Afternoon Escape Wine Tour

Discover the Afternoon Escape Wine Tour in Halifax

The Afternoon Escape Wine Tour offers a relaxed yet enriching way to experience the wine culture of Nova Scotia. Priced at $115.06 per person, this 5-hour guided journey departs from Halifax and takes you through some of the most scenic vineyards in the region. The tour receives a perfect 5.0 rating from 19 reviews, with 100% recommending it, highlighting its popularity among visitors.

What makes this tour appealing is its well-curated itinerary that combines wine tastings, guided tours, cheese pairings, and delicious lunch options. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s designed to balance education and enjoyment in a comfortable setting. The tour is ideal for those interested in local wine production, scenic drives, and authentic tasting experiences, all while being suitable for most travelers with an interest in wine.

While the tour is comprehensive, it’s worth noting that wineries may change and the second stop, Luckett Vineyards, is only visited from May to December. The air-conditioned vehicle and included tastings at all three wineries ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. It’s perfect for day-trippers looking for a relaxed way to explore Nova Scotia’s wine country with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Price: $115.06 per person for approximately 5 hours of wine touring
• Includes: Guided tastings at 3 wineries, cheese tasting, and a lunch option at Luckett Vineyards
• Pick-up: Starts at Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel at 11:30 am
• Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle provided
• Tour Highlights: Visits to Benjamin Bridge Vineyards, Luckett Vineyards, and Grand Pre Wines or similar wineries, plus visits to L’Acadie Vineyards
• Booking & Cancellation: Most travelers can participate, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel at 11:30 am and lasts around 5 hours. The pick-up process is straightforward, with the guide arriving punctually. The tour concludes back at the starting point, allowing for easy planning afterward.

Comfortable Transportation and Group Size

Travelers enjoy the air-conditioned vehicle, which ensures comfort during the scenic drives between wineries. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, maintaining a friendly, intimate atmosphere that allows for personalized attention and easier interaction with the guide.

Visiting Nova Scotia’s Oldest Farm Winery: Grand Pre Wines

The tour kicks off with a visit to Grand Pre Wines, known for being Atlantic Canada’s oldest farm winery. Here, guests enjoy an hour-long tour and tasting, learning about the winery’s history rooted in love and passion for Nova Scotia. The tasting includes local wines, and the setting provides a peaceful introduction to the region’s wine scene.

Wine Tasting and Lunch at Luckett Vineyards

The second stop is Luckett Vineyards, which only features during May through December. Guests receive a guided tasting of their wines, paired with a lunch served alongside wine, beer, or cider. This is a highlight for many, combining delicious food with excellent local beverages amid beautiful vineyard views. The two-hour stop gives ample time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Exploring Diverse Wineries: Guided Tastings and Tours

The third visit involves a guided tasting at a third winery, which could be Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards, Mercator Vineyards, Gaspereau Vineyards, or L’Acadie Vineyards. The exact location is determined two weeks before the tour, adding an element of surprise. Each winery offers its own unique atmosphere and wine selection, enriching the overall experience.

Highlighting L’Acadie Vineyards, a Boutique Organic Winery

The tour concludes with a visit to L’Acadie Vineyards, a certified organic winery often regarded as the birthplace of sparkling wine in Nova Scotia. The 45-minute tour and tasting showcase medal-winning wines, emphasizing the region’s innovation and commitment to quality. As a boutique winery, L’Acadie provides a more intimate tasting environment with a focus on organic and sparkling wines.

What’s Included in the Tour

This guided experience covers all tasting fees at three wineries, ensuring no hidden costs. The cheese tasting at one winery adds a savory touch to the day, complementing the wines and enhancing the tasting journey. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps guests comfortable as they travel through stunning landscapes.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour departs from Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel with a convenient meeting point. Its proximity to public transportation makes it accessible for most travelers. The tour’s professional guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendly demeanor, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Since the experience requires good weather, cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable or reschedulable. Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances. The minimum group size means the tour may be canceled if not enough participants sign up, but options for rescheduling or refunds are available.

The Value of the Tour

At just over $115 per person, this tour offers a well-balanced combination of tastings, guided education, and scenic drives. The inclusion of lunch, cheese, and all tasting fees makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Nova Scotia’s wine region.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those interested in local Nova Scotia culture. It suits visitors wanting a relaxed, guided day trip with plenty of opportunities to taste diverse wines and learn from passionate guides. The scenic drives, varied wineries, and friendly atmosphere make it suitable for most travelers, especially those who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences.

Final Thoughts on the Afternoon Escape Wine Tour

The Afternoon Escape Wine Tour combines beautiful scenery, expert-guided tastings, and local culinary delights into a cohesive and enjoyable experience. Its positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and quality wines, confirming its reputation as a top choice for wine lovers visiting Halifax.

While wineries might vary and Luckett Vineyards’ seasonal availability should be considered, the overall experience remains compelling. The small group size and comprehensive inclusions make this tour an excellent option for anyone seeking a relaxed, educational wine day in Nova Scotia’s renowned wine country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour features an air-conditioned vehicle to transport guests between wineries.

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour departs from Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel at 11:30 am.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, all tasting fees at three wineries are included, along with a cheese tasting and lunch at Luckett Vineyards (seasonally available).

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is designed for a wide audience, with no strenuous activity involved.

Will the wineries change?
Yes, the third winery to visit is determined two weeks before the tour, which may include Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards, Mercator Vineyards, Gaspereau Vineyards, or L’Acadie Vineyards.

Is there a seasonal restriction for any stops?
Yes, Luckett Vineyards is only visited from May to December.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and sunscreen are recommended, especially for outdoor tastings and scenic stops.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to 20 travelers for a more personalized experience.