Sonoma Valley Sidecar Wine tours

Exploring Sonoma Valley’s wine country takes on a whole new dimension with the Sonoma Valley Sidecar Wine Tours. Priced at $350 per person, this 6-hour 30-minute guided experience combines the thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar with visits to three wineries in the Napa & Sonoma region. The tour starts at the Valley of the Moon Farmers’ Market in Sonoma and features a small group setting capped at 12 participants, making it a personalized and intimate adventure.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its unique format—a blend of scenic motorcycle rides, wine tastings (at your own expense), and a French-style gourmet picnic. The entire experience is led by an expert guide, ensuring safety and fun, with a relaxed pace that allows everyone to soak up the views and the ambiance. While wine tastings are not included in the price, the opportunity to taste as much as you like makes it flexible for wine lovers.

This tour is perfect for those who want an active, memorable way to explore Sonoma’s vineyards while enjoying some lighthearted fun in a small-group environment. The recommendation rate of 100% and a perfect 5-star rating from 24 reviews highlight the consistent quality and enjoyment of this experience. Keep in mind that advance booking is recommended, often 71 days ahead, due to its popularity.

Key Points

• Unique Sidecar Experience: Ride in a vintage sidecar motorcycle with a knowledgeable guide through Sonoma’s countryside.
• Visit Three Wineries: Stop at carefully selected wineries in the Napa and Sonoma regions for tastings, which are paid for separately.
• Gourmet Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a French-style gourmet picnic amidst vineyard views, adding a touch of elegance to the day.
• Flexible and Relaxed Pacing: The tour’s leisurely pace ensures no rush, with the ability to taste as much wine as you like at each stop.
• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, creating a personalized and friendly atmosphere.
• Highly Rated by Participants: Consistently receives 5-star reviews praising the guide, scenery, and overall experience.

Sonoma Valley in a Sidecar: A Unique Way to Explore

This sidecar tour offers a distinctive twist on the traditional wine tour. Departing from the Valley of the Moon Farmers’ Market in Sonoma at 9:30 am, the experience combines the thrill of riding behind an expert pilot with the comfort of scenic views and expert guidance. The small group size ensures everyone feels engaged and included, avoiding the bus-tour feel.

The sidecar rides offer an exhilarating way to soak in the Sonoma countryside, with wind in your hair and picturesque vineyard vistas all around. Switching places between the sidecar passenger and rider keeps the experience lively and fun. Plus, you can expect plenty of opportunities to stop at three wineries, each offering a chance to taste a variety of wines—though the tastings are at your own expense.

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s adventures. The 6.5-hour duration balances fun and relaxation without feeling rushed, which is often highlighted as a major strength in reviews.

Visiting Three of Sonoma Napa Wineries with a Twist

The core of this tour is visiting three distinguished wineries in the Napa & Sonoma wine regions. Each stop provides a chance to enjoy the scenery and wine tasting (paid separately), with the added excitement of being part of a small, guided group. The wineries are chosen for their charm and quality, making each visit memorable.

Participants have the option to taste as much wine as they like, which appeals to those who enjoy exploring different varieties. The guide keeps the pace relaxed and flexible, so guests can linger at each location if desired. This setup offers a more personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.

While the tasting fees are not included in the price, this allows guests to control their budget and sampling choices. The expert guidance provided ensures everyone is comfortable and well-informed, adding educational value to the visit.

Riding in Style: The Charm of a Vintage Sidecar

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the thrilling experience of riding in a vintage sidecar motorcycle. With wind in your hair and the beautiful Sonoma scenery rushing past, it’s a memorable way to engage with the landscape. The pilot guides you safely through the countryside, making sure the experience is both fun and secure.

Switching between the passenger and rider positions keeps the experience dynamic and interactive. The guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the ride both safe and enjoyable. This added element of adventure makes the tour stand apart from more conventional wine tastings.

The scenic route along vineyards and open fields enhances the visual appeal, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The Gourmet Picnic: A French-Style Feast in the Vineyard

A highlight of the tour is the French-style gourmet picnic that takes place amidst the vineyard setting. The delicious lunch adds a touch of elegance and indulgence to the day, offering a break from tastings and rides.

Though the menu details are not specified, reviews emphasize that the picnic is a memorable highlight, often described as beautiful and well-curated. It provides a relaxing moment to enjoy good food and breathtaking views, making the overall experience feel special and well-rounded.

Guests have praised the picnic for its quality and presentation, further elevating this activity from a simple wine tour to a full-day event that combines scenery, food, and drink in a unique way.

Logistics, Meeting Points, and Group Size

The tour begins at the Valley of the Moon Farmers’ Market in Sonoma, with most travelers booking around 71 days in advance due to its popularity. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making it convenient for participants.

This small-group tour is capped at 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour starts at 9:30 am, and the entire day is carefully paced to balance riding, tasting, and relaxing.

The tour is accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed. It’s also near public transportation options, making it easier to reach the starting point.

The Expert Guides and Their Role in the Experience

The tour is consistently praised for its knowledgeable guides, especially for their friendly, accommodating manner. The guides are described as fun and professional, making sure everyone feels safe, entertained, and informed throughout the day.

The pilot of the sidecar is considered a maestro of merriment, conducting the tour with finesse and flair. Their ability to balance safety with fun is a major reason why reviews often highlight this aspect as a key strength.

The guides also add special touches—from explaining the wines to ensuring everyone enjoys the picnic—that elevate the overall experience.

Pricing and Booking Considerations

At $350 per person, this tour offers a premium experience with a focus on personalized service and scenic adventure. The 6.5-hour duration provides good value for the unique riding experience paired with visits to three wineries and a gourmet picnic.

Most bookings are made well in advance, reflecting its popularity. Advance reservation is highly recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Participants should budget for wine tastings separately, as they are not included in the tour price. The tour is non-refundable, so planning ahead is advisable.

Final Thoughts on the Sonoma Valley Sidecar Wine Tours

For those seeking a fun, scenic, and unusual way to explore Sonoma’s wine country, this tour delivers on all fronts. The combination of a vintage motorcycle ride, visits to three distinguished wineries, and a delicious French picnic creates a memorable day out.

Its small-group format and highly praised guides ensure a personal touch, making it suitable for couples, friends, or small groups of wine enthusiasts. While tastings are paid separately, the flexibility and adventure more than compensate.

This experience appeals most to those who love a bit of adrenaline with their wine tasting, value intimate group settings, and appreciate beautiful countryside views. If you’re looking for a distinctive and enjoyable way to spend a day in Sonoma, this sidecar tour should be at the top of your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves riding on a motorcycle, which may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are wine tastings included in the price?
No, wine tastings are paid for separately at each winery. The tour allows you to taste as much as you like during each stop.

What should I wear for this tour?
Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Since you’ll be riding in a sidecar, bring layers in case of wind or cooler weather.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, but keep in mind that tastings are at your expense. The experience focuses on scenery and the ride, so non-drinkers can still enjoy the sightseeing and picnic.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 71 days ahead, due to the tour’s popularity and limited availability.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to bad weather, a different date or full refund is offered.