NON BUS Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour

Discover the Leelanau Peninsula’s Wine Treasures in Style

If you’re dreaming of exploring Michigan’s renowned Traverse City wine country without the chaos of a loud, overcrowded party bus, the NON BUS Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour offers a refreshing alternative. Priced at $99 per person and lasting about 4.5 hours, this intimate journey takes you in luxury SUVs—think GMC Yukons and Cadillacs—through stunning Leelanau Peninsula vistas. Instead of being crammed into a bus with strangers, you’ll enjoy a semi-private experience with knowledgeable guides, sampling wines at four exceptional wineries, with the added magic of a sunset backdrop.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized attention and the stunning views. The guides, led by real wine enthusiasts, not only take you to iconic wineries like Rove Winery and Black Star Farms, but they also provide thoughtful wine recommendations tailored to your preferences. Plus, the luxury SUVs and scenic stops mean you’ll savor the landscape and the wines without feeling rushed or crowded. The only downside might be the limited inclusions—tastings and wines are extra, so it’s wise to budget for additional purchases or food options at each stop.

This tour is ideal for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, curated wine experience. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and a touch of luxury, you’ll find this tailored experience hits the right notes. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Leelanau’s beauty without the hassle of coordinating transportation or dealing with large groups.

Key Points

Personalized, semi-private experience in luxury SUVs ensures comfort and intimacy.
Expert guides provide local insights and tailored wine recommendations.
Stunning Leelanau views enhance the relaxed, scenic atmosphere.
Flexible scheduling with pick-up at Rove Winery and drop-off in Downtown Traverse City.
Inclusions of wine samples allow tasting without extra charges; food and additional drinks are optional extras.
Sunset timing adds a magical element, with stops likely adjusted for weather and sunset times.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Leelanau Sunset Wine Tour

We start with the convenient pickup at Rove Winery, where the guides—dressed to impress—greet us in shiny SUVs. No dilapidated buses or awkward crowd situations here; instead, you’ll find yourself riding in a luxury GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade. The vehicles are air-conditioned, comfortable, and designed for groups of 6-7, making your journey feel both exclusive and relaxed.

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The Itinerary and Wineries

The exact stops can vary depending on the day’s weather, sunset times, and special events, but you’ll typically visit four top-tier wineries, including favorites like Black Star Farms and Brengman Brothers. Each winery offers a different atmosphere and wine selection, giving you a well-rounded taste of Leelanau’s diverse viniculture.

At each stop, wine samples are included, but tasting fees or additional bottles are extra—so come prepared if you want more than just the samples. The guides are well-versed, providing tasting notes and personalized recommendations that help you discover wines suited to your palate. As one guest noted, “Brian was very attentive to be sure we were enjoying our experience. He was knowledgeable about the area and was able to give wine recommendations to our liking at each place!”

The Scenic Experience

What sets this tour apart is its attention to the scenery. Since the tour is timed around sunset, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Leelanau Peninsula. The guides will likely adjust the stops to ensure you catch the sunset, making for perfect photo opportunities and a memorable atmosphere. The stunning vistas combined with stellar wine tasting make it a truly special experience.

What Travelers Are Saying

A recent reviewer, Becky from the United States, shared, “Really enjoyed the unique views at the 4 wineries! Brian was very attentive… and the dinner ideas were especially appreciated!!” This highlights how the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops elevate the experience beyond just wine tasting.

Another appealing aspect is the drop-off in Downtown Traverse City after the tour. You can easily explore local restaurants or head back to your hotel, making the entire day seamless and stress-free, especially when paired with drop-off options at local inns or motels.

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The Value of this Tour

At only $99, this experience offers excellent value for the quality of the guides, the scenic drive, and the curated wine tastings. Compared to larger bus tours, the semi-private setting and luxury transport make it feel more like a personalized wine adventure. Keep in mind, wine tastings and additional food are extra costs, but that allows you to tailor the experience to your preferences.

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Considerations

One point to consider is that tastings and wine bottles are not included in the price, so you might want to set aside some extra cash if you plan to purchase bottles or indulge in food at the wineries. Also, the tour’s timing depends on sunset, which might shift throughout the year, affecting the order of stops.

Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences with expert insights, this is perfect. Couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or wine enthusiasts looking for a luxurious, scenic outing will find this tour suits their needs. It’s also a great choice for travelers who want a relaxed pace, beautiful views, and a touch of VIP treatment without paying a hefty price.

The Sum Up

The NON BUS Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour offers more than just wine: it’s a blend of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and luxury transportation that creates a memorable, personalized experience. The focus on stunning views and knowledgeable guides makes it stand out from typical group tours, especially for those who prefer avoiding crowded buses.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed experience that combines beautiful scenery with top-tier wines. If you value personalized service, scenic stops, and a luxurious ride, then this tour is a smart choice. Just remember, it’s a leisure experience—so come ready to savor the moment, enjoy the sunset, and maybe pick up a special bottle or two.

FAQ

What is the cost of this tour?
The price is $99 per person, which covers the transportation, guides, and wine samples. Additional tastings, bottles, and food are extra.

Where does the tour start?
The pickup is at Rove Winery, where guests park at the top of the hill and meet their guides in luxury SUVs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 4.5 hours in the afternoon, with timing adjusted to coincide with sunset.

Are the vehicles private?
Yes, most groups of 6-7 will have their own luxury SUV, making the experience semi-private and more comfortable.

Can I get dropped off anywhere after the tour?
Yes, guests are typically dropped off in Downtown Traverse City, making it easy to explore local restaurants and shops afterward.

Are wine tastings included?
Samples are included on the tour, but tastings, bottles, and food are extra, allowing you to customize your experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s primarily designed for adults interested in wine and scenic drives. Minors may be allowed, but alcohol consumption is restricted to guests of legal drinking age.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable casual clothing is fine, and bringing some extra cash for additional tastings or food is recommended. Strongly suggested are “fancy wine drinking hats”—a playful touch for your tasting adventures!

This wine tour in Traverse City combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and luxurious comfort to create an experience that’s both relaxing and memorable. Whether you’re celebrating, exploring, or simply indulging your love of wine, this journey through Leelanau is sure to leave a lasting impression.