Adventure brief
A HISTORICAL WINE TASTING - Gourmet Lunch Option
Take flight over Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula with Freycinet Air Tasmania, combining a stunning helicopter tour of Wineglass Bay with a historic vineyard wine tasting and gourmet lunch option. Discover an elevated way to experience Tasmania’s natural beauty and culinary craft.
Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula is a land shaped by rugged coastlines, powder-white beaches, and geological history written in the pink granite peaks of the Hazards Mountains. This iconic stretch of the east coast, anchored by the crescent curve of Wineglass Bay, draws outdoor enthusiasts with its dramatic vistas and unique wilderness. Freycinet Air Tasmania adds a definitive edge to experiencing this region, offering a helicopter tour that stitches together aerial adventure with a refined taste of local viticulture.
Departing from Friendly Beaches, the flight reveals a mosaic of color and texture: the translucent turquoise waters lapping pristine sands, the sculpted granite ridges that define the hazel-hued Hazards, and the subtle green fringe of coastal forest. Glide over the thin isthmus that separates the bay from Schouten Island and take in sweeping panoramas that ground-based visitors can only dream of. The journey culminates at Spring Vale Wines near Cranbrook, a historic vineyard set within a convict-era stable dating back to 1842.
Here, visitors sample award-winning wines in a cellar steeped in heritage and craft. For those hungry to deepen the experience, a gourmet lunch option showcases Tasmania’s famed local produce—seasonal dishes highlight BBQ Scottsdale pork ribs, marinated lamb cutlets, east coast scallops, and baked brie, all freshly prepared at Mel’s Kitchen. Freycinet Air Tasmania’s offering stands apart by combining the natural grandeur of one of Australia’s most celebrated coastlines with the subtle sophistication of a curated wine tasting.
It’s a seamless marriage of adventure and indulgence, perfect for travelers seeking a vivid, multi-sensory way to connect with Tasmania’s landscape and culinary culture. Whether capturing the flawless crescent of Wineglass Bay from above or savoring a fine Pinot Noir amidst historic stone walls, this experience marks a distinct Tasmanian chapter in outdoor adventure.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring a quality camerainfo
Vistas from the helicopter are expansive, so high-resolution cameras or smartphones with wide-angle lenses will capture the dramatic landscapes best.
- 02Dress in layersinfo
Weather on the coast can be changeable; comfortable layers help you adjust during the flight and vineyard stop.
- 03Book in advanceessential
Seats on helicopter tours fill quickly, especially during peak seasons—reserving early ensures you won’t miss out.
- 04Notify of dietary requirementswarning
If opting for the gourmet lunch, inform the operator ahead of time to accommodate food allergies or preferences.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Camera or smartphone with good zoom
To capture expansive aerial vistas and detailed landscape shots.
EssentialWindbreaker or light jacket
Protects against coastal winds and variable temperatures during flight and vineyard walk.
spring|fall|winterEssentialComfortable walking shoes
Necessary for short walks around the vineyard and cellar door.
EssentialSunglasses
Useful for sunny days to reduce glare during flight and outdoor tasting.
summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The thin isthmus connecting Wineglass Bay to the mainland, Convict-built cellar door at Spring Vale Wines
Local fauna
White-bellied sea eagles soaring over the peninsula, Bennetts wallabies in nearby woodland
Historic heritage
The historic vineyard dates to 1842 and was originally a convict-built stable, linking local agricultural heritage with modern wine culture.
Mindful exploration
The Freycinet National Park and surrounding lands maintain strict environmental protections to safeguard coastal ecosystems and native species.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Above Wineglass Bay from the helicopter, Spring Vale Wines cellar door, Isthmus connecting the peninsula
- Subjects
- Panoramic landscapes, Granite Hazards peaks, Historic vineyard architecture
- Best times
- Golden hour near sunrise, Midday for vibrant ocean colors, Late afternoon for soft mountain shadows
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is prior flying experience needed?
No. The helicopter tour is suitable for first-time flyers and includes a safety briefing.
Can we customize the wine tasting or lunch menu?
While the tasting features award-winning wines typical to the vineyard, lunch options vary seasonally and dietary requests should be communicated in advance.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms aren’t provided here; please check directly with Freycinet Air Tasmania when booking.
Are children allowed on the helicopter flight?
Policies on minimum age vary; it’s best to confirm directly with the company before booking.
How long is the helicopter flight component?
The flight lasts approximately 40 to 45 minutes, with total experience time from 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes depending on lunch inclusion.
Is photography permitted during the wine tasting?
Yes, guests are encouraged to capture the vineyard’s historic cellar and surrounding scenery.