Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour w/Lunch

Our review of the Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour w/Lunch highlights one of the most charming ways to experience Santa Barbara’s renowned wine region. This tour combines the joy of cycling with authentic tastings, scenic views, and a relaxed farm-to-table lunch — a true feast for the senses. We love how it offers a leisurely, immersive experience that’s both engaging and educational, making it ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures with a touch of local flavor.

One of the standout features is the personalized guide service that makes the ride smooth and informative, even for less experienced cyclists. Plus, the inclusion of wine and olive oil tastings provides a genuine taste of the area’s agricultural bounty. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the distance and terrain—riders should be comfortable on bikes and prepared for about five hours of activity.

This tour suits active travelers who want more than just sightseeing, particularly those interested in local food and wine, nature, and a bit of history delivered through a friendly lens. If you’re up for exploring at a relaxed pace while enjoying some of the best scenery and flavors Santa Barbara has to offer, this experience is well worth considering.

Key Points

• Personalized, small-group experience enhances intimacy and attention from guides.
• Includes tastings of wine, olive oil, and lavender oil, offering authentic local flavors.
• Farm-to-table picnic lunch in a beautiful setting elevates the experience beyond just biking.
• Ideal for active travelers comfortable on bikes and eager to learn about local agriculture.
• Stunning scenery along scenic country roads and picturesque vineyards.
• Flexible, knowledgeable guides ensure a smooth ride and deeper understanding of the region.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting in Santa Ynez: First Impressions

The tour kicks off at the Santa Ynez shop promptly at 10:00AM. Arriving early gives you time to get fitted with your bike and get acquainted with the equipment, especially if you’re new to cycling. We loved the way the guides take the time to ensure everyone is comfortable before heading out. The first few moments also involve a casual stroll around Santa Ynez, a quaint town that sets the tone for the day’s relaxed vibe. As one reviewer noted, “Scott was very nice and knowledgeable,” making the initial interactions warm and welcoming.

This part of the tour is about ease and orientation—no rush, just a chance to settle in and get ready for the scenic ride ahead.

Pedaling Through Los Olivos and Neverland Ranch

Next, the group pedals through Los Olivos, a charming town famous for its boutique wineries and artistic vibe. The ride from Santa Ynez to Los Olivos is on a stunning country road—expect views of rolling hills, vineyards, and distant mountains. According to reviews, the scenery is breathtaking, and many comment on the “beautiful bike ride through beautiful country with breathtaking views.”

A notable stop is the site of the former Neverland Ranch, made famous by the King of Pop. While the ranch itself isn’t open to the public, stopping here offers a peek at the area’s unique history and adds an interesting twist to the journey. Some guests appreciate these stops for breaking up the ride and adding a bit of local lore.

Olive Oil Tasting in Los Olivos

One of the first tastings you’ll encounter is at a small olive oil producer. The experience is casual but informative, with the opportunity to sample fresh, high-quality olive oils. The reviews reflect this delight: “We enjoyed the olive oil tasting,” and it’s clear that these tastings add a genuine local flavor to the day. It’s a treat to taste olive oil made on-site and learn how it’s pressed, making the experience more than just tasting but also educational.

Lavender Farm Visit

Mid-morning, you’ll stop at a lavender farm operated by a family. Here, you’ll learn how lavender is pressed into oil—an aromatic process that delights all senses. The farm also features a gallery and gift shop, perfect for picking up a few fragrant souvenirs. Some reviews mention the lavender farm being a highlight, noting the “beautiful and fragrant” setting. However, it’s worth mentioning that if the lavender farm is closed (as sometimes happens with family-run farms), the tour might substitute this stop with another local activity.

The Culmination: Lincourt Vineyards and Farm-to-Table Lunch

The tour’s climax is a visit to Lincourt Vineyards, a family-owned, biodynamic winery known for producing fine wines. Here, you’ll enjoy a catered farm-to-table lunch in a gorgeous outdoor setting, paired with a flight of wines. The lunch is a perfect way to relax, digest, and indulge in regional flavors. Many reviews praise the “delicious lunch and amazing time at the winery,” and the fact that wine tasting fees are included makes this a good value.

The winery stop is also the perfect opportunity to ask questions and learn about the local wine-making process. The guided tasting experience adds depth to the flavor profiles, helping you appreciate the region’s winemaking artistry.

Return Ride and Final Views

After lunch, the ride back to Santa Ynez is a gentle cruise, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The scenery remains stunning, and the guided commentary continues to enrich the experience. Many guests remark on how the guide “spared no detail” and made the journey both fun and educational from start to finish.

Practical Details and Value

The tour duration of about five hours strikes a good balance between activity and relaxation. It’s designed for those comfortable on bikes, with most travelers finding the ride manageable and enjoyable, as confirmed by multiple positive reviews. While the terrain is scenic, it’s not overly challenging, making it suitable for casual cyclists who want to explore rather than compete.

Cost-wise, at $175 per person, the tour includes a lot: guided service, tastings, lunch, bottled water, and the convenience of a small-group experience. Many reviewers say it offers “very good value,” especially considering the personalized touches and high-quality tastings. The inclusion of transport support and local expertise helps elevate the experience from just a bike ride to a mini culinary and cultural expedition.

The safety and comfort aspects are also well-addressed. Some guests mention minor issues with bikes, but overall, the guides respond quickly and help resolve any hiccups. If you’re concerned about the bikes, it’s good to note that most travelers participate comfortably, and the guides are attentive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace and want to learn about local food and wine in a scenic setting. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group, personalized service and are comfortable on bikes for a few hours. If you’re curious about olive oil, lavender, or wine production, this tour offers authentic insights along with delicious tastings. It’s also suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, yet engaging adventure.

However, if you’re not keen on biking or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The tour does assume a certain level of comfort on a bike and a willingness to spend several hours outdoors.

The Sum Up

The Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Santa Barbara’s agricultural bounty. It’s a fun, scenic, and educational experience that combines outdoor activity with foodie delights in a personalized setting. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make it a memorable way to spend a day in wine country. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a foodie, or simply someone who loves beautiful landscapes, this tour provides excellent value and a genuine connection to the region.

Designed for active explorers, it’s best suited for those seeking a relaxed pace, good company, and high-quality tastings. If you’re ready for a gentle bike ride through some of California’s prettiest countryside, this tour could be a highlight of your Santa Barbara trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided to the tour start point?
No, you should meet at the specified address in Santa Ynez. The tour begins at 3568 Sagunto St, and you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting location.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult, and there are child rates when sharing with two paying adults.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or only experienced cyclists?
It’s designed to be accessible for most, with guides helping to ensure everyone feels comfortable. It’s a gentle 5-hour ride, suitable for those with basic cycling skills.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for cycling and weather conditions. Layers are recommended, and don’t forget sun protection.

Are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available for lunch?
Yes, special dietary options can be requested at the time of booking.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers guide service, wine, olive oil, and lavender tastings, farm-to-table lunch, bottled water, and bottled alcohol beverages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What if the lavender farm or other stops are closed?
The tour may substitute stops if certain farms are unavailable, as some are family-operated and have changing hours.

How much wine will I taste?
While the exact quantity isn’t specified, the private winery visit and tastings are described as generous and are included in the price.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It is suitable for most ages when accompanied by an adult, but younger children should be comfortable on the bike and in outdoor settings.

This bike tour offers a charming, educational, and delicious way to explore Santa Barbara’s wine country, balancing activity with relaxation and authentic tasting experiences. Perfect for active, curious travelers looking to deepen their appreciation of California’s beautiful and flavorful landscape.