Imagine pedaling gently through the scenic countryside of California’s Santa Barbara wine region, with breathtaking views, crisp mountain air, and a glass of local wine in hand. That’s exactly what the Nojoqui Canyon Wine Country Tour with Optional Lunch offers. For around $100 per person, you get a 4 to 5-hour guided adventure that combines the joys of cycling, wine tasting, and a slice of local farm life, all in a small, private group setting.

This tour is designed for those who want a relaxed, authentic experience—no strenuous climbs, just easy riding on electric assist bikes that make covering the countryside a breeze. Our guides, who we can assume are friendly and knowledgeable, will lead you from the charming town of Santa Ynez to the iconic Santa Ynez Falls, with a delicious stop in Solvang for lunch and a visit to Folded Hills Vineyard for wine tastings.

What we especially love about this experience is how it balances active outdoor fun with culinary delights. The electric bikes mean even less experienced riders can comfortably explore, and the stops at local wineries and a farm-to-table restaurant showcase the region’s authentic flavors. One thing to consider is that this tour is weather-dependent—bad weather could cause cancellations or changes, so it’s worth checking the forecast.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back pace, appreciate scenic drives or rides, and want a taste of local wine culture paired with real farm-to-table food. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to combine adventure with relaxation in Santa Barbara’s beautiful wine country.

Key Points

Easy-to-ride electric bikes make exploring accessible for all fitness levels.
Includes wine tastings at Folded Hills Vineyard, offering a chance to sample premium local wines.
Optional farm-to-table lunch in Solvang adds a delicious, locally sourced meal.
Tour covers scenic views of Nojoqui Falls, perfect for nature lovers.
Private group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
Duration of about 4 to 5 hours makes it a half-day adventure, easy to fit into any itinerary.

A Closer Look at the Nojoqui Canyon Wine Country Tour

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in California

Starting Point and Overview

The adventure kicks off in Santa Ynez at 10:00 AM, where your guides will assist in fitting you with your electric-assist bicycle. This initial stage is all about getting comfortable with your bike and familiarizing yourself with the quiet, picturesque town of Santa Ynez. You’ll see local shops, quaint streets, and get a sense of rural California life away from the hustle of the city.

The electric bikes are a real highlight—they remove the typical challenge of uphill climbs and allow you to enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat. We loved the way the bikes made the ride accessible while still feeling like a genuine outdoor activity.

Santa Ynez & Cycling Through the Countryside

Once underway, you’ll pedal down peaceful country roads, feeling the cool air and enjoying views of rolling hills and vineyards. Your guide, whose name isn’t specified but who presumably is friendly and knowledgeable, will share insights into the local landscape and wine culture—perhaps pointing out the different grape varieties or telling stories about the region’s history.

The route naturally leads toward Solvang, a Danish-inspired town famous for its fairy-tale architecture and Scandinavian charm. The ride along Alamo Pintado Road is particularly scenic, with shaded oak groves providing picturesque scenery.

Solvang for Lunch

In Solvang, you’ll have the option to stop at Café Dolce, a cozy spot downtown. Here, you can enjoy a locally sourced sandwich and a side salad, perfect for refueling after your morning ride. The point of this stop isn’t just about eating but experiencing the local culinary scene—focusing on farm-fresh ingredients and simple, satisfying flavors.

Reviews highlight that this is an excellent way to sample local cuisine in a relaxed setting. One traveler noted, “The food was fresh, tasty, and felt like a true taste of the region.”

Wine Tasting at Folded Hills

The highlight for many is the visit to Folded Hills Estate Tasting Room at the Homestead. Pedaling through a scenic, oak-lined country road, you arrive at this family-owned vineyard, which prides itself on producing high-quality wines. You’ll enjoy a hosted guided wine flight, tasting a selection of their best offerings.

The experience combines the joy of cycling with the pleasure of wine tasting. The estate’s farm-to-table approach is evident both in their wines and food offerings, adding an authentic farm-to-glass experience. One guest commented, “The wines were impressive, and the setting was absolutely stunning—the perfect blend of nature and craftsmanship.”

While in California, here are other experiences we've covered

Return to Santa Ynez & Nojoqui Falls

After soaking in the views and savoring the wines, your guide will lead you back toward Santa Ynez, with a special stop at Nojoqui Falls. The waterfall is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a chance to stretch your legs and take in some of the best natural scenery in the area. The falls are an ideal spot for photos and a quick walk before heading back.

The entire loop wraps up around 2:00 PM, leaving you with a memorable half-day of outdoor activity, wine tasting, and scenic beauty.

Practical Details: What to Expect

The tour is priced at $100 per person, and this includes bike rental, private transportation, wine tasting, and the farm-to-table lunch option. It’s a good value considering the personalized experience, the quality of the wine tastings, and the scenic landscape.

Duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed. The tour is private, so you’ll have the benefit of a tailored experience with your group.

Meeting point is at 2449 Baseline Ave, Solvang, which is near public transportation. The activity ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Weather & Cancellation

The experience depends on good weather—if rain or storms are forecast, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Fortunately, there’s a full refund policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and those who want an active yet relaxed way to explore Santa Barbara’s wine country. It’s especially suitable for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate scenic rides, excellent local wine, and a touch of farm life.

It’s a good fit for travelers who prefer a gentle pace and want to avoid strenuous activities—electric bikes make this accessible for most, and the stops at vineyards and restaurants add plenty of variety and interest.

Final Thoughts

The Nojoqui Canyon Wine Country Tour strikes a rare balance between adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor. The combination of easy cycling, beautiful scenery, tasty farm-to-table lunch, and stellar wine tastings makes this a memorable way to experience Santa Barbara’s wine country.

Whether you’re a wine lover looking to learn more about local vintages or simply someone wanting a laid-back outdoor activity, this tour offers genuine value. The personalized, private setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the stops are well-chosen to showcase the region’s natural and culinary treasures.

For travelers craving a unique, scenic adventure with good company and excellent wine, this tour is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The electric bikes are user-friendly, and the tour is designed to be relaxed and accessible for most fitness levels.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect about 4 to 5 hours, including cycling, tastings, and stops for lunch and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers bike rental, private transportation, wine tastings at Folded Hills Vineyard, and an optional farm-to-table lunch in Solvang.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
No, lunch is included if you opt for the farm-to-table meal. Otherwise, you can choose to skip the meal and enjoy the wine tastings and scenery.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. Full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible in case of poor weather.

Are the stops wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have mobility concerns.

Is transportation provided between stops?
Yes, private transportation is included, making the experience smooth and comfortable from start to finish.

Embark on this scenic and flavorful ride through Santa Barbara’s wine country and enjoy a genuine taste of California’s relaxed, rural charm.