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

Imagine stepping away from Perth’s bustling streets and into a landscape where history, wildlife, and local produce come together in a very satisfying way. That’s exactly what the Wheatbelt & New Norcia day tour promises — a journey filled with diverse sights and tastes, led by a small, intimate group that guarantees a personal touch.

Whether you’re after a taste of farm-fresh delights, a peek into pioneering towns, or just some fresh air and scenic views, this tour aims to deliver it all.

What really makes this experience stand out is its balance of nature, history, and food. You’ll sample gelato made from local ingredients, walk through lush gardens, and explore the unique monastic town of New Norcia. Plus, the small group size of just five travelers means you won’t get lost in the crowd — it’s all about meaningful experiences and personal interactions.

A quick note for potential travelers: the entire day is packed tightly, so expect a full 10 hours of activity, with plenty of walking and some early mornings. If you prefer relaxed, unstructured days, this might not be your ideal choice.

But if you’re curious about seeing a slice of rural Western Australia with a knowledgeable guide, then this tour should be right up your alley. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value authentic encounters and local flavors over generic sightseeing.

Key Points

Small group size: Only 5 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience
Diverse stops: From lush gardens and aviaries to historic New Norcia
Tasty local produce: Cheese, gelato, honey, and a traditional monastery lunch
Educational and fun: Discover bird species, local craft, and the town’s heritage
Balanced pace: Enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed
Highly rated: Consistent five-star reviews highlight the tour’s value and personal touch

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour starts early, with a complimentary pickup from Perth hotels or the chance to meet outside The Bell Tower in Barrack Square. From the get-go, the experience is designed to be both engaging and relaxed. The small group setting provides a sense of exclusivity, and our guide Cara is praised for her personable style — perfect for those who enjoy a more conversational, less hurried outing.

Limestone Park Stud: A Lush Oasis in the Wheatbelt

Our first stop is Limestone Park Stud, a tropical haven hidden within the Wheatbelt’s plains. Here, you’ll wander through vibrant gardens and see the aviaries, home to over 450 bird species. The fresh air and peaceful surroundings make this a calming start. You can grab a coffee and appreciate the lush environment, which offers a stark contrast to the typical Australian bush scenery. Reviewers love this first stop, with one noting it as a “delightful and very personal trip” where the pace was set by the group.

Local Goat: Crafting Artisanal Flavors

Next, we visit Local Goat, an off-the-grid cheese farm where Gerald hand-milks goats and produces small-batch cheeses. Tasting freshly made cheese and homemade gelato is a highlight — the latter is made from local ingredients, giving you a true taste of WA’s farm-to-table scene. The farm’s passion for craft is evident, and many travelers mention how the experience felt authentic and generously flavored. It’s also a chance to learn about small-scale food production and the pride farmers take in their work.

Little Eeden Farm Honey and Apiary: Sweet Discoveries

Our third stop is Little Eeden Honey Farm, where honey tasting is the order of the day. Surrounded by natural scenery, you’ll sample a variety of WA bush honey, learning about its health benefits and unique flavors. Local honey is a small but delightful part of WA’s agricultural scene, and the tasting session adds a sensory element to the day that many find memorable.

Passing the Space Antenna

On the way to New Norcia, you’ll pass by the 35-meter deep-space antenna — a fascinating piece of technology and a reminder of Australia’s role in space exploration. While this is just a passing glance, it’s a neat fact to tuck away, especially if you’re interested in science and technology.

Exploring New Norcia: The Only Monastic Town in Australia

The afternoon is dedicated to New Norcia, a town founded by Benedictine monks. This is arguably the most unique part of the trip. Walking through the streets, you’ll encounter heritage buildings, the Benedictine Abbey, and the sense of a living monastic community. The town’s architecture and spiritual significance set it apart from typical towns. Visitors can explore the visitor center, browse locally made olive oil and monastery bread, and soak in the peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.

Lunch and Local Flavors

Included in the tour is a traditional, hearty lunch featuring local produce. Many reviews mention the quality and authenticity of the meal, making it a satisfying centerpiece of the day. After lunch, you’ll enjoy a complimentary Abbey Ale brewed from the monks’ original recipe, or opt for a local gin and tonic or fresh Australian orange juice.

Wrapping up the Day

Before concluding, a final stop provides a chance to purchase souvenirs like handcrafted olive oil or heritage literature. The tour wraps up back at the meeting point, usually around 6 pm, giving you a full day of exploration without feeling overly rushed.

Analyzing the Experience and Value

At $182.90 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines nature, history, and food, all within a manageable 10-hour window. The inclusion of entrance fees, tastings, and a substantial lunch adds value, especially considering the personalized attention due to the small group size.

Many reviewers highlight how the tour’s pace allows for meaningful engagement, with one stating, “Unlike other trips, the pace was set by us and there was never any urgency.” This suggests that the experience caters well to those who prefer a more relaxed, immersive day rather than a hurried sightseeing rush.

The small group setup (maximum 5 travelers) means you get tailored commentary, ample opportunity for questions, and a more flexible schedule — perfect for travelers who want a more intimate experience than typical large-group tours. The guide Cara is praised for her personable approach, making the day feel more like a trip with friends than a tour.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour departs promptly at 8 am, so punctuality is important. It includes pickup from Perth hotels or the option to meet outside The Bell Tower, which is centrally located and easy to access.

Wear comfortable footwear suited for walking on dry, dusty ground. A sunhat, sunscreen, and bottled water are recommended, though the tour provides water and sunscreen on board. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved at each stop.

Being fully aware of the full-day commitment is crucial — this isn’t a quick peek but a comprehensive exploration. If you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth outdoor experience with delicious local flavors, this tour offers compelling value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy small-group explorations that are both educational and flavorful. Nature lovers will appreciate the bird aviaries and lush gardens, while history buffs will find New Norcia’s heritage fascinating. Foodies will enjoy sampling WA’s local produce, from honey to cheese, and those interested in authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations will find this tour a perfect fit.

It’s especially suitable for curious travelers who prefer engaging narratives over scripted bus rides. Because of the limited group size, it’s also a good choice for anyone seeking a more personalized, flexible experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, complimentary pickup from Perth city hotels is provided, or you can meet outside The Bell Tower in Barrack Square.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8 am and returning around 6 pm.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a personal and relaxed experience.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, lunch, bottled water, and tastings at Limestone Park, Local Goat, and Little Eeden Farm are included. You can also enjoy a complimentary Abbey Ale or local gin and tonic.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, expect some walking at each stop, including exploring gardens, towns, and heritage sites. Moderate fitness is recommended.

Can I cancel?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring a sunhat, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a small bag for any souvenirs or extra items.

What is the best day to book?
The tour operates on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so plan ahead as it’s often booked 70 days in advance.

Final Thoughts

The Wheatbelt & New Norcia day tour offers a rare glimpse into Western Australia’s rural charm, heritage, and flavors, all wrapped into a compact, well-paced package. It’s perfect for those who want a more personal, detailed experience away from busy tourist crowds. From birdwatching and tasting local cheeses to exploring a monastic town steeped in history, this journey combines a variety of authentic moments that will resonate long after the day ends.

If you’re looking for a rich, hands-on adventure that balances nature, history, and good food — with the added bonus of small-group intimacy — this tour is a standout choice. Just remember, it’s a full day of discovery, so come prepared for a rewarding experience that’s as varied as it is charming.