp

2.    Craft Brewery Tours - From $169pp

3.    Distillery Experiences - From $179pp

4.    Adventure Challenges - From $189pp

5.    Blue Mountains Escape - From $199pp

6.    Harbour Sailing - From $249pp

7.    Wine Tours - From $189pp

8.    Yacht Adventures - From $179pp

9.    Surf Experience - From $199pp

10. Cycling Tours - From $149pp

11. Cooking for a Cause - From $179pp

12. Tennis Tournament - From $159pp

13. Bridge Climb - From $369pp

14. Multi-Activity Days - From $229pp

15. Custom Experiences - Tailored pricing

Plus many more packages here

2025 TEAM BUILDING AVAILABILITY ALERT 

Popular dates booking fast (as of June 2025)

  • Fridays Oct-Dec: 72% BOOKED

  • Thursdays Oct-Dec: 58% booked

  • Mon-Wed: Great availability

  • Winter special rates: June-August

Lock in your date with just $500 deposit (fully refundable)


Sydney Team Building Locations We Service

Sydney Team Building Locations We Service

Sydney Metro: CBD, North Sydney, Parramatta, Chatswood, Olympic Park
Eastern Suburbs: Bondi, Coogee, Double Bay, Randwick
Northern Beaches: Manly, Dee Why, Mona Vale, Brookvale
Inner West: Newtown, Marrickville, Leichhardt, Balmain
Southern Sydney: Sutherland, Cronulla, Miranda, Hurstville
Western Sydney: Blacktown, Castle Hill, Penrith, Liverpool
Regional: Hunter Valley, Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands, Wollongong

 FREE pickup from any Sydney office or venue!

Why 500+ Sydney Companies Choose Urban Legends

 The Urban Legends Difference:

· 15,000+ successful team events since 2016

· 4.9★ Google rating (387 reviews)

· 100% private experiences (never mixed groups)

· Zero stress - we handle EVERYTHING

· Brand new 2025 luxury fleet

· Exclusive access to venues/experiences

· Professional team building facilitators

 Our 2025 Premium Fleet:

No cramped minivans or dodgy old buses here!

· 41-seater King Long: Leather recliners, USB charging, premium sound

· 27-seater Yutong D7: USB at every seat, climate control, luxury comfort

· 14-seater Mercedes: Executive style for leadership teams


Team Building Activities in the heart of Sydney

Looking for a quick team building activity right in the heart of Sydney? Head straight to the good stuff by booking an inner West Brewery Tour. Meet four awesome craft beer brewers on a behind-the-scenes tour and sample their beers with one of their epic beer paddles. If you have a little more time to plan in for your team? Add on a fun team building activity in the Sydney suburbs. Choose axe throwing for a little stress-management (a little imagination goes a long way ;)), go-karting for your adrenaline junkies (we bet the sales team will love this one!), ten pin bowling to allow for a few chats and more! With pick up, drop off and a woodfire pizza lunch sorted, your team building day in Sydney is ready to go!

BOOK NOW

Craft Brewery Team Tours

Planning team building activities in Sydney for 2025? Our Craft Brewery Team Tours offer a relaxed, social way to connect your team outside the office. Visit 3–4 top breweries, enjoy tasting paddles and a hearty lunch, and bond over shared experiences—no awkward icebreakers required. With luxury transport and options for all drink preferences, it’s a fun, flexible team day out your crew will actually look forward to.

Perfect for: Casual team bonding in relaxed settings
Duration: 6-8 hours
Group size: 8-150 people
Price: From $169pp
Availability: 7 days, year-round

Sydney's craft beer scene is perfect for team building - relaxed atmospheres, conversation-friendly environments, and something for everyone (including non-drinkers).

Your Brewery Experience Includes:

  • Behind-the-scenes brewery tours (3-4 venues)

  • Meet the brewers and learn their stories

  • Generous tasting paddles at each stop

  • Substantial lunch at selected brewery

  • Optional competitive beer challenges

  • Luxury transport throughout

  • Non-alcoholic craft options available

Featured Breweries: Young Henrys, Batch Brewing, Willie the Boatman, Grifter

"The brewery tour was perfect for our diverse team. Relaxed atmosphere, great conversations, and that new coach was incredible!" - Sarah L., Atlassian

Going Axe-Throwing with the team is a great way to work out some frustration while having a blast.

Sydney is home to excellent distilleries where your team can taste various gins, vodka’s, whiskey’s, and more!

Premium Distillery Team Experiences

Elevate your team building activities in Sydney for 2025 with a premium distillery experience designed for teams that value craftsmanship, creativity, and connection. Over 5–6 hours, your group will explore Sydney’s top distilleries, enjoy guided spirit tastings, and dive into a hands-on cocktail masterclass. With team-based challenges, recipe card takeaways, and luxury transport, it’s a sophisticated and memorable bonding experience—ideal for modern teams who want more than just another team lunch.

Perfect for: Sophisticated team bonding
Duration: 5-6 hours
Group size: 10-40 people
Price: From $179pp
Availability: Tue-Sat

Level up your team building with Sydney's world-class distilleries. Perfect for teams who appreciate craftsmanship and quality.

Your Distillery Experience:

 2-3 premium distillery visits
 Production facility tours
 Hands-on cocktail masterclass
 Create team signature cocktails
 Premium grazing platters
 Take-home recipe cards
 Luxury transport included

Team Building Elements:

· Cocktail competition between departments

· Collaborative drink creation

· Sensory team challenges


Reach New Heights With Your Team

After a long year behind their screens, your team might be looking a little lacklustre. If so, then it’s time to get your team out of their comfort zone and into new heights. Sydney is a great base for climbing adventures that make for some pretty epic team building activities in and around the NSW capital! And let’s face it, there is nothing better than finishing off with a few cold ones or a delicious cocktail after an activity like this!

Keen to take it up a notch? Treat your team to a Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb! You will be safely guided to the top of one of the world’s longest steel-arch bridges for some epic 360 degree views of Sydney. While this might be pushing it for some of your team members, this is bound to be an unforgettable team building activities in Sydney!

BOOK NOW

Hands-on activities are loved by most teams!

Get Out Of Town & Into The blue Mountains

Team Building Days Sydney
Sydney Team Building Days

To really feel like you are getting away from the office, why not leave the city for the day! The Blue Mountains are reached in only an hour or two and are a real adult playground, full of both active and relaxing team building activities. It’s a wild heaven for any team that loves the outdoors and a great way to offer them a little break from spending too much time behind the screen! Hiking, mountain biking, canyoning, it’s all possible in the wild and wicked landscapes that will fondly remembered by your entire team.

Think your team is up for an adventurous day? Book a day trip to the Blue Mountains and ask the team about the options for canyoning or bush walking. Prefer to give your team a hard-earned break without strenuous activities? Book a Scenic World cable car ride, or visit the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden instead. Include an Aussie BBQ and finish the day with a cold beer, and you’ve got the perfect team building day itinerary.

Perfect for: Fresh perspective away from the office
Duration: 8-10 hours
Group size: 8-57 people
Price: From $199pp
Availability: Weather dependent

Scenic Package

Escape Sydney's concrete for mountain air and team bonding with spectacular views.

Adventure Package ($199pp):

  • Guided bushwalking

  • Team navigation challenges

  • Aussie BBQ lunch

  • Local brewery visit

  • Luxury coach with panoramic windows

  • Three Sisters lookout

  • Waterfall walks

Adrenaline Package

Escape the city and head to the Blue Mountains for a day of fresh air, adrenaline, and unforgettable team bonding. This Adrenaline Package is perfect for adventurous teams craving challenge and connection in the great outdoors.

Adrenaline Package ($215pp)

  • Abseiling off towering cliffs

  • Guided canyoning adventure through natural waterways

  • High-speed zip-lining

  • Delicious BBQ lunch in a scenic mountain setting

Keen to take your team to the Blue Mountains? View our packages below!

PACKAGES

Would love to see these happy looks on your team? Take them on a Sydney Team Building Day!

Team Building Activities On The Water

The height of summer is often a great moment for a fun and engaging team building activity. And what better way to celebrate summer and your team than by heading out onto the water. For an active team building day, you can spend the day at Rose Bay, exploring this beautiful and sheltered part of the Sydney Harbour by paddle-board or kayak. Finish off a sun-filled day on the water with a behind-the-scenes brewery or distillery tour. Chat to the team about putting it all together for you.

If you think your team is up for a bigger challenge, consider the epic game of SUPBALL in Manly, a combination of netball, water polo, lacrosse, and rugby – played on stand-up paddle boards! The Northern Beaches is also home to a famously sustainable and delicious brews. That means that you and your team are able to head straight from the board into the bar. Get active and a little wiser by asking the team about a water-based team building activity and a behind-the-scenes brewery tour in the Northern Beaches of Sydney.

Adventure Team Challenges

Inject energy into your 2025 team building activities in Sydney with our Adventure Team Challenges—designed to boost trust, teamwork, and adrenaline. Whether it’s axe throwing, go-kart racing, or indoor rock climbing, each activity offers an unforgettable mix of competition, strategy, and celebration. Perfect for teams that thrive on action and shared wins.

Perfect for: Energy release and trust building
Duration: 4-6 hours
Group size: 10-100 people
Price: From $189pp
Availability: 7 days

Get hearts pumping and teams bonding with our adrenaline-fueled challenges.

Choose Your Adventure:

Axe Throwing Championships 

($189pp)

· Professional instruction

· Team tournament format

· Private venue hire

· Victory celebrations

Go-Karting Grand Prix 

($215pp)

· Exclusive track booking

· Team racing strategy

· Trophy presentation

· Premium catering

Indoor Rock Climbing 

($195pp)

· All skill levels welcome

· Trust-building belay partnerships

· Team challenges

· Achievement certificates

Go all out for your team!

We all love water activities, but if you’re keen to show your team that they’ve done an excellent job this year, why not go for something a little more extravagant? Go all out and let your team celebrate their achievements by hiring a private yacht and take your staff on a luxury boat tour of the Sydney Harbour. As you can see in the pics dotted through this blog post, most teams are, to put it mildly, ecstatic when they realise what surprise you have planned for them. It might seem like a bit of a mission to organise a luxury yacht for your team building activity, but fear not! Luckily, we know who’s who in the Sydney yachts world and can hook your team up with a sweet on-the-water ride that will give them a night to remember forever. Nothing to do but to sit back, relax and enjoy a drink while cruising around.Sounds like a pretty sweet team building activity to us!

I’m ready to spoil my team!
 

Treat The Team To A Winery Tour

Is there a better way to relax from a busy period at work than heading into nature, getting some fresh air and pamper your team with the best food and drinks on offer in New South Wales? The Hunter Valley, Southern Highlands and the South Coast are home to a bounty of amazing produce, including cheeses, chocolates, olives, wine, gin and craft beers, so this is the place to go and indulge your staff!

You can choose between a wine, beer, spirits or cocktail tour, based on what your team prefers. Go all out with locally produced gourmet cheese & produce platters or include a BYO picnic lunch at a beautiful picnic spot with epic views, overlooking epic landscapes and get some great pics of the team while you’re at it.

Perfect for: Sophisticated team bonding
Duration: 8-10 hours
Group size: 8-150 people
Price: From $189pp
Availability: 7 days

Build team connections over world-class wines in NSW's premier regions.

Choose Your Wine Region:

Hunter Valley ($189pp)

· 3-4 boutique wineries

· Gourmet lunch included

· Wine blending competition

· 2 hours from Sydney

South Coast ($199pp)

· Ocean views

· Seafood lunch

· Beach photo stops

All tours include seated tastings and luxury transport!

Southern Highlands ($179pp)

· Cool climate wines

· Charming villages

· 90 minutes from Sydney

BOOK NOW
BEST TEAM BONDING DAYS IN SYDNEY

Cycling, The Ultimate Team Building Activity

Want to get your team more active and into the outdoors? Why not get them on a Sydney cycling tour and have them explore their favourite city through a new set of eyes. Our cycling tour guides know the city like no other and can take your team to places they never would have found by themselves. Ask our team about the best spots to stop with a guide, or consider having a self-guided cycle route and have various teams race each other. It suits different groups of people, can be done outdoors and has the right level of fun versus competitiveness. It also makes for the perfect team bonding activity, because it can be adapted to any team size, as well as to people of all ages and fitness levels.

Have your team explore the city and compete against each other or enjoy a relaxing bike ride, up to you! Make sure to reward them afterwards for all their hard efforts with a well-deserved gourmet harbourside lunch or urban winery tasting!

show my team the city!

Sydney Cycling Tours are a great way to get your team out and about!

Water-Based Team Adventures

Make a splash with your team building activities in Sydney for 2025 by diving into our Water-Based Team Adventures—designed for summer bonding, communication, and serious fun. Whether it's paddleboarding across calm harbour waters, battling it out in a game of SUPBALL, or kayaking to hidden beaches, these refreshing experiences offer the perfect mix of challenge and relaxation for teams looking to connect outside the office.

Perfect for: Summer team building
Duration: 4-6 hours
Group size: 10-50 people
Price: From $179pp
Availability: Sep-Apr (weather dependent)

Cool team tensions with refreshing water activities that build trust and communication.

Water Adventure Options:

Stand-Up Paddleboarding ($179pp)

· Calm harbour waters

· Team relay races

· Beach picnic included

Harbour Kayaking ($185pp)

· Double kayaks = teamwork

· Hidden beaches exploration

· Waterside lunch

Team SUPBALL ($195pp)

· Exciting water sport

· Netball meets water polo

· Professional coaching

Ace Your Next Corporate Team Building Event with Our Group Tennis Experience in Sydney

Looking for a fun and active way to boost team morale and improve communication among your colleagues? Look no further! We're excited to introduce our newest group tennis package, specifically designed for corporate teams seeking an engaging and dynamic team-building experience in Sydney.

Our group tennis package offers the perfect combination of friendly competition and team bonding that will leave your team feeling energized, connected, and ready to tackle their work with renewed enthusiasm.

Perfect for: Healthy competition and networking
Duration: 4-5 hours
Group size: 8-32 people
Price: From $159pp
Availability: 7 days (indoor courts available)

What's Included?

Our group tennis package caters to teams of all skill levels, ensuring a fantastic experience for everyone. Included in the package are:

  • 1 hour of tennis court hire

  • Tennis rackets and balls

  • Access to the court's facilities

Whether your team members are seasoned pros or complete beginners, they'll have a blast practicing their swings and engaging in some friendly competition on the court.

Optional Add-ons

To make your team building experience even more memorable, we offer a range of optional add-ons tailored to suit your team's preferences:

  1. Professional Coaching: Looking to up your team's tennis game? Our certified tennis coaches will provide guidance and tips to help everyone improve their skills and enjoy the game even more.

  2. Bus Transfers: Save time and hassle by arranging bus transfers to and from your office or preferred pick-up location. Our comfortable and reliable transportation ensures a smooth journey to the tennis court and back.

  3. Lunch: Refuel your team after a fun-filled hour on the court with a delicious and nutritious lunch. Choose from a variety of catering options to suit all dietary preferences and requirements.

  4. Brewery Visits: Why not cap off your team-building day with a relaxing brewery tour? Sample some of Sydney's finest craft beers while bonding with your colleagues in a laid-back setting.

Why Choose Tennis for Team Building?

Tennis is not only a fun and exciting sport, but it also offers numerous benefits for team-building:

  • Promotes communication: Tennis requires players to communicate effectively with their teammates, helping to develop essential communication skills that can be transferred to the workplace.

  • Encourages collaboration: Working together to strategize and play as a team is crucial in tennis, fostering a strong sense of collaboration among participants.

  • Builds trust and camaraderie: As colleagues cheer each other on and support one another on the court, they'll naturally build trust and camaraderie that will extend beyond the team-building event.

  • Improves physical fitness: Tennis is a great workout that improves cardiovascular health, strength, and agility. A healthy team is a productive team, and tennis offers an enjoyable way for your team to stay active.

book now

So, what are you waiting for? Book our group tennis package for your next corporate team-building event and watch your team come together like never before! Contact us today to secure your preferred date and start planning the ultimate team-building experience in Sydney.

Let’s get my team on the court !

Do Some Good

More and more teams want to contribute to something good during their team building days. Why not cook for charity by helping those in need in your local community. Food cooked on the day, whether it is organised on the day or through a putlock, could go to charities like OZHarvest, Foodbank, or others. Alternatively, you can also learn about sustainability projects all around the city by connecting with many non-profits offering team building activities or by talking to the Urban Legends team! Your team will be sure to feel great, knowing that together they made a real impact! Afterwards, reward their hard work with a behind-the-scenes brewery tour or a gin tasting so your team can talk about what they learned. Guaranteed positive vibes!

BOOK a team building day here

Team Sailing Adventure: Navigate Sydney Harbour and Strengthen Your Team Spirit!

Embark on an unforgettable team sailing adventure in the breathtaking Sydney Harbour! With our expertly planned sailing experience, your team will learn valuable sailing skills, work together to conquer the waves, and build lasting camaraderie. Our fun and exhilarating sailing regatta is perfect for companies looking to strengthen teamwork, communication, and collaboration.

Your Sailing Adventure Schedule

We offer flexibility in our scheduling, with options for morning or afternoon events seven days a week. However, our most popular 4-hour event typically follows this schedule:

  • 13:00 - Warm welcome and orientation at Darling Harbour

  • 13:10 - Team allocation and yacht briefing on one of our luxurious yachts

  • 13:15 - Set sail! Yachts depart as crews practice manoeuvres and discuss tactics

  • 14:00 - Race starting sequence begins with a 6-minute sound signal

  • 14:05 - 5-minute sound signal, yachts jockey for position

  • 14:10 - Let the race begin!

  • 16:30 - Race concludes

  • 17:00 - Prize-giving and refreshments at Darling Harbour Pontoon (optional)

Extra Thrills and Customisation

  • Treasure Hunt Twist: Spice up your regatta by incorporating elements of a treasure hunt, making the experience even more engaging and exciting.

  • Post-Event Dining Options: We can transport your group to a different location after your charter for lunch or dinner at spectacular venues like Q Station, Manly, Middle Harbour, or Watsons Bay.

  • Tailored Experience: Work closely with us to create a truly unforgettable and customised event that meets your company's or conference's specific needs and objectives.

Let the race begin!

Get ready to embark on a thrilling team-building experience on the stunning Sydney Harbour. Book your Team Sailing Adventure today and let the bonding begin!

Ride the waves In Wollongong!

There’s nothing like a refreshing dip in the ocean—especially when it’s part of an active team building day. Most of us live near the coast, but rarely take advantage of it. Surf lessons offer a fun break from the (home)office, boost physical and mental wellbeing, and show your team they’re capable of more than they think. In just a few hours, they’ll learn the basics—and maybe even catch a wave! Wrap it up with a Wollongong-based craft brewery tour, and you’ve got the perfect coastal team day out.

Surfing lessons for your team with an option to add on lunch or dinner and even an overnight stay, is all peanuts for our team building events team. Shoot us a message to chat through the options!

Perfect for: Teams wanting unique coastal experience
Duration: 8 hours
Group size: 8-30 people
Price: From $199pp
Availability: Year-round

Challenge your team with surfing followed by premium food and drinks on the stunning South Coast.

Surf & Turf Package:

  • Professional surf instruction

  • All equipment provided

  • Suitable for beginners

  • Beach BBQ or restaurant lunch

  • South Coast brewery tour

  • Sea Cliff Bridge photo stop

  • Return luxury transport from Sydney

Team Bonding Days Wollongong

Surfing allows your team to overcome a challenge together!

Cooking for a Cause Team Building

Looking for meaningful team building activities in Sydney for 2025? Our Cooking for a Cause experience blends teamwork, culinary fun, and social impact. Guided by professional chefs, your team will compete to create delicious meals—then donate everything to OzHarvest to support local communities. It’s a feel-good day of bonding, learning, and giving back, with the option to unwind afterwards at a local brewery or winery.

Perfect for: CSR-focused teams
Duration: 5-6 hours
Group size: 12-100 people
Price: From $179pp
Availability: Mon-Fri

Combine team building with giving back to the community.

Charity Cook-Off Includes:

  • Professional chef guidance

  • Teams compete creating dishes

  • All food donated to OzHarvest

  • Learn about food insecurity

  • Your own gourmet team lunch

  • Optional brewery/winery visit after

  • Feel-good team bonding

"Best team building ever - we had fun AND helped others. The competition element was perfect." - Jessica K., Canva

Multi-Activity Team Challenge Days

When one activity just won’t cut it, our Multi-Activity Team Challenge Days deliver the ultimate mix for your 2025 team building activities in Sydney. Designed for diverse teams, these full-day experiences combine 3–4 exciting challenges—like axe throwing, kayaking, wine tasting, or escape rooms—into one unforgettable event. With built-in scoring, prizes, and luxury transport, it’s the perfect way to engage everyone on your team.

Perfect for: Diverse teams wanting variety
Duration: 6-8 hours
Group size: 20-150 people
Price: From $229pp
Availability: 7 days

Can't pick one activity? Don't! Our multi-activity days combine 3-4 different challenges for ultimate team building.

Popular Combinations:

The Classic ($229pp)

· Morning: Axe throwing

· Midday: Brewery tour

· Afternoon: Escape room

The Tasting Tour ($269pp)

· Wine tasting

· Distillery visit

· Brewery tour

· Cocktail making

All packages include scoring system, prizes, and luxury transport!

The Active ($249pp)

· Kayaking

· Beach volleyball

· Surfing lesson

· Brewery finish

Check out our packages

Proven Team Building Benefits

 Why Sydney's Best Companies Invest in Team Building:

87% report improved team communication
91% see increased collaboration
83% notice higher employee satisfaction
76% experience better problem-solving
89% enjoy improved workplace culture

Based on 2024 client feedback surveys

 Perfect for Every Team Type

Department-Specific Solutions:

Sales Teams: Competitive activities that channel natural drive
Creative Teams: Inspiring experiences that spark innovation
Tech Teams: Problem-solving challenges and strategic games
Executive Teams: Premium experiences with strategic elements
Remote Teams: Reconnection activities for distributed teams
New Teams: Fast-track bonding for newly formed groups


Team Building FAQs

Q: What's included in the price?
A: All packages include luxury transport, professional facilitation, activity costs, and specified meals/drinks. No hidden fees!

Q: Can you handle large groups?
A: Absolutely! We regularly run events for 150+ people using multiple vehicles and venues.

Q: What about dietary requirements?
A: All dietary needs accommodated - vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, kosher. Just let us know when booking.

Q: Do you offer weekday rates?
A: Yes! Monday-Thursday bookings receive 10% discount on most activities.

Q: Can we customise packages?
A: 100%! We love creating bespoke experiences tailored to your team's specific goals.

Q: What's your cancellation policy?
A: Full refund 30+ days out, 50% refund 14-29 days, transferable dates within 14 days.

Q: Do you provide certificates of currency?
A: Yes, we have $20M public liability insurance and all required certifications.


Recent Team Building Success Stories

 "Exactly what our team needed! The Hunter Valley tour was meticulously organised with perfect balance. We've seen real improvements in collaboration." - Sarah L., Marketing Director

 "The new 41-seater coach was incredibly comfortable. Brewery tour hit the mark with our diverse team!" - Michael T., HR Manager

 "Sailing experience exceeded all expectations. Natural leadership development opportunities. Already planning our next event!" - Jessica K., CEO


Best Times for Team Building in 2025

  Start of Year (Feb-Mar): Set the tone for success
 Mid-Year Reset (Jun-Jul): Re-energise teams
 EOFY (May-Jun): Celebrate achievements
 Pre-Holiday (Oct-Nov): Bond before year-end
 Winter Savings (Jun-Aug): Best rates available

Advance Booking Guide:

· 10-20 people: 2-3 weeks

· 21-40 people: 3-4 weeks

· 41+ people: 4-6 weeks

· Peak season: Add 2 weeks


Ready to Create Your Legendary Team Experience?

Stop googling "team building activities Sydney" - you've found the experts! With our exclusive venues, luxury fleet, and proven track record, your only decision is which adventure to choose.

3 Easy Ways to Book:

 
 Call our team specialists - 0434 363 911
 DOWNLOAD 2025 TEAM PACKAGES PDF - Share with decision makers

Early Bird Special: Book 45+ days ahead for 5% discount on all packages!


Ride with Urban Legends!

Bus, mini van or luxury car, whether you are taking a entire team or a executive team on the road, we’ve got you covered. Riding to the various team building destinations should be done in style when you are spoiling your team for any of the team bonding activities that we covered in this article. We can literally take care of any size group, from 4 to 57 people!

Our luxury vehicles are all equiped with airconditioning and have the comfiest seats. We even allow your team to blast any songs that they love as a team! Did we mentioned that you are guaranteed a fun and experienced driver? Our reviews don’t lie! We can even pick you up at home or at your accommodation anywhere in Sydney, North Sydney and Western Sydney. Get ready to sit back and enjoy the epic day that you have planned for your hardworking team.

Contact Us:
 jared@urbanlegendstourco.com
 0434 363 911
 www.urbanlegendstourco.com
 @urbanlegendstourco
 North Wollongong & Sydney, NSW

 

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Boutique wine tastings, Sydney, Wine Tours Marijs Vrancken Boutique wine tastings, Sydney, Wine Tours Marijs Vrancken

THE BEST SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS WINERIES: OUR 11 FAVOURITE VINEYARDS IN BOWRAL AND SURROUNDINGS

Southern Highlands wineries are all about cool climate grape growing and winemaking, resulting in the most delicious wines set in stunning landscapes. With around 60 wineries to discover, Southern Highlands is not to be underestimated as an excellent winemaking destination. Nestled amidst insta-worthy landscapes all year round (especially in autumn!), these wineries offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience.

The unique Southern Highlands climate produces balanced, aromatic fruit, setting the stage for some of our favourite white and red wines. Join us on one of our highly sought-after Southern Highlands Wine Tours, or go on a self-guided tour, and explore a curated selection premium wine tastings. From the iconic Semillon to the robust Shiraz, we just know you’ll find a new favourite wine!

Southern Highlands wineries are all about cool climate grape growing and winemaking, resulting in the most delicious wines set in stunning landscapes. With around 60 wineries to discover, Southern Highlands is not to be underestimated as an excellent winemaking destination. Nestled amidst insta-worthy landscapes all year round (especially in autumn!), these wineries offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience.

The unique Southern Highlands climate produces balanced, aromatic fruit, setting the stage for some of our favourite white and red wines. Join us on one of our highly sought-after Southern Highlands Wine Tours, or go on a self-guided tour, and explore a curated selection premium wine tastings. From the iconic Semillon to the robust Shiraz, we just know you’ll find a new favourite wine!

If you’re looking to put together a self-guided tour through the region, we’ve got your back! We’re put together a list with 12 of our favourite Southern Highlands wineries in and Bowral, an area with so many amazing activities!

Feeling overwhelmed by choice? Contact our Urban Legends Tour Co. team to secure your spot on one of our highly sought-after Southern Highlands Wine Tours today!

Learn more about our tours here

WHY WE ADORE THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS WINE REGION!

Before we dive into our ultimate list of Southern Highlands wineries, let's address some of our most asked questions about this legendary wine destination.

“Southern Highlands has been one of the fastest developing wine regions in Australia since 2000, if not the fastest”

— James Halliday, Wine Essentials

What makes the Southern Highlands Wine so special?

The Southern Highlands is renowned for its cool climate grape growing and winemaking, where vines ripen at lower temperatures compared to most Australian wine regions, resulting in slower and more even fruit ripening. This unique climate yields balanced, aromatic fruit, laying the foundation for delicate and fruity wines. Additionally, cool climate wines boast higher natural acidity in grapes, eliminating the need for supplementation that is often found in non-cool climate wines. This elevated acidity, influenced by the temperature, ensures wines from the Southern Highlands has a unique balance, crispness, and superior aging ability, distinguishing them with more lengthy palates.

What wines should I taste in the Southern Highlands?

The Southern Highlands area is known for it’s cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling. But the region also allows you to taste great Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc. Our wine tours provide an balanced offering between all of our favourite wines, allowing you to leave with an in-depth tasting experience of the region.

How can you explore the Southern Highlands Wineries?

Whether you opt for a self-guided tour with a designated driver or prefer the convenience of our guided Southern Highlands Wine Tours! Our comfortable, air-conditioned luxury vehicles ensure seamless transportation between wineries, guaranteeing a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Do I have to pay for wine tastings in the Southern Highlands?

Many wineries in the Southern Highlands do charge tasting fees, expect between $5 and $15 for a single tasting that will allow you taste around 5-6 wines. Alternatively, our Southern Highlands Wine Tours include these fees in the tour price. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the tasting experience without any additional costs.

When is the best time of year for wine tours?

The Southern Highlands is a fantastic destination year-round, with each season offering its own unique experience. Whether it's the warmth of spring and summer, the vibrant colors of autumn, or the cozy ambiance of winter, every season promises a delightful experience amidst the region's stunning landscapes and exceptional wines.

How many wineries are in the Southern Highlands?

The Southern Highlands is home to over 60 wineries and cellar doors, offering a diverse range of experiences for wine lovers. From family-owned boutique wineries to renowned estates, you'll find a world of wine just waiting to be explored. Our tours handpick 3-4 of the best wineries in the region, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.

How many wineries are there in Bowral?

Bowral, a charming town in the Southern Highlands, is surrounded by several fantastic wineries. While there are no wineries located directly within Bowral's town center, the nearby area boasts an array of cellar doors and vineyards for you to explore. Our Southern Highlands Wine Tours include visits to some of these exceptional wineries, offering you the opportunity to experience the best of Bowral's wine scene.

Should you purchase wine after tastings?

Absolutely! Supporting the local wineries by purchasing their wines not only provides you with a delightful keepsake of your Southern Highlands experience but also sustains the passionate winemakers who pour their hearts into crafting these exceptional wines.

Read More: 12 BEST THINGS TO DO IN BOWRAL: WINE TOURS, BREWERIES, WATERFALLS & MORE

Our Favourite Southern Highlands Wineries in Bowral and Surroundings

BENDOOLEY ESTATE

Bendooley Estate is a spectacular Southern Highlands winery and a great destination for both for short and longer visits. You can explore Berkelouw Book Barn, dine at the restaurant, and/or stay in spectacular cottages. These are set within the beautifully preserved 200-acre property. Take in the beauty of the incredible high ceilings and amazing interior spaces of The Stables.

Where? 3020 Old Hume Hwy, Berrima NSW 2577

Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Come here for: Spectacular scenery, wine tastings, and a visit to the iconic Berkelouw Book Barn. Don't miss exploring the beautifully preserved 200-acre property and the stunning interiors of The Stables.

ARTEMIS WINES

The award winning Artemis wines are enjoyed by wine lovers across the globe and are a frequently visited winery in the Southern Highlands.

Artemis Pinot Noir is the first wine from the Southern Highlands to be available at Dan Murphy's fine wine section, nationwide. Anton & Mark are also the creators of Sunshack Cider and BEEmead.

Where? 46 Sams Rd, Mittagong NSW 2575

Opening Hours: Open daily from 11am – 4pm

Come here for: For a woodfire pizza and to taste the famous Artemis Pinot Noir in person. Artemis also allows you to bring your pooch, perfect for a weekend away!

TERTINI WINES

Tertini Wines stands out as a must-visit among Southern Highlands wineries, earning prestigious accolades in Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine’s Best Cellar Doors list consistently since 2014. Its high-altitude locale provides an optimal environment for cultivating superb Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay grapes.

Tertini’s wine tastings are absolute first class. Cheese platters and a bottle of wine are included with each wine tasting on our Southern Highlands Wine Tours.

Where? Lot 5 Kells Creek Road, Mittagong

Opening Hours: By appointment only

Come here for: Gourmet wine tastings with included cheese platters. Experience exceptional Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay wines in a lush, rolling hill setting. As Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine’s Best Cellar Doors, Tertini Wines promises a memorable visit.

JOADJA ESTATE

The “Eco Cellar Door” at Joadja Estate offers a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere to taste wine in the Southern Highlands. Guests benefit from the passionate involvement of those behind the growing and winemaking process, eager to share their knowledge.

The rustic stone cellar is located in a beautiful country setting with views across to the vineyard and a short easy walk to the winery. On a winter’s day, you can sit by the wood fire, or take a stroll through the vineyard on a warmer day. The vineyard is also a perfect spot for a picnic. The estate produces whites, reds and fortified wines, and both dry and sweet varieties.

Where? 110 Joadja Rd, Berrima NSW 2577

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 12pm-5pm. On weekend open from 10am, bookings recommended

Come here for: A relaxing atmosphere, rustic stone cellar, and an immersive wine tasting experience.

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS WINERY

Southern Highland Winery is a family-operated winery, owned and operated by three Italian families: Rossi, Corradi and Colloridi.

These families settled in the Highlands to create a high-quality wine and food business, offering a quality experience to customers. The winery has approximately 30 acres of vines planted over 83 acres of land.

Where? Cnr Oldbury Road and Illawarra Hwy, Sutton Forest NSW 2577

Opening Hours: Cellar door open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Come here for: Artisanal craftsmanship meets breathtaking landscapes

CENTENNIAL VINEYARDS

Conveniently situated just minutes away from Bowral's historic township, Centennial Vineyards is renowned as a premium cool-climate vineyard. Here, grapes ripen slowly, ensuring enhanced flavour and intensity in the wines produced.

The cool climate of Centennial Vineyards is especially favourable for varieties like Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sparkling, preserving their inherent crisp acidity and distinctive characteristics. Additionally, their Reserve reds have excellent potential for development and maturity over time.

Where? 252 Centennial Rd, Bowral NSW 2576

Opening Hours: Cellar door open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Come here for: Premium cool climate wines just minutes from historic Bowral, try their Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.

ELING FORREST WINERY

Eling Forest Estate is one of the most established and well-known wineries in the Southern Highlands, committed to crafting cool climate wines of rewarding, distinctive taste.

Set on historic grounds, Eling Forest Estate is more than just a winery. It is a heritage colonial era cottage and homestead offers unique accommodation and on-site facilities to cater for weddings, functions and conferences from 10 to 180 people.

Where? 12587 Hume Hwy, Sutton Forest NSW 2577

Opening Hours: Cellar door open on weekends from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Come here for: Cool climate wines crafted in a historic setting.

SUTTON FORREST ESTATE WINES

Sutton Forest Estate Wines is owned by the Lo Russo family, a second-generation family, associated with the Southern Highlands for the past 26 years. This family’s Italian background in grape growing, combined with the rich soil and cool climate of the region, results in the production of premium quality wines, unique to the Southern Highlands of NSW.

The trademark links to the “Sutton Forest Village”, which has a significant place in early Australian history, having been first settled in the 1820’s.

Where? 21 Black Horse Lane, Sutton Forest NSW 2577

Opening Hours: Cellar door open Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Come here for: Premium quality wines rooted in family tradition and Italian heritage. Discover the story behind Sutton Forest Estate Wines and its link to early Australian history.

ST. MAUR WINES

In 1998 Nerio Panizzutti and his son Marco started St Maur Wines, a single estate, small batch producer of pinot noir, cabernet, merlot and chardonnay. The winery remains a family business, combining Italian sensibilities, and a great love of the industry. Explore their range of pinot noir, cabernet, merlot, and chardonnay wines amidst scenic vineyard views.

Where? Old Argyle Rd, Exeter NSW 2579

Opening Hours: Cellar door open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, for groups over 6, it is by appointment only

Come here for: Small-batch wines crafted with passion and Italian sensibilities. Experience the art of winemaking in a family-run business dedicated to quality and tradition.

MOUNT ASHBY ESTATE

Mount Ashby Estate offers homemade soup, crusty bread and a Charcuterie Plate at a boutique vineyard and cellar door. The French farmhouse tables in the restored original dairy offer an opportunity to enjoy the view of the vineyard surrounded by grazing dairy cattle.

The building is a blend of French provincial and early Australian, as they love to import and restore French Antique furniture, of which examples can be seen in the cellar door.

Also located on the site is the relocated Bowral Produce Store (circa 1918). The store is now used to restore and view provincial antique furniture, including Provincial 17th to 19th Century antiques. Also on display are some of the uniquely crafted French Farmhouse Tables made exclusively from hand-selected European timbers.

Where? 128 Nowra Rd, Moss Vale NSW 2577

Opening Hours: Visit the website for opening hours.

Come here for: Homemade delights and boutique wines in a charming vineyard setting. Enjoy soup, crusty bread, and a charcuterie plate amidst French farmhouse aesthetics. Explore the restored dairy and browse provincial antiques at the historic Bowral Produce Store.

CHERRY TREE HILL WINES

The team at Cherry Tree Hill Wines is dedicated to producing a range of award-winning quality boutique wines at affordable prices. Their Riesling is gaining recognition as the star of the Cherry Tree Hill label and consistently rates gold from critics.

Many of Cherry Tree Hill wines have won medals, including the Sydney Royal Wine Show and Sydney Boutique Wine Awards, and abroad at the London International Wine Show and WSA Singapore Wine Challenge.

Where? 12324 Hume Highway, Sutton Forest NSW 2577

Opening Hours: Cellar door open weekends from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Come here for: Award-winning boutique wines at affordable prices. Taste the star Riesling and other medal-winning varieties in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Marijs Vrancken Marijs Vrancken

12 Best Things To Do In Bowral: Wine Tours, Breweries, Waterfalls & More!

In need of a city escape? Why not head to the Southern Highlands! With its beautiful surroundings and many attractions, including wine tours, brewery tours, boutique shopping and great restaurants, there are plenty of epic things to do in Bowral. Being less than two hours from Sydney, both by car and by train, it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re craving a some time to immerse yourself in nature, or you decide to indulge in luxury and fine food and drinks, Bowral has got it all!

In need of a city escape? Why not head to the Southern Highlands! With its beautiful surroundings and many attractions, including wine tours, brewery tours, boutique shopping and great restaurants, there are plenty of epic things to do in Bowral. Being less than two hours from Sydney, both by car and by train, it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re craving a some time to immerse yourself in nature, or you decide to indulge in luxury and fine food and drinks, Bowral has got it all!

Visit Bowral Wineries On A Customised Wine Tour

A must-do for anyone visiting Bowral is to visit the Southern Highlands wineries. There are plenty of wineries to choose from and with a large selection of cool climate wines, we know you’ll find your new fav wine in the area! Not keen to the research? Join a Southern Highlands Wine Tour to visit a selection of handpicked boutique wineries. You will have a tour guide taking care of logistics and transport, so you can fully relax and enjoy your day of wining and dining. Epic gourmet cheese platter anyone?

Book your tour now!

Take A Hike

Keen to get out and stretch those legs? We highly recommend the Box Vale Walking Track for a great 9km hike that offers plenty of variety along the way. Suitable for the whole family, you can even bring your doggo! This walk is a great way to get some exercise and explore the wider Bowral area. Add in a stop at the Forty Foot Falls on your way back if you fancy making this a (slightly longer) loop.

Unique Bowral Accommodation

Home to many historic estates and manor houses, Bowral is a dream for those romantic history lovers. Many of these beautiful buildings are offering accommodation options these days, which means you can book a bed in style when visiting Bowral for the weekend.

If you’re keen on staying in Bowral while planning a wine tour or brewery tour, get in touch with the Urban Legend team for a few real insider gems in the area and grab yourself a Southern Highland Overnight Package. Perfect if you’re traveling in a large or small group!

Bowral is known for its epic waterfalls dotted across the landscape of the Southern Highlands

Visit Fitzroy Falls

Known as one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Australia, you can’t miss out on a visit to Fitzroy Falls. Several lookouts offer great views of its water plunging down the 80m high cliffs. There are several walks to choose from and a stop at the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre is a great way to learn more about the history and wildlife of this area.

Kicking Back at Bowral Breweries

Is a winery tour not up your alley? No worries, just swap the wine for beer and wineries for pubs and make it a Bowral Brewery Tour instead. Try a range of beers with a guided or self-paced tasting paddle of locally-made craft beers, catch some live music and tuck into a tasty pub lunch while sitting in the sun enjoying the view.

Chat to the team today!

Delish Bowral Restaurants

Bowral is truly a foodie’s paradise! Choices range from fine dining to family friendly to street food and beyond. Fancy some Italian cuisine? Book a table at Onesta Cucina and try something from their daily changing menu. For a classic Bowral experience, don’t miss out on visiting Bendooley Estate. Dine at the luxurious restaurant, try wines at the cellar door, browse new and secondhand books or pick up a scrumptious picnic hamper from the Bendooley Larder.

For award-winning bistro food including wood fired pizzas, head to The Imperial Hotel and listen to live music while sipping local Bowral beers and wines. We would also highly recommend popping into The Mill, a community hub featuring local street food, a co-working space and regular events including street feasts and farmers markets.

Hunting for a great new read is one of the many fantastic things to do in Bowral!

Sunset Magic

Who doesn’t love a good sunset? Bowral has several great spots to enjoy a good view, but our favourite is the Jellore Lookout on Mount Gibraltar. Either drive or walk up, bring some snacks and soak up that sunset magic!

Boutique Shopping at Green Lane

A weekend in Bowral wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Green Lane. This beautiful shopping and dining precinct offers a range of boutique shops selling plants, homewares, gifts and clothing, as well as a gorgeous setting to enjoy a coffee, brunch, lunch or dinner.

Bowral is the ultimate picnic heaven!

Bowral By Bike

Visiting Bowral in the cooler months gives you a great opportunity to explore the Bowral area by bike. Try out the Best of Bowral Loop, a 12km circuit over mostly flat terrain. Add in the Bong Bong Track for some great views as you weave your way along the Wingecarribee River.

For some more adventurous riding, visit the Welby Mountain Bike Trails to find excellent trails for all abilities. As you make your way back to Bowral, make sure to pick one of Southern Highlands restaurants, bars and breweries to treat yourself to a cold beer and a nice meal.

RELATED: THE 7 BEST EASY MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS IN SYDNEY: CYCLING ROUTES IN & AROUND THE NSW CAPITAL

A Coffee A Day

A city escape to Bowral isn’t complete without multiple coffee stops, preferably with a delicious treat. Bowral does great coffee! We can almost guarantee that you will find yourself pressed for time to try all the different cafes on offer. Visit Gumnut Patisserie for a great range of pastries, or stop in at the Plantation Cafe to enjoy a cuppa out on the garden terrace. Or why not indulge and treat yourself to a high tea at Dirty Jane’s Tea Salon?

Experience Bowral Distilleries

Keen to mix it up and do something different than a winery tour? Visit Bowral distilleries and go for a Spirits & Cocktail Tour instead! Enjoy a unique vodka, gin and schnapps tasting experience at one of Bowral’s famous lookout spots. Choose between a BYO picnic or splurge on a gourmet lunch, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options to choose from.

Have an epic pic with your hen party at our secret Bowral lookout!

Bowral Tulip Festival

There are lots of things to do in Bowral on any day, but if you come down in spring, you might be able to visit the Bowral Tulip Festival. During the latter half of September, the mass-planted Corbett Gardens come to life with more than 75,000 tulips in a spectacular display of colour. With additional entertainment and special events, there will be plenty to see and do for the whole family.

Learn more about Bowral Winery and Brewery Tours!
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Marijs Vrancken Marijs Vrancken

The 5 Coolest Sydney Day Tours For Groups

Whether you're visiting just Sydney or living in the city and looking for a fun day out, there are plenty of Sydney Day Tours to choose from. In this article, we'll dive into all the Sydney tour options for you and your group and help you figure out which day tour is perfect for you! See Sydney in a day, go adventuring in the Blue Mountains, taste all the wines in the Hunter Valley or the Southern Highlands, or stay close to your accommodation or home by spending your Sydney day tour in the inner west!

Whether you're visiting just Sydney or living in the city and looking for a fun day out, there are plenty of Sydney Day Tours to choose from. In this article, we'll dive into all the Sydney tour options for you and your group and help you figure out which day tour is perfect for you! See Sydney in a day, go adventuring in the Blue Mountains, taste all the wines in the Hunter Valley or the Southern Highlands, or stay close to home by spending your Sydney day tour in the inner west!

Best Day Tour For Groups: See the Sydney sights on a private bus tour or by bicycle!

Sydney is a large city, is it possible to see Sydney in a day? Of course! With that right tour guide that is. Sydney is jam-packed full of amazing sights, but getting to see them all in a day can be challenging. So can you see the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, discover the hip inner-west and see one of the famous beaches? Especially if you are wrangling a group of mates! We say, Hell yeah! But how? Sure, public transport can be a way to go, but Sydney is notorious for its 1-hour bus rides everywhere and forget about parking several cars in the CBD.

We recommend hopping on a private bus tour (psssst, we organise a few epic ones!) and finding a company that is willing to customise your trip. A private bus tour is a fantastic option for both small and large groups. Anywhere between 4 and 52 people can hop on one a private Sydney bus tour and see the city. No more worrying about being on time or whether your group is having fun. At Urban Legends, we love customising tours to make sure that you and your group see everything that you want to see, something that is not offered by all Sydney tour companies.

Another option to see Sydney with a group is to move that body and jump on one of our bicycle tours. Accompanied by long-term Sydney locals, we show you the coolest spots. You know, those spots that are hard to find if you haven't lived in the city. Bike riding will also give your group the option of stopping to admire Sydney's best views. Who doesn't love that?! Did you know it is only a 40-minute bike ride from Sydney Opera House to Bondi Beach? You got this!

Explore the Blue Mountains with a group of mates! Image by Christopher Burns via Unsplash

Explore the Blue Mountains with a group of mates! Image by Christopher Burns via Unsplash

Go on an Adventurous Sydney Day Tour In The Blue Mountains

One of our favourite escapes from the big smoke is a Blue Mountains tour. Whether you are looking to see the famous three sisters, Jenolan Caves or you want to visit one of the lesser knows waterfalls, the Blue Mountains National Park is full of epic places to explore. The hard part is, not getting to the Blue Mountains, but choosing between all the possible hikes, lookouts and waterfalls! If you get the opportunity, we recommend staying overnight and including a sunrise hike to one of the many excellent sunrise lookouts.

Whether your group is visiting the Blue Mountains for the first time and want to get the full tour or whether you are looking to organise transport for your group of experienced hikers to and from a hike, our buses can get you there.

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Taste all the wines in the Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley is the most famous wine destination in NSW and for good reason. We love the Hunter Valley so much that you can find us exploring boutique wineries in the region every weekend. Boutique wineries in the Hunter Valley are our favourite because these beautiful small wineries, which are often family-run, provide the nicest service and serve excellent wines! We are always learning something new about their craft and adore tasting the wines that the Hunter Valley is known for. If you need any more reasons why you should visit boutique wineries, read our blog post here!

The Hunter Valley is located at a 2-2.5h drive from Sydney, so planning a day tour from Sydney means that you will have to have an early start for a day trip! Even though it will be a long day, it is very worth your time. We love this destination so much that we even offer several customisable Hunter Valley wine tours! If you would rather have a shorter day tour, check out the scenic tours of the Southern Highlands below.

The gorgeous Southern Highlands is known for it’s beautiful flower gardens and great cool weather wines.

The gorgeous Southern Highlands is known for it’s beautiful flower gardens and great cool weather wines.

Scenic wine tasting in the Southern Highlands

The Southern Highlands is a wonderful destination all year round and is particularly popular in the autumn season due to its large number of deciduous trees. The colder climate also makes the region perfect for producing excellent Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Location at only 1.5h drive, it is actually our favourite NSW winery tour location for a Sydney day tour!

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Become a craft beer expert in Sydney's Inner West

Who says that you have to leave Sydney for an epic Sydney day tour! One of the best ways to get to know the real Sydney is through bar hopping the Inner West of the city. The local craft breweries serve a few of Australia's best craft beers and allow you to soak up the local culture better than any other activity. The area of Sydney's inner west is full of beautiful murals and street art and there is more delicious food than you can ever finish!

Plan your own walking brewery tour by sticking to one suburb, Marrickville, or get your group to join one of our popular Sydney brewery tours. This tour combines all the best Sydney craft beers together in a meticulously organised day so your group can relax and focus on having fun. All our tours include a behind-the-scenes tour where you learn how these delicious beers get made and are combinable with one of the many fun add-ons such as axe-throwing, lawn bowls, go-karting, and more!

Feature image by Christopher Burns via Unsplash

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Jared Malcolm Jared Malcolm

Classy Hens Party Ideas for Sydney (+ Hens Party Packages Sydney and surroundings)

Do you cringe at the thought of wearing a princess outfit all day or are you less than keen on having a half-naked stranger dance on your lap on one of your last days as a single women? Or are you organising a special day for one of your best mates and know that she wants to have a fun, but truly meaningful day? Then we have some great classy hens party ideas in Sydney and surroundings for you!

Sydney is the city of gorgeous beaches, insane vistas, and beautiful weather for a large part of the year. It is also a great city to organise your hens party with plenty of classy hens party activities at your fingertips. Whether you are Sydney-based or flying in for the hens party, we know you and your loyal group of girls will have a fantastic time. But what should you do to organise an effortlessly cool hens party? We've got you covered!

Classy Hens Party Ideas for Sydney

+ Hens Party Packages Sydney and surroundings

Do you cringe at the thought of wearing a princess outfit all day or are you less than keen on having a half-naked stranger dance on your lap on one of your last days as a single women? Or are you organising a special day for one of your best mates and know that she wants to have a fun, but truly meaningful day? Then we have some great classy hens party ideas in Sydney and surroundings for you!

Sydney is the city of gorgeous beaches, insane vistas, and beautiful weather for a large part of the year. It is also a great city to organise your hens party with plenty of classy hens party activities at your fingertips. Whether you are Sydney-based or flying in for the hens party, we know you and your loyal group of girls will have a fantastic time. But what should you do to organise an effortlessly cool hens party? We've got you covered!

Classy Hens Party Wine Tour.jpg

In this article, we'll be covering epic classy hens party ideas in and around Sydney. That means that if you are in Newcastle, Central Coast, or Wollongong, you can definitely also use these ideas!

Classy Hens Party Ideas In Sydney

There is a lot to discover within Sydney's suburbs! One of the finest features of Sydney is the unique character of each suburb. Do you like the CBD with its high-rise buildings and hidden bars, or The Rocks with epic views on the Harbour Bridge, and an obligatory stop at the Sydney Opera House? Or maybe you prefer the close-by Botanic Gardens with the all-too-famous Lady Macquarie’s Chair? What about Sydney Habour's newest builds in Barangaroo and the adjacent Barangaroo Reserve, a landscaped park with 75,000 native trees and shrubs and thousands of sandstone blocks. The surrounding suburbs are home to historic buildings, great bars, distilleries, gorgeous beaches and headlands, and much, much more!

Hens Party ideas South Coast

Sydney provides the perfect backdrop to more hens party possibilities than you can count! Are you, or the bride you're organising the hens for, obsessed with the ocean or does her heart beat faster when tasting a newly-distilled gin that nobody has heard of? We've gathered the best classy hens party ideas in Sydney. You can stick to one idea or combine a few of these to organise an unforgettable hens day!

Sydney Scavenger Hunt in Scenic Locations

Sydney truly is a playground filled with scenic locations. From Bondi Beach, the Harbour Bridge to local secrets such as Blackwattle Bay along the Glebe Foreshore. Why not take a trip down memory lane and visit all those spots that are important for your bride and her significant other? Is your bride a first-time visitor of the city? Give her a chance to see one of Australia's most beautiful cities on a guided bus tour! These locations are perfect to plant a few clues along a scavenger hunt that will entertain both your bride and your entire group of mates.

Here are a few tips and tricks to organise a successful Sydney hens scavenger hunt:

  • Include locations that relate to the relationship of the bride and her fiance

  • Include a drink and snack stops (why not a great distillery?). Scavenger hunts without snacks make for a hangry group of mates.

  • Keep your group together or split up, why not organise two luxury vans to drive your group around

  • Include at least one beautiful scenic location with the whole group -gotta have those photo ops!-

  • Engage the whole group, not just the bride. While this day is all about the bride, if you engage the full group, the bride will get to enjoy her day without worry.

  • Put a time limit on the games to keep it exciting and don't make it too long (max 2-3h).

Go Paddle boarding in Rose Bay or Kayaking on Sydney Harbour

For a more adventurous bride, a water-based activity is a must! Sydney is, after all, famous for its beaches and harbour. No sunny day would be complete without a bit of fun on the glassy waters of the city. A paddle session or kayak is easily included as a part of your classy hens party or great to experience on its own!

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With so many locations to choose from, we love heading to Rose Bay for a paddle boarding session or a kayaking session in Sydney Harbour on our guided tours. Views of the harbour bridge and luxury vehicles to your location are included in all our hens party packages!

Cocktail and Distillery tours (and have a cheeky craft beer)

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Sydney is blessed with a multitude of amazing cocktail bars (have you discovered all the hidden bars yet?) and the finest distilleries. Why stick with one bar on your hens party when you can visit 3 or 4 on an inner-west distillery tour? From gin to high-end whiskey, Sydney allows you to taste the world's best cocktails! We'd even bet that the bridal party would love you even more if you threw a craft beer into the mix. Who said women don't enjoy a good craft beer!

Cycle Around Sydney

Does your bride love to stay fit and is she looking for an adventurous day? Take your classy hens party to the next level with a Sydney bicycle tour! Sydney is filled with extraordinary mountain bike trails and has too many vistas and photo ops to count. We love exploring one of the many secret local locations with easy to cycle paths. Why not combine the idea of a scavenger hunt with some paddle boarding and a few cocktails to round up the day? Your whole group will love it!

Classy Hens Party Ideas Around Sydney

One of the biggest perks of being based in Sydney is the multitude of amazing getaway locations! Whether you are organising a hens day party or a hens weekend, the options are endless. The surroundings of Sydney have so much on offer: local produce, many NSW wineries, craft breweries and stunning vistas. We'll be giving you a few classy hens party ideas in the Hunter Valley, the Southern Highlands, and the South Coast.

Hunter Valley Wineries and Gourmet Cheeses

As the closest and most famous wine region, the Hunter Valley offers over 150 wineries to choose from. Due to its fertile soil and abundance of delicious produce to try, the Hunter Valley will not make narrowing down your hens party activities easy. But that's why we're here!

A successful hens winery tour starts off with a private pickup in Sydney or the Hunter Valley itself (or anywhere in between). We'll head straight to one of the boutique wineries that you selected with our help (we love Moorebank winery) and we'll make sure to include the gourmet cheese or chocolate platters (if selected of course)!

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The Hunter Valley has so much more to offer than just wine though. We recommend including a few stops at one of the Hunter Valley distilleries or breweries. But the day doesn't have to end there. After a day full of indulgence, why not stay overnight with one of our overnight hens party packages? The Hunter Valley is full of idealistic accommodation and we know a few that are perfect for a memorable weekend getaway!

South Coast Picnics With Ocean Views

Have you been to the Hunter Valley one too many time and want to offer your bride a unique experience? How about the lush green rolling hills of the South Coast? Image this, a beautiful carpet on a hillside with a pillow-lined table filled with a breathtaking gourmet grazing platter. It literally could not get more classy than a South Coast winery tour!

South Coast Wine tour

Top your classiest of classy hens party with a visit to the Coolangatta Estate. Built on the site of the first European settlement on the South Coast of NSW, you are stepping into a part of Australia's history. The family-owned boutique wineries that we visit on the South Coast offer a wide variety of wines including Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. But let's not forget about the incredible local cheeses and seafood that can be consumed with views on let's say ... 7 Mile Beach. Oh yeah, we know all the best local spots for the perfect group photo!

Best for Autumn: Southern Highlands Winery Tour

Found out that you need to organise a last-minute hens party now that regional travel will be allowed again? How about colourful vistas filled with more orange, red and yellow leaves than you imagined possible? That's the Southern Highlands. Better-known as a wedding destination, it is also an epic winery destination!

Specialised in Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, this area is known for its fantastic wines and its great photo opportunities (why else do you think so many weddings are hosted here?). We love this area as it really offers a different experience than a coastal wine tour or the frequently-visited Hunter Valley. And the best part? You can head here on short notice! Perfect for a last-minute Autumn hens party! Contact us to see what is possible within your dates.

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But hey, we're not here to box The Southern Highlands into only being visited in autumn. After all the area is also abundant in beautifully landscaped gardens that are particularly photogenic all year round!

Tips for a Successful Wine Tour Hens Party

Ok, we've gone over three amazing areas that you can treat your bride to. But, we didn't want to let you go without giving a few extra tips to make this special day go even smoother!

  • Limit your wine tour hens party stops to 2-3 wineries in a day. This will leave enough time for everyone to enjoy each location and will allow for time to visit a few scenic locations as well. This is especially important if you are planning a big hens party. The bigger the group, the longer it will take for everyone to get on and off the bus. While that might seem like a small detail, we know from experience this will make all the difference between a rushed day and a smooth experience.

  • Tell your bridal party to wear comfy shoes! While we all love a good stiletto heel, winery tours involve a bit of walking and some of the scenic locations tend to be less than heel-friendly.

  • Plan for a bit of extra budget to buy a few wines for the wedding day. Not only is it good tasting etiquette, but you can also enjoy these bottles when getting ready for the wedding! What better detail than bottles of wine you hand-selected on your hens day to enjoy on the special day!

  • Have a dress-code for the day. It's not only the wedding day that should have a dress-code! A classy hens party is not complete without a beautiful invite letting the guests know what to wear on the hens day. We recommend garden-chic, all-white or cocktail dress.

  • Don't forget the playlist! You will be spending a bit of time on the bus getting driven from one location to the next. While we have a few great playlist for the ride up our sleeve, why not make a personalised playlist so you know your bride will have the best time!

  • Want to know more about what to expect on a NSW winery tour? Read our dedicated article here!

Organising your Hens Party in, Berry, Bowral , Newcastle, Central Coast or Wollongong? 

Reading all these classy hens party ideas and thinking "well, that's great, but I'm not in Sydney!". That is not an issue at all. While Urban Legends Tour Co. is a Sydney-based operator, we are more than happy to organise a pick up from Berry, Bowral, Newcastle, Central Coast or Wollongong! Just reach out and have a chat with our wonderful team and we can sort you and your bride out!

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Did you know that we can even start the tour from the planned location itself? Staying overnight in the Hunter Valley? Not a problem at all. Already down on the South Coast? What time do you want to start?

Booked an airbnb in Bowral? even better we can pick you & your group up from your front door!

That's it legends, we look forward to helping you plan a memorable and classy hens party!

Stay safe and keep in touch.

Kind regards,

Marijs Vrancken & Jared Malcolm

Urban Legends Tour Co



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What to Expect on a NSW Winery Tour: All your questions answered

Going from winery to winery, tasting the best wines that NSW has to offer? We couldn't think of anything better! New South Wales is home to three amazing wine regions: the Hunter Valley, the Southern Highlands, and the South Coast. The Hunter Valley shines with its 200-year old winemaking history and is by far the most famous wine region in NSW. The Southern Highlands and the South Coast are worthy competitors however with excellent boutique wineries and scenic landscapes. We get a lot of questions on what to expect on a NSW winery tour. So, we decided to answer all of them!

What to Expect on a NSW Winery Tour: All Your Questions Answered

Going from winery to winery, tasting the best wines that NSW has to offer? We couldn't think of anything better! New South Wales is home to three amazing wine regions: the Hunter Valley, the Southern Highlands, and the South Coast. The Hunter Valley shines with its 200-year old winemaking history and is by far the most famous wine region in NSW. The Southern Highlands and the South Coast are worthy competitors however with excellent boutique wineries and scenic landscapes. We get a lot of questions on what to expect on a NSW winery tour. So, we decided to answer all of them!

Don't have time to read them all?

Table of contents

Look & CLICK THROUGH this table of content to guide you towards your specific question!

We are so lucky to have such a great variety of wineries in NSW that provide such different experiences. You can visit large-scale wineries such as Ben Ean Winery and small boutique wineries that you have never heard of, but that serve some of the best wines and deliver the best tasting experiences of the region. Some tastings will be conducted by the cellar door staff and others will be by the winemaker himself, which always is an amazing treat. Tastings could take place standing at the counter for $5 or you might get spoiled with a free tasting and locally made complimentary cheeses. Some wineries allow you to rock up with your mates while others only take appointments or don't even allow groups. The best tastings for large groups in our opinion are always done seated, and usually cost 2 or 3 times more than these cheaper, quick standing style tastings. You see, there is a lot involved in planning your NSW winery tour. Thankfully, we have put in the hard yards for you. Happy wine tasting legends!

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** All photos in this blog post below are from real Urban Legends Tours **

Can I go on a winery tour by myself or do you recommend a tour?

Visiting the vineyards of NSW is a great day out! All three wine regions of NSW, the Hunter Valley, South Coast and Southern Highlands, can be visited both through a tour or with your own vehicle. What option is best for you depends on a few factors. We will go into the pros and cons of both so you can make the best choice for your group.

Self-drive winery tour

Let's start with the self-drive option! First things first, this adventure cannot be taken without an appointed sober driver. Are you the 'flipping a coin' or 'drawing straws' kind of group? While the driver will be able to do a little bit of the tasting here and there, we do not recommend taking on this adventure without someone who's prepared to miss out on all these delicious wines!

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Heading out and finding vineyards is easily possible with resources that you can find online and maybe even a quick Google Maps search. We also recommend popping into the local tourism office for extra advice. They might even give you the names of some insider wineries that you would not have found yourself. The trick is finding wineries that allow visitors without an appointment and that accept your size of group. While a couple driving around the vineyards might be able to squeeze in, a group will be turned away in many wineries. With over 150 wineries to choose from, it is a little tricky finding all the best spots with out a little insider knowledge.

Winery Tours

So how are you able to get into all of the best boutique wineries that don't accept groups? That is, my friends, where tours come in. Many tour operators, including our founder Jared, have spent many years developing a good relationship with unique winery owners that might otherwise be reluctant to receive groups. On a NSW winery tour, you gain access to the best wineries without having to call around yourself or being turned away at the door.

The very best tour operators also work to cultivate special experiences that are exclusive to their relationship with the winery, for example epic gourmet picnic platters , longer tastings, private areas, expert sommeliers and wine makers, extended tastings and bonus wines.

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Just as there is a huge variety between wineries, no tour on offer is the same. The tour price will often dramatically effect what is included, and the quality of tasting experiences you will be given. It's your job to find the perfect one for you, but we're here to help! Start by looking at the types of wine you want to taste (small artisan wines or larger scale wines) and the type of tasting you prefer (quick and dirty at the counter or slow and comfortable at a seated tasting). You’ll also need to decide if you are happy with just wine or if you want to spoil your group with incredible home made cheese platters to share during your wine tasting. Still struggling? Here are a few questions to ask yourself and your tour operator.

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  • Do you want to learn lots about wine and bring home the best bottles, or are you just looking to taste as many wines as humanly possible?

  • Do you want lunch included with a variety of options, or do you prefer to take your own picnic?

    Picnic by the sea are the picnic specialists on the south coast!

  • Do you want to enjoy epic complimentary cheese platters or artisan chocolates during your wine tasting, or do you not mind just being dropped off at the local cheese store instead?

  • Do you want to learn with recommendations from the winemaker, or do you prefer to drink and dash from less experienced cellar door staff?

  • Do you want to see exquisite landscapes during the tour with an operator that also takes time to show you the sites, or would you be happy with a shorter urban indoor experience?

  • Do you like to taste anything else along the way such as craft beers or liquors such as vodka, gin or schnapps?

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But wait a minute this all sounds a bit too serious? is the tour still fun? We would also argue that is also one of the major differences between the best tour operators and the best wine tasting experiences. Your tour will select only a few wineries so you want to make sure they have the best of both worlds so that the tour always exceeds your groups expectations. Your tour should certainly be loads of fun for everyone involved!

Lots of things to think about! Want to know what is included in the Urban Legends tours? Keep on reading!

I want to book a tour! What is the day going to look like?

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Awesome, we're so excited to have you and your group on one of our tours. At Urban Legends, we know how important it is to get value for money and make sure the person who organises the tour looks like a hero by the end of the day. That is why we spend plenty of time figuring out the best type of experience for each and every group. No Urban Legends tour is the same!

While we do have lots of fantastic ready made packages available, we always make a discovery call to make sure the package is right for you and tailor the tour accordingly.

A winery tour allows you to sit back and relax without having to worry about who will be the sober driver. You will also never have to worry about having enough space for all that wine that you want to bring back. We will pick you up from your chosen location, keep all your wine on ice and you can fully customise your winery tour to your group's wishes! We specialise in groups and can take any size of group in one of our private airconditioned standard or luxury buses and coaches. Our best tour guide Jared is licensed to drive any size vehicle from a 10 seater mini bus right up to a 57 seat luxury coach that looks like a private jet inside!

What is the best wine tour in NSW?

With Urban Legends tours you know that all the legwork has been done for you. We tend to visit only 2-4 wineries in a day and take you somewhere special for lunch. We also include at least one amazing scenic location. We focus on visiting fewer venues, but making sure they are all epic full range tasting experiences with up to 10 wines each, this allows for a smoother less rushed schedule and gives you more time to fully enjoy the experience. This is more and more important the larger your group is. Large groups take much longer to get on and off the bus as well as in and out of each wine tasting.

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The perfectly laid out schedule focuses on the best boutique wineries which we only know about because we have spent a lot of time cultivating relationships with the winery owners. This means that you will never be treated like 'just another tour'. Our wineries are actually super happy to see you coming through the door! Our guests are often treated like royalty with premium seated wine tastings, explanations by the winemaker or owner himself and artisan cheeses or chocolates to accompany the star of the show, the wine!

As mentioned above, we provide winery tours to The Hunter Valley, the South Coast, and the Southern Highlands. As every wine region is a little bit different, we recommend that you check out the more detailed descriptions on each Urban Legends winery tour below:

Still can't choose? We've listed out all why we love each and every region below!

Which wine area should i choose? Hunter valley, South coast or Southern Highlands?

We might be biased but we love all of NSW! It is an amazingly diverse state which means that all these areas are great for different reasons.

The Hunter Valley is the most famous wine region close to Sydney due to its 200-year old winemaking history. There is an abundance of wineries to choose from (over 150) and plenty other delicious produce to try. The Hunter Valley's soil produces high quality vines, olives, great dairy, and much more. It also draws in craftsmen that make chocolates and distilleries that produce different kinds of liquor. There are even a few breweries and you bet that we love a good craft beer!

The best winery in the Hunter Valley? What an impossible choice! We can, however, let you in one of our favourites at the moment: Moorebank winery. The winery serves a fantastic selection of wines during their seated tasting and even includes an incredible homemade cheese and picnic platter for our tours. It's one of the best platters we have ever seen! Our guests are treated to a private tasting room “the press room” which is home to the 2nd oldest wine press in the Hunter Valley ! This family run winery has been shared by 3 generations of wine makers. You will likely be greeted by the Summer, the beautiful daughter of the owners Deb and Ian.

The South Coast winery tour has the obvious advantage of ocean views. It's also home to lush green rolling hills and due to high rainfall, this area has an incredibly fertile soil! Visit Coolangatta Estate, which is built on the site of the first European settlement on the South Coast of NSW, have a picnic by the sea and make sure to check out one of the other 5 cellar doors in the area.

Last, but not least, the Southern Highlands. While the area is better-known as a wedding destination, it is also a fantastic location for your winery tour! The area has many beautiful gardens to visit with an abundance of deciduous trees. The colder climate and high elevation above sea level contributes to the area's specialisation in Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Head here during the autumn to see the colourful foliage and try a Pinot Noir or three.

Bendooley estate pictured below

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Can we visit a boutique winery? What's the difference?

All Urban Legends wine tours include visits to boutique wineries. This is quite unique as many tour operators focus on the easier to visit cheaper, larger wineries. What makes boutique wineries so special is the level of care that is given to visitors. These craftsmen take their time to show you all of their best bottles in the hope that you fall in love with at least one. The wines usually come with a unique story and expert tasting and pairing notes. The visits are often accompanied by complementary artisan cheeses or chocolates, bringing out the flavour of the individual wines even more. This can be in stark contrast with wineries where the tastings are done standing by the bar where a cellar door staff member gives you a quick recap of each wine and the entire tasting can be finished in 15- 30 mins instead of 1-1.5 hours at a good boutique winery.

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Due to the nature of their business, many of the boutique wineries will ask you to make an appointment or call in advance. After all, they might be out working on the vineyard when you pop in. They also often are only big enough to host 1 large group at a time. If you want to visit only boutique wineries with a group, the easiest way to visit them is with tour. This way, you won't need to spend any time calling around to make sure that you can get in.

The tasting fee for both boutique wineries and larger scale wineries varies between $0-$15,+ the cost of cheese platters if included by the tour operator which should all be included in the price of your tour (it always is in ours). Keep in mind that the less you pay for a tasting, the more that is included and the longer the tasting goes for, the more the winery depends on visitors purchasing wine to keep the business going. So, do pick up a bottle when you go to show your support.

Tasting Fees

The tasting fee for both boutique wineries and larger scale wineries varies between $0-$20 per person,+ the cost of any cheese platters if included by the tour operator. This is all usually included in the price of your tour (it always is in ours). 6 - 10 premium wines are usually poured out averaging about 3.5 standard drinks in a 1 hour seated tasting experience. It is worth noting that the relatively small fee payed for a tasting, with the volume of wine that is included, as well as the time spent inside the venue, does mean the wineries depend heavily on the visitors purchasing wine to keep the business going & insure large group wine tastings are financially worth while for the wineries. So please do pick up a bottle when you go to show your support and keep the tour industry alive for large groups.

Are Gourmet cheese platters usually included on a wine tour?

Cheese Platters

The short answer is no not really, but this will depend which tour operator you choose. Cheese and produce spreads are usually an optional extra and they vary in price depending what’s included in them, how big they are, the variety of cheeses and condiments, how big your group is and whether they are locally sourced or imported just to name a few. We have seen hundreds of cheese platers over the years and they vary in quality from winery to winery and region to region. In our experience the standard for cheese platters is a lot higher in the Hunter Valley, especially at the boutique wineries we use. However they are also often included on the South Coast and Southern highlands , but tend to be a lot smaller and cheaper in these 2 areas.

In the Hunter Valley most tour operators offer the option of a cheese tasting on their tour. It is important to realise that many cheaper tour operators might just take you to a local cheese shop, such as the Smelly Cheese Shop, rather than providing a real tasting. After all, this costs them nothing as the cheese shop will be the one investing the time & money into the tasting. Our tours, however, offer the option of gourmet cheese platters with amazing local cheeses during all of your wine tastings. Hand made by the wineries with local Hunter valley cheeses. This will give you and your guests a more authentic and tastier experience. Having a cheese platter during your wine tasting will also provide you with an extra experience with better use of time, rather than having to rush to an additional stop such as a local cheese shop. We pay extra at each winery to provide our guests with gourmet cheese platters during each and every wine tasting for the ultimate Hunter Valley experience.

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The Best Wine Tour Hunter Valley
The best wine tour

Should i bring extra budget on my winery tour?

Great, your tour is booked! Time to sit back and enjoy the ride. You're about to be spoiled with fantastic wines to taste, cheese platters, chocolates and panoramic views. Before you leave, we have to let you in on a little, but very important, secret. What is one of the best parts of winery tours? The wines, chocolates, local cheeses, condiments, olives and vodkas you take home!

We know that the expectation to buy wine is not talked about often, but we wouldn't be supporting our friends in the wine business if we were to let you go without telling the truth. It is actually incredibly important, both for our business and the wineries, that your group buys some bottles of wine at the wine tastings. In fact all tastings including cheese, chocolate, olives and vodka all run on this same premise. We will explain why below.

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Are you on a really tight budget and can't afford a whole bottle? That is totally fine! Try buying a glass of your favourite wine instead. Or maybe a few of the cheeses or condiments that are on sale. Share a bottle with your friend or you could even buy the chutney to enjoy at home. Trust me when I tell you that buying just one glass of wine or a jar of condiments makes a massive difference. It is an important gesture of good will that you have appreciated the effort the wine maker has put in to their tasting and the many premium wines they have poured out for you and your large group.

Why it is important to buy wine on a winery tour (self-guided or in group)?

To understand why it is important to buy wine on a winery tour, we have to explain how the wine industry works. Don't worry, we won't bore you! Did you know that making wine is a long process? A winemaker invests anywhere between 3 and 5 years to grow a vine up to wine-producing quality. Knowing that most wines also need time to age before they can be sold, it can take up 7-8 years before for a wine maker is able to sell his best product. Sure, they can produce wine with the grapes off a 3-year old vine and sell it the next year, but a strong wine-making business is not built on these young wines. So how do wineries survive and thrive?

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Enter the tasting system! Winemakers like our friends at Two Figs Winery pictured here bring their finest product to customers so that they are sure you are taking home your favourite wine. However, to survive, a winery needs to sell their wines by the bottle, not through the tastings. If a winery's turnover only consists out of their tasting fees, there would not be a wine industry. While the small tasting fee might cover the cost of the tasting, it does not cover the cost of their location, their over heads, the staff, the land, the cheese, and so much more. If a winery chooses to not charge or only charge $5-$10 for their tastings (which many do) they cannot even cover the cost of all the delicious wine you just had. Especially large groups, which is our specialty, can cause cash-flow problems for a winery if there are not enough bottle sales. A winery simply cannot compensate for a large group doing a free or low-priced tasting if they don’t make sales.

Especially for our Saturday tours, it is important to pick up a bottle. As this is the winery's busiest day (the weekdays are so much quieter!), it is such a great opportunity for a group to make a positive impact by buying a few bottles!

This also especially important for boutique wineries that often do not sell their wines in bottle shops.

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Yes, you legends are already paying for a winery tour and this price includes your tasting fees, the transport, our wonderful guide, all the research that went into setting up the perfect tour and so much more. While we love you for joining our tours and they enable us to show people around our favourite wineries, this alone is not enough to keep the wine industry going. Especially the smaller family-run wineries, which Urban Legend Tours focuses on, which really struggle without enough cellar door sales. So, go ahead, take a bottle home for you AND for your mum, we know you'll both love it!

Remember the wine makers beautiful stories that come with each vintage and variety, and then share the story when you eventually decide to open that special bottle with your friends and family.

The Wine industry and tours

A lesser-known fact about our industry is that the wine industry and winery tours have a bit of a love-hate relationship. On the one hand, it is great that tours allow for so many people to get introduced to NSW's best wines. All wineries, big or small, love receiving people and get so much joy from seeing people enjoying their wines. It's an industry that is all about passion, hard work, and connection with their customers.

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On the other hand, tour operators who bring in big groups (which is our specialty) can cause a problem when tours focus too much on the 'cheap' drinking experience. As we explained above, if a small winery lets all our guests try their best wines for a very small fee, they quickly run into trouble without the sales of bottles. Did you know that many tour operators have actually been banned from wineries all around the state? Before we knew as much about the wine industry as we do now, we even got temporarily banned from 9 wineries in the Hunter Valley for wasting their time and poor group behaviour.

The industry is still grappling with the boom in tour groups and the changes this brings to the business model. For now every winery deals with this differently, the tasting fees are always changing, groups are being more and more restricted and wineries are becoming more and more selective over which tour operators they allow.

Our prescription to help both the small tour companies and the small wineries out? Buy a few bottles on our tours and enjoy your bounty with your friends while reminiscing on the day! Didn't like the wine in one of the wineries? Buy some condiments for your next BBQ or DIY cheese platter instead!

What should i wear on a winery tour?

Another question that we get asked a lot is what the correct wine tasting attire is. Flip flops or sneakers? Something light and airy or something that protects yourself from the elements? What about themes? Could you wear that animal costume you bought for a festival last year? Sometimes it's not that easy to figure out what to wear on your wine tasting day.

What should I wear on a wine tour?
Hens party wine tour

Winery attire is a special type of outfit that you whip out for a day of breathtaking sceneries, plenty of photo-ops and for meeting a few of the best craftsmen in the country. The ideal outfit consists out of comfortable footwear (think flat sandals or sneakers) and a comfortable, yet stylish, outfit that you won't mind wearing on the bus ride. Throw in a hat and a jacket and you’re ready to roll. Think more chic garden party, less rowdy beach party! So, the animal costume or your loud Hawaiian shirt? Best to leave that one at home. Some of our favourite dress themes include special head peace, all white and cocktail dress, Do you want more inspiration? Check out this article!

Is there any ettiquette while at the wineries?

Yes there is a few things you should ideally keep in mind during a wine tasting, while usually common sense at the first tasting, your friends may need reminding by the end of the day.

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  • Tastings are always fun and social experiences where you will of course always be chatting and having a great time amongst your friends through out the day.

  • It is worth mentioning though that it is polite to use inside voices , when in large groups and to not be shouting over the top of each other, so as not to affect the experience of other guests inside the venue.

  • It is also polite to pause conversation and listen if and when the wine maker is explaining a new wine he or she is about to pour.

  • It is quite frowned upon to pour your wine into your friends glass, you should always pour it into the spittoon if you don’t like the wine.

  • You must also never open take away alcohol of any kind, including wine or vodka, while still on a wineries property as this is against the liquor licensing laws the wineries must adhere to.

  • RSA remains a serious consideration for boutique wineries, if guests appear to be overly intoxicated from BYO alcohol or previous venues they may be denied service or entry to the venue

Supporting the Local Legends

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We're not sugar-coating it, 2020 has been a rough year for our small businesses and, in particular, the rural community. First a drought, followed by the bushfires, floods and now a major health crisis. Many small businesses will struggle greatly to get back up on their feet after this is all done. Including us.

Therefore, we would love to encourage you to bring a little extra budget the next time that you go on one of the Urban Legends winery tours. The best thing you can do to help the rural community right now is buying an extra bottle or ordering an extra glass of wine. Until then order a a case of wine delivered! Both the businesses that we work with and our own business will be very grateful for this extra gesture of support!

Whoop Whoop, you just finished a very long post, congratulations! Do you still have more questions? Contact us here.

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Stay safe and keep in touch,

Kind regards,

Jared Malcolm & Marijs Vrancken

Urban Legends Tour Co

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