Recently, we came across the Penrose Uncorked eBike tour, a self-guided adventure that promises to take you through some of the best wineries and cideries Colorado’s small town of Penrose has to offer. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what awaits.
What excites us most about this tour are the flexibility to explore at your own pace, the chance to sample a diverse selection of wines and ciders, and the opportunity to enjoy Penrose’s peaceful, small-town vibe. The affordable price point of $49 per person adds to its appeal, especially considering the variety of stops included. That said, some travelers might want to keep in mind that this is a self-guided experience, which means you’ll need to be comfortable navigating with a provided map and cycling independently.
This tour seems ideal for wine and cider lovers, those looking for a relaxing, outdoor activity, or anyone eager to discover Colorado’s local flavors away from the city buzz. Let’s break down what makes it such an interesting choice—and where it might fall a little short.
- Self-guided freedom: Perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring on their own schedule
- Diverse stops: Includes wineries, cideries, and a local pizzeria for food
- Affordable price: Offers good value for a full afternoon or a quick ride
- Scenic and peaceful: Ideal for those craving outdoor activity in a quiet town
- Accessible for most: Most travelers can participate, with service animals allowed
- Weather-dependent: Good weather is essential for a smooth experience
The tour kicks off at Bugling Elk Vineyard & Winery, which serves as both the starting point and the finish line. It’s equipped with a full set of bikes ready to go, and guests are given a custom map to guide them along the route. This map emphasizes the importance of self-navigation, meaning you can linger at stops or move quickly if you prefer.
Bugling Elk offers a welcoming first impression—it’s not just about tasting but also about getting familiar with your eBike and the route. Their approachability and smooth setup make it a stress-free start, according to reviews. One guest mentioned, “When you get there, the bikes are ready and you will get a full run-through of the bikes and route,” making the start effortless.
Next, the route leads to Pops Vineyard, a cozy, family-run operation that specializes in small-batch wines. Here, you get to sample the family’s favorites, offering a more personal wine experience. Travelers often appreciate the intimate, authentic vibe of small wineries, and one reviewer referenced “small batch wines, taking you through their families favorites,” highlighting the charm of this stop.
Brush Hollow Winery continues the journey with a family-owned atmosphere, serving an array of wines and rotating ciders. The rotating cider selection keeps things interesting throughout the year, and you might find local food options to complement your tasting. One of the highlights here is the chance to enjoy rotating ciders, which cater to different palates—something reviewed as “providing an array of wines as well as rotating ciders and foods,” adding a dynamic element.
At Apple Valley Cider Company, the variety truly shines. With flavors changing seasonally, you’ll likely discover new favorites or revisit familiar ones. The cider tastings are praised for their unique and common flavors, appealing to a wide audience. Reviewers also recommend spending extra time here and sometimes pairing ciders with snacks, which adds to the relaxing feel of the tour.
The last stop before returning is the Penrose Pizzeria and Pub at 103 Broadway St. It’s conveniently located along the route and offers a casual spot for lunch or dinner. Many guests find it to be a perfect way to unwind after cycling and sampling. One reviewer mentioned it makes for “a great stop to grab some lunch or dinner,” emphasizing its role as a satisfying finale.
What to Expect at Each Stop
- Bugling Elk Vineyard: A warm, friendly start with no admission fee, and bikes are ready on arrival. The focus here is on getting comfortable with your equipment and understanding the route.
- Pops Vineyard: Small, intimate tasting with a personal touch. Expect to try family favorites in a relaxed setting.
- Brush Hollow Winery: Family-run with a focus on local wines and ciders. Rotating options mean you’ll always find something new.
- Apple Valley Cider Company: A cider lover’s paradise with seasonal flavors, likely to be a highlight. Expect friendly staff and a variety of options to sample.
- Penrose Pizzeria: Casual, welcoming, and perfect for a hearty meal. It’s a sensible place to refuel before heading back.
Practical Considerations
The duration of the tour can vary from as short as an hour to as long as six hours, depending on how much time you spend at each stop. Many reviews point out that spending extra time at Apple Valley Cider or enjoying a leisurely lunch at the Pizzeria enhances the experience.
The cost of $49 covers the bike rental, map, and access to all tasting stops. Additional costs may include food or extra bottles purchased at the stops, but overall, this represents fantastic value given the quality of the experience.
The self-guided nature means you’ll need some basic cycling skills and comfort navigating with a map. The bikes are described as ready-to-go, and the staff reportedly give a thorough run-through, making it accessible even for those new to eBikes.
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Authentic Experiences and Tips
One reviewer mentioned, “Decided to try something new with my fiancé and took a chance on Penrose Uncorked. And it was worth it!” Their comment underscores how this tour can be an excellent way to switch up your usual Colorado activities—combining outdoor adventure with wine tasting.
A key tip is to allow more time at Apple Valley Cider—the rotating flavors and friendly staff make it worth lingering. Also, consider ordering food at Penrose Pizzeria for a more satisfying break, especially if you plan to extend your ride or if you’re traveling with friends or family.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour will appeal most to wine and cider enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural exploration. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate the freedom of a self-guided tour, allowing them to set their own pace. The scenic, quiet setting makes it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a relaxing, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
While the experience is accessible for most, good weather is a must—bad weather could hamper the enjoyment or lead to cancellations. The experience is also private, meaning your group will be the only participants, adding a personalized touch.
The Penrose Uncorked eBike tour offers an affordable, flexible way to taste Colorado’s local wines and ciders while enjoying the scenic simplicity of Penrose. The stops offer a mix of intimate family-run wineries and lively cideries, with a casual, welcoming atmosphere. The inclusion of a local pizzeria ensures you can end your day with a hearty meal, making it a well-rounded experience.
For those wanting to combine outdoor activity with small-town charm and authentic tasting experiences, this tour hits all the right notes. Its focus on self-guided exploration means you can tailor the day to your preferences—whether leisurely tasting, quick cycling, or a mix of both.
If you value good value, authentic local flavors, and scenic outdoor fun, Penrose Uncorked might just be the ideal Colorado day trip. Just remember to check the weather and bring your adventurous spirit.
Is there a set schedule for the tour?
No, this is a self-guided tour, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace within the approximate duration.
What is the starting point?
The tour begins at 1215 Apple Ln, Penrose, CO 81240, where the bikes and map are provided.
Are the bikes suitable for beginners?
Yes, the bikes are described as ready to go, and staff give a full run-through, making it accessible even for those new to eBiking.
How long does the tour typically last?
It can be as short as an hour or extend up to six hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, water, some cash or card for purchases, and a sense of adventure.
Are food and drink included?
No, but you can purchase tastings and food at stops like Apple Valley Cider and Penrose Pizzeria.
Can I buy wine or cider to take home?
Yes, most stops allow you to buy bottles to take home, so bring some extra space!
Is the tour suitable in all weather?
Most likely not in heavy rain or snow—good weather is recommended for a smooth ride.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, confirmation is received at booking, and this is a private experience, so booking in advance is recommended.
In sum, the Penrose Uncorked eBike tour promises a delightful mix of scenic cycling, authentic wine and cider tastings, and laid-back Colorado charm. Perfect for those who want to combine activity with local flavor—just pack your curiosity and your sense of adventure.
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