Grand Traverse Bike Tours in Suttons Bay is offering a Leelanau Wine Trail Bike Tour that combines two of Northern Michigan’s finest attributes—wine tasting and fantastic views.
The tour is self-guided, leaving it up to you how much time you want to spend at each winery (visit up to seven). It runs at $69 per person and includes bike and helmet rental, transportation, van assistance, lunch and wine pick-up (so you can buy your favorite bottles). Each tour is personalized based on your time allowance and wineries you’d like to visit. The day tour is about five hours long and offers flexibility with group size and start time.
Owner Nick Wierzba says, “It’s the best way to experiences the wineries because you can see the vineyards, smell the cherry trees in bloom, get a hands-on touch, taste the wine and see the winemaking process. The trail is a safe and fun experience that anyone can do.”
Each tour begins at the bike shop in Suttons Bay, where you’ll be geared up with everything you need. Then on to the wineries! Halfway through, a catered lunch will be delivered to you and any wine that has been bought along the way will be picked up. Go to one or all seven stops—it’s up to you!
Photo by Two Twisted Trees Photography LLC
Black Star Farms
Making the best riesling in the world—the 2017 Arcturos Dry Riesling—isn’t the only thing this winery can boast about. With a beautiful tasting room, 160 acres and expansive views, you might not make it past the first stop. Step out on the patio at this Suttons Bay tasting room and enjoy a perfectly balanced glass of wine.
Big Little
Pedal up the road a short distance and you’ll come to a place that’s full of passion for wine tucked within 10 acres of astonishing countryside. Step out into the warm Northern Michigan sunshine and relax with some bubbly.
Mawby
Right next door, in the middle of the Leelanau Peninsula, enjoy three complimentary tastings of cider or wine. If bubbles are your fancy, this winery is the perfect place to post-up. Remember, if you buy a bottle and don’t want to carry it on your ride, Grand Traverse Bike Tours will pick it up!
Shady Lane Cellars
Sip on the 2017 Pinot Gris with a grin while you rest your legs and gear up for the rest of the ride. The outdoor patio and regularly scheduled live music round out the experience.
Ciccone Vineyard and Winery
Head 2 miles north and you’ll arrive at the next destination where you’ll be transported to another time inside the European tasting room. Delight in one of the gold-medal chardonnays while you overlook the vineyard.
Suttons Bay Ciders
Relax and experience a view that was voted the best on the Leelanau Peninsula. Whether your taste for cider is sweet, sour or dry, they’ve got it!
Willow Vineyard
Barely a ride away is Willow Vineyard. No matter the season, you’ll be met with breathtaking countryside views. Sample their award-winning vintages and be a true Michigander as you sip a Balaton baby cherry wine. You might even be lucky enough to stumble upon a wedding proposal.
To book a tour or learn more information, call or visit Grand Traverse Bike Tours’ website. They cater to large parties with prior reservations!
Happy biking!