NON BUS Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour

Planning a wine tour in Michigan’s renowned Traverse City area? If you’re tired of crowded party buses, loud music, and feeling like just another face in the crowd, the NON BUS Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour by Movie Stars Wine Tours offers an entirely different vibe. It promises a more intimate, relaxed, and luxurious way to sample some of the region’s best wines while soaking in breathtaking views.

This review highlights the highlights of the experience, including its most appealing features and a few considerations, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your getaway. From stunning scenery and expert guides to flexible logistics, it’s designed for travelers who want quality over quantity and genuine local insights.

Three things we love about this tour:

• The luxury SUV transportation, which avoids the chaos of a party bus and offers comfort and style.
• The stunning views of the Leelanau Peninsula, making every stop a visual treat.
• Knowledgeable, personable guides who provide genuine wine recommendations and local tips.

A potential drawback? The tour’s cost of $99 per person is competitive, but remember that tastings, food, and additional drinks aren’t included—so you’ll want to budget for extras. This experience suits couples, small groups, or wine enthusiasts craving a more refined, personal tour without the crowds.

Good To Know

• Luxurious, no-party-bus transportation offers a comfortable, intimate experience.
• Expert guides provide personalized wine selections and local insights.
• Stunning views enhance the tasting experience at each winery.
• Semi-private groups mean fewer crowds and more personalized attention.
• Flexible scheduling with sunset options, changing based on weather and sunset times.
• Great for those seeking quality, comfort, and authenticity in a wine tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why Choose This Tour?

This wine tour is ideal for travelers who want more than a generic bus ride. The focus on luxury SUVs like GMC Yukons, Tahoes, or Suburbans means you’ll enjoy a smooth ride with plenty of room to stretch out. No cramped seats or loud music here—just a relaxed atmosphere perfect for conversation and savoring each moment.

Guides like “Magic Mike” and other local wine connoisseurs bring true enthusiasm and insider knowledge, which elevates the experience far beyond just tasting wine. They’re able to make personalized recommendations based on your preferences, turning each stop into a memorable tasting journey.

The scenery along the Leelanau Peninsula is another highlight. Expect to be awestruck by views of rolling vineyards, shimmering lakes, and picturesque landscapes that make the tour feel more like a scenic day out than just a wine tasting. And since the stops are carefully chosen to match sunset times, you’ll enjoy stunning evening vistas that heighten the ambiance.

The tour’s flexible setup means you won’t be crammed on a bus with strangers, and the semi-private grouping (most likely couples or small groups of 6-7) adds an exclusive touch. Plus, the pickup at Rove Winery—on a hilltop with luxury SUVs waiting—sets a chic, VIP tone from the start.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Meeting Point

Your day begins at Rove Winery, located on a scenic hillside. Look for the sleek GMC Yukons or Escalades parked in the lot. The guides, dressed in fancy SUVs, are easy to spot. The convenience of this pickup point cannot be overstated—no long walks after a day of tasting, no riding on a noisy bus, and no stressing over parking.

The Wineries Visited

This tour visits four wineries, with options including Rove Winery, Shady Lane Cellars, Black Star Farms, Brengman Brothers, Ciccone Farms, and Sutton’s Bay Ciders. The order and stops may fluctuate depending on the sunset and weather conditions, which helps optimize your experience.

What you’ll love:

• The personalized approach; guides tailor stops based on weather and sunset times, adding a touch of spontaneity.
• The opportunity to sample wines from iconic local wineries, which are known for stellar selections and unique offerings.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

• Included:
• The luxury SUV ride, with air conditioning for comfort.
• Professionally guided wine tastings—your guides provide wine samples and expert recommendations.
• A group of most likely 6-7 guests gets a complimentary bottle of wine, usually Gamay or Secco, depending on availability.
• Friendly staff, many with backgrounds in law enforcement, adding a touch of professionalism and trustworthiness.

• Not included:
• Food and additional wine bottles, which you can purchase at each winery.
• Tasting fees, wines, or snacks—those are extra but optional depending on your preferences.

The Experience

Throughout the 4.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a mix of visual delights and sensory indulgence. The guides are local and passionate, sharing insights about each winery’s history, wine styles, and regional nuances. Becky, a reviewer, mentioned, “Brian was very attentive and knowledgeable about the area,” which highlights the value of having guides who genuinely love what they do.

The sunset timing adds a romantic touch, as the stops are arranged to maximize evening views. Expect the landscape to change as the sun dips, creating a magical backdrop for your tastings. One guest appreciated the “unique views at the 4 wineries” and the attentive service with personalized wine recommendations.

The Transportation

Traveling in luxury GMC Yukons, Tahoes, or Suburbans means plenty of space and comfort. The air conditioning keeps everyone cool, and the upscale vehicles elevate the whole experience. Because the groups are kept semi-private, you won’t be sharing the ride with dozens of strangers, which makes conversations easier and the atmosphere more relaxed.

Post-Tour Ease

Once the tour wraps up, guests are dropped off in downtown Traverse City, allowing for easy exploration of local eateries, shops, or a leisurely stroll. If you plan to stay overnight, many hotels and motels are conveniently accessible from the pickup point.

Becky’s review mentions, “After the wine tour, I went out to experience downtown Traverse City and even picked up my wine the next day,” highlighting the convenience and flexibility of this tour.

The Value of This Experience

Compared to typical bus tours, the $99 per person price offers solid value—especially considering the personalized service, expert guides, and luxurious transportation. You’re paying for a curated experience rather than just transportation from point A to B. The wine samples are included, but additional tastings or bottles are optional, allowing you to customize your experience.

For wine lovers wanting to avoid the chaos of large buses and noisy groups, this tour offers a more refined and comfortable alternative. Plus, the opportunity to combine stunning scenery, local wineries, and expert guidance makes it stand out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic outing or small groups wanting a more intimate wine tasting experience. It’s also ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized attention, and scenic views. If you’re someone who appreciates good wine but hates the idea of loud, crowded tours, this is a clear winner.

Plus, if you want a flexible, VIP-style day without the hassle of planning logistics or driving yourself, this tour delivers on all counts. The friendly, knowledgeable guides ensure you get authentic recommendations and insights that enrich your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
While it is semi-private, most groups are combined with others, typically of 6-7 guests, providing a more intimate experience than a large bus tour.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers luxury SUV transportation, expert guides, and wine samples. Tastings, wines, and food are extra.

Where does the tour start?
Pickup is at Rove Winery, located at the top of the hill in their parking lot. Guides will be waiting in luxury SUVs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 4.5 hours, usually in the afternoon or during sunset, depending on the schedule and weather conditions.

Can I get a private group?
Yes, groups of 6 or more often have their own vehicle. You can also request a private group when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended. Since the stops are outdoors, bring layers in case of weather changes. Strongly suggest a fun “fancy wine drinking hat” to elevate your style and fun!

Final Thoughts

The NON BUS Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour offers a refreshing take on wine touring, combining luxury, scenic beauty, and personalized service. It’s well-suited for travelers who want more than just a tasting—it’s about the entire experience, from stunning vistas to expert guidance. The flexible scheduling and semi-private group size mean you’ll enjoy a relaxed, intimate day.

If you’re craving a wine adventure that feels special rather than rushed, this tour hits the mark. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor help make the experience memorable, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking to enjoy Michigan’s wine country in style.

To sum it up, this tour is an excellent choice for those who value comfort, authenticity, and stunning scenery. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer personalized attention and small-group experiences over large bus tours. With a focus on quality, not just quantity, it’s a way to savor Traverse City’s beauty and wines in the most enjoyable setting possible.

You can check if your dates are available here: