Napa Valley’s Calistoga region offers a unique opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore its picturesque landscapes on two wheels. The Calistoga Cycling and Winery Tour provides a 6-hour adventure that combines scenic cycling, wine tasting, and a delightful picnic lunch. Participants can expect to cover 10-15 miles through vineyards and hills, while learning about grape varietals and honing their wine tasting skills. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, blending the region’s natural beauty with its renowned winemaking heritage.
This experience made our article of Discover 2 Great Wine Tours In Calistoga California.
Key Points
- A 6-hour guided cycling tour through the vineyards and rolling hills of Napa Valley, including visits to two wineries and a picnic lunch.
- Includes a "Grapes 101" class to develop wine tasting skills and enhance appreciation for the diverse characteristics of the wines sampled.
- Provides hybrid bikes, helmets, water, and a picnic lunch featuring fresh seasonal produce, artisanal breads, and regional cheeses.
- Not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility issues due to the cycling distance and terrain.
- Overall customer rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars based on 3 reviews, with a van transport option available in case of rain.
Overview of the Tour
The Calistoga Cycling and Winery Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the scenic back roads of Calistoga in Napa Valley while indulging in the region’s renowned wine tasting experiences.
Priced at $275 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a hybrid bike, helmet, water, picnic lunch, and guided visits to two local wineries. Participants will also enjoy a "Grapes 101" class to learn wine tasting techniques.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues. While it operates rain or shine, a van may be used instead of cycling if the weather is inclement.
Ready for another glass? Here are more wine experiences we've reviewed in Calistoga California
Cycling Through Calistoga’s Scenic Backroads
How better to experience the picturesque Calistoga region than by cycling its scenic backroads?
This guided tour takes you on a 10-15 mile journey through the area’s pastoral vineyards and rolling hills.
Pedal past charming farmhouses and historic landmarks as your knowledgeable local guide shares insights about the local culture and ecosystem.
Pedal past charming farmhouses and historic landmarks as your knowledgeable local guide shares insights about the local culture and ecosystem.
The hybrid bikes provided are comfortable and easy to maneuver, making this an accessible activity for cyclists of all skill levels.
Frequent stops allow you to take in the breathtaking vistas and snap photos to commemorate your Napa Valley cycling adventure.
Grapes 101: Learning Wine Tasting Techniques
As part of the tour, participants engage in a "Grapes 101" class to explore the fundamentals of wine tasting. Led by the knowledgeable local guides, the class covers the key aspects of wine evaluation, including:
| Appearance | Aroma | Taste | Structure |
|————|——-|——-|———–|
| Evaluate the wine’s color and clarity. | Identify primary aromas and detect nuances. | Assess the wine’s sweetness, acidity, tannins, and overall flavor profile. | Understand the wine’s body, alcohol content, and mouthfeel. |
The interactive session equips participants with the skills to appreciate the complex and diverse world of wine, setting the stage for the upcoming winery visits.
Country Picnic Lunch at a Winery
After the "Grapes 101" class, participants indulge in a country picnic lunch at one of the tour’s featured wineries.
The picnic provides a chance to savor the local flavors and scenery. Guests enjoy a spread of fresh, seasonal produce, artisanal breads, and regional cheeses.
They can relax at a table overlooking the vineyards as they continue their wine tasting. The leisurely lunch allows time to appreciate the nuances of the wines sampled earlier.
This midday break energizes participants for the remainder of the cycling and winery tour through Calistoga’s scenic Napa Valley.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Two Wineries for Tastings
The tour then visits two wineries, where participants have opportunities to engage in wine tastings.
This allows guests to:
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Learn the nuances of different grape varietals and winemaking techniques directly from the experts.
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Sample a range of the region’s renowned wines, from bold reds to crisp whites.
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Discover new favorite vintages and gain insider knowledge to inform future wine purchases.
These tastings are included in the tour package, providing an immersive educational experience for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike.
Visitors depart with a deepened appreciation for Calistoga’s celebrated wine culture.
Included Amenities and Considerations
Along With the wine tastings, the tour package includes several other amenities to enhance the experience. Participants will receive a hybrid bike and helmet for the 10-15 mile cycling portion. Unlimited water, a picnic lunch, and local guide services are also provided. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues. Weather conditions are covered, with a van option in case of rain. Lastly, participants should bring a valid ID or passport.
| Included Amenities | Details |
| — | — |
| Cycling Equipment | Hybrid bike, helmet |
| Sustenance | Picnic lunch, unlimited water |
| Guide Support | Knowledgeable local guides |
| Weather Coverage | Van transport option in rain |
| Required Documentation | Passport or ID card |
Weather and Refund Policy
Although the tour operates rain or shine, a van may be used instead of biking if it rains, with additional wineries included.
The tour company has a clear policy regarding weather-related conditions:
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No refunds will be provided for weather-related cancellations or changes.
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Participants should bring a passport or ID card, as these are required for the wine tastings.
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The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments, so it’s important to consider personal limitations before booking.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have provided mixed feedback on their experiences with the Calistoga Cycling and Winery Tour. Based on 3 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars.
Positive feedback highlights the smooth ride, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable lunch experiences.
However, some customers have raised concerns about the tour’s suitability for individuals with mobility issues.
While the weather-related policy of no refunds has also been a point of contention, the tour generally seems to offer a pleasant cycling and winery experience for those able to participate fully.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Bicycle on the Tour?
No, you can’t bring your own bicycle on this tour. The tour provides hybrid bikes, helmets, and other necessary equipment for participants. This is to ensure a smooth and safe cycling experience throughout the Napa Valley tour.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour isn’t suitable for children. It’s designed for adults and requires participants to be able to comfortably cycle 10-15 miles. Pregnant women and those with mobility issues also can’t join the tour.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Wine Tasting at Each Winery?
The tour includes opportunities for wine tasting at two wineries, though the exact time allocated for each tasting is not specified. Participants can expect to sample wines and learn about the winemaking process during their visits to the wineries.
What Types of Wines Are Typically Offered for Tasting?
The tour typically offers tastings of a variety of Napa Valley wines, including renowned cabernet sauvignons, chardonnays, and other popular local varietals. Participants can sample several wines at each winery to get a taste of the region’s offerings.
Is There an Option to Purchase Wine at the End of the Tour?
The tour includes wine tasting at the two wineries visited, but it doesn’t explicitly state whether there’s an option to purchase wine at the end of the tour. Participants would likely be able to buy wine to take home if they wish.
Final Words
The Calistoga Cycling and Winery Tour provides an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Napa Valley. Guests can enjoy a scenic bike ride, learn about wine tasting, and savor a delightful picnic lunch at a winery. With knowledgeable local guides, two winery visits, and stunning views, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity for wine enthusiasts to enjoy the region’s renowned vineyards and rich culinary heritage.
📍 This experience made our list of the 2 best Wine Tours in Calistoga California
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