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Explore the charm of Carmel Valley Village in California aboard an authentic 1970 VW bus with Kombi Tours Monterey. For $139 per person, this 4.5-hour experience combines nostalgic transportation with award-winning wine tastings near the California coast. The tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, intimate outing with small group size—limited to 6 participants—and includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the designated area. While tasting fees are not included, the experience offers a blend of scenic drives, local wine culture, and friendly guides.
This tour stands out for its vintage vehicle experience and personalized small-group setting, making it ideal for wine lovers, vintage car enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Carmel Valley in a relaxed, fun style. Keep in mind, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility issues, and rain or shine, it runs without exception.
Key Points
- Vintage VW bus ride: Travel in a 1970 classic known as “The Sweet Pickle” for scenic and nostalgic charm.
- Three local wineries: Visit award-winning vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, with tastings at each stop.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off: Conveniently included if your accommodation is within the tour area.
- Includes bottled water: Stay refreshed throughout the 4.5-hour journey.
- Tasting fees: Not included, so expect to pay separately at each winery.
- Small group size: Only 6 participants, allowing for a personalized experience.
Vintage Vehicle and Scenic Drive Through Carmel Valley
The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel or Airbnb within the designated area. You’ll hop into the vintage 1970 VW bus, affectionately called “The Sweet Pickle,” for a scenic ride through Carmel Valley. The driver guides you along, sharing points of interest and local highlights, giving you a taste of the rolling vineyards and scenic landscapes that make this region special.
The vintage VW bus itself provides a nostalgic atmosphere, with a nostalgic but well-maintained interior. The scenic drive offers glimpses of the California coast and the lush landscape of the Santa Lucia Highlands, perfect for photography and soaking in the views.
Visiting the Wine Tasting Rooms in Carmel Valley
The main focus of the tour involves visiting 3 carefully selected wine tasting rooms. These establishments are located in Carmel Valley Village—a hub of local wineries, many established by regional vintners. Guests will have the opportunity to sample a variety of wines, all produced, bottled, and grown near the coast, showcasing the best of California’s wine country.
While the tasting room fees are not included, guides typically introduce visitors to the unique characteristics of each winery. From tasting room ambiance to wine varieties, each stop emphasizes local craftsmanship and award-winning wines.
What Makes the Winery Stops Special
The wineries in Carmel Valley Village are known for their friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The wine tasting experiences are described as informative and fun. One of the stops features a talented musician who adapts to requests, adding a musical touch to the tasting experience. This makes each visit feel personalized and lively.
Guests can expect to learn about wine production, regional flavors, and the distinctive qualities of wines from the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The stops are selected to give a diverse tasting experience in a relaxed setting.
The Role of the Guide and Tour Pacing
The driver not only navigates the scenic route but also serves as an informative guide, sharing insights about the region’s wine culture and local points of interest. The small group size ensures a casual and personable atmosphere, with ample time at each winery to sample wines and explore.
The tour duration of 4.5 hours allows for a leisurely pace—enough time to enjoy the scenic drives and wine tastings without feeling rushed. After the third tasting, you’re transported back to your hotel or Airbnb, closing the experience comfortably.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Logistics
Pickup is included if your accommodation is within the designated area, and the driver will be easy to spot by the green vintage VW bus. Participants should bring their driver’s license, wear comfortable clothes, and carry personal medication as needed.
The tour operates rain or shine, so flexible dress and rain gear are advised. Smoking, vaping, bikes, electric wheelchairs, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are not allowed for safety and comfort reasons. The group is limited to 6 people, fostering an intimate environment.
Cost and Value
The price of $139 per person covers transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and bottled water. However, tasting room fees are payable separately, which guests should budget for. This setup provides a personalized experience with a vintage vehicle and local wines, offering value for those seeking an authentic and relaxed wine tour.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most
This small-group experience suits wine enthusiasts, vintage car fans, or anyone preferring a more personal, relaxed atmosphere. The scenic drive and local winery visits make it ideal for visitors who want a taste of Carmel Valley without the hassle of organizing multiple tastings themselves.
It’s especially good for those who appreciate a nostalgic vibe and enjoy learning about regional wines from friendly, knowledgeable guides. Keep in mind that the tour is not accessible for wheelchair users and requires comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor stops.
The Sum Up: Vintage Charm Meets Local Wine in Carmel Valley
The Carmel Valley Village wine tasting tour in a 1970 VW bus offers a unique blend of scenic drive, vintage fun, and local wine culture. With three thoughtfully chosen wineries, hotel pickup, and a small group size, guests receive a personalized and relaxed experience.
While tasting fees are not included, the value lies in the vintage vehicle ride, scenic journey, and friendly guide-led visits. This tour is perfect for wine lovers, vintage vehicle enthusiasts, or those seeking a casual exploration of Carmel Valley’s vineyards.
For anyone craving a combination of nostalgia and local flavor, this 4.5-hour adventure delivers a memorable, laid-back look at California’s wine country—all within a cozy, fun atmosphere aboard a classic VW bus.
Ready to Book?
Carmel Valley Village: Wine Tasting Tours in a 1970 VW bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off are included if your accommodation is within the tour area.
How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit 3 wine tasting rooms in Carmel Valley Village.
Are tasting fees included in the price?
No, tasting room fees are not included and are paid separately at each winery.
What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring their driver’s license, wear comfortable clothes, and carry personal medication.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility challenges.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours from pickup to drop-off.
Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
How many people are in a group?
The small group is limited to 6 participants for a more intimate experience.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What makes this tour special?
The vintage VW bus ride, personalized winery visits, and local scenery create a relaxed and authentic California wine country adventure.