2 Day Wine Tour NON BUS Traverse City Wine Country 2 Peninsula

A Friendly Look at the 2 Day Wine Tour NON BUS Traverse City Wine Country 2 Peninsula

If you’ve ever dreamed of a relaxing, luxurious wine tasting experience without the chaos of crowded buses or rushed stops, this 2-day Traverse City wine tour might be just what you’re looking for. Designed for true wine lovers who want a more personalized, VIP vibe, this tour skips the party buses and embraces a more refined way to explore Michigan’s renowned wine country.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this experience are the expert guides—who are real wine connoisseurs themselves—and the luxury SUV transportation, which makes the journey smoothly comfortable. The other big plus? The stunning views of Lake Michigan and the picturesque vineyards that make this whole experience so visually appealing.

Now, a word of caution: this isn’t a budget tour, and the price of $299 per person reflects a more upscale, semi-private experience that values quality over quantity. If you’re someone who prefers rushing through quick stops or sharing space with large groups, this might not be the tour for you. However, if you’re after a more relaxed, authentic wine journey with knowledgeable guides, this tour could be exactly what you need.

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts who want to savor Michigan’s top wineries in style, appreciate expert guidance, and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of large, crowded bus tours. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a quieter, more refined way to spend a couple of days in Traverse City’s wine country.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Small groups, often 6–7 people, with most traveling in private SUVs, leading to a more intimate vibe.
• Expert guides: Guides are true wine enthusiasts, adding a layer of knowledge and good recommendations.
• Stunning scenery: Vineyards, Lake Michigan views, and panoramic vistas from high points like Chateau Chantal.
• Flexibility in tastings: You can buy flights, glasses, or bottles at each winery, with the tour including wine samples.
• No party bus: The luxury SUV experience offers comfort, privacy, and a relaxed pace, unlike typical large tour buses.
• Flexibility and customization: Wineries are selected based on availability, weather, and special events, keeping the experience fresh.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The tour spans two days, exploring both the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. It kicks off around 10:30 AM each day, giving travelers plenty of time to indulge in tastings, enjoy the scenery, and chat with guides who genuinely love sharing their knowledge.

Day 1: Old Mission Peninsula

The first day is packed with some of Traverse City’s most iconic wineries. The stops include:

Hawthorne Vineyards:
We loved the chance to sample some of the best reds and whites in the area. The vibe here is laid-back, and you can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles. Plus, if you’re interested, you can join the wine club during your visit, which is a nice touch for those wanting more than just a tasting.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards:
Established in 1991, this spot is one of the original wineries in Traverse City. It’s located on a historic estate that used to be a horse farm. The setting is charming, and the wines are well-regarded. Guests often mention the friendly staff and the chance to savor a variety of wines in a relaxed setting.

Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room:
Perched atop a high point on Old Mission Peninsula, this winery offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and surrounding vineyards. The reviews mention that the view alone makes this stop worthwhile, and the wine tasting is complemented perfectly by the scenery.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery:
This one is a clear favorite—voted as one of Michigan’s Top Ten wineries, thanks in part to the “Froze” drink, which surprises many visitors. Guests love the friendly atmosphere and the high-quality wines. It’s a place that tends to leave a lasting impression.

Bonobo Winery:
Known for wines “you can’t wait to brag about,” Bonobo has a fun, energetic vibe. Guests often feel like movie stars here, thanks to the friendly service and unique wines. It’s the perfect spot to wrap up the first day.

The day winds down with a scenic view of Grand Traverse Bay, a long arm of Lake Michigan, offering postcard-perfect moments for photos and reflection.

Day 2: Leelanau Peninsula

The second day explores the northern neighbor, with stops designed to highlight the best of Leelanau’s vineyards.

Shady Lane Cellars:
Guests rave about tasting some of the best wines on the Leelanau Peninsula here. The vineyard has a welcoming atmosphere, and the guides often emphasize the quality of the wines and the beautiful setting.

Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate:
Perched at the highest point of the peninsula, Rove Winery offers spectacular views of the vineyards and beyond. The guides often mention that the selection of wines here is top-notch, and the setting is ideal for savoring a glass or two.

Black Star Farms Old Mission Winery:
A well-known location in the area, Black Star Farms is celebrated for both its wines and its farm-to-table approach. The reviews note that it’s a must-visit stop, with knowledgeable staff and beautiful surroundings.

Ciccone Vineyard & Winery:
This stop is a favorite for wine fans, offering a chance to taste locally loved wines. Guests comment on how the guides pick wineries based on availability and weather, keeping the experience fresh and adaptable.

Both days are carefully curated, with the wineries chosen to ensure quality and variety, with no rushed stops. The tours run until about 3:30 PM, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy.

What To Expect from the Experience

Traveling in a luxury SUV makes the journey comfortable and private. Each vehicle is well-appointed, with air-conditioning and enough space to stretch out. The guides are not just drivers; they are wine aficionados who offer insights into the wines, the vineyards, and local history, transforming a simple tasting into an educational experience.

The group size is small, usually around 6-7 people, which means you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. If you’re in a small group, you might even have a semi-private vehicle, adding to the VIP feel.

Taste-wise, you’re primarily sampling wines at four wineries each day. You can buy flights, glasses, or bottles directly from the wineries—sometimes you’ll want to take a few bottles home after discovering new favorites. While the tour covers tastings, food and additional purchases are extra, so budget accordingly.

The timing is quite relaxed. Starting around 10:30 AM and ending around 3:30 PM each day, there’s plenty of time to savor each stop without feeling rushed. Plus, the scenic views—from vineyard horizons to Lake Michigan—are a highlight that makes the experience special.

Authentic Guides Make the Difference

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides. They’re U of M and MSU grads, passionate about wine and the local area, and eager to enhance your visit with insider tips. One reviewer noted that the guides are “wine enthusiasts, Wine Experts,” which really elevates the experience beyond just tastings.

Flexibility and Customization

Since wineries are chosen based on availability and weather, your guides are flexible and aim to give you the best experience possible. Whether you’re interested in reds, whites, or specific varieties, they’re happy to recommend options suited to your tastes.

Price and Value Analysis

At $299 per person, this tour leans toward the premium end for wine tours. However, when you consider that it includes luxury transportation, expert guides, and visits to five of Michigan’s top wineries, the value adds up. You’re avoiding transportation hassles and potentially costly taxis or rideshare fees, plus gaining insight from guides who are genuine wine lovers.

Compared to traditional bus tours, which might be rushed or less personal, this VIP approach offers a more relaxed, tailored experience. The small-group setting and private SUVs mean you’re not just another face in a crowd—it’s more about quality than quantity.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a more refined, personal tasting adventure. It’s perfect if you value expert guidance, scenic beauty, and comfort. Casual wine drinkers might find the focus a bit intense, but those genuinely interested in exploring Michigan wines will love the chance to learn and taste in style.

Travelers seeking a stress-free, scenic, and educational experience will find this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who appreciates good wine and great views.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour is done in a luxury SUV, and transportation is included. You won’t need to worry about driving or navigating between wineries.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely. You can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles at each winery. These are not included in the tour price and are paid separately.

What about food?
Food is not included in the tour, but most wineries offer snacks or food options at extra cost if you wish to purchase.

Is it suitable for small groups?
Yes, most groups are 6–7 people, with the possibility of having your own private vehicle, which adds to the VIP feel.

What is the tour duration?
Each day runs from roughly 10:30 AM to about 3:30 PM, giving you plenty of time at each stop and for enjoying the scenery.

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

Final Thoughts

The 2 Day Wine Tour NON BUS Traverse City experience offers a blend of comfort, expertise, and stunning scenery that just can’t be found on larger, rushed tours. It’s a fantastic choice for those who truly want to savor Michigan’s wine country without the noise and chaos of party buses.

With knowledgeable guides and VIP-style transportation, you’re set to enjoy the vineyards, learn about local wines, and soak in the views at a relaxed pace. It’s an intimate, high-quality way to turn a weekend into a memorable wine adventure, especially suited for couples or small groups who value personalized service and authentic experiences.

If you’re after a smooth, scenic, wine-filled couple of days where you can truly appreciate Michigan’s vineyards, this tour is definitely worth considering.