Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour w/Lunch

Experience Santa Barbara’s Wine Country on Two Wheels

Imagine cycling through vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields, all with your favorite people or just a small, private group. For about five hours at a cost of $175 per person, the Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour offers a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy Santa Barbara’s beautiful landscape. Led by friendly guides, this tour combines scenic cycling, local tastings, and a delicious farm-to-table lunch, making it an appealing choice for those who love good food, wine, and a bit of adventure.

What we particularly like about this tour is how well it balances activity with leisure—you get plenty of time to soak in the views without feeling rushed. The inclusion of olive oil and lavender tastings adds a sensory dimension that’s often overlooked in wine-focused outings, and the personalized nature (limited to your group) makes it feel more like a day spent among friends than a big bus tour.

One consideration is the cycling aspect—although the tour is designed to be accessible and guided in a way that makes riding manageable, you should be comfortable on a bike and prepared for some gentle hills. It’s also worth noting that, depending on the day, some farm stops like lavender pressing might be unavailable, which could slightly change the experience.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, authentic farm experiences, and intimate group settings. If you’re interested in learning about local agriculture, sampling diverse products, and enjoying stunning scenery on two wheels, this experience is likely to hit the mark.

Key Points

• Personalized small-group experience ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Includes wine, olive oil, and lavender tastings—a sensory-rich experience.
• Beautiful scenery paired with engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides.
• Farm-to-table picnic lunch adds a delicious, local touch.
• Flexible options for dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
• Comfortable bikes and support are provided, though some reviews mention bike quality can vary.

A Deep Dive into the Santa Barbara Wine Country Bike Tour

Starting in Santa Ynez: The Charming Gateway

Your journey begins in Santa Ynez, a picturesque town brimming with character. Arriving at the tour shop around 10:00 AM, you’ll be greeted by guides who’ll fit you to your bike — a process that feels straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with cycling. The guides’ goal is to make sure everyone is comfortable, and as one reviewer noted, “Scott was very nice and knowledgeable,” setting a friendly tone for the day.

The initial stroll around Santa Ynez offers a gentle introduction. You get your bearings, learn how the bikes handle, and enjoy a taste of small-town charm. The fact that the tour is private or limited to your group creates a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for chatting and absorbing the local vibe.

Pedaling Through History and Nature

Next, you’ll pedal down a stunning country road heading toward Los Olivos, a well-known hub for wine and olive oil. The highlight here is the Neverland Ranch, the former residence of Michael Jackson, which adds a touch of pop culture history to the countryside. The hour-long stop allows you to appreciate the views of the San Rafael mountains while hearing stories from your guide.

This part of the ride is especially appreciated by those who love the combination of nature and a little local lore. As one traveler shared, “Beautiful bike ride through breathtaking views,” which accurately captures the scenery’s appeal. The biking is described as manageable, with guides adjusting for comfort, making it suitable even for those not seasoned cyclists.

Tasting Local Olive Oil and Lavender

The tour’s emphasis on local products shines at the Olive Oil Tasting in Los Olivos, a quaint town that’s perfect for wandering. Here, you’ll learn how olive oil is pressed, and sample different varieties—an experience that delights the senses. One guest called it “super cute and delicious,” highlighting the charming, authentic feel of this stop.

Following that, a visit to Clairmont Farms offers a fragrant journey into lavender pressing. For approximately 30 minutes, you’ll learn how fresh lavender is transformed into oil, and get to stroll through the family-owned farm. The aroma alone makes this stop memorable, and many find it adds a calming, almost meditative, layer to the day.

Savoring a Farm-to-Table Lunch and Fine Wines

The highlight for many is the lunch at Lincourt Vineyards, a family-owned biodynamic winery. For over an hour and fifteen minutes, you’ll enjoy a catered farm-to-table meal paired with a flight of local wines. The quality of the food and wine is often praised—several reviews mention that the wines are “super cute and delicious,” and the lunch provides a hearty, satisfying break from cycling.

This winery stop is particularly valued for its personalized service. Unlike large, commercial wineries, Lincourt offers a more intimate tasting experience, often described as “friendly” and “knowledgeable,” allowing you to learn about their sustainable practices and family history.

The Ride Back and Final Impressions

After lunch, the ride back to Santa Ynez is a gentle cruise, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights and tastes. The scenery remains stunning, and many appreciate the flexible, easy pace as a perfect way to wind down.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Mike and Scott are a big part of what makes this tour stand out. Their knowledge, friendliness, and patience shine through, making the day both educational and enjoyable. One reviewer said, “The guide was very friendly, pleasant and patient,” which sums up the overall tone.

Most travelers find the cost worthwhile, especially considering the all-inclusive tastings, lunch, and scenic cycling. Some mention minor issues, such as bike quality, but overall, the value is high for this personalized experience that combines physical activity with cultural and tasting highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adventurous foodies and wine lovers who want more than just a tasting room visit. If you enjoy cycling in scenic surroundings and prefer learning about local agriculture firsthand, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate small-group intimacy and authentic farm experiences.

While the tour is accessible to many, those uncomfortable on bikes or with mobility issues might find parts of the ride challenging. The support and guidance aim to make the cycling manageable, but a basic level of fitness or bike experience helps.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone looking to combine outdoor activity with culinary delights, the Wine Country Farm to Table Bike Tour offers a well-rounded experience. The combination of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and local tastings makes it a memorable way to spend a day in Santa Barbara’s wine country.

The small-group setting fosters a personal connection with the land and the people behind the products, making it ideal for travelers who want a deeper, more authentic experience. The inclusion of olive oil, lavender, and wine tastings, along with the farm-to-table lunch, ensures you leave with a full belly and a head full of stories.

If you’re seeking a leisurely, engaging day that balances activity, education, and relaxation, this tour is a strong choice. It offers good value for the experience, and reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides and beautiful surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately five hours, starting at 10:00 AM and ending back at the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
You get bike rental, professional guide, wine tasting, olive oil tasting, lavender farm visit, a farm-to-table lunch, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be provided if advised at booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is designed for those comfortable on bikes, so younger or less experienced riders should consider their comfort level.

What about bike quality?
Most guests find the bikes comfortable, but a few reviews mention inconsistent quality. The tour provides bike support, and guides help ensure everyone’s safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s limited to your group only, which enhances the personalized feel.

What if some of the farms are closed?
Occasionally, stops like the lavender farm might be unavailable, but guides will substitute or adjust the itinerary to maximize your experience.

How physically demanding is the ride?
The route is designed to be manageable with some gentle hills. Being comfortable on a bike is recommended, but guides do their best to support and pace the group.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers plan about 18 days ahead for this popular tour, especially during peak seasons.

Embark on this guided bike tour if you’re eager to explore Santa Barbara’s breathtaking scenery, savor local flavors, and enjoy a personalized, well-rounded day in the countryside. It’s an adventure that combines the joy of cycling with the pleasure of tasting and learning about some of California’s finest farm products.