Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour w/Lunch

Discover the Santa Ynez Valley on a Bike and Tasting Tour

The Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour offers an engaging way to explore California’s famous wine region. Priced at $175 per person and lasting approximately five hours, this tour combines scenic cycling, local tastings, and a delightful farm-to-table lunch. It departs from Solvang, starting at 2449 Baseline Ave, and is designed for those seeking an active, immersive experience in Santa Barbara’s vineyards and countryside.

What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach: limited to just your group, with a professional guide leading the way. The experience includes wine and olive oil tastings, a visit to a lavender farm, and a catered picnic lunch at a biodynamic vineyard. Its high rating of 5.0/5 from 31 reviews reflects the quality of the experience, especially the friendly guides and beautiful scenery.

While the tour offers many highlights, travelers should note that most of the bikes are electric, and there have been some concerns about bike condition. Booking in advance—about 16 days ahead on average—is recommended to secure a spot. Perfect for active food and wine lovers, this private tour offers a relaxed yet engaging day in California’s wine country.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience limited to your group
• Five-hour guided bike tour with scenic stops and tastings
• Includes wine and olive oil tastings as well as lavender farm visit
• Farm-to-table picnic lunch at a biodynamic vineyard
• Rated 5.0/5 by 31 reviews, with 94% recommended
• Starts at 2449 Baseline Ave, Solvang, with pickup included

Santa Ynez: The Starting Point and Scenic Introduction

The tour begins at 2449 Baseline Ave in Solvang, where a professional guide fits everyone with bikes, often electric, to ensure comfort throughout the ride. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the initial briefing a welcoming experience. The group then takes a brief stroll around Santa Ynez to get comfortable with cycling before heading out.

This first part of the tour not only helps everyone settle in but also introduces the area’s charm, setting the tone for the day. The relaxed pace allows for plenty of conversation and questions about the local landscape, history, and farming practices, making the start both informative and enjoyable.

Pedaling Through Los Olivos and the King of Pop’s Residence

After the initial warm-up, the group pedals towards Los Olivos, a quaint town known for its wine and olive oil tastings. Around 10:00 AM, the ride takes a stunning country road leading to the Neverland Ranch site, the former residence of Michael Jackson. While the tour does not stop there, the scenery en route is noted for its beauty and tranquility.

The ride here is designed to be comfortable, with the guide ensuring safety and sharing stories about the region’s celebrity connections and agricultural history. Traveling through this peaceful landscape, riders enjoy the breathtaking views of the San Rafael Mountains, making it a memorable part of the experience.

Olive Oil Tasting in Los Olivos

The first tasting stop occurs in Los Olivos, where guests enjoy a 30-minute olive oil tasting at a local venue. This experience showcases the quality and variety of California olive oils, giving insight into the farm-to-table movement. Visitors appreciate the chance to sample different oils, often complemented by fresh bread or accompaniments.

This stop is a highlight for those interested in culinary experiences and local craftsmanship. The town’s charming atmosphere adds to the appeal, with small shops and galleries to explore afterward.

Exploring Lavender Farms and Oil Pressing

Next, the tour visits a lavender farm at Clairmont Farms, where you’ll learn how fresh lavender is pressed into oil. The 30-minute visit includes a stroll through the family-owned property, often with opportunities to browse their gallery and gift shop.

Guests find this stop particularly aromatic and visually appealing. The guide shares insights into lavender cultivation and oil production, enriching the experience. The farm’s picturesque setting offers perfect photo opportunities amid rows of lavender in bloom.

Farm-to-Table Lunch at Lincourt Vineyards

At 12:00 PM, the tour moves to Lincourt Vineyards, a biodynamic winery where a catered picnic-style lunch awaits. The lunch is enjoyed in a beautiful outdoor setting, with local ingredients and a flight of fine wines from the family-owned estate.

This meal provides a relaxing break from cycling, with plenty of opportunity to savor the flavors of the region. The wine selection, praised in reviews, is diverse and of high quality, rounding out the tasting experience. The vineyard’s serene environment makes it an ideal spot for conversation and enjoying the scenic views.

Scenic Cycling and Wine Tasting at Lincourt Vineyards

Following lunch, guests have time to explore Lincourt Vineyards further, sampling additional wines. The guided ride continues through the biodynamic vineyards, offering stunning vistas and an intimate look at local winemaking. Visitors often mention the delightful wines and the knowledgeable guide who enhances the experience with stories about the region’s viticulture.

The cycling route here is gentle and designed for all levels, with the guide making sure everyone stays comfortable. Most bikes are electric, making the ride accessible even for those less experienced cyclists.

Scenic Return and Final Tasting Experience

As the tour winds down, guests cycle back toward Solvang. Along the way, the guide highlights points of interest and shares additional details about farming and local history. The ride culminates in a return to the starting point, where bottled water and optional alcoholic beverages are available.

This relaxed pace ensures a comfortable return, with plenty of scenic views to enjoy. The overall experience balances physical activity with indulgence in regional wines and olive oils, making it a well-rounded day in wine country.

Practical Details: Logistics and Booking Tips

The tour features a mobile ticket, with most travelers booking about 16 days in advance. It is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, which adds a personalized touch. The meeting point is at 2449 Baseline Ave in Solvang, with the tour starting promptly at 10:00 AM.

Participants should note that children must be accompanied by an adult, and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. The tour includes vehicle mechanic support and provides bottled water and alcoholic beverages at certain stops. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for planning.

Why Choose This Tour? The Strengths and Considerations

The high rating of 5.0/5 and 94% recommendation rate highlight the overall quality. Guests frequently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides—specifically mentioning guides like Scott, Mike, and Chris—and the stunning scenery along the route. The inclusion of olive oil and wine tastings adds value, as do the refreshing farm-to-table lunch options.

However, some reviews mention bike condition issues, with a few bikes not being as new or well-functioning as expected. It’s advisable to book in advance and communicate any preferences or needs, especially for those concerned about bike quality or electric assistance.

This tour appeals most to those seeking a relaxed yet active day with plenty of educational and tasting opportunities. It’s perfect for wine lovers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate personalized service and scenic views.

Santa Barbara’s Wine Country by Bike: An Authentic and Enjoyable Experience

The Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour delivers a well-rounded exploration of Santa Barbara’s vineyards, farms, and scenic landscapes. The combination of cycling, tastings, and a delicious lunch makes for a memorable day out. Its private setting and expert guides ensure a personalized experience, while the beautiful surroundings keep the journey engaging.

While there are minor considerations like bike quality, the overall positive reviews and detailed itinerary confirm that this tour offers excellent value for those eager to see the region from a different perspective. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a day in the countryside, this tour is a solid choice for active food and wine enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $175 per person.

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

What is included in the price?
The tour includes professional guide service, wine and olive oil tastings, lavender farm visit, farm-to-table lunch, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at 2449 Baseline Ave, Solvang, and ends back at the same location.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Do I need to have cycling experience?
No prior experience is needed; the guide helps with bike fitting, and most bikes are electric, making the ride accessible.

What kind of bikes are used?
Most bikes are electric, which assist with pedaling on the scenic route.

Can I customize dietary options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available if advised at booking.

What happens if I cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made later are not refundable.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route is designed to be comfortable for all levels, with the guide ensuring safety and support throughout.

This Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour offers a compelling way to enjoy Santa Barbara’s stunning landscapes, delicious local fare, and fine wines—all in a relaxed, guided setting that emphasizes personalized service and memorable sights.