Santa Maria Valley in Northern Santa Barbara County is a destination especially sought after by wine lovers: This California wine country is famous for its chardonnays and pinot noirs. But after enjoying the wines, travellers often face the problem: How do we get to the next tasting? This summer, Santa Maria Valley invites travellers to leave the driving to someone else and explore local wineries and tasting rooms on the Santa Maria Wine Trolley.

34 tasting rooms

This trolley is a good option for travellers looking to explore California wine country on a budget. Starting at Costa de Oro Winery, wine trolley participants can now explore Santa Maria Valley at their own pace. The route takes approximately 60 minutes, and passengers can step on and off at their convenience. Stops include Amplify Wines; Old Orcutt at Broadway & Clark, where travellers can explore quaint shops, restaurants and tasting rooms; and Cottonwood Canyon Winery. “With 34 tasting rooms within a 30-minute drive, Santa Maria Valley is the perfect home base on the central California coast where you can eat, drink and do more for less,” said Jennifer Harrison, Santa Maria Valley's Tourism Director.

The Santa Maria Wine Trolley runs Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 16, 2022, plus Labor Day Monday. The complete schedule of the Wine Trolley's stops is available online. The price is 15 $ per person when paid in advance, 18 $ per person when paid at the trolley. Tickets can be purchased at different locations throughout Santa Maria Valley.

Santa Maria Valley has been described as a wine trail less trammelled. Apart from excellent wines, it offers a range of cultural, sporting and historical experiences.