VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker

A Friendly Look at the VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting Experience

If you’re considering a day in the Ronda wine country, this VIP tour offers a blend of history, flavor, and scenic beauty. It promises a private, tailored experience that lets you explore two unique wineries, taste a selection of local wines, and enjoy a delicious three-course meal overlooking the vineyards. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to combine cultural insights with the pleasure of wine and good food.

What really catches our eye about this tour are two key aspects: first, the personal touch that comes with visiting small, family-run wineries and chatting directly with the winemakers. Second, the opportunity to relax and take in the breathtaking views of the Serrania de Ronda while sipping wine and enjoying a hearty lunch.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite structured in terms of timing, with a full-day commitment and a fixed schedule. If you prefer flexibility or are on a tight schedule, this might feel a bit curated. Also, it’s priced at over $400 per person, so you’ll want to consider if the value aligns with your expectations for a premium wine day.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a comprehensive, intimate wine experience, those who enjoy learning about local traditions, and anyone looking for a memorable day out with scenic views and gourmet food. It’s especially fitting if you’re keen on a guided, all-in-one outing rather than hopping between wineries on your own.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Conducted privately, only your group participates.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides and winemakers share insights about Ronda’s wine tradition.
• Scenic Journey: Drive through the stunning Serrania de Ronda mountain range, enjoying beautiful landscapes.
• Tasting & Food: Sample 2-3 wines at each winery, paired with local tapas and a three-course vineyard lunch.
• Historic Wineries: Visit a 16th-century convent turned winery and a hillside Cortijo with carved cellars.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Private transportation, all fees, and taxes are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Ronda Wine Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day begins with a pickup at your Marbella accommodation. The tour uses a comfortable 4WD Volkswagen Caravelle, perfect for a relaxed ride as you leave the coast behind. The drive takes you through the Serrania de Ronda mountain range, a landscape that’s as much a part of the experience as the wineries themselves. Expect winding roads, lush greenery, and panoramic views—an excellent way to set the mood for a full day of indulgence.

First Stop: The 16th Century Convent Winery

The first visit lands you at an old restored convent from the 16th century, a site that’s been transformed into a boutique winery. The owners will welcome you and explain their journey of restoring the ruin while preserving its original charm. You might find the barrel room intriguing, as it’s actually the old chapel with frescoes still visible on the walls—an atmospheric setting that adds an authentic touch to your tasting.

Here, the focus is on understanding the winemaking process in Ronda, which has a history of tradition and craftsmanship. After touring the winery, you’ll sit down for a guided tasting of their wines, complemented by local tapas on the terrace. The views of the Tajo gorge from this vantage point are truly stunning and make for a memorable backdrop.

The Second Winery: The Hillside Cortijo

Next, you head to a beautiful hillside Cortijo, a classic Spanish country house, which has its own unique charm. The owners and winemakers here will personally guide you through the cellars carved directly into the hillside, a fascinating feature that speaks to traditional methods. This more intimate visit allows for a deeper understanding of their winemaking techniques.

The tasting here is paired with a three-course meal, enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the vineyards—weather permitting, you might even get to hear some flamenco guitar from the owners, adding to the ambiance. The setting is relaxed yet refined, offering a true taste of Spanish hospitality.

An Unforgettable Afternoon

Throughout the day, you’ll be sipping free-flowing wines—usually 2 to 3 different kinds at each location—paired with carefully chosen tapas and a hearty lunch. Guests consistently rave about the flavor profiles of the wines and the quality of the food, with many describing the lunch as “superb” and the flavors “incredible.” One reviewer even mentioned the possibility of the hosts serenading with flamenco, which, if it happens, would be a delightful surprise.

End of the Day and Return

You’ll be driven back to your accommodation around 6 pm, with plenty of memories—and possibly a few bottles—of your day in Ronda. The reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guide Nicky, who creates a warm, engaging atmosphere and makes sure everyone feels included and informed. Travelers also appreciate the smooth logistics and the fact that all fees and taxes are covered upfront.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the price tag of roughly $415 per person might seem steep, it reflects the inclusiveness of the experience: private transportation, visits to two distinct wineries, tastings, a gourmet lunch, and a dedicated guide. This isn’t just about wine; it’s about the story behind it, the scenery, and the personal interactions with local winemakers.

Reviewers consistently mention the excellent guidance and the quality of the wines, which makes the cost worthwhile for those wanting a premium experience. The fact that the tour is private means your group can relax, ask questions, and enjoy the day at your own pace—something you often miss on larger, more commercial group tours.

Practical Considerations

• This tour involves about 8 hours of travel, so it’s best suited for those with a full day available.
• The tour is available with pickup from Marbella, which simplifies logistics and removes the stress of arranging transport.
• Be prepared for a day of standing, tasting, and walking around wineries—comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Since the experience is non-refundable, it’s worth booking only if your plans are firm.
• While not explicitly stated, the tour seems suitable for most travelers who are interested in wine and culture, but check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is primarily designed for adults who appreciate wine, food, and scenic drives. Since it involves tastings and a full-day itinerary, it’s less suited for young children or families with very young kids.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, all fees and taxes, guided tastings at two wineries, a three-course vineyard lunch with wines, and the company of a qualified wine guide.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit two wineries: one a historic convent turned winery and a hillside Cortijo with hillside cellars.

Is there enough wine for everyone?
Yes, guests mention that there is free-flowing wine throughout the day, typically 2 to 3 wines per stop, paired with tapas and lunch.

Can I customize or choose different timings?
The tour starts at 9:00 am, and the schedule is fixed. Since it is private, you might be able to discuss timing details directly with the provider, but the standard is a full-day experience.

What if it rains?
While the outdoor lunch and views are weather-dependent, wineries are indoors, and the guide will likely adapt the plan to ensure you still have a great experience.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting to explore Ronda’s wine heritage in a relaxed, intimate setting, this VIP tour offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll enjoy the beauty of the landscape, the stories behind traditional winemaking, and the pleasure of tasting some truly fine wines. The guided aspect means you won’t have to worry about navigating or making decisions—you just show up and enjoy.

It’s perfect for wine lovers, couples celebrating something special, or friends seeking a memorable day in Spain’s beautiful countryside. If you’re after a premium, hassle-free experience with authentic local charm, this tour hits all the right notes.

In short, this is a top-tier option for anyone wanting to learn about and taste Ronda’s wines while soaking in the stunning scenery—just be sure it fits your schedule and budget. It’s a full day of indulgence that many reviewers have found to be worth every euro.