If you’re looking to experience a slice of Zacatecas beyond its colorful streets and colonial architecture, the Campo Real Vinícola Tour offers an engaging taste of the region’s wine-making tradition and historic charm. For $44 per person, this 4-hour guided trip takes you through picturesque vineyards, an 18th-century hacienda, and Mexico’s only Barrel Museum—plus a tasting of some fine local wines.
What we love about this tour is the blend of history and craftsmanship. Visiting the Ex Hacienda Bernárdez gives you a window into the past, with its beautifully preserved architecture and art displays that reflect Zacatecas’ artisanal spirit. The Campo Real Winery itself is a highlight, with over 50 hectares of vineyard land and the chance to see the winemaking process up close. The wine tasting is thoughtfully included, letting you savor local varietals, which are a step above standard souvenir bottles.
A potential consideration is the distance between the historic hacienda and the winery—about 25 km south of Zacatecas city—so you’ll want to be comfortable with a bit of riding in a climate that can vary. Also, the English language is not listed, so if you don’t speak Spanish, you might find the guide’s language a slight barrier, though guides are certified and highly rated. This tour is perfect for travelers interested in history, craftsmanship, and wine, especially if you prefer intimate, small-group experiences over large bus tours.
Key Points
- Historical depth: Explore the 18th-century Ex Hacienda Bernárdez and Zacatecas Silver Center.
- Vineyard experience: Walk through over 50 hectares of vineyards and learn about the winemaking process.
- Unique museum: Visit Mexico’s only Barrel Museum for a peek into barrel craftsmanship.
- Wine tasting: Sample a selection of local wines, including White, Rosé, or Trivarietal options.
- Inclusion of transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off streamline your day.
- Value: At $44 for four hours, it offers a rich mix of sights, tastes, and stories.
Exploring the Tour: What You’ll Experience
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Starting Point: Historic Ex Hacienda Bernárdez
The journey begins with a visit to the Ex Hacienda Bernárdez, an estate dating back to the 18th century. Walking through its well-preserved walls and courtyards, you’ll get a sense of Zacatecas’ colonial past. This site is not just about old stones; it houses the Zacatecas Silver Center, where visitors can admire works by renowned artisans. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the hacienda combined history with art, making it feel alive and meaningful.” It’s a calm, reflective start that sets the tone for the rest of the tour.
Transition to the Vineyard
After about an hour here, your guide will transport you roughly 25 km south to the Campo Real Winery. This part of the experience is where you’ll truly see the modern craft of winemaking in action. The landscape opens up to rolling vineyards, and you’ll notice that the winery covers a substantial 50 hectares. Walking among the grapevines, you’ll learn about the varieties grown and the meticulous work involved from grape to glass.
Tour of the Production Facilities
Inside the winery, you’ll explore the production plant and cellar. This part of the tour demystifies the process, revealing how each step influences the final product. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, and many reviews mention the clarity and enthusiasm they bring. For example, “We appreciated the way the guide explained winemaking without overwhelming us with technical jargon.” Being able to see the equipment, barrels, and fermentation tanks brings the story of each bottle to life.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Barrel Museum: Mexico’s Only
A standout feature is the Barrel Museum, unique to Mexico. Here, you’ll see exhibits on the history and craftsmanship behind barrels used in aging wine. Many visitors find this a surprisingly fascinating stop, especially if you enjoy learning about tools and techniques that are often overlooked. One reviewer noted, “The museum gave me a new appreciation for something I never thought about—the barrels themselves.” It adds an authentic, artisan touch that underscores the care in every bottle.
The Final Taste: Wines to Savor
The tour concludes with a wine tasting where you can sample White, Rosé, or Trivarietal wines. The selection is thoughtfully curated, giving you a chance to savor different styles. The tasting is modest—about 2 ounces—but enough to appreciate the craftsmanship. Many find the wines to be distinctly regional, with a flavor profile that reflects Zacatecas’ climate and soil. As one traveler mentioned, “The wine was surprisingly good, much better than I expected for a tour at this price.”
Practical Details and Experience Quality
Transportation & Comfort
The tour includes transportation from your hotel, making logistics straightforward. Given the 25 km distance from Zacatecas city to the winery, this added comfort is appreciated, especially after a morning of walking around historic sites. The group size tends to be small, which enhances the personal feel and allows for questions and interaction.
Duration & Timing
At 4 hours, the experience hits a good balance—long enough to explore thoroughly without feeling rushed. The available starting times vary, so check your schedule ahead. The guide is Spanish-speaking, so if you’re not fluent, consider this when planning.
Cost & Value
At $44, this tour offers quite a lot—history, culture, and wine—without a hefty price tag. It’s a great value for those wanting a well-rounded experience that combines education, scenic beauty, and tastings. The inclusion of bottled water and road insurance enhances the package’s practicality.
Reviews & Feedback
Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the authenticity of the experience. One said, “It was a great way to see two sides of Zacatecas—its history and its wine—without wasting a whole day.” Others appreciated the small-group setting, which fosters a more personal connection and allows questions to flow freely.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is best suited for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and curious travelers. If you enjoy learning about local crafts, exploring historic sites, and savoring regional wines, you’ll find this trip both informative and enjoyable. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer small group, guided experiences over large, bus-style tours. Also, those interested in authentic, hands-on encounters with Zacatecas’ cultural and artisanal traditions will find plenty to love.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth Your Time?
For a modest price, this tour packs in a lot of genuine interest. Visiting the Ex Hacienda Bernárdez offers a meaningful glimpse into Zacatecas’ colonial past, while the Campo Real Winery showcases the region’s modern wine-making skill. The Barrel Museum adds a special touch, and the tasting allows you to connect with local flavors in a relaxed setting.
This experience suits travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to understand how Zacatecas’s history and craft converge in its wines. It’s ideal for small groups, curious minds, and anyone looking for an authentic, well-organized day out.
If you’re in Zacatecas and want a taste of tradition, craftsmanship, and regional pride, this tour will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the area’s cultural and agricultural wealth. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare to enjoy a well-rounded, satisfying glimpse into Zacatecas’s wine and heritage.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making it convenient and stress-free.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 4 hours, allowing plenty of time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.
What wines will I taste?
You can enjoy a glass of White, Rosé, or Trivarietal wines, depending on the selection offered that day.
Is the guide bilingual?
Guides are certified and speak Spanish; if you need English, you might want to prepare or ask in advance.
Are meals included?
No, food is not included in the tour, so plan to eat before or after the experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—flexibility built into the booking.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially for walking at the hacienda and vineyards.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on history and wine tasting suggests it’s best for adults or older teens.