From Mattituck: North Fork Area Bike Tour with Food Tasting

A relaxed, flavor-filled journey through Long Island’s North Fork

This bike tour around the North Fork area offers a delightful blend of scenic riding, local wine tastings, and artisanal food experiences. While it’s not a strenuous adventure—covering around 12 to 15 miles—what makes it stand out is the way it combines nature, culture, and cuisine in a single, well-organized outing. What we love most is the opportunity to enjoy the area’s scenic landscapes at a leisurely pace, with plenty of stops to indulge in tastings and explore charming local spots.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour might be less suitable for those with mobility challenges, as it involves cycling and some walking. The experience is best suited to travelers looking for a relaxed, food-and-wine-focused day that offers authentic taste of North Fork’s local products. If you enjoy outdoor activities combined with gourmet sampling, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Scenic and leisurely: Ideal for those wanting a relaxed pace amidst beautiful North Fork scenery.
• Authentic local flavors: Includes wine tastings, artisanal products, and fresh farm stand produce.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Professional photography included: All candid photos taken during the day are available for free download.
• Flexible options and support: Choices include single or tandem bikes, with optional upgrades like e-bikes and village-style lunches.
• Educational and engaging: Guided by knowledgeable local guides sharing facts about the area, wines, and foods.

Exploring the North Fork Bike Tour in Detail

The Basics: what you can expect

This 5-hour guided tour is designed to give you a taste of the North Fork’s best — its vineyards, charming shops, and local produce. Starting at the East End Bike Tours store at 13000 Main Rd, the experience is capped at just 10 participants, which creates an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The tour price of $139 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: bikes, helmets, tastings, a support vehicle, and professional photos.

The ride covers approximately 12 to 15 miles, a distance manageable for most riders with average fitness. You’ll have the choice between a single hybrid bike or a tandem, allowing couples or friends to enjoy the trip side-by-side. The pace is gentle, highlighting the natural beauty and laid-back vibe of the North Fork region.

The itinerary: a taste of local life

Start at 13000 Main Rd — here, your guide, an experienced local, sets the tone for the day, sharing intriguing facts about the area’s history and wine scene. From this point, the tour takes you through North Fork’s scenic landscapes, with your first stop at New Suffolk Beach for a food tasting session lasting around 30 minutes. Expect to sample local treats and take in lovely views of the Peconic Bay — a great way to start the day with fresh, seaside flavors.

Next, you’ll head to a secret stop — a lesser-known local market or farm stand that offers a selection of baked goods, fresh produce, and flowers. Here, you can purchase souvenirs or indulge in homemade jams and pies. Guests often praise these authentic stops, describing them as “a real glimpse into North Fork’s farming roots.”

The tour then continues with visits to a boutique vineyard, a highlight for wine lovers. The vineyard is described as charming, and you’ll enjoy tasting a selection of wines while overlooking the grapevines. The guide provides insights into local wine production, making this part both fun and educational. Many reviews mention the “excellent wine selection” and the “beautiful setting,” making it a memorable highlight.

Another key feature is fruit picking at an orchard — a hands-on experience that allows guests to gather fresh fruit, adding a true farm-to-table element to the day. It’s a chance to connect directly with the land and enjoy picking seasonal produce.

The tour also includes olive oil tastings overlooking the Peconic Bay, where you can sample bold and subtle flavors in a relaxed, scenic environment. A visit to a chocolate boutique, using handcrafted, locally sourced ingredients, is also included, with guests raving about the “delicious chocolates” and the “fun tasting experience.”

Throughout the day, chilled water keeps you refreshed, and a support vehicle is available to assist with any purchases or if someone needs a break. This thoughtful detail ensures that the experience remains comfortable and flexible.

Highlights and special stops

• Vineyard visit: Expect a warm welcome, beautiful vines, and a range of wines to taste. The guide shares stories about local wine production, adding depth to the tasting.
• Farm stands: Authentic stops where you can buy freshly made jams, baked goods, and seasonal produce—perfect for souvenirs or snacks.
• Fruit orchard: An engaging, hands-on experience that adds a fresh, farm-fresh element.
• Olive oil and chocolate tastings: Unique tasting experiences that emphasize the region’s artisanal products.
• Love Lane: A stroll down this charming street offers a chance to browse quaint shops and pick up handcrafted items, baked goods, and flowers.

Practical considerations: what travelers should know

The tour is designed for a small group, creating a more personal experience. The inclusion of professional photos — free downloads after the tour — is a nice bonus, capturing your candid moments without the need for selfies or selfies-stick frustration.

While the ride is leisurely, it does involve cycling, so participants should be comfortable on a hybrid bike. The optional upgrades, such as e-bikes or a village-style lunch, provide extra comfort and indulgence for those who want to elevate their experience.

Note: The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and participants should have a reasonable level of mobility. The tour timing varies based on availability, so it’s important to check the start times when booking.

Value for money

At $139 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines cycling, tastings, and sightseeing. The inclusion of professional photos, guided commentary, and support vehicle makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting to explore the North Fork in a relaxed, engaging way. Comparing this to similar experiences, it offers good value considering the quality and variety of stops—especially for food and wine enthusiasts seeking authentic, local flavors.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This bike tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor, leisurely activities combined with culinary delights. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a relaxed day exploring North Fork’s scenic beauty and artisanal culture. Food and wine lovers will appreciate the authentic tastings, while those interested in local farming and small businesses will find plenty to love.

Because it’s a guided experience with a small group, it’s also suited for travelers who prefer more personalized attention and storytelling. However, those with limited mobility or who prefer a less active outing might need to consider other options or assess their comfort level with cycling.

The Sum Up

This North Fork Bike Tour with Food Tasting offers a genuinely authentic way to experience Long Island’s famed wine country and local artisanal food scene. With a focus on scenic views, delicious tastings, and charming stops, it delivers a well-rounded, memorable day for those who love combining outdoor activity with culinary exploration. The small group setting and professional photography add value, making it feel special without being overly exclusive or expensive.

If you’re after a laid-back but flavorful adventure that showcases North Fork’s best, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for lovers of wine, fresh produce, and artisan foods who want a taste of the region’s genuine charm.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability. It’s designed to be a relaxed experience, allowing plenty of time at each stop.

Are bicycles included?
Yes, the price includes either a single hybrid bike or a tandem bike, along with a helmet. You can choose your preferred option at booking.

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is geared towards adults and older teens comfortable with cycling a moderate distance. It might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and any personal items you might need. Water is provided, but you may want to carry a small bag for purchases or extra snacks.

Are there optional upgrades?
Yes, you can opt for e-bikes, a village-style catered lunch, or additional wine tastings and fruit picking for an extra fee.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later.

Is transportation provided?
The tour begins and ends at the East End Bike Tours store, with a support vehicle available along the route for assistance or to carry purchases.

This North Fork bike tour balances scenic beauty, authentic local flavors, and relaxed exploration—perfect for those who want to enjoy the best of Long Island’s wine country without any rush.