The world’s best drinking trails beyond Napa

When you think of wine and beverage themed getaways, Napa Valley and the rolling vineyards of France probably come to mind first. Certainly, they are iconic, no doubt about that. But if you’re looking for something beyond the usual wine tour, there’s a whole world of drinks itineraries that offer much more than swirling a glass and saying things like “notes of oak.” These global drinking experiences take you off the beaten path and combine booze with immersive cultural and historical adventures.

Whether you fly over agave fields in Mexico, kayak along the Norwegian fjords for a cider tasting, or trek through the Andes to visit women-run wineries, these unique routes prove that wine (and other spirits) can be so much more than just a drink. casual sip. Here are some lesser-known but extraordinary drinks-themed trips that go beyond Napa and France, offering stories, landscapes and history with every drink.

Let’s start in South America, where Argentina’s Mendoza region has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in the wine world. But this is far from a typical vineyard tour. At SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites you will receive a truly personalized wine itinerary created by none other than Susana Balbo, Argentina’s first female winemaker.

These tailor-made itineraries feature stops at vineyards focused on women in wine, sustainable practices and Mendoza’s deep-rooted wine history. It’s more than just tasting world-class Malbecs: you’ll gain access to private tastings, intimate vineyard tours and in-depth knowledge about Argentina’s wine culture, all while enjoying the beautiful backdrop of the Andes. This is wine tourism taken to the next level, and it’s clear: Mendoza is ready to rival any Napa or Bordeaux.

Now you may know tequila as the drink for Friday night margaritas, but it has a rich cultural history that goes far beyond just salt and lime. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit’s ‘Fly Over Tequila’ experience brings that history to life in a way that is almost as smooth as the spirit itself.

This five-night luxury experience begins with a helicopter flight over Mexico’s vast agave fields, giving you a literal bird’s-eye view of where the tequila magic begins. It doesn’t stop there: horseback rides through the fields, private tequila tastings and a barbacoa dinner with live Mariachi music take you deep into the heart of Mexican culture. It’s a complete immersion into the story of tequila, from field to glass, and an experience far removed from anything you’ll find in a French vineyard.

If you’re a fan of craft cider, or just want to escape from wine, Norway’s Hardangerfjord is your destination. Known as the fruit basket of Norway, this region is home to some of the country’s best craft ciders. The Hardanger Cider Route takes you past the scenic fjords, with stops at historic farms such as Ulvik Frukt & Cideri, where cider-making traditions go back generations.

The drink may be cider, but the experience perfectly combines Norwegian culture, history and outdoor adventure. Imagine sipping fresh, handmade cider after a walk along the fjord or a kayaking session on the water. It’s not just a drinks route: it’s a full exploration of Norway’s rich agricultural history, set against some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world

If tequila is your thing, wait until you meet its older, lesser-known cousin, raicilla. This pre-tequila spirit is making a comeback and Casa Velas in Jalisco offers an immersive experience Raicilla roots adventure unlike anything you would find in the wine regions of Europe or California.

Raicilla has been distilled in Jalisco for centuries, and this adventure takes you to the heart of it. Hop into a Jeep and head to the remote agave fields where master distillers use age-old methods to create this earthy, complex spirit. Along the way, you’ll learn about the age-old distilling process and enjoy private tastings of this rare spirit. To top it all off, the experience ends with a mixology class at Casa Velas, where you can prepare your own raicilla cocktails using herbs from the onsite botanical garden.

These drink routes show that drink tourism is not limited to the well-trodden paths of Napa or France. From the wine heritage of Argentina to the cultural depth of tequila in Mexico and the fresh taste of cider in the Norwegian fjords, these experiences offer a richer, more diverse way to explore the world through your glass. It’s not just about the drink; it’s about the history, the people and the landscapes that make every sip a story worth telling. So if you want to take your next drinks-themed vacation to the next level, think beyond the vineyards of Napa and France; there is a whole world of flavors waiting to be discovered.