Santa Margarita: Margarita Adventure Wine Tasting & Zipline

This combo tour at Santa Margarita offers a chance to enjoy both adrenaline-pumping ziplining and relaxed wine tasting. For those who love a mix of adventure and sophistication, this experience promises a memorable day out. You’ll zip across the stunning terrain of Margarita Vineyard, then settle into a tasting of five estate wines paired with a cheese and charcuterie platter.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its small-group setting and knowledgeable guides, which ensure a personal touch and attention to detail. However, it’s worth noting that this experience is designed for those comfortable with heights and ages over 21, so it’s not suitable for everyone.

If you’re seeking a blend of outdoor activity, scenic views, and wine indulgence, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure and taste.

Key Points

• Exciting zipline courses fly over the vineyard for an adrenaline rush.
• Curated wine tasting features five distinct Ancient Peaks Estate wines.
• Cheese and charcuterie board enhances the tasting experience.
• Small-group tours ensure a more intimate, personalized experience.
• Priority RSVP at the winery tasting room saves time.
• Suitable for those over 21 and comfortable with heights; not accessible for mobility-impaired travelers.

What to Expect from the Santa Margarita Adventure

This experience combines two highlights: ziplining over the vineyards and tasting premium wines. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, during which you’ll enjoy six different zipline courses and a curated wine tasting session. The mix of activities balances the thrill of soaring above the vineyard with the relaxation of savoring well-selected wines paired with delicious snacks.

Starting with the Zipline Adventure

Your day kicks off at Margarita Adventures, where you’ll be introduced to the six zipline courses. These courses are designed to offer stunning views of Santa Margarita’s rolling terrain and the Ancient Peaks Winery estate. Expect to feel your heart race as you navigate through the courses, which are tailored to be both exciting and safe. Most reviewers mention the guides as friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, with Pascal noting, “It was great, both the wine tasting part and the ziplining,” highlighting how smoothly the experience runs.

The ziplines provide a bird’s-eye view of the vineyard and the surrounding landscape, making it a memorable way to see the estate from above. The courses are designed to maximize the scenery while maintaining safety, and since the entire zipline tour is limited to small groups (up to four participants), you’ll get plenty of personalized attention.

The Wine Tasting Experience

After the adrenaline rush, it’s time for a more relaxed segment at the Ancient Peaks Winery tasting room. Here, you’re granted priority RSVP, which means you skip the long lines or waiting times, a definite bonus during busy periods. The tasting features five carefully curated wines, allowing you to explore a range of flavors and styles from the estate.

The wines are described as distinct and well-balanced, with one reviewer praising the “excellent wine selection” that pairs beautifully with the accompanying cheese and charcuterie board. The tasting room is highly rated for its friendly staff and knowledgeable guides who help decode the different notes and aromas, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The cheese and charcuterie board adds a social element, encouraging conversation and making the tasting feel like a leisurely gathering rather than a rushed affair. Many guests appreciate the quality of the cheese and the variety of meats, which complement the wines perfectly.

Tour Logistics and Practicalities

The tour is priced at $318 for a group of up to two people, which covers everything—the ziplining, wine tasting, cheese platter, and priority RSVP. While the cost might seem high, it reflects the premium experience, small-group setting, and exclusive access.

The activity begins and ends at Margarita Adventures, with no included hotel transport, so planning your own transportation is necessary. Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for the zipline portion, and guests should carry a valid ID or passport. Since the experience is not suitable for those with mobility issues or under 21, check your personal requirements beforehand.

The duration of 3.5 hours makes it a manageable half-day adventure, allowing plenty of time to relax after the activities or continue exploring nearby. The small-group setup enhances the experience, providing more personalized guidance and interaction.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

Guests consistently mention the stunning views and knowledgeable guides as standout features. Pascal notes that the zipline and wine tasting were “great,” emphasizing the smooth flow of the day. Another reviewer suggests that with children, parents could indulge in the wine tasting while kids enjoy non-alcoholic options like apple juice at the winery’s restaurant, making it a flexible experience for families.

The combination of scenic adventure and wine tasting is particularly appreciated by those wanting a balanced day out. The guides are praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and ability to make both the zipline and wine tasting sessions engaging and informative.

Considerations and Recommendations

• The price point is on the higher side but justified by the exclusive access, small groups, and quality of the experience.
• The activity is not suitable for those with mobility issues or under 21, so plan accordingly.
• Be prepared for outdoor elements: wear comfortable, close-toed shoes, and bring your ID.
• It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred times.
• If you’re traveling with children, consider the options for non-alcoholic tasting or other activities at the winery to keep everyone engaged.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventure seekers who want to add a thrill to their wine trip, as well as wine lovers eager to explore new flavors in a scenic setting. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking for a unique, memorable outing with a bit of adrenaline. The tour can be especially appealing to those who appreciate good food and wine, as the cheese board complements the tasting well.

However, it’s less ideal for travelers with mobility challenges or those who prefer a purely relaxed wine tasting without heights involved. Also, since the tour is over 21, it’s not suitable for families with young children unless they’re content with watching or enjoying the winery’s restaurant options.

The Sum Up

The Santa Margarita Margarita Adventure offers a well-rounded experience that wonderfully balances adventure, scenic beauty, and wine tasting. The thrill of zipping over the vineyard combined with tasting five estate wines makes for a memorable day out. The small-group setup, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtful touches like priority RSVP really enhance the experience, making it feel exclusive and personal.

For those who want a lively outdoor activity paired with quality wines and a scenic backdrop, this tour delivers in all areas. It’s particularly suited for couples or small groups eager to blend excitement with relaxation. While it’s on the pricier side, the quality of the experience, including the stunning views and excellent guide service, justifies the cost.

If you’re craving a day that combines fun, flavor, and fantastic scenery, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember to book early, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your ID—ready for a memorable adventure over Santa Margarita’s beautiful landscape.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to arrange your own transportation to Margarita Adventures.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What is the minimum age requirement?
Participants must be over 21 years old to enjoy the wine tasting. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must for ziplining. Loose clothing isn’t allowed for safety reasons. Bring your ID or passport.

Are there any group size restrictions?
Yes, the tour is limited to small groups of up to four participants, providing a more personal experience.

Can children join the zipline?
Children under 21 are not permitted to participate in the wine tasting. For non-alcoholic fun, they might enjoy other parts of the estate or activities at the winery’s restaurant.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired travelers?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues due to the nature of ziplining and walking involved.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the zipline tour, five wine tastings, a cheese and charcuterie board, and priority RSVP at the tasting room.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time slot, especially during busy seasons.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.