THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Enjoy a scenic picnic amid North Carolina’s top-rated vineyards with Shelton Vineyards' exceptional outdoor experience. Perfect for relaxing and tasting local wines, it’s a must-visit spot for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.
Enjoy a scenic picnic amid North Carolina’s top-rated vineyards with Shelton Vineyards' exceptional outdoor experience. Perfect for relaxing and tasting local wines, it’s a must-visit spot for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.
Book with The Grape Experience
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The Grape Experience · Dobson, North Carolina
Nestled in the rolling hills of North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley, Shelton Vineyards offers more than just world-class wine — it presents an idyllic setting for a refined outdoor picnic. The vineyard, established in 1989, sits on 410 acres of lush landscape famous for its grape varieties and scenic beauty. Visitors are drawn here for a taste of local viticulture, but the real highlight is the Picnic Experience by the Gazebo, an inviting spot that combines leisurely ambiance with the rustic charm of the countryside.
The expansive lawn surrounds a charming gazebo, where guests can settle in with a picnic basket filled with local cheeses, fresh bread, and seasonal produce. The mature vineyards and the gentle sway of grapevines form a stunning backdrop, especially during golden hour when sunlight filters through the leaves. This area is also known for its thriving birdlife, so expect to see species like goldfinches and swallows darting between the vines.
What makes Shelton Vineyards truly special is their commitment to preserving the land and fostering sustainable practices that protect the scenic integrity of the vineyard. The site features well-maintained pathways, making it accessible for visitors of varying mobility levels. In addition to the scenic picnic, guests can learn about the grape-growing process, sample wines directly from the source, and enjoy the rolling landscape that defines this historic viticultural region.
Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply after a relaxing outdoor escape, the Picnic Experience at Shelton Vineyards is a standout. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local tradition, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful yet engaging outdoor outing in North Carolina’s wine country.
easy.
2–4 hours.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic items to enjoy in the scenic setting.
Yes, Shelton Vineyards offers wine tastings and tours, often available in conjunction with the picnic experience.
Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended; no formal dress is required.
Absolutely, groups are welcome, and reservations are recommended for larger parties.
Pets are not permitted in the picnic area but are welcome on the vineyard grounds if leashed.
Yes, weather permitting, the picnic area is open seasonally, with improvements for different seasons.
Shelton Vineyards was founded in 1989 by Jim and Betty Shelton, emphasizing sustainable farming and local wine production.
The vineyard practices environmentally friendly farming techniques to preserve the land and promote ecological balance.
The Grape Experience is a North Carolina wine tour company that arranges private tastings, picnics, and multi-vineyard excursions in the Yadkin Valley and surrounding regions. It curates full-day and weekend experiences that pair premium local wines with curated food, guided tours, and luxury transportation where specified. The company coordinates visits to recognized estates including Dynamis Estate, Piccione, Raffaldini, and Shelton Vineyards, offering options such as private seven-hour three-vineyard tours, vineyard picnics at specific sites, and an extended weekend escape. Each itinerary emphasizes small-group or private formats, detailed planning, and on-site hospitality to ensure a seamless visit. The Grape Experience works with partner wineries to provide exclusive tastings, private tours of grounds, and special food pairings like charcuterie and picnic lunches. Service elements include organized transport, curated welcome aperitifs, guided tasting sequences, and scenic stops. The business targets guests seeking relaxed, high-quality wine tourism with local flavor and personalized attention. By arranging known properties and documented experiences, it provides transparent, bookable packages that reduce planning friction for visitors. The Grape Experience relies on established winery partners and clear itineraries to build trust and deliver consistent quality. Reservations and specific inclusions vary by trip; guests are encouraged to review each product description for details. Booking information, dietary accommodations, group sizes, and accessibility options are provided at booking so travelers can plan with confidence and tailor the visit to needs easily.
Book with The Grape Experience