Wine Tasting transportation options for 2

Question

I am organizing a girls trip for myself and a friend from high school. We would like to do some wine tasting and a winery tour. Currently thinking of the wine tour at Fenn Vally. Possibly going to Tabor Hill or Cogdal for tasting. What are the options for transportation for just 2 people? We do not want to have to worry with driving and drinking. Preference would be to be collected at our hotel and dropped off.

Is it better to stay closer like Saugatuck vs South Haven? Looking for recommendations.

We plan on spending a few days in South Haven then going on to Frankenmuth. Any stops we should make along the way? I was thinking of starting in South Haven, where it is very walkable. We are looking at July 7-11

Answer

Your girls trip sounds amazing, and wine tasting in Southwest Michigan is a fantastic idea! Here’s some advice on transportation, accommodation, and suggestions for your trip:

Wine Tasting Transportation Options for 2 People

Since you don't want to worry about driving while enjoying wine tastings, there are several transportation options available for smaller groups like yours:

Private Chauffeur Services – Many companies in the area offer private drivers for small groups. You can hire a driver for the day who will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the wineries of your choice. This is ideal if you want flexibility and a comfortable, personalized experience. Some options include Wine Tours of Southwest Michigan and Michigan Wine Tours.
Shuttle Services – Some wineries, including Fenn Valley, offer shuttle services from local hotels, especially if they are hosting group tours. It’s worth asking them directly about this option or if they have preferred transportation partners.
Uber/Lyft – If you prefer something less formal, you can always use Uber or Lyft. While it's not a private tour, it can still be an affordable and convenient option if you are visiting just a couple of wineries. Be sure to confirm the availability of rides, especially in more rural areas like Fenn Valley.
Winery-Specific Tours – Many wineries in the region (like Tabor Hill or Cogdal) have wine tasting tours that include transportation. Check with the wineries directly to see if they offer a shuttle or car service for smaller groups.

Saugatuck vs. South Haven

Both Saugatuck and South Haven are charming towns with great amenities, but they offer slightly different experiences:

Saugatuck – Saugatuck is known for its vibrant arts scene, unique shops, and fantastic dining options. It’s slightly more touristy and offers a variety of things to do, including art galleries, boat tours, and scenic views along the river. If you're looking for a lively, artsy vibe, Saugatuck might be the better choice.
South Haven – South Haven is a little more laid-back and quieter, with beautiful beaches and a charming small-town atmosphere. It’s also a bit more walkable, with a relaxed pace that may be ideal for a more restful getaway. If you’re looking for a more peaceful stay near the water with a slower pace, South Haven is a great option.

Overall, if you're seeking a more relaxed and quiet atmosphere, South Haven is perfect. If you want more activities, art galleries, and a slightly busier vibe, Saugatuck would be ideal. Since you're already considering both, it might be worth staying in South Haven for a few days and taking a short drive to Saugatuck for a day or two to experience both.

Additional Recommendations for Your Trip

You're already planning on visiting some fantastic places, and I’d recommend the following stops along the way:

Fenn Valley Vineyards – Fenn Valley is known for its wine tasting tours, and it’s a great place to kick off your wine tour. They offer a beautiful setting for outdoor tastings and a variety of wines to try. Definitely make sure you check them out!
Tabor Hill Winery – Located near Buchanan, Tabor Hill is another great stop. It’s a bit more of a classic winery and offers wine tastings along with scenic views of the vineyards.
St. Julian Winery – A local favorite, located in Paw Paw, it’s Michigan’s oldest winery and also has a great selection of wines and a lovely tasting room.
Frankenmuth – As you mentioned, you’ll be heading to Frankenmuth. It's a charming German-inspired town with quaint shops, delicious food (don’t miss the famous chicken dinners), and beautiful architecture. It’s also home to a few small, local wineries if you're looking for more wine options.
Michigan City – If you’re driving from South Haven to Frankenmuth, a good stop would be Michigan City, Indiana, where you can visit the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets for shopping and take a stroll along the beach at Indiana Dunes National Park.

Overall Trip Suggestions

For your girls' trip, it sounds like you’ll have a relaxing but eventful time! Enjoy the wineries, take in the beautiful scenery, and definitely make time to visit some small-town shops, especially in Saugatuck and South Haven. Be sure to confirm any shuttle or wine tour services in advance, and always have fun while safely enjoying the wine tastings!

Have an amazing trip in July!