Non Bus Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour

A Stylish Way to Explore Leelanau Peninsula’s Wine Country

If you’re looking for a wine experience that avoids the crowded bus scene and instead offers a more personal, relaxed vibe, the Non Bus Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour could be just your ticket. For $69 per person, this 4 to 5-hour journey whisks you through some of the area’s best wineries—Shady Lane, Blackstar Farms, Ciccone Vineyards, and Rove Winery—without the usual rushed timetable or overcrowded transportation.

What really sets this tour apart are the luxury SUVs instead of the typical party bus, and the knowledgeable guides, like Magic Mike, who make the whole experience feel more like a VIP outing than just another wine tour. We love how this approach gives you more space, comfort, and a sense of personal connection at each stop. Plus, the stunning vistas from Rove Winery and the family-owned charm of Ciccone make each visit memorable.

A potential consideration is that wines, tastings, and food are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget for extras. But if you’re after a more authentic, less commercialized wine adventure, this is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for couples or small groups who appreciate good guides, beautiful scenery, and a bit of celebrity-style treatment.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size and luxury SUVs keep the tour intimate and comfortable.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Magic Mike bring authentic wine knowledge and local insights.
• Beautiful Stops: Four carefully chosen wineries, each offering scenic views and quality wines.
• Flexibility: The itinerary adapts based on availability, ensuring a tailored experience.
• No Buses: The absence of large buses means a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
• Good Value: For $69, you get a lengthy, informative tour with VIP treatment, making it a good deal.

An In-Depth Look at the Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re tired of the usual bus tour crowd and want a more luxurious, relaxed way to sample Traverse City’s wine scene, this tour hits the mark. The luxury SUVs—such as GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Tahoe, or Cadillac Escalade—offer plenty of space and comfort, which makes all the difference when you’re spending several hours on the road. There’s no feeling of being herded like cattle; instead, you’re treated like a guest, with plenty of room to chat, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

The guides, including Magic Mike, are seasoned wine enthusiasts. They bring a genuine enthusiasm and analytical knowledge that elevates the experience beyond just tasting wines. When they recommend a bottle or describe a vineyard’s unique features, it feels like sharing tips with a knowledgeable friend rather than listening to a generic script.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

First stop: Shady Lane Cellars. This vineyard is praised as one of the best on the Leelanau Peninsula, and rightly so. Guests can purchase flights or bottles, or even join the wine club during their visit. The tasting room offers a chance to sip at your leisure while soaking up the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. With about 50 minutes here, we find it’s enough time to get a real feel for the place — not rushed, but not lingering too long either.

Next: Blackstar Farms Old Mission Winery. This location is a local legend, set amidst picturesque farmland. The guides often mention that it’s one of the most famous sites in the region, and for good reason. The setting alone—the rolling fields and rustic buildings—makes it a highlight. Guests can buy wine by the glass or bottle and enjoy the scenery. This stop also gets about 50 minutes, offering enough time for tasting and pictures.

The third stop: Ciccone Vineyard & Winery. Founded in 1995 by Silvio Tony Ciccone, this estate has a family-owned charm that visitors love. The setting includes a traditional barn, a cozy house, and a hillside vineyard—perfect for those who appreciate the story behind the wines. Reviewers mention that the guide’s stories really enhance the visit, making it more than just a tasting. Again, about 50 minutes here, with time to soak in the vineyard views and perhaps buy a bottle.

Finally: Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate. Perched at the highest point on the peninsula, Rove offers spectacular panoramic views. Guests can buy flights, enjoy wines by the glass, or join the wine club. The guides often describe this as the most scenic stop, and with its elevation and sweeping vistas, it’s a fitting finale. The tour spends around 50 minutes here, giving plenty of time for photos and tasting.

What Makes the Experience Stand Out?

The small group size (most likely 6-7 people per SUV) ensures everyone gets personalized attention, and guides like Magic Mike go beyond the usual script, sharing insider tips and stories about the wineries and local area. We loved the comfortable, air-conditioned SUVs—not only do they provide a smooth ride, but they also preserve an element of quiet and privacy that big buses simply can’t match.

The semi-private nature of the tour, with the potential for private or semi-private options, makes it ideal for travelers who prefer more intimacy. Plus, the group discounts are a nice touch if you’re traveling with friends or a larger family.

Price and Value

At $69 per person, this tour offers good value considering the length and quality of experience. Tours that include multiple winery stops with expert guides typically cost more, especially when you factor in transportation costs and the VIP treatment. Since wines, tastings, and food are extra, it’s wise to budget additional for those, but the core experience—guided visits, scenic drives, and insider knowledge—is well worth it.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to small groups, couples, or wine enthusiasts who want a personalized, relaxed, and upscale way to explore Leelanau’s vineyards. It’s perfect for travelers who value authenticity over commercialization and prefer intimate settings over crowded tours. If scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and a touch of celebrity treatment sound appealing, this is a good fit.

Final Thoughts

The Non Bus Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, knowledge, and scenic beauty. It’s rare to find a tour that combines luxury SUVs, expert guides, and picturesque wineries in such a relaxed setting. You’ll leave with not only a better appreciation of local wines but also memories of some truly stunning vistas.

While the extra costs for tastings and food are worth considering, the core experience—guided, small-group touring in style—is a real value. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Michigan’s wine country without the hassle of big buses, this tour is likely to please.

FAQs

What is the main mode of transportation on this tour?
Instead of a bus, you’ll ride in luxury SUVs like GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, providing more space and comfort.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, including four winery stops, allowing ample time for tasting and sightseeing.

Are tastings and food included?
No, wines, tastings, and food are extra; you can buy wines at each stop and enjoy food separately.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate, Traverse City, MI.

Can I get a private or semi-private tour?
Yes, semi-private or private options may be available, offering a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
Groups over six are encouraged to book early for discounts, but the small group size keeps it personal and relaxed.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While mostly geared toward adults, the focus on wine tastings means it’s best suited for guests aged 21 and over.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, some extra cash for tastings, and an appetite for scenic views and good stories.