If you enjoy gorgeous scenery and a delicious glass of wine, you have to give the Rocky Top Wine Trail a try during your vacation to the Smoky Mountains! This wine trail is comprised of 5 local wineries that have more than 70 unique wines to sample. You can do the entire trail in one day or take your time by sampling the many different options at each location. Here are the top 4 things you need to know about exploring the Rocky Top Wine Trail:
1. What to Expect
The Rocky Top Wine Trail is a fun way to enjoy the beauty of the Smokies while visiting 5 local wineries. The trail is 100 percent free to do, self-guided, and the entire trail does not have to be completed in one day. However, if you do decide to see all the wineries in one day just remember to select a designated driver! This is because each of the locations offers free wine tastings for your enjoyment. Note that all 5 locations are conveniently open 7 days a week!
2. Winery Passports
You can start the Rocky Top Wine Trail at any of the wineries, where you will pick up a passport to have stamped along your journey! You’ll present your passport at each location, and after visiting 3 locations you will receive a complimentary logoed wine glass! If you visit all 5 locations, you will receive another awesome free gift to take home! While you could complete the entire trail in one day, it can be more fun to spread your adventure out over time. That way, you don’t have to rush and can stop for lunch in between the wineries.
3. Free Winery Tours
If you ever wanted to experience the winemaking process in person, you will be excited to know that several of the wineries on the Rocky Top Wine Trail offer free winery tours! Several of the wineries have complimentary tours daily from noon to 5 p.m., so be sure to stop by between those hours for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look!
4. Where to Stay
The best place to stay near the Rocky Top Wine Trail is Black Bear Inn & Suites! Our comfortable and affordable hotel is practically right across the street from Sugarland Cellars, where you can kick off your wine tour! While staying with us, you can enjoy all types of fantastic amenities including a complimentary full hot breakfast, heated swimming pool, and unlimited high-speed wireless internet access! After a full day of exploring the Rocky Top Wine Trail, you can look forward to returning to our hotel for a perfect evening of rest and relaxation!
Check out all of our hotel rooms in Gatlinburg TN today to plan your vacation near the Rocky Top Wine Trail! We look forward to seeing you soon at the Black Bear Inn & Suites!