PRIVATE NON BUS Traverse Old Mission Wine Distillery Tour

Exploring Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula with the Private Non-Bus Wine & Distillery Tour

Planning a wine adventure around Traverse City? This private tour offers a refined, personalized experience that skips the chaos of party buses. Instead, you get to enjoy the scenic views, sip on wines from four different wineries and distilleries, and be guided by knowledgeable wine enthusiasts—all in a comfortable, luxury SUV. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups who crave a more intimate and upscale tasting day.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines luxury, flexibility, and expert guidance with the breathtaking scenery of East and West Bays. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group experience means you won’t be sharing your day with strangers or loud music—just your friends, wine, and the view. One thing to keep in mind is the higher price point, which reflects the quality and exclusivity of this experience. It’s ideal for travelers who value comfort and personalized service over mass-market tours.

This tour would suit wine lovers who want to explore at their own pace, those celebrating special occasions, or small groups eager for a VIP experience without the party bus vibe. If you’re after a laid-back, stylish way to enjoy Michigan’s wine country, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Private, luxury SUV experience with expert guides focused on wine knowledge.
• Visit 4 iconic wineries/distilleries on Old Mission Peninsula, including Hawthorne, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Brys Estates, and Bonobo.
• Stunning views of East and West Bays en route to the wineries, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Flexible scheduling with options for a daytime or sunset tour, both starting from downtown Traverse City.
• Cost reflects exclusivity—up to 7 people per group, with tiered pricing that includes wine samples.
• No noisy party bus—a semi-private, relaxed environment that allows for conversation and discovery.
• Includes a free bottle of wine for groups of 6 or more, adding extra value.
• Tour guides are real wine connoisseurs, not just drivers, providing tailored recommendations and insights.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City.

The Details of the Traverse Old Mission Peninsula Private Wine Tour

While this experience is a 4.5-hour adventure, the real magic lies in how smoothly it flows. Your day begins with a pickup around 10:30 AM for the daytime tour or 3:30 PM for the sunset experience from the Hardy Street Parking Structure. From there, your chauffeur—who is also a seasoned wine guide—takes you in a luxury GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or soon a Cadillac Escalade. The vehicles are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather outside.

The Itinerary and Wineries

The tour visits four wineries or distilleries, with some flexibility based on your preferences. Most guests will enjoy stops at Hawthorne, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Brys Estates, and Bonobo. There’s also potential to visit Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, or Old Mission Distillers, based on your guide’s recommendations and availability.

Each stop has its charm. For example, Hawthorne is known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent variety of wines, including some unique blends. Bowers Harbor Vineyards offers picturesque vineyards and a cozy tasting room, perfect for snapping photos. Brys Estates is celebrated for its elegant wines and beautiful estate views, while Bonobo stands out for its innovative approach and vibrant tasting room.

What to Expect at Each Winery

Expect to sample a variety of wines, including flights and splashes, with knowledgeable guides offering recommendations based on your taste preferences. Remember, wines and tastings are included in the price, but food and additional bottles are extra. Guests have mentioned that the wine samples are generous enough for a true tasting experience, often giving you a better sense of each winery’s signature styles.

One reviewer pointed out how the guides “know their wines inside out,” making the tasting more engaging and insightful. They also appreciate how the guides are friendly, professional, and law enforcement/military friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.

The Views and Atmosphere

Traveling in a private SUV means you’ll get to see stunning views of East and West Bays—a highlight for many travelers. The scenery is spectacular, especially during the late afternoon or sunset tour, when the light hits the water just right. Many guests commented on how memorable it was to enjoy wine tasting while gazing at such beautiful vistas, all without the noise and chaos of larger group tours.

Value and Flexibility

The tiered pricing structure (starting at $369 for 2 people) reflects the premium experience. For small groups, it’s an investment in comfort, personalized service, and exclusive access. Larger groups of 6-7 people can split costs, which makes it a good value considering the private nature of the tour and the inclusion of a free bottle of wine.

This tour’s flexibility and private setting make it suitable for special occasions, like anniversaries or small celebrations—anything where a touch of luxury elevates the experience.

Why This Tour is a Great Choice

We see this experience as a perfect fit for travelers who prefer a quiet, refined wine day over the energetic, noisy party bus options. The guided aspect adds value, especially for those who want expert insight along with tastings. The private SUV provides a level of comfort and privacy that many large tours can’t offer, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking intimacy.

On top of that, the stunning water views enrich the experience, creating memorable photos and a relaxed vibe. The fact that the guides are local, knowledgeable, and friendly enhances the authenticity and enjoyment of the day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

• Couples celebrating a special occasion
• Small groups wanting a private, VIP experience
• Wine enthusiasts eager for expert guidance
• Travelers who appreciate scenic drives and water views
• Those who dislike loud, crowded party tours but still want a fun day

Final Thoughts

This private, non-party bus wine tour on Old Mission Peninsula offers more than just tastings; it’s a carefully curated journey through Michigan’s wine country in style. The luxury SUV, expert guides, and focus on personal experience make it stand out from typical group tours. If you’re after quality over quantity, privacy over crowds, and stunning views to enrich your tasting day, this tour delivers.

While it doesn’t include food or additional bottles, the focus on wine samples, expert guidance, and scenic drives makes it a worthwhile splurge. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, personalization, and authentic local insights over the hustle and bustle.

Whether celebrating, enjoying a romantic escape, or simply wanting to experience Michigan’s wine region in style, this tour offers a memorable, hassle-free way to savor the best of Old Mission Peninsula.

FAQ

Is this tour private for my group?
Yes, it is a private tour for up to 7 guests, ensuring an exclusive experience with no strangers.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers wine samples and tastings, as well as transportation in a luxury SUV. Food and additional bottles are extra.

Can I buy bottles or merchandise during the tour?
Absolutely. You can purchase flights, bottles, glasses, growlers, cases, and merchandise at the wineries.

What is the pickup location?
Pickup is at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City, near Middlecoast Brewery.

Are there options for a sunset or daytime tour?
Yes, there are both options, with start times at 10:30 AM for the day tour and 3:30 PM for the sunset tour.

Is the tour suitable for someone under 21?
No, the tour is not suitable for those under 21, as alcohol consumption is part of the experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, providing ample time for multiple tastings and scenic views.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
The tour details don’t specify accessibility, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if needed.

What about cancellation?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your planning.

To sum it up, this private Old Mission Peninsula wine tour offers a sophisticated, scenic, and personalized way to explore Michigan’s wine country. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking comfort, expert guidance, and stunning water views—ideally suited for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting a touch of luxury in their wine tasting adventures.