Tenerife Gastronomy Tour with Two Winery Visits and 4-Course Lunch

Tenerife Gastronomy Tour with Two Winery Visits and 4-Course Lunch

If you’re craving a taste of Tenerife beyond its sun-soaked beaches, this gastronomy-focused tour offers a delightful mix of local wines, cheeses, and scenic sights. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines cultural exploration, authentic food, and the island’s stunning coastal views. Expect to visit two well-loved wineries, stroll through the UNESCO-listed town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and indulge in a generous four-course lunch—all wrapped into an approximately eight-hour day.

What stands out most about this tour are the wineries and the lunch with ocean vistas—both highly praised by travelers—and the knowledgeable guides that keep the experience engaging. However, some reviews mention that the overall value might not suit everyone, especially if you’re staying outside the southern part of Tenerife or looking for detailed historical insights. Still, if you’re into good wines, relaxed sightseeing, and great food, this tour offers a genuine taste of Tenerife that’s hard to pass up.

A Balance of Highlights and Considerations

One of the best aspects of this experience is the variety it offers. From exploring La Laguna’s charming streets to tasting wines at two different wineries, there’s enough to keep your palate busy. The lunch—a four-course meal paired with wine—serves as a perfect way to relax and soak in the ocean views. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics smoother for most travelers.

That said, a few reviews highlight some downsides: the itinerary can feel rushed, especially with long visits to towns where little time is left for shopping or coffee. Others have expressed frustration about the limited information provided during the winery visits, or felt the overall value was somewhat lacking if not participating from the southern hotel pickups. It’s worth considering whether you’re okay with a tour that emphasizes tasting and scenery over deep historical or cultural storytelling.

This tour appeals most to those who want a laid-back, wine-focused day with some sightseeing thrown in. If you’re a wine enthusiast, love scenic coastal views, and are happy to spend a day in a small group, you’ll likely find it rewarding. Conversely, if you’re seeking a highly detailed historical tour or traveling from the north, it might be worth exploring other options.

Key Points

• Authentic wine and cheese tastings at two local wineries.
• Scenic lunch with ocean views and a four-course meal.
• Exploration of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies the logistics.
• Mixed reviews about itinerary pacing and value for travelers outside the south.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, especially with positive feedback about guides like Olga and Mia.
• Flexible options for vegetarians are available if advised in advance.
• Small group size (max 35) promotes a personalized experience.
• Weather-dependent activity; poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds.

The Full Experience – What To Expect

Starting the Day: Pickup and Departure

Most travelers will be collected from their southern Tenerife hotels in an air-conditioned coach around 9 am. The journey begins with anticipation—your guide, often described as friendly and informative (many mention guides like Christopher and Olga), will set the tone. Be aware that pickup times can vary slightly, and some reviews note a small delay, but overall, transportation is smooth.

Stop 1: San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Your first stop is the historic town of La Laguna, a UNESCO-listed site famed for its vibrant streets and colonial architecture. You’ll have about an hour here to walk at your own pace. The reviews reflect mixed feelings: some loved the chance to explore its bustling market and historic charm, while others felt that an hour was insufficient, especially if they hoped for more in-depth commentary. One reviewer noted that the guided tour of La Laguna was brief, with free time taking precedence over storytelling.

Stop 2: Casa del Vino de Tenerife

Next, you’ll visit this wine museum housed in an old cellar. Visitors usually spend about an hour here, sampling local cheeses, dates, and tasting some of Tenerife’s best wines. This stop is highly praised for its informative and engaging setup—reviewers appreciated learning about the island’s wine sector and tasting a curated selection of wines and cheeses. It’s the perfect introduction to Tenerife’s viticultural heritage, especially valuable for those interested in regional wine varieties.

Stop 3: Bodegas Monje

The highlight for many is the visit to Bodegas Monje, where the lunch takes place. The winery itself is beautiful and offers a relaxed setting. The meal is described as generous and delicious, with some reviewers calling it among the best meals of their trip. The four-course lunch typically includes options like soup, bread, cheese, and slow-cooked pork—highlighted for its tender texture and flavor, with the chef explaining it was cooked for 14 hours. The wine served here is well-regarded, with some saying it’s excellent, though one reviewer noted that production is small and exports are limited, so you might not find their wines abroad.

Afternoon: Relaxed Scenery and Return

After lunch and tastings, the tour winds down with a brief visit to local surroundings, often focusing on the coastal views. The return trip to your hotel is usually smooth, but some reviews mention the coach ride back being long and uncomfortable, especially with limited air-conditioning and seating arrangements. Nonetheless, most travelers say they appreciated the opportunity to unwind and enjoy the landscape.

The Authentic Touch and Real Insights from Travelers

Several reviewers emphasize the value of guides like Olga and Mia, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. Their ability to balance storytelling with free time makes the day feel less rushed and more personalized. One traveler noted how the guide insisted their husband with mobility issues sit in the front, demonstrating genuine care.

On the downside, some felt the information provided during the winery visits was basic or overly commercialized, with comments like “not much production insight” or “overrated winery.” Still, for those primarily interested in tasting rather than detailed wine-making processes, this isn’t a major issue.

A recurring theme in reviews praising the tour is the quality of the lunch and wine pairing. The setting with ocean views, coupled with generous portions and well-selected wines, makes it a satisfying experience. It’s especially attractive for those wanting an authentic local meal paired with good wine, rather than a rushed or overly touristy affair.

Analyzing Value and Practicalities

At around $95 per person, this tour offers excellent value for the multi-stop experience, especially considering hotel pickup, guide services, and the inclusive tastings and lunch. Travelers especially appreciated that the lunch was substantial and paired with wines, turning it into a true culinary experience rather than just a tasting.

However, some reviews suggest that unless you are staying in the south, the value might diminish, especially if you have to pay extra for taxis or if the itinerary feels too rushed. The tour’s description mentions pick-up from select hotels, so checking if your accommodation qualifies is wise.

The group size max of 35 helps keep things personal, but keep in mind that some parts of the day—particularly the town exploration—might feel hurried. The timing around winery visits and lunch is generally well-paced, but those seeking a slow, detailed culture might find it lacking.

Who is This Tour Best For?

Wine lovers will enjoy the tastings and the opportunity to learn about Tenerife’s local varieties. The scenic lunch with ocean vistas adds to the appeal for those wanting a relaxing meal with a view. If you appreciate guided tours that balance sightseeing with tasting, this will suit you well.

Those interested in a social, small-group experience will find the tour’s size and guide rapport a highlight. The relaxed pace combined with friendly guides like Olga and Mia make it ideal for travelers who want a mix of education, scenery, and good food.

However, it’s not the best fit for travelers seeking deep historical or cultural insights—the focus is more on wine and scenery, with limited commentary. Also, if you’re based outside the south of Tenerife or prefer a self-guided adventure, you might find this tour less suitable or worth considering alternative options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from select hotels in the south of Tenerife. Make sure to confirm your hotel qualifies ahead of booking.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 8 hours, starting around 9 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Can vegetarians participate?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; just advise the tour provider when booking.

What are the main stops?
The tour includes La Laguna, the Casa del Vino wine museum, and Bodegas Monje for lunch and tasting.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have specific mobility concerns, it’s worth noting that some stops involve walking and uneven surfaces.

What is the price?
The tour costs approximately $95.21 per person, offering good value considering the inclusions.

Are there wine tastings at both wineries?
Yes, you’ll sample wines at both Casa del Vino and Bodegas Monje, although some reviews mention the tasting experience can be basic.

What is included in the lunch?
A four-course meal including options like soup, bread, cheese, and slow-cooked pork, paired with wine and ocean views.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife gastronomy tour offers a genuine look into the island’s wine scene, complemented by beautiful coastal scenery and a sizable, satisfying lunch. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good wine, relaxed sightseeing, and tasty local food, all in the company of friendly guides. While some travelers may find the itinerary a little rushed or the information limited, the overall experience is valued for its authentic flavor and scenic charm.

For travelers staying in the south of Tenerife, this tour provides a convenient, memorable day out. It’s a wonderful way to combine culinary indulgence with cultural insights, all wrapped up in the beautiful surroundings of Tenerife’s coast and historic streets. If you’re after a fun, friendly, and flavorful experience that showcases what makes Tenerife special, this tour is a solid choice.

Remember: Always check if your hotel qualifies for pickup, and consider your pacing preferences before booking. The tasting experiences and scenic lunch make this a worthwhile pick for most wine lovers and foodies wanting a taste of Tenerife’s local delights.