Wheatbelt & Historic New Norcia, Perth Day Tour with Lunch

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz for a day and dive into the authentic flavors and historic charm of Western Australia, this Wheatbelt & New Norcia tour offers a well-paced, intimate experience that balances nature, gastronomy, and history. With only five guests per tour, there’s a sense of VIP treatment, making it perfect if you prefer personal attention and a more relaxed itinerary.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it seamlessly combines farm-fresh tastings—from honey and cheese to gelato—and a stroll through one of Australia’s most unique monastic towns. The second standout for us is the small group setup, which not only ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd but also facilitates richer conversations with your local guide.

A potential consideration is that the tour is quite packed—covering a good stretch of the Wheatbelt and New Norcia in just nine hours—so if you’re seeking a leisurely, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit brisk. Still, for those who enjoy a full, varied itinerary, it’s an excellent way to see diverse sides of WA in one day.

This tour will appeal most to travelers who crave authentic local experiences, appreciate culinary tastings, and are keen on exploring historical architecture and cultural sites beyond the usual city sights. If you’re curious about rural life, religious history, or simply want a taste of WA’s countryside with a dash of adventure, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group experience limits participants to 5 for a personalized visit.
• Diverse tastings include fresh honey, cheese, gelato, and local produce—ideal for food lovers.
• Rich history and architecture at New Norcia, Australia’s only active monastic town.
• Varied scenery, from tropical gardens in the Wheatbelt to outback-style monasteries.
• Comfortable transportation in a private mini-van, with convenient pickup and drop-off points.
• Educational insights into local flora, fauna, and cultural history from a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The day begins early, with pickup options at Crown Casino Perth or the Bell Tower, arriving promptly around 8:00 am. The small group size—max five participants—is a real advantage, ensuring you won’t be lost in a crowd and that your guide, Cara, can tailor the experience. The ride northward is about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to chat with your guide and get a preview of what’s ahead.

The Tropical Garden Oasis and Wildlife Sanctuary

Our first stop is a vibrant outback garden hidden within the Wheatbelt, featuring over 450 bird species—from white peacocks wandering freely to scarlet parrots and colorful macaws. The botanical aviaries allow close encounters with chatty parrots and feathered friends, creating a delight for bird lovers and families alike. Guests often comment on how this setting feels like an escape into a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Expect to spend about an hour here. We loved the way this stop combines nature and education, giving insight into local flora and fauna while offering some stunning photo opportunities. It’s a gentle introduction to the area’s natural beauty before the culinary delights take center stage.

Artisan Cheese and Gelato at a Goat Farm

Next, we visit a charming, off-the-grid goat cheese farm operated by Gerald and Julie. This is where tradition meets craftsmanship—Gerald hand-milks the goats daily, then Julie transforms that milk into delicious cheeses and homemade gelato. Tasting their fresh, handmade cheeses and creamy gelato is a highlight, especially for foodies.

The farm exudes authenticity and passion. As one reviewer put it, “You can really tell that everything is made with care and local pride.” The experience here is both tactile and tasty, with the opportunity to learn about the process behind each product. For travelers, this stop underscores how WA’s rural producers maintain age-old traditions while delivering top-quality, farm-fresh products.

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Honey Tasting at Little Eeden Honey Farm

From cheese, we shift to a sweet note at Little Eeden Honey Farm. Surrounded by native bushland, you’ll enjoy a honey tasting session featuring various WA bush honey varieties. It’s fascinating to see how different the flavors can be—some sweeter, others more robust and medicinal.

Guests often comment on how relaxing this part of the tour is, with the opportunity to learn about the health benefits of honey and its significance in Aboriginal culture. You might find yourself savoring the deepest amber hues and contemplating how much history and craftsmanship go into each jar.

Lunch and Cultural Exploration in New Norcia

After the farm visits, we head towards New Norcia, a town that feels like stepping into a Mediterranean monastery in the Australian outback. Founded in 1847 by Spanish Benedictine monks, it’s the only working monastery in Australia. The town’s architecture blends Mediterranean-style buildings with Australian outback landscapes, creating a unique aesthetic.

Here, you’ll explore historic sites like the Benedictine Abbey, home to a grand pipe organ and beautiful sgraffito murals. The town also features several monasteries, the St Ildephonsus College, and the Monastery Residence—all offering fantastic photo opportunities. The blend of European tradition, Aboriginal culture, and Australian spirituality makes it a compelling visit for those interested in history and culture.

Lunch is included and takes place at a local spot, where you can enjoy regional produce and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the emus wandering around—sometimes standing at two meters tall!

Afternoon Beers and Scenic Return

To cap off the day, we sample a famous Abbey Ale, brewed from an ancient monastic recipe, or indulge in a gin and tonic infused with local botanicals. For non-drinkers, there’s always fresh orange juice. This relaxed moment in the town square allows for reflection on the day’s sights and tastes before heading back to Perth.

The scenic drive home takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to unwind and share your favorite moments from the day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The combination of personalized experiences, local tastings, and culture makes this tour a really good value. The small group size ensures personalized attention, while the variety of stops offers a comprehensive look at WA’s rural and historical landscape. The inclusion of lunch and tastings means you’re getting a well-rounded food experience without the hassle of planning.

Compared to larger bus tours, this one feels more intimate and rewarding. You’re not just passing by points of interest—you’re engaging with the environment, tasting local flavors, and learning stories that stick with you. The price reflects this deeper, curated experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy culinary delights, history buffs, and nature lovers. It’s especially suitable if you prefer small-group tours for a more relaxed and personalized day out. If you’re traveling with children over 8, they’ll likely enjoy the farm animals and bird aviaries, but younger kids might find the pace a bit too quick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll be collected and returned to specific pickup points in Perth in a private mini-van, making logistics simple and comfortable.

How long is the drive from Perth?
The drive to the Wheatbelt and New Norcia is about 1.5 hours each way, allowing for a scenic yet quick trip out of the city.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include the tropical bird sanctuary, farm-fresh cheese and gelato tastings, honey sampling, and exploring the historic streets and architecture of New Norcia.

Is lunch included?
Yes, there’s a generous lunch featuring local produce, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy regional flavors amid the peaceful surroundings.

Can this tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The tour is designed with standard inclusions; if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inform the provider in advance.

Are children under 8 suitable for this tour?
This tour is not recommended for children under 8, likely due to the full schedule and nature of activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor walking, and perhaps a hat and sunscreen, especially if the day is sunny. Good walking shoes are recommended for exploring New Norcia’s streets and sites.

To sum it up, this small-group Perth day tour offers a beautifully balanced mix of culinary discovery, natural beauty, and cultural history. It’s a perfect choice for travelers eager to experience WA beyond the city limits, with a focus on authenticity and personal attention. If you value local flavors, historic architecture, and a relaxed pace, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Western Australia adventure.

Whether you’re a foodie, history enthusiast, or nature lover, this trip provides meaningful encounters and memorable sights—packed into a manageable nine-hour day. For those who appreciate small groups and tailored experiences, it’s an opportunity to explore WA’s rural charm with a knowledgeable guide in a friendly setting.

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