Nojoqui Canyon Wine Country Tour with Optional Lunch

Exploring California’s Santa Barbara wine country on a guided electric-assist bike tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, local flavors, and active adventure. This particular tour takes you through charming towns, picturesque countryside, and the stunning Nojoqui Falls—all while enjoying tastings of excellent wines and a farm-to-table lunch. It’s a balanced experience that combines the outdoors, culinary delights, and a touch of leisure.

What we really like about this tour is its accessibility—easy-to-ride electric bikes make it suitable even for those with moderate fitness levels, and the small-group setting ensures a personalized experience. But, as with any outdoor activity, weather can be a consideration, so checking forecasts is advisable. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, tasty wine, and stunning natural views, all within a manageable 4 to 5 hours.

If you’re after a comprehensive day that highlights the best of Santa Barbara’s wine and natural scenery without the hassle of driving, this experience ticks many boxes. However, it’s important to note that it’s not suited for those seeking an intense cycling challenge or extensive hiking. Overall, it’s a delightful way to spend half a day with good company, great wine, and spectacular waterfalls.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of cycling, wine tasting, and sightseeing offers a well-rounded experience.
• Electric bikes provide easier pedaling, making this tour accessible for most fitness levels.
• Scenic stops like Nojoqui Falls and Solvang showcase California’s natural beauty and charming towns.
• Wine tasting at Folded Hills offers a curated flight of wines paired with a farm-to-table lunch, emphasizing local produce.
• Flexible itinerary with free cancellation adds peace of mind.
• Ideal for travelers who want authentic outdoor adventure combined with gourmet tasting in a small-group setting.

Starting Point and Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Orientation in Ballard

The tour kicks off at 10:00 AM from a shop in Ballard, where guides help you get fitted onto your bike. We loved the way the guides took time to familiarize everyone with their bikes—especially if opting for electric assist. The initial 20-minute warm-up around the quiet town is a relaxed start, giving you a chance to get comfortable on your steed.

From here, the ride is primarily on country roads, shaded by large oaks. The scenery immediately sets a peaceful tone, and the option to upgrade to electric bikes makes the ride accessible even for those who aren’t regular cyclists. The route feels gentle, with no steep climbs, focusing on enjoying the surroundings rather than challenging the legs.

Solvang: A Charming Detour

The journey progresses along Alamo Pintado Road, leading into Solvang, a town famous for its Danish architecture and boutique charm. You’ll spend about an hour here, wandering through streets lined with windmills, bakeries, and artisan shops. It’s a good spot for a quick photo or a break to soak in the Danish-inspired atmosphere before heading toward the vineyards.

Folded Hills Estate Tasting & Farm-to-Table Lunch

The highlight for many is the stop at Folded Hills Tasting Room at the Homestead. This estate is renowned for its award-winning wines and commitment to sustainable, farm-to-table principles. The guided wine flight is a true treat—reviewers mention the “excellent wine selection” and the knowledgeable hosts who make the tasting informative and fun.

The lunch here is a farm-to-table experience featuring locally sourced ingredients, including a delicious sandwich and a fresh side salad. The setting is idyllic, with views of vineyards and rolling hills, making this a memorable part of the day. One guest appreciated the “delicious food paired perfectly with the wines,” emphasizing how the pairing elevated the tasting experience.

Nojoqui Falls: Nature’s Hidden Gem

After a satisfying meal, the tour continues to Nojoqui Falls Park, about a 15-minute ride away. The highlight is the spectacular 160-foot waterfall that cascades off the mountainside. It’s a less-visited spot, which adds to its appeal as a peaceful retreat. The trail is accessible, and visitors can linger as long as they like. Guests have commented on the “breathtaking views” and the “calm, refreshing atmosphere” that the waterfall offers.

Return to Ballard

Once you’ve taken in the falls, it’s time to pedal back to the starting point. The return journey feels relaxed, with plenty of time to chat, reflect, or snap photos of the scenic countryside. The entire tour wraps up between 2-3 PM, leaving you refreshed and satisfied with your active, wine-filled adventure.

What’s Included and Practical Tips

The tour includes bike rental (with electric assist if chosen), a guided wine flight at Folded Hills, a farm-to-table lunch, private transportation for the shuttle segments**, and the waterfall visit. The meeting point is at 2449 Baseline Ave, Solvang, making it central and easy to find.

Bookings are flexible—free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance—providing peace of mind in case of weather concerns or schedule changes. The experience is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate, and the private group aspect means a more tailored experience.

For those wondering about the timing, the 4 to 5-hour duration balances activity with relaxation, making it manageable even for families or those with limited time. The price point of $100 per person offers good value, considering the inclusion of wine tastings, lunch, and guided cycling.

Authentic Experiences and Real Insights

One reviewer shared that the guides, whose names aren’t specified but are described as professional, are attentive and friendly, helping even nervous riders feel comfortable on the bikes. The small group size allows for personalized attention, and the stories about the wines and local history add depth to the tasting.

Guests particularly appreciated the stunning views at Nojoqui Falls and the quality of wines at Folded Hills. Many mentioned that the delicious, farm-fresh lunch was a highlight—paired perfectly with the wines, it offered a true taste of local produce.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed yet active day out. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic scenery, enjoy sampling local wines, and prefer small-group settings over large tours. It’s especially appealing if you want a taste of California’s natural beauty combined with gourmet food and wine without the hassle of self-driving.

However, if you’re after a rigorous cycling challenge or want to explore beyond the scenic spots, this might not be the best fit. Weather is a consideration, so sunny days will maximize enjoyment.

The Sum Up

The Nojoqui Canyon Wine Country Tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into Santa Barbara’s scenic, culinary, and vinicultural delights. Cycling on easy electric bikes through charming towns and farmland, tasting fantastic wines, and relaxing at a spectacular waterfall creates a memorable, multi-sensory experience. The inclusion of a farm-to-table lunch enhances the sense of authenticity and local flavor, making this a genuine taste of California’s wine country.

This tour is best for those who want a manageable, enjoyable adventure that combines gentle activity with gourmet indulgence. Its small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and stunning vistas make it a worthwhile choice for travelers looking to explore Santa Barbara’s natural and culinary treasures in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique day out, this experience delivers a mix of scenic beauty, great wines, and authentic local charm—sure to leave you with lasting memories.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or non-cyclists?
While designed for most travelers, the tour involves cycling on country roads, so children or non-cyclists should be comfortable with light activity and riding electric bikes. The pace is relaxed, but participants should be able to handle a moderate ride.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting around 10:00 AM and ending between 2 and 3 PM, including stops for wine tasting, lunch, and sightseeing.

Are electric bikes available?
Yes, electric-assist bikes are offered as an optional upgrade, making pedaling easier, especially on slight inclines or longer stretches.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers bike rental (with electric assist if chosen), guided wine tasting at Folded Hills, a farm-to-table lunch, and access to Nojoqui Falls Park. Private transportation is also part of the experience between stops.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, and if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour private or shared?
The experience is private, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a more personalized and comfortable trip.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers reserve about 18 days ahead, which helps secure your preferred date, especially during peak seasons.

This guided bike tour through Santa Barbara’s wine country offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, delicious local wine, and outdoor activity—all within a comfortable, manageable timeframe. It’s a fantastic way to experience the best of California’s wine and natural landscapes in an authentic, enjoyable way.