Spend a day in regional Victoria and get to know some of Australia's legendary horses first-hand during this champion horse tour with beer and wine tasting from Melbourne. Visit 'Living Legends', a racehorse retirement village home to some of Australia's favorite racehorses. Enjoy stunning views of the Macedon Ranges with gourmet wood-fired pizza and wine tasting at a country winery, and sample locally brewed beer at a classic Aussie pub in Woodend. This is an ideal day trip from Melbourne for budding epicureans and horse racing enthusiasts.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views as you depart Melbourne for regional Victoria and prepare for an enjoyable day of horses, food, wine, and beer.
First stop is 'Living Legends' at Woodlands Historic Park, home to some of Australia's most famous racehorses including Fields of Omagh, Might and Power, Silent Witness, Better Loosen Up, Rogan Josh , Apache Cat, Doriemus, Brew and Paris Lane. Many of these horses have won the famous Melbourne Cup, the race for which the whole nation takes a break.
The Living Legends site was created for the public to view retired racehorses. It is located in Woodlands Historic Park, a unique scenic spot that includes historic property, beautiful gardens, and plenty of green space. Morning tea is served on the property overlooking the gardens, where kangaroos and other native Australian animals live.
Continue to Gisborne Peak Estate, which is an award-winning estate located in the cold-climate Macedon Ranges wine region. Above all, this estate offers excellent wine, gourmet cuisine and magnificent views. Relax and take in the views with a gourmet wood-fired pizza, and taste the Chardonnays, Rieslings and Semillons that Gisborne Peak Estate is famous for.
Before returning to Melbourne, you'll end your day with a free beer tasting at the Holgate Brewery, which was awarded the 2008 trophy for best beer brewed in Victoria. Holgate is a traditional country pub with classic style beers with rich flavors and a strong personality. Stroll down the main street of beautiful Woodend or relax in the beer garden.
