What are LGBT wine tours?

They’re wine-focused holidays designed to be inclusive and welcoming to the LGBT+ community, often with queer-owned businesses or community-led events.

Are LGBT wine tours only for couples?

Not at all. Many travellers go solo or with friends. Group tours are especially social and ideal for meeting like-minded people.

Which countries are best for LGBT wine tours?

Top destinations include France, Spain, Argentina, South Africa, and New Zealand — all offering great wine and strong LGBT+ protections.

Are tailor-made LGBT wine tours more expensive than group tours?

Not always. Tailor-made holidays give you control over your budget, so we can build something to suit your needs.

Can I join a wine tour if I’m new to wine tasting?

Absolutely. These tours welcome all levels — from complete beginners to seasoned connoisseurs.

Are there any gay-owned vineyards on these tours?

Yes, several in California, France, and South Africa are proudly LGBT-owned and make it part of their story.

Are LGBT wine tours safe for transgender and non-binary travellers?

Yes — we carefully vet each location to ensure safety, respect, and inclusion across gender identities.

Can I book an LGBT wine tour from the USA or abroad?

Yes. Even though we’re based in the UK, we arrange holidays for travellers from the US, Europe, and beyond.

What’s included in an LGBT wine tour package?

Packages can include accommodation, vineyard tours, tastings, transport, guides, and optional experiences like spa days or cooking classes.

How far in advance should I book an LGBT wine tour?

Ideally 3–6 months ahead, especially if you’re travelling during peak wine seasons or Pride events.

The Best LGBT Wine Tours Around the World

Why LGBT Wine Tours Are More Than Just Tastings

Imagine walking through sun-drenched vineyards, a glass of chilled Chardonnay in hand, with the freedom to be your authentic self. That’s the essence of LGBT wine tours. These aren’t just tasting trips — they’re about celebration, connection, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned wine traveller or new to the idea, this guide is designed to help you discover the best destinations to sip and socialise without compromise.

What Makes a Wine Tour LGBT+ Friendly?

The best LGBT wine tours don’t just welcome gay travellers — they centre them. This means inclusive accommodation, knowledgeable local guides who understand the community, and destinations that support LGBT rights. It also means feeling safe, visible, and celebrated — not just tolerated.

Here’s what you can expect from a wine tour that’s truly LGBT+ friendly:

Welcoming environments for same-sex couples and solo travellers
Group tours that foster community and comfort
Hosts and hotels that openly support the LGBT+ community
Destinations with strong human rights records

These are the details that turn a wine holiday into an experience worth remembering.

How Protected Are You When You Book With Wide Awake Holidays?

When you book any trip through Wide Awake Holidays, you're protected every step of the way.

We’re a gay-owned UK travel agency.
We’re members of Protected Trust Services (PTS) and hold a full ATOL licence.
Every tailor-made holiday includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance as standard.
If anything doesn’t go as planned, your money is protected — and so are your rights.

We’re not just experts in LGBT wine tours — we’re experts in safe travel for our community.

France – Lavender, Châteaus and Champagne in Provence

France remains a top choice for any wine lover — and Provence in particular knows how to charm LGBT+ travellers. From rosé terraces in Aix-en-Provence to luxurious vineyard estates in the Luberon, every sip comes with stunning views and elegant hospitality.

Top Experience: Book a guided wine and lavender trail in June or July. It's as beautiful as it sounds.

Recommended Stay:
Château de Berne, a five-star wine estate and spa retreat, is ideal for couples looking for privacy and sophistication.
→ Ask us about current offers at Château de Berne.

How Gay Friendly is France?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1791
Same-sex marriage legal: 2013
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes, across services, employment, and housing
Employment protections: Strong
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Mostly accepting in urban and tourist areas

Spain – Flamenco, Tempranillo and Barcelona Nights

Spain is a favourite for LGBT wine tours, thanks to its dynamic cities, welcoming villages, and world-class wine. La Rioja is perfect for full-bodied reds, while Catalonia offers vibrant, modern wineries within reach of Barcelona’s gay scene.

Top Experience: A tapas and wine pairing evening in Sitges, one of Europe’s most iconic gay beach towns.

Recommended Stay:
Hotel Medium Sitges Park offers modern design, easy vineyard access, and a warm welcome.
→ We have exclusive rates for Hotel Medium Sitges Park — ask us today.

How Gay Friendly is Spain?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1979
Same-sex marriage legal: 2005
Anti-discrimination laws: Comprehensive
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Among the most supportive in Europe

South Africa – Wine with a Wild Side in Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are the jewels of South Africa’s wine country. Think mountain-backed vineyards, contemporary tasting rooms, and safari options nearby. South Africa also boasts Africa’s most progressive LGBT+ protections — a key reason it's on our list.

Top Experience: Enjoy a private wine safari and gourmet lunch with a same-sex couple-owned vineyard estate.

Recommended Stay:
Majeka House is an elegant boutique hotel with personality and flair, perfect for couples or small groups.
→ Let us check our current offers for Majeka House.

How Gay Friendly is South Africa?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1998
Same-sex marriage legal: 2006
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes, constitutionally protected
Employment protections: Strong
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Mixed — safer in cities and tourist areas

USA – Napa Valley and Sonoma’s Inclusive Vibe

California wine country isn’t just scenic — it’s proudly inclusive. Napa and Sonoma lead the way with luxury, diversity, and events like "Gay Wine Weekend" in Sonoma. Many wineries are openly gay-owned or host LGBT events year-round.

Top Experience: Book a sparkling wine tasting with a picnic in the hills above Sonoma.

Recommended Stay:
The Chanric Inn in Calistoga is gay-owned and completely dedicated to pampering its guests.
→ Enquire now about exclusive Wide Awake Holidays offers at The Chanric Inn.

How Gay Friendly is the United States (California)?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 2003 (nationally)
Same-sex marriage legal: 2015
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes, in California
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Highly supportive in California

Argentina – Malbec and Pride in Mendoza

Argentina isn’t just a wine lover’s dream — it’s a beacon for LGBT travellers in South America. Mendoza, the heart of its wine country, pairs award-winning reds with wide skies and warm welcomes. It’s an ideal mix of taste and tolerance.

Top Experience: Enjoy a private wine tour with a guide from Mendoza’s LGBT+ travel cooperative.

Recommended Stay:
Entre Cielos Wine Hotel & Spa offers vineyard-facing suites and a full hammam spa.
→ Ask us for availability and pricing at Entre Cielos.

How Gay Friendly is Argentina?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1887
Same-sex marriage legal: 2010
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Very accepting, especially in Buenos Aires and Mendoza

Portugal – Douro Valley Charm and Lisbon Nights

Portugal has seen a quiet LGBT+ travel boom in recent years. Lisbon is lively and liberal, while the Douro Valley delivers rich reds and river cruises through spectacular landscapes.

Top Experience: Board a small luxury wine cruise on the Douro River, perfect for couples.

Recommended Stay:
The Vintage House Hotel, a romantic wine estate on the riverbanks, is ideal for intimate stays.
→ Let us check the latest offers for The Vintage House Hotel.

How Gay Friendly is Portugal?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1982
Same-sex marriage legal: 2010
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Very welcoming in cities and tourist regions

Australia – LGBT Wine Tours Down Under in the Barossa Valley

Australia’s Barossa Valley and Yarra Valley aren’t just about Shiraz — they’re also about celebration. With festivals, luxury lodges, and progressive rights, Australia is a top choice for LGBT+ wine lovers.

Top Experience: A balloon ride over the vineyards followed by a sparkling breakfast tasting.

Recommended Stay:
The Louise in Barossa Valley offers sweeping views and privacy in one of the region’s best boutique retreats.
→ Contact us for current deals at The Louise.

How Gay Friendly is Australia?

Homosexuality decriminalised: Varies by state (legal nationwide since 1997)
Same-sex marriage legal: 2017
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Very supportive across most of the country

Italy – Tuscany’s Timeless Flavours and LGBT+ Inclusion

Tuscany’s hills are iconic, but what makes them special for our travellers is the slow pace, candlelit dinners, and inclusive vineyard experiences. Florence and Siena are nearby, offering culture to complement your Chianti.

Top Experience: Sunset tastings in a small medieval village, with local queer-friendly hosts.

Recommended Stay:
Castello di Velona Resort, a castle hotel with its own thermal spa and organic wine estate.
→ We may have package offers for Castello di Velona — ask today.

How Gay Friendly is Italy?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1890
Same-sex marriage: Civil unions only (since 2016)
Anti-discrimination laws: Partial, with some gaps
Employment protections: Limited
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Improving but varies by region

Germany - Riesling and LGBT Pride in the Mosel Valley

Germany’s Mosel region is known for its Rieslings and fairytale villages. Combine that with Berlin’s thriving LGBT+ culture and you’ve got the best of both worlds — tradition and modern celebration. The country also hosts queer wine-focused events, especially during Pride season.

Top Experience: A vineyard hike followed by tastings hosted by queer-friendly sommeliers.

Recommended Stay:
Hotel Bellevue, a riverside property in Traben-Trarbach, combines historical charm with warm service.
→ Ask us about our featured rates at Hotel Bellevue.

How Gay Friendly is Germany?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1969
Same-sex marriage legal: 2017
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Strongly supportive, especially in urban and wine regions

Chile – Andes Views and LGBT Wine Tours in the Casablanca Valley

Chile offers a fresh perspective on wine, with cool-climate whites and welcoming boutique vineyards. The Casablanca Valley and Maipo are stunning — and while rural areas are quieter, cities like Santiago embrace LGBT+ culture.

Top Experience: A private tasting at a queer-friendly vineyard followed by a day trip to Valparaíso.

Recommended Stay:
La Casona at Matetic Vineyards, an intimate wine hotel set on a biodynamic estate.
→ Contact us about current packages at La Casona.

How Gay Friendly is Chile?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1999
Same-sex marriage legal: 2022
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: Growing in support, especially among younger generations

New Zealand – Boutique Wines and Big LGBT Energy

New Zealand’s Marlborough and Central Otago regions are ideal for wine lovers seeking peaceful escapes. With strong protections and a laid-back attitude, this country is a top destination for those seeking LGBT wine tours in a truly inclusive setting.

Top Experience: A cycling tour between wineries in Marlborough, with LGBT-friendly hosts along the way.

Recommended Stay:
The Marlborough, a luxury lodge nestled among Sauvignon Blanc vines.
→ Let us build a tailor-made holiday including The Marlborough.

How Gay Friendly is New Zealand?

Homosexuality decriminalised: 1986
Same-sex marriage legal: 2013
Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
Employment protections: Yes
Equal age of consent: Yes
Public opinion: One of the most inclusive countries globally

For more detailed information on LGBT+ rights worldwide, you can consult ILGA’s global reports.

Should You Join a Group LGBT Wine Tour or Go Tailor-Made?

It depends on how you love to travel. Group tours are great for making new friends, especially if you're solo. Tailor-made trips offer full control — and at Wide Awake Holidays, we specialise in crafting both.

Consider a tailor-made holiday if you:

Prefer privacy or romance
Want to blend wine with other experiences (beach, hiking, culture)
Travel with friends or a partner at your own pace

Consider a group wine tour if you:

Want to connect with the LGBT+ community
Appreciate having guides and hosts manage all logistics
Are looking for something sociable and fun

Let us know your vibe — we’ll plan around you.

Book with Confidence – Wherever You’re Based

Although Wide Awake Holidays is proudly based in the UK, our services extend worldwide. Whether you live in London, Leeds, or Los Angeles, you can book through us with confidence.

Here’s why international clients choose us:

We're LGBT+ owned and community-first
We offer full financial protection
We know where you’ll feel welcome — and where to avoid
Our team is available by phone, email or video, wherever you are

From San Francisco to Sydney, you’re part of the Wide Awake Holidays family.

Why Choose Wide Awake Holidays for Your LGBT Wine Tour?

We don’t just understand LGBT travel — we live it. That’s why every trip is designed with care, insight, and authenticity. From the vineyards to the hotels, we vet every experience to make sure it’s not just safe, but celebratory.

We believe that sometimes gay-friendly isn’t friendly enough. You deserve more than tolerance. You deserve joy.

So whether it’s your first LGBT wine tour or your fifth, trust us to help you get it right.

Ready to Sip Your Way Around the World?

From South Africa’s wine safaris to New Zealand’s scenic tastings, the world of LGBT wine tours is bursting with flavour, freedom, and fun. With Wide Awake Holidays, you’ll get more than a booking — you’ll get a travel partner who understands you.

Let’s make your next wine adventure unforgettable.

📞 Call us now on 01495 400947
📩 Or use our simple holiday enquiry form to get started

What are LGBT wine tours?
They’re wine-focused holidays designed to be inclusive and welcoming to the LGBT+ community, often with queer-owned businesses or community-led events.
Are LGBT wine tours only for couples?
Not at all. Many travellers go solo or with friends. Group tours are especially social and ideal for meeting like-minded people.
Which countries are best for LGBT wine tours?
Top destinations include France, Spain, Argentina, South Africa, and New Zealand — all offering great wine and strong LGBT+ protections.
Are tailor-made LGBT wine tours more expensive than group tours?
Not always. Tailor-made holidays give you control over your budget, so we can build something to suit your needs.
Can I join a wine tour if I’m new to wine tasting?
Absolutely. These tours welcome all levels — from complete beginners to seasoned connoisseurs.
Are there any gay-owned vineyards on these tours?
Yes, several in California, France, and South Africa are proudly LGBT-owned and make it part of their story.
Are LGBT wine tours safe for transgender and non-binary travellers?
Yes — we carefully vet each location to ensure safety, respect, and inclusion across gender identities.
Can I book an LGBT wine tour from the USA or abroad?
Yes. Even though we’re based in the UK, we arrange holidays for travellers from the US, Europe, and beyond.
What’s included in an LGBT wine tour package?
Packages can include accommodation, vineyard tours, tastings, transport, guides, and optional experiences like spa days or cooking classes.
How far in advance should I book an LGBT wine tour?
Ideally 3–6 months ahead, especially if you’re travelling during peak wine seasons or Pride events.