Sonoma: Electric Trike Wine Country Tour & Cheese Tasting

Summary

Electric trikes, Sonoma vineyards, cheese stops and a little history

You’ll ride an electric trike through Sonoma’s vineyards with a local guide, stopping for cheese tastings at Vella Cheese Factory and visits to historic sites like General Vallejo’s home and Mission San Francisco Solano. Optional wine tasting is available too. It’s relaxed, sometimes funny, always real — you’ll leave with windblown hair and new stories.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that happened? I almost tipped my helmet off trying to adjust the strap — not exactly the smooth start I’d pictured. Our guide, Mark, just grinned and said he’s seen worse. The electric trikes looked a bit odd at first (think: three wheels and a sort of futuristic scooter vibe), but honestly, after a few minutes wobbling in the parking lot, it felt easy. The air in Sonoma was cool that morning and smelled faintly like eucalyptus and something sweet from the bakery across the street. We set off in a little line, Mark leading us out past old wooden houses and into those rolling hills you always see in wine country photos.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would be — just the low whirr of the trike motors and birds somewhere overhead. Mark pointed out General Vallejo’s home as we zipped by; he told us stories about Sonoma’s early days while we parked under some giant oaks. There was this moment when we stopped at Mission San Francisco Solano — sunlight bouncing off whitewashed walls, everything still except for someone sweeping leaves nearby. I tried to say “Solano” with a Spanish accent; my friend laughed so hard she nearly dropped her phone.

The best part? Probably the cheese stop at Vella Cheese Factory. The inside smelled like buttered toast and something sharper — maybe parmesan? We tasted slivers of dry jack while Mark explained how they’ve been making it here for generations. If you do the wine tasting (not included), it’s just down the road — we went for it, but you can skip if you want. Either way, riding back through those vineyards with the sun starting to dip felt kind of perfect in its own messy way. I keep thinking about that last stretch: wind on my face, hands sticky from cheese samples, everyone a little sunburned but smiling.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Electric trike tour of Sonoma wine country

• Ride electric tricycle through vineyards
• Visit General Vallejo Home
• Walk inside Mission San Francisco Solano
• Taste wine and tour winery
• Sample cheeses at historic cheese factory

Top questions

Is wine tasting included in the Sonoma electric trike tour?

No, wine tasting is optional and not included in the tour price. You can choose to add it at the winery for an extra charge.

How long is the Sonoma Wine Country Electric Trike Tour?

The tour lasts about 3 hours from start to finish.

Do I need experience to drive an electric trike?

No experience is needed; most people learn to drive them within minutes before heading out.

What age do you have to be to drive the trikes?

You must be 18 or older to drive an electric trike on this tour.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children aged 5 and up are welcome as passengers but cannot drive.

What should I bring for the tour?

Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity.

Is there a minimum number of people required?

Tours require at least four people total; bookings are accepted for two or more per group.

Are private tours available?

Yes, private tours can be arranged upon request if available—contact directly to check dates.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an easy-to-drive electric trike with all instruction provided by your certified guide, plus snacks along the way as you explore Sonoma’s historic sites and taste award-winning cheeses together. Optional wine tasting is available at local wineries for an extra fee.