Rainforest & Gin Tasting at Cape Byron Distillery

Distillery · McLeods Shoot

Rainforest & Gin Tasting Tour

Walk through native rainforest botanicals before diving into a guided tasting of Brookie’s Byron gin at Cape Byron Distillery. Discover how nature and craft combine in this unforgettable tasting experience near Byron Bay.

View experience
Duration1–1.5 hours
LocationMcLeods Shoot, New South Wales
OperatorCape Byron Distillery
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

Rainforest & Gin Tasting Tour

Walk through native rainforest botanicals before diving into a guided tasting of Brookie’s Byron gin at Cape Byron Distillery. Discover how nature and craft combine in this unforgettable tasting experience near Byron Bay.

Located in the lush surrounds of McLeods Shoot, New South Wales, Cape Byron Distillery offers a singular outdoor adventure that pairs nature with artisanal craft in a way that’s rare to find. Just a short drive from the vibrant coastal city of Byron Bay, this experience invites visitors to traverse a carefully regenerated subtropical rainforest, discovering the native botanicals that uniquely flavor their signature Brookie’s Byron gin. The tour begins on the distillery’s balcony with a refreshing gin and tonic in hand, setting the tone for a sensory journey.

As guides lead groups along shaded paths carpeted with ferns and moss, guests identify key ingredients such as finger lime, lemon myrtle, and native pepperberry — each integral to the distilled spirits produced on-site. This immersive walk reveals the deep connection between place and product, a narrative rarely told with such intimacy. Returning to the distillery, visitors then dive into a guided tasting session featuring three distinct gins and one liqueur.

This is not just a casual sip; it’s an educational exploration into the art and science of distillation, where traditional techniques meet local innovation. The ambiance of this rainforest-edge distillery enhances the tasting, with panoramic views that underscore the synergy between the environment and the craft. Cape Byron Distillery stands out in Australia’s outdoor recreation scene by offering more than just a walk in the woods or a drink — it’s a deliberate storytelling experience that connects drinkers to the landscape.

Beyond tasting, guests can linger on the balcony with a DIY grazing platter, soaking in the verdant atmosphere. For travelers seeking an adventurous, yet accessible activity that blends outdoor discovery with gourmet indulgence, the Rainforest & Gin Tasting Tour offers a memorable highlight. Perfect for nature lovers, spirit enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike, it balances education, enjoyment, and environmental appreciation in one refreshing package.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Wear Comfortable Shoes

    A portion of the tour involves walking through uneven rainforest terrain—closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended.

    essential
  2. 02
    Hydrate Before the Tour

    Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as you'll be outdoors for an hour-plus.

    info
  3. 03
    Limit Alcohol Intake if Driving

    The tour includes alcohol tastings—plan your transport accordingly to stay safe after the experience.

    warning
  4. 04
    Wear Sun Protection

    Parts of the distillery balcony and rainforest trail are exposed—hat and sunscreen help prevent sunburn.

    essential
DifficultyEasy
Duration1–1.5 hours
FitnessSuitable for most fitness levels—tour involves gentle walking on soft rainforest terrain.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Closed-toe walking shoes

Protects feet during rainforest walk and offers better traction on varied surfaces.

Essential
02

Sun hat

Shields face and neck from sun exposure on open parts of the tour.

spring|summer|fallEssential
03

Light rain jacket

Useful if showers occur during transitional seasons.

spring|fall
04

Reusable water bottle

Keeps you hydrated during outdoor portions of the experience.

Essential

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Whian Whian State Conservation Area with remote walking tracks, Nearby Native Botanic Gardens showcasing local flora

Wildlife

Local fauna

Lyrebirds known for their mimicking calls, Crimson Rosellas brightening the forest canopy

History

Historic heritage

The subtropical forests around McLeods Shoot have been undergoing regeneration after logging, helping restore native ecosystems critical to local distilling botanicals.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Cape Byron Distillery supports sustainable harvesting and rainforest regeneration efforts, ensuring their ingredient sources remain healthy and abundant.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Distillery balcony overlooking the forest, Along the shaded rainforest walk, Gin tasting room with natural light
Subjects
Native plants and fruit, Distilling equipment up close, The interplay of light through dense foliage
Best times
Late morning, Golden hour, Overcast days for softer light

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, minors under 12 can join the tour free of charge but will not participate in alcohol tastings.

How long is the Rainforest & Gin Tasting Tour?

The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Are pets allowed on the tour?

Pets are not permitted during the tour to protect the delicate rainforest environment.

Do I need to book in advance?

Booking ahead is recommended as tours can fill up, especially on weekends and holidays.

What if it rains on the day of my tour?

Tours run rain or shine, but heavy weather may cause cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling offered.

Can I purchase the gins after the tasting?

Yes, guests receive a 10% discount on all products featured during the tour at the cellar door.

Cape Byron Distillery

Rainforest & Gin Tasting at Cape Byron Distillery