If you’re after a unique way to explore California’s stunning Monterey Peninsula, a tour in a vintage 1970 VW bus might just be your perfect fit. This experience promises a relaxed, nostalgic ride paired with tastings from some of the region’s best wineries—an authentic and fun way to spend half a day in Carmel Valley.
What we love about this tour are three things in particular: the vintage charm of “The Sweet Pickle”, the chance to sample award-winning California wines, and the scenic drive through Carmel Valley. That said, some travelers might find the price point of $139 per person slightly steep, especially considering tasting fees aren’t included. Still, if you’re seeking a laid-back, Instagram-worthy experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour hits the sweet spot.
This experience suits those who love a dash of nostalgia, enjoy wine, and appreciate small-group settings. It’s also a great pick for travelers wanting a memorable way to explore local wineries without the hassle of driving themselves.
Key Points
- Charming Vintage Ride: Travel in a well-maintained 1970 VW bus, adding a nostalgic vibe to your day.
- Scenic Journey: The drive through Carmel Valley offers beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Wine Tasting Focus: Visit 3 carefully selected tasting rooms featuring wines from near the California coast.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to just 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized and friendly atmosphere.
- Flexible & Convenient: Hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off included within a designated area.
- Price & Value: $139 per person, exclusive of tasting fees, offering a memorable experience worth the investment.
The Allure of a Vintage VW Bus Experience
From the moment you see the bright green VW bus called “The Sweet Pickle,” you know this isn’t your average wine tour. The vehicle is in excellent condition, spotless and full of character, which instantly sets a relaxed, fun tone. The driver, whose name we’d love to reveal but can’t, is not only a safe and capable guide but also a source of local insights and good humor.
The 25-minute scenic ride to Carmel Valley is a highlight in itself. We loved the way the vintage bus added a layer of charm, making the journey part of the adventure rather than just transportation. The windows provide great views of rolling vineyards, lush hills, and the lush landscape of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA.
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What’s Included and What’s Not
For $139, you’re paying for the experience, transportation, and a bit of local insight. The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or Airbnb within the designated area, making logistics simple. Bottled water is also provided, which is a thoughtful touch after wine tastings. However, tasting room fees are not included, so budget for that separately.
The Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Itinerary
The tour begins with your pickup at one of six convenient locations—Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Del Monte Forest, Pacific Grove, Carmel Valley, or Seaside. Once aboard the vintage VW, you’ll enjoy a short scenic drive before arriving at Carmel Valley.
Stop 1: Scenic Drive (25 minutes)
This initial leg is all about soaking in the lush, green landscape. The open-air feeling of the bus makes it easy to snap photos and feel truly immersed in the surroundings.
Stop 2: Carmel Valley
Once at the village, you’ll visit three different wine tasting rooms—each showcasing wines crafted from grapes grown near the coast. The emphasis is on award-winning wines, often from local wineries primarily situated in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. Guests report that the wine store owners and managers are welcoming and caring, making the tastings enjoyable and educational.
Stop 3: Return Journey (25 minutes)
After your tastings, you’ll hop back into the VW bus and return to your hotel or Airbnb. The entire experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, balancing time between travel, tastings, and sightseeing.
Authentic and Engaging Experiences
One memorable quote from a reviewer states, “The driver was so fun and very informative,” highlighting that guides aren’t just there to ferry you around—they enrich the experience with local knowledge and personality. Guests are shown many points of interest during the drive, which can help plan future visits or give context to the wines sampled.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Wine Tasting Venues
While the specific wineries aren’t named, reviews describe the venues as friendly, informative, and accommodating. One guest noted that the third stop featured a talented musician who was adaptable to guest requests, adding a layer of entertainment that made the visit more memorable.
The Experience’s Best Features
The Vintage VW Bus: Not just transportation, but a social and visual highlight. Guests frequently comment on how clean and charming the bus is, making for great photo ops and a fun start to the day.
The Scenic Drive: The gentle rolling hills, vineyards, and coastal views seen along the way are what make this tour stand out. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the landscape without the stress of driving.
Small Group Size: Limiting the tour to six participants ensures everyone gets personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and engage with the guide.
Wine Quality: From reviews, it’s clear that the wines tasted are of high quality—many guests remark on the excellent selection and the friendliness of the wine shop owners.
Things to Keep in Mind
While the tour offers a charming experience, there are a few considerations. The price of $139 does not include tasting fees, which can add up, so budget accordingly. It’s also not suitable for those with mobility issues or those who prefer not to be in small, intimate groups. The tour takes place rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather.
Guests are asked to bring their driver’s license, wear comfortable clothes, and carry personal medication if needed. Smoking, vaping, bikes, and alcohol outside of tastings are prohibited on the bus, ensuring a safe and respectful environment.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate nostalgic charm and want a relaxed, small-group outing. Wine lovers, particularly those new to tastings or looking for a laid-back, friendly environment, will find this tour ideal. It’s also great for those wanting a photo-worthy ride and scenic views without the hassle of navigating or driving.
It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking a more structured or educational wine tour. But for anyone wanting to combine scenic drives, a vintage vehicle, and quality wines, this tour hits the mark.
The Sum Up
The Carmel Valley Village wine tasting tour in a vintage VW bus offers a memorable twist on exploring California’s wine country. The charming vehicle, coupled with scenic vistas and friendly wine tastings, makes for a relaxed and personalized experience. The small-group setting ensures intimacy, while the focus on local, award-winning wines guarantees quality.
This tour is best suited for those craving a laid-back, authentic experience that combines the joy of vintage style and the pleasure of discovering local wines. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who want a fun, Instagram-worthy adventure that balances scenic beauty with wine appreciation.
While the price might seem steep considering tasting fees are extra, many guests find the experience’s overall charm, guides, and scenery well worth the investment. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a fun day out, this tour offers a genuine taste of Carmel Valley’s wine scene in a uniquely vintage way.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off within the designated area, making it easy to join without additional transport arrangements.
What should I bring on the tour?
You should bring your driver’s license, comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, and personal medication if needed.
Are tasting fees included?
No, tasting room fees are not included in the ticket price, so you should budget separately for tastings at each winery.
Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers a “reserve now & pay later” option, allowing you to book without immediate payment to keep your plans flexible.
Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
This experience is primarily designed for adults, especially those interested in wine tasting and vintage vehicle rides. It’s not suitable for children or non-drinkers.
How long does the tour last?
Expect around 4.5 hours total, including travel time, tastings, and scenic stops.
What’s the group size?
Limited to 6 participants, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience.
Is the tour weather dependent?
The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly for the weather, especially since parts of the drive are scenic outdoor experiences.