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Sonoma Valley Bike Tours.
Enjoy your visit to Sonoma Valley!
No matter how hard we try and make our website as informative as possible, we frequently answer the following questions. Feel free to call or email us too.
Can I get in the support van if I don't want to ride anymore?
What's the weather going to be like?
What happens if it is raining?
How far is it from San Francisco?
What wineries are we going to on our tour?
How far are we going to cycle?
How many wineries will we stop at?
What kind of bike should I ride?
What should I wear for dinner?
Should I bring my cycling shoes?
How much should we tip the guide?
Can I get in the support van if I don't want to ride anymore?
A passenger van follows every tour we offer. It does so for 3 reasons: 1. to offer transportation for guests who do not want to cycle anymore (our van driver loves company!), 2. to carry wine purchases, and 3. to carry personal belongings that you don't want to carry on the bicycle.
Typically, wine tasting fees range from $5 - $10; some wineries waive the tasting fees if wine is purchased. Rarely, do the tasting fees cost more than $15/person; and it is perfectly acceptable to share tastings, empty your glass if you don’t care for the taste, or even skip a tasting. We often offer full winery tours and depending on the winery, there may be a charge for the tour…we have found the wineries that charge have good reason to do so!
What's the weather going to be like?
Check out our Weather page on our website.
What happens if it is raining?
We tour rain or shine - in the rare occurrence that the weather doesn’t cooperate, our guides will ride in the rain if you want, but they will turn into your chauffeur for the day just as quickly! The winery appointments have already been made and the guides have already made plans to be with you all day; so don't worry about rain getting in the way of a great day (the bicycles will get over it if you pick the van!
How far is it from San Francisco to Sonoma?
About a 75 minute drive. Click Here for google maps directions from SFO (San Francisco Airport) to downtown Sonoma
Fresh fruit and cheese platters, seasonal salads, and local deli sandwiches.
What wineries are we going to on our tour?
This is a difficult question to answer until a few days before your schedule tour. We realize you want to make arrangements for the other days you will be in the valley. If you need to do so, give us the ask of working around your schedule. Let us know where you have appointments and we'll steer away from those wineries.
How far are we going to cycle?
Our standard tours offer 15 to 20 miles of cycling on relatively flat terrain. The morning rides (our WCCR tour)offer 20 - 30 additional miles.
How many wineries will we stop at?
Two to Four depending on which tour you choose.
What kind of bike should I ride?
We have 5 different kinds of bikes to select from; however, we highly recommend our touring bike which is the Specialized Sirrus model, a road-hybrid bicycle. This bicycle has most of the efficiencies of a road bike, but offers comforts like wider seats, suspension seat posts, and straight-bar handle bars with separated shifting and braking.
You are more than welcome to bring your own bike; however, we assume no responsibility for the safety of or the damage to your bike. Occasionally, we load bikes on our vans and can not be responsible for scratches or other damages. Secondly, you are responsible for providing maintenance to your bike and providing any spare parts or tubes necessary on your ride.
Cool mornings make “layering” a smart choice for most activities in the Sonoma and Napa Valley. Thus, t-shirts with sweat-shirts/pullovers offer options in the beginning; the van is close by to shed any clothing that you no longer want. Shorts or pants designed for cycling is recommended, but not required; these shorts have padding strategically placed where you want it :) However, upon request, we can offer you gel seats as an alternative.
What should I wear for dinner?
The valley is quite casual so jacket and tie/formal evening dresses are way out of line...although the bill might make you think you should have been in a tux! But seriously, casual slacks and a polo or button-down for the men and anything not formal for the women is standard. Note: the evenings are cool in the valley, so bring something to throw over your shoulders.
Should I bring my cycling shoes?
Cycling shoes are by no means necessary for our leisurely rides through the vineyards, but they do come in handy if you have signed up for the morning workout/exercise ride. If you bring your shoes, bring your pedals...although we have just about every pedal know to man, we have limited quantities of certain types.
How much should we tip the guide?
Gratuities for your guide is greatly appreciated, but never expected. You may give gratuity at your discretion; if you need a guideline, $10 per person per day.
Many hotels allow pets. Just let us know so we can accommodate your furry companion!
Children are fine on our tours. We have 3 options for them based on their age and cycling experience...1) trailers, 2) trail-a-bikes, 3) childrens bikes. While at the wineries, they can play outside. After hours, there are kid friendly eating establishments such as Mary's Pizza and Compadres. Another option is to hire a profressional sitting service that watches your children at your hotel room. There are also kid's activities such as rock climbing, Jelly Belly Factory, and Marine World (a Six Flags amusement park.)