In the Valley
The Yakima Valley is a must-see for all wine enthusiasts. There are 40 wineries and 11,000 vineyard acres, helping to make Washington the second largest wine-producing state in the country. In fact, they produce 30 grape varieties and, even though the first vines are believed to have been planted in 1869, the wine-producing region is still considered quite young. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular for those looking to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy all things wine.
The area that many tourists visit in the Yakima Valley is Rattlesnake Hills, which boasts a 16-mile stretch of mountain range and includes 15 member-wineries. But don't worry ' the locals insist that rattlesnakes are nothing you need to worry about. You will, however, have the opportunity to see a unique area filled with some of the finest vineyards the country has to offer.
Types of Tours
If you are considering taking a tour of the area, you have several options for how to see the sights. Those staying in an RV park in Seattle can have a tour company pick them up in Seattle, take them on a day-long tour, and then return them back to where they were picked up. The price for such a day-long wine excursion is around $129 per person. The nice thing is that the driving is all left up to someone else, which gives you the opportunity to really enjoy your wine-tasting.
Other ways to see the vineyards and visit the wineries include bike riding, SUV and horseback. The day-long horseback excursion is $160 per person, and gives you a unique view of the vineyards. Group and private tour options are available through most areas, with some discounts being offered for larger-party reservations. Another unique option is the Yakima Valley Girlfriend Escape, where a group of ladies head out for a special occasion of grape stomping, wine making and tasting, relaxation, and chocolate. There are a variety of options available to choose from, depending on how involved you want to get and what you would like to do afterward, including such options as a spa pampering.
The area features a calendar of family-friendly events from which visitors can choose, including Sip-n-Stroll Fridays, Winemaker for a Day, seminars, wine festivals, and the spring barrel wine tasting scheduled for April 24-26.
If You Go
If you decide to put the Yakima Valley on your wine tour list, be sure to check the local events calendars. Events may vary, depending on the time of year and season. Washington has been working hard to propel its name to the top of the list of great wine tours in America, and it is deserves that position. This area is sure to delight, and it also gives you a chance to explore the great state of Washington.
Sidebar
Start your Yakima Valley search here:
Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau
visityakima.com
Phone: (800) 221-0751
Cherry Wood (horseback tours)
cherrywoodbbandb.com
Phone: (509) 829-3500
Rattlesnake Hills Tourist Trail
rhtt.org
Sacco's Ultimate Vintage Tours
saccotours.com
Phone: (509) 783-7060
Bon Vivant Wine Tours
bonvivanttours.com
Phone: (206) 524-8687
Washington Wine Commission
washingtonwine.org
Phone: (206) 667-9463
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