NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour

Imagine a wine and cider tour that skips the noisy, cramped party buses and offers you a more refined, personalized experience. That’s exactly what the Non-Bus Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour promises. Instead of rubbing elbows on a clattering coach, you’ll ride in a sleek GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, guided by passionate connoisseurs who truly love what they do.

What sets this tour apart is the balance of comfort and expertise. You get high-quality tastings at four iconic wineries and cideries, all while soaking in the stunning views of Old Mission Peninsula. We especially appreciate how it caters to those who want a relaxed, VIP experience without sacrificing the depth of knowledge or quality of tastings.

A possible consideration is the price—at $199 per person, it’s a splurge, but one that many will find justified by the comfort, guidance, and quality of the experience. This tour is best suited for travelers who value authenticity, expert guidance, and a more intimate setting. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a day of refined tasting, this trip offers an excellent way to explore the region’s best.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Ride in a private SUV, not a party bus, for a more comfortable and personal experience
• Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable connoisseurs who enhance your understanding of ciders and wines
• Authentic Tasting Experience: Sample high-quality, love-made ciders and wines at four top wineries
• Flexible Scheduling: Options for day, sunset, or afternoon tours tailored to your preferences
• Small Groups: Typically 6-7 guests per vehicle, ensuring an intimate, VIP vibe
• Additional Perks: Groups of six or more receive a free bottle of wine, and local hotel drop-offs are available

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Unlike many tours that rely on old buses or generic shuttles, this experience begins at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City. Guests are greeted by luxury GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades, which immediately set the tone for a high-end experience. The fact that the vehicles are air-conditioned and spacious makes a noticeable difference, especially during warm summer days or cool evenings.

The private, semi-private nature of the tour—most groups of 6-7 guests—means you’ll never feel lost in a crowd. Plus, the emphasis on flexible pick-up and drop-off options, including local hotels, ensures that your day is as effortless as possible. You won’t have to walk miles to board or worry about driving afterward, which is a huge plus for those wanting to relax and enjoy.

The Wineries and Tastings

Your itinerary includes visits to four acclaimed wineries and cideries, each known for their top-tier products and scenic settings:

Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for their Raspberry and Cherry Ciders, plus award-winning wines, Hawthorne is a fun start, especially if you’re into fruit-forward drinks. Guests love trying the berry ciders, with one reviewer noting they’re “not your typical high fructose corn syrup drinks,” but instead crafted with care.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards: Depending on availability, you might sample a cider flight featuring Cherry, Blueberry, Peach, or Blackberry, along with some fine wines. The variety here allows you to compare fruit flavors and see how regional ingredients influence the final product.

Chateau Chantal: A scenic estate offering a diverse selection—from ciders and wines to spirits like brandy and vodka, plus beer. The variety provides a well-rounded tasting experience, and many guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides who help navigate these choices.

Brys Estate & Bonobo Winery: Home of the famed Lavender Cider, this stop is often highlighted as a highlight. The unique infusion adds a floral note many find delightful. As one guest put it, “You get the best of both worlds here—fantastic cider and a gorgeous view.”

Guided Expertise and Personal Touch

What truly elevates this tour is the expert guidance. Led by enthusiastic connoisseurs, including “Magic Mike,” the guides are fans of both wines and ciders, eager to share their knowledge. According to reviews, guests appreciate how guides offer personalized recommendations, making the experience educational and engaging rather than just sampling.

The small group setting fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. One reviewer remarked, “It felt like touring with friends who just happen to be experts,” which makes for a more genuine connection and deeper understanding of what you’re tasting.

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Scenic Views and Atmosphere

Traveling in luxury SUVs, you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy spectacular views of Old Mission Peninsula. Many of the stops are set against vineyards, rolling hills, or lakeside scenery, making the experience visually memorable. This is not just about the drinks—it’s about appreciating the landscape that influences the region’s flavorful products.

Additional Amenities

Guests can purchase additional wine, ciders, or snacks along the route. The tour includes flight samples and bottles, with extra food options available for purchase. Those who like to indulge a little more will find this flexibility valuable, especially if celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary.

Value for the Price

While $199 per person might seem steep, it’s worth considering what’s included: luxury transportation, expert guidance, personalized service, and visits to four top wineries. The small, semi-private groups ensure quality interaction, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to the overall value.

Compared to standard bus tours, the comfort and customization make this a genuinely upscale option. Reviews consistently mention the “VIP feel” and the “personalized recommendations,” which justify the price for those seeking a memorable, high-quality experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine and cider lovers who appreciate quality over quantity and prefer a more refined experience. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or those who simply want to enjoy Traverse City’s best without the chaos of crowded buses.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who value comfort, knowledgeable guides, and scenic beauty. If you’re someone who might find large tour buses overwhelming or prefers a more intimate setting, this tour hits the right note.

However, keep in mind the price point and the focus on tasting, so it might be less suitable for those on a tight budget or with only a casual interest in wine and cider.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This luxury, non-bus tour offers a distinctive way to experience Traverse City’s vibrant cider and wine scene. The emphasis on comfort, expert guidance, and genuine tastings make it stand out from more typical group tours. You’ll appreciate the chance to relax in style, learn from passionate guides, and see some of Michigan’s most beautiful vineyard scenery—all without the usual party bus chaos.

For travelers seeking an authentic, intimate, and well-curated experience, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for those celebrating a special event or simply wanting to elevate their tasting day with a touch of elegance.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-end, personalized taste of Traverse City’s best ciders and wines, this tour deserves a top spot on your itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
The tour focuses on tastings of wines, ciders, spirits, and snacks available for purchase. Guests with specific dietary needs should contact the tour provider in advance to see if accommodations are possible.

How long is the tour and what does it include?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours and includes visits to four wineries or cideries, expert-guided tastings, luxury transportation, and hotel pickup/drop-off options.

Can I join the tour with a small group or private booking?
Yes, private groups are available, and most bookings are for small groups of 6-7 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the best time of day to take this tour?
There are flexible scheduling options, including day, sunset, or afternoon tours, allowing you to pick the most scenic or convenient time for you.

Are food or additional drinks included?
Samples and flights are included in the tour. Extra food and beverages can be purchased at each stop; groups of 6 or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine.

Do I need to worry about driving afterward?
No. The tour includes hotel drop-offs and doesn’t require you to drive. You can enjoy your tastings without stress, and pick up more wine or cider later if you wish.

This tour offers a refined, relaxed way to savor Old Mission Peninsula’s finest ciders and wines. Whether you’re a serious connoisseur or someone eager to learn and enjoy in style, it’s a memorable way to taste Michigan’s best in a setting that’s as scenic as it is sophisticated.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby