Travel

Here’s What Penticton is Known For

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This small city of Penticton, B.C., located in the South Okanagan Valley, has grown as a popular tourist destination over the last decade. A report published by analysis systems firm, Esri, estimated that Penticton attracted about 1.2 million visitors per year (prior to the covid-19 pandemic).

But how did this small city become the famous holiday destination that it is today?

Click the links in the Table Of Contents to skip ahead to the category that interests you the most, or sit back and enjoy reading through this list of the top reasons to visit the Okanagan Valley’s most popular vacation destination.

A Brief History of Penticton

You can take in the history of Penticton and the Okanagan at the S.S. Sicamous Museum, located on the southwest side of Okanagan Lake (just look for the big boat!).

The S.S. Sicamous is the largest surviving sternwheeler in British Columbia, launched in 1914 for cargo and passenger transportation. It has been preserved as a museum and event venue, cared for by the S.S. Sicamous Marine Heritage Society, a non-profit organization. We recommend viewing the public calendar before you visit to make sure the museum isn’t booked out for a private event.

So what is Penticton known for today? There are plenty of reasons that tourism is still booming in this small lake-side city.

Lakes & Beaches

Penticton quickly became known by travellers in the province of British Columbia for its ideal location, situated between two massive freshwater lakes, Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake. Both lakes offer stunning views and serene beaches that tourists flock to on hot summer days.

To see both Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, we recommend floating “The Channel”, the Okanagan’s man-made river channel that was created in the 1950s to control flooding and water flow.

Floating “The Channel” is an absolute must-do in the summertime in Penticton. The float starts at the Riverside Drive launch site and proceeds down the channel through Penticton towards a half-way point at Green Mountain Road, where many floaters stop for lunch. The channel ends as soon as you float into Skaha Lake. 

There is a parking lot near Skaha Lake Park where you can leave a vehicle to get back to Penticton, or you can purchase a bus ticket in advance from Coyote Cruises and leave your vehicle at the launch point. If you don’t have your own supplies, you can purchase everything you need from Canadian Tire, off Highway 97. 

Coyote Cruises also rents floaties, dry bags, and safety gear at a low cost. There is a public inflation station located at the Riverside Drive launch point for a $2.00 charge.

Rolling Hills & Mountains for Hiking and Cycling

Breathtaking views of rolling hills and tree-topped mountains surround Penticton, offering exceptional trails for every level of hiker. Tourists arrive in spades to meander through pine and fir tree forests with rewarding views of crystal lakes below. Check out Penticton’s recommended trails to plan your hike. 

Penticton also has cycling routes for every type of rider. The quiet streets of Penticton city are easy to ride around if you’re simply looking for recreational cycling to Penticton’s beaches, boutiques, and restaurants. You can also ride a small or large section of the famous Kettle Valley Rail Tail, which conveniently intersects with Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.

If you’re looking for a more extreme cycling experience, there are downhill mountain biking trails located in and around Penticton. Plenty of great information can be found online for all the mountain biking trails nearby. We recommend checking out the popular mountain biking blog, SingleTracks, for more information on the following recommended mountain bike trails below:

1. Three Blind Mice Trail Network
2. Cartwright Mountain
3. Mt. Conkle

Didn’t bring a bicycle? No problem! Bicycle rental shops are located in downtown Penticton. Start by visiting Penticton Bike Rentals or Freedom Bike Shop to see a wide variety of road bike and mountain bike rentals in Penticton.

Kettle Valley Railway

The Kettle Valley Railway has been preserved as a popular hiking and biking trail for locals and visitors alike. This expansive rail network once served as British Columbia’s longest railway track, connecting Hope to Castlegar. The KVR now offers nearly 650km of connected pathways in the Okanagan region, with a conveniently located intersection in front of the destination hotel, Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.

You can also view a massive scale model of the Kettle Valley Railway on the cargo deck of The S.S. Sicamous Museum. Check it out for an aerial view of Western Canada’s historic rail network.

Wineries

The Okanagan boasts the highest concentration of B.C. wineries and the Naramata Bench has over 40 of them located within a 20 minute drive of each other. Located just north of Penticton, the Naramata Bench is famous for its award-winning vineyards and scenic lake-view patios. 

Getting to the Naramata Bench is easy when you’re in Penticton. From the centrally located Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre, the closest winery is approximately 5 minutes by car. You can also hop on a bus, rent a bicycle, or simply walk to Naramata Road to start your wine-tasting experience.

Multiple tour operators offer day trips to select wineries along the Naramata Bench. Check out Top Cat Tours for details on private charters and all-inclusive experiences. If you want to plan your own trip, start by reading our post on the five wineries you can’t miss during your trip to the Okanagan. We also recommend stopping by the town of Naramata to visit boutique fashion stores and cafés — a great way to break up your day of wine tastings.

There are many ways you can start your personal wine-tasting experience in the Okanagan, including by bike, all-inclusive tour, or as part of a vacation package when you book directly with Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.

A Burgeoning Craft Beer Scene

Did you know that Penticton is quickly becoming a hotspot for B.C. beer enthusiasts? Notable microbreweries such as Highway 97 Brewery, Cannery Brewing, and Bad Tattoo have opened their doors in the last two decades, serving a variety of lagers, pale ales, hefeweizens, porters, and IPAs. 

Visit a tasting room to grab some sudsy drinks and delicious food. You can start your Penticton craft-beer tour by reading our Local’s Guide to Penticton Microbreweries, where we provide the low-down on all the best beers in town, including information from the Penticton Ale Trail.

Fresh, Organic Fruit & Vegetables

Farmer’s Markets and road-side fruit stands are common throughout Penticton and its surrounding area. In fact, much of Penticton’s early tourism was driven by the famous annual Penticton Peach Festival, which is scheduled to return in August of 2021.

Penticton has one of the longest growing seasons in all of British Columbia thanks to the fertile land and high year-round temperatures, which brings us to the next big item that Penticton is known for...

Sunshine, Sunshine, and more Sunshine

With an average of 304 days of sunshine per year, travelling to Penticton for its sunny climate is a safe bet in any season. This interior B.C. city, just a short drive south of Kelowna, offers one of the warmest and driest year-round climates in all of British Columbia.

For many visitors to Penticton, simply choosing to lay back on the sandy beaches of Okanagan Lake with a cool drink and a book is the perfect way to spend their time. Penticton is an ideal place to have a picnic with fresh produce from a Penticton Farmers Market, build a sand castle with your family, or just bask in that famous Penticton summer weather.

Okanagan Lake is an ideal place to swim, kayak, or go boating — just don’t forget your sunscreen! Psst... You can also take advantage of the private beach and marina at Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre when you book your room today. Remember to book with us directly to save! receive exclusive offers! Find out more here.

A Winter Wonderland

All kinds of winter activities have put Penticton on the map for winter travel. Skating, sledding, snowshoeing, or just building a snowman with your family are all available in the winter season. 

Penticton is also closely located to Apex Mountain Ski Resort, which has a base elevation of 5,197ft (higher than Big White), which makes for ideal fresh powder days on the mountain followed by a comfortable retreat to a lakeview guestroom.

Many Reasons to Visit

It’s no secret that Penticton is one of Canada’s most popular holiday destinations. A Facebook survey published by the Huffington Post even named Penticton as a Top-10 World Travel Destination. 

There are a plethora of reasons that Penticton is such a massively popular location for local and international travellers. The climate, scenery, and abundance of activities for families, couples, and adventurers are all main draws of this small B.C. city. Plus, it’s an easy 5-hour drive from Vancouver, B.C., where domestic and international vacationers frequently arrive by air travel to YVR airport.

Where to Stay In Penticton

Locals and frequent visitors know that Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre is the perfect location for families, friends, and solo travellers to stay during their vacation to Penticton.

With an award-winning restaurant, lively late-night pub, and exclusive amenities including a private sandy beach on beautiful Okanagan Lake, there are plenty of reasons to take advantage of this top-rated resort. 

Visitors also get special offerings from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre, such as the Naramata Wine Tour Package, which includes accommodations, bus transportation, and a full-day wine tour by Top Cat Tours. Check out other great hotel deals in Penticton by visiting our Deals page.

Take a Break From Planning

Looking to discover Penticton without all the planning? We don’t blame you! Your vacation should allow you to unwind and enjoy the many activities that Penticton has to offer, without the stress of planning activities each day. Check out vacation offerings at Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre to find great deals on holiday packages in Penticton. Offers include wine tours, romance packages, and discounted rates for qualifiers — see more deals online!

There are also exclusive amenities available to our hotel guests. Visit our Amenities page to see the availability of our pool, hot tub, fitness centre & juice bar, skating rink, and private outdoor patios.

Now that you know what Penticton is known for, you can discover all that this ideal Okanagan city has to offer for yourself when you book your stay directly on Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre website.

Keep up to date with the latest vacation offerings and information from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre by following us on Instagram and Facebook.

by vancreative

Discover Penticton: Why this small B.C. city is the next BIG trend in USA Tourism

Penticton, British Columbia, is located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, minutes north of the 49th parallel — the boundary that marks the northern tip of mainland United States and the southern border of Canada.

Penticton is quickly becoming a popular travel destination among Washington residents. Why? Aside from an abundance of gorgeous views and endless opportunities for new adventures, there are a number of compelling reasons to visit.

Penticton is smack-dab in the center of a place that USA Today once called one of the top wine regions to visit in the world (#2, right after Portugal — but who can afford that trip?).

A trip by car or bicycle through the Naramata Bench wine region is the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon with friends and family among the vineyards. And with wine tasting fees averaging at $5.00 CAD per stop, it really doesn’t cost much to enjoy a large variety of your favorite flavors. But wine isn’t the only reason to visit. With ample hiking trails, picturesque beaches and a surprisingly warm lake, Penticton is truly a destination for all. 

The city has laid claim to having the finest fruit on earth since the 1950s, but don’t take our word for it, check out this archival footage "Peachtime in the Valley: Penticton, British Columbia" made by the Royal BC Museum:

Affordability is another big reason why Americans are migrating north for their next destination vacation. Penticton is a short 6-hour drive from Seattle, and luxurious accommodations on private beach-front properties can be found for under $200 USD/night.

A quick Google search for hotels in Washington shows that even some 3-star hotels with only a pool cost upwards of $300/night.

With rich vineyards, unforgettable hikes, and stunning beaches at your doorstep paired with luxurious and affordable accommodations and the high purchasing power of the US dollar, we just have to ask: what are you waiting for?

An abundance of rewards await travelers in every season. Check out our Seattle to Penticton in under 6 hours itinerary to learn just how easy it is to escape to our little slice of paradise just north of the Canadian border.

by Jason Tweten

Penticton’s Best Free Activities

Nowadays, it can be difficult to answer the question: what can you do for under 10 dollars? Luckily for visitors of Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre, there are plenty of free choices and some cheap options, too.

What to do for free in Penticton

Penticton is a little slice of paradise. Walking, hiking, and spending sunny days at the beach are our favourite free summer activities. Plus, you can distract the kids with a search for the mysterious Ogopogo while you enjoy peace and relaxation.Read more

by Jason Tweten

The Local’s Guide to Penticton Microbreweries

Faithful subscribers, it’s summertime.

Here in the Okanagan, there’s almost no better way to spend a hot summer day than cruising the streets of Penticton enroute to microbrewery taste-town.

Not sure where to start? Allow us to introduce you to the Penticton Ale Trail. Check out the handy map below to see all the Penticton craft beers you’ll try on your journey.

It’s hard to hit all these craft breweries in one day — trust us, we know — so to help you narrow down the choices, we’ve put together a brief overview of what to expect at each local beer company along the trail.

Highway 97 Brewery

Aptly named after the longest continually running highway in BC, Highway 97 is a boutique-style craft brewhouse pouring ales, porters, and hoppy IPAs. Family run and proudly British Columbian, Highway 97 serves craft brewed beers that stand up to any brewer’s palate.  Enjoy a cool pint in their laid-back atmosphere and take in the scenic views of the Penticton Golf & Country Club. Pro-tip: we also serve the Highway 97 Amber Ale beer on tap at the Hooded Merganser Bar + Grill.

Cannery Brewing

Premium quality malted grains and carefully picked Pacific Northwest hops bring a lively flavour to Cannery Brewing’s beers. Part of the British Columbia Craft Brewers Guild, this popular microbrewery is a BC beer-drinker’s favourite and frequently appears at craft beer markets.
They have a large variety of cleverly named beers: Lakeboat Lager, Power Chord Pilsner, Skaha Summer Ale, and Naramata Nut Brown are just a few. Cannery also has a wicked back patio where you can meet Penticton locals, relax, eat, and drink the day away. Try their beers on location or conveniently head down to the Hooded Merganser Bar + Grill, or the lively Barking Parrot Bar, both steps away from your room at Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.

Tin Whistle Brewery

Tin Whistle lays its claim as the first microbrewery in the South Okanagan Valley, forging a path for all that would follow in the beer-making business. These Penticton pioneers use Okanagan-grown fruits, berries, and grapes in their seasonal brews, while also keeping staple beers on rotation including dark ales and summery IPAs. This brew pub is considered a piece of Okanagan heritage, staying relevant in the region for more than 20 years.

Barley Mill

The Barley Mill Brew Pub and Bistro has award winning beers at some of the best prices in the region. Grab a Jug of house-brewed Pale Ale, Lager, or Wheat Ale on tap and share it with your friends. This pub boasts a lively atmosphere filled with sports paraphernalia, comfort food, and a sweet summer patio. You can also take a free tour to learn about the beer-making process from 11am to 5pm daily, or grab a 6-pack on your way out from the attached Cold Beer and Wine Store.

Bad Tattoo Brewing Company

Handcrafted in Penticton with a legacy lasting over six generations, Bad Tattoo Brewing was built from the foundation up with a philosophy to serve fresh, tasty brews alongside oven-fired pizza. Does it get any better? Enjoy a pint and a slice with patrons of the tasting room, and get your growler filled in-house with a crisp ale, weisse, or IPA. Bonus: this brewery is near the city centre, easy walking distance from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.

Slackwater & Neighbourhood Brewing

Scheduled for Summer 2019 openings, both Slackwater (previously “Hatchery”) and Neighbourhood brewing are joining the Penticton microbrewery beer brigade. These two breweries will reinforce Penticton’s growing claim as a destination for wine lovers and beer drinkers alike, offering delicious beers in a tight-knit community setting. You can be among the first to try their products during your summer trip to Penticton, BC.

Firehall Brewery (one more that’s worth the drive)

Want to experience regional craft beer culture outside the streets of Penticton? Check out Firehall Brewing, a scenic 45-minute drive from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre. This Oliver, BC, brewery is a family operation originally built with vintage parts sourced from a local bootlegger. Since opening, the “Old Firehall” has become a must-hit destination during any trip to the Okanagan region.

Before you Embark On the Ale Trail

Don’t forget to pick up a copy of your Penticton Ale Trail passport at the Penticton Visitor Centre, 888 Westminster Ave, or at any of the breweries on the Ale Trail.

Oh, and by the way, you can help avoid the dreaded draught-beer hangover with a hearty breakfast at the Hooded Merganser Bar + Grill before you set out for an adventure that you’ll... probably... remember well.

Cheers!

by Jason Tweten

5 Okanagan Wineries You Can’t Miss in Summer 2019

*Looking for the best Okanagan wineries to try in 2020? Start your search by booking a Naramata Wine Tour Package, or check out the curated wine list available on our brand new farm-to-table menu at The Hooded Merganser Restaurant.

Summer’s just around the corner and we’re uncorking our favourite bottles of Cabernets, Merlots, and Pinot Gris to celebrate the season. Get to know the best tastes of the Okanagan Valley in our list of 5 local vineyards that can’t be missed on your summer trip to Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre. 

We’ve also asked Executive Chef, Chris Remington, to recommend delicious food and drink pairings prepared at the Hooded Merganser Bar + Grill, served next to a stunning panoramic view of Okanagan Lake.

1. Bench 1775

Vibrant yet balanced flavours and organically grown grapes gives an authentic and natural tasting experience that allows the fruit to delicately express itself. Aptly named to help wine seekers locate its wine country whereabouts, Bench 1775 is a staple on any wine tour along the Naramata bench. Recently rated one of the top 8 wineries in Canada, and 4th in British Columbia, Bench 1775 is a must visit.

Chef’s recommended food pairing: “1775 Viognier” white wine paired with a fresh and fragrant spiced Green Thai Prawn Curry.

2. Lake Breeze

Boasting some of the oldest vines on the Naramata Bench, Lake Breeze minimizes intervention between grape and bottle to provide the most natural of flavours. This gives the palate a crisp, fruit-forward taste that lingers long after the last drop.

Chef’s recommended food pairing: “Tempest” meritage blend red wine paired with a mouth-watering 8oz. Dry-Aged New York Steak.

3. Fairview Cellars

Often described as the hidden gem of the Okanagan Valley wine trail, Fairview Cellars is the lifelong dream of winemaker Bill Eggert come to fruition. His experimental approach to finding perfection in tasting notes — balancing acidity, tannins, body, alcohol, and sweetness — has helped him produce memorable white and red wines suitable for any occasion.

Chef’s recommended food pairing: “The Bear” five blend red wine with a finely braised Lamb Shank.

4. Hester Creek

Winner of numerous awards, winemaker Rob Summers has been at the helm of this Golden Mile Bench winery since arriving to Hester Creek in 2006. The vineyard sits above the valley floor, taking advantage of long hours of daylight to help avoid seasonal frost damage. Rob Summers describes it best: “The soil, the climate, the light...together they give rise to that intangible magic we call terroir.”

Chef’s recommended food pairing: “The Judge” cab franc, cab sauv, merlot blend red wine with the Dijon-Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb.

5. Burrowing Owl

Using solar panels to offset CO2 emissions when heating their water, this environmentally conscious winery grows european varietals to produce everything from fruit-driven Athenes to a rich-in-flavour Syrahs. Burrowing Owl gets its moniker from the winery’s proprietors, Jim and Midge Wyse, who are active members of the Burrowing Owl Conservation Society of British Columbia (BOCS). Over time, this vineyard has contributed close to a million dollars to the program, in part by visitor donations.

Chef’s recommended food pairing: “Burrowing Owl Pinot Gris” white wine paired with pan-fried Pork Gyoza.

Let the flavours of the Okanagan wineries tantalize your senses with sweet, spicy aromas and rich, fruity flavours. Sample some of the wine’s we’ve listed above when you drop by the Great Estates Okanagan Wine Experience Centre, located on the first floor of our West Tower. Enjoy these wines with a delicious meal by booking a reservation at the Hooded Merganser Bar + Grill.

You can also book shuttle-service wine tours through our front desk with companies like Ogopogo Valley Tours, TopCat Tours, and Grape Escapes Wine Tours.

by vancreative

Okanagan Valley Wineries: The Ultimate Guide to Wine Snobbery

I LOVE wine. I grew up on wine.

While everyone else’s first alcoholic beverage was whiskey or rum, mine was a smooth glass of red.

It’s in my veins.

So picture this…

I’m driving down to the Okanagan Valley at breakneck speed this past April with one goal on my mind:

 

visit as many wineries as humanely possible!

 

What Wine Rich Countries Have I Been to?

 

I’ve been to Napa Valley in California;

I’ve visited the Bordeaux region in France- but the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia was uncharted wine territory for me.

I couldn’t wait to EXPLORE it all!

 

Where did I Stay?

 

In Kelowna, I stayed at the Delta Grand Hotel.

What an amazing hotel and a must stay,

In Penticton, I stayed at the Penticton Lakeside Resort because my friends had told me really great things about the hotel.

The resort is situated right on the mouth of the Okanagan Lake.

On sunny days, guests can see the bouncing rays of sunshine glisten off the lake’s surface.

So beautiful!

 

Where Did I go in the Okanagan?

 

I worked my way through the best and most popular wineries in the Okanagan Valley.

I started with the famous spots in Kelowna, of course. 🙂

I then migrated to more obscure vineyards along Naramata Road in Penticton.

Overall, I’d have to say that the tiny vineyards in Penticton were beyond amazing and unexpected.

If you have a chance this summer, I wholeheartedly recommend a getaway to Canada’s premier wine destination.

The Okanagan Valley really has so much to offer- and the dozens of amazing wineries sprinkled across the hillside are the icing on top of the cake.

Here is a list of my favourite wineries in the Okanagan Valley so you too can be the wine snob among your friends.

Table of Contents

1. Bench 1775
2. Cedar Creek
3. Lake Breeze
4. La Frenz
5. Red Rooster
6. Quail’s Gate
7. Gray Monk

Bench 1775

*Photo source: Bench 1775 Wineries

Don’t be fooled by Bench 1775′s small-town feel;

Bench 1775 is one of the highest-rated small wineries in Canada.

Give Bench props for its delicious award-winning selection of red, white, rose and ice wines.

Located in Penticton, BC, Bench 1775 is situated on the edge of the southern shore of the stunning Okanagan Lake.

Its breathtaking overlook of the Okanagan Valley makes this winery a must see on your wine tour.

*Photo source: Bench 1775 Wineries

Overall rating of Bench 1775 based on reviews from tripadvisor.com:

What Can You Expect?

Guests can take in the beautiful scenery amidst lunch and a glass of wine in their outside patio bistro.

Their bistro offers mouth-watering locally-harvested dishes that include flat breads and local BC seafood.

Each dish comes with a wine recommendation and I, for one, did not hesitate in taking their advice!

I paired my oven roasted pizza with their 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, while my wine tour partner-in-crime (Alleesha) chose Bench 1775’s 2015 “Chill” white wine alongside her oyster dish.

Wine Tasting?

FUN wine tastings are available.

Stop by any day of the week for an informative tour and tasting of all of their table and sweet wines.

Led by staff who you can tell genuinely love all Bench 1775 has to offer, guests can sip and savor their classics while taking in the jaw dropping view of the Okanagan Valley.

Bench 1775 offers a wide variety of tasty wines for wine lovers.

From vibrant reds to refreshing whites, Bench 1775 has something delicious for everyone.

Their quality wines stem from a dedicated team led by winemaker Val Tait and Alain Sture, a veteran wine consultant from Bordeaux, France (Oh, Bordeaux).

Along with expert vineyard workers and cellar staff, the Bench 1775 team create balanced wines all produced in the Okanagan Valley. 

Wines

Their ice wine is especially well-recognized, thanks in part to Val’s now famous Mojito mix recipe that features their Bliss ice wine. I’ll have what she’s having!

If you’re a big of this award-winning winery, make sure to follow Val Tait as she travels to different events for workshops and tastings. She often hosts wine workshops at the Bench 1175 winery itself, teaching wine connoisseurs the ins and outs of wine.

From red wine blending classes to fun Wine Club patio parties, you’ll definitely reap the benefits of being part of this fun club!

Hours and Location

How to get to Bench 1775 (from Vancouver)

If you’re travelling from the Greater Vancouver area, the best way to get to Bench 1775 is along Highway 1.

Once you’re driving East along Highway 1, you have two choices.

You can take Highway 3 or Highway 5. Highway 5 takes you up North to Merritt, back down South through Peachland and Summerland until you reach Penticton.

Directions:

• Take Highway 1 East
• Take Highway 3
• Take Highway 3A towards Penticton
• Take Highway 97 towards Penticton
• Once into Penticton, take a right on Eckhardt Avenue W (It turns into Eckhardt Ave E)
• Follow the road along Eckhardt Ave E (this road turns into Haven Hill Rd.)
• Then take a right on Johnson Rd.
• Follow Johnson Rd. (this turns into Upper Bench Rd. N) all the way until you come to McMillan Ave.
• Turn right on McMillan Ave (turns into Naramata Rd.)
• Follow Naramata Rd. all the way until you reach the winery 🙂

 

Highway 3 takes you past the Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Manning Park and Princeton.

I personally like to drive along Highway 3 as the drive is quite beautiful.

The last time I drove along Highway 3, I saw 3 deer.

With that being said, be aware of wildlife on the road! Deer tend to dart out on the road without warning!

From Washington State

If you’re coming up from Washington, take the Sumas border entrance into Canada.

Once you cross the border, follow the road North until you reach Highway 1 East.

Cedar Creek Estate Winery

Photo Credit: CedarCreek Estate Winery, cedarcreek.bc.ca

Overall rating based on reviews from tripadvisor.com:

Cedar Creek is one of the foremost wineries to come out of British Columbia.

The Cedar Creek Estate Winery released its first wine all the way back in 1987 and boasts more than three decades of experience.

It’s for this reason Cedar Creek was on my must-see list when I visited Kelowna.

What Can You Expect?

Sitting atop a lush hillside a mere 20 minutes from town, Cedar Creek Estate Winery offers guests panoramic views of the Okanagan lake and countryside.

It’s absolutely gorgeous and there’s a wide list of options to choose from as well!

The Menu:

Cedar Creek’s estate provides a stunning setting and menu if you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two.

The smoked trout and watermelon salad is to die for and you get a killer view of the vineyard!

Wine Tour:

The wine tours are something else.

You can tell Cedar Creek has put a lot of time and money into its winery by its surrounding grounds.

When touring the location, you’re surrounded by beautiful architecture and natural scenery everywhere you look.

The host is also top-notch- ask him any question- the man will provide you a personable answer.

Wine Tasting?

If you simply want to pick up your favourite bottle of wine, stop by the winery anytime during the day for a complimentary daily tasting feature before heading off.

The wine shop also offers a slew of unique gifts besides wine, including cookbooks and wine accessories.

Photo Credit: CedarCreek Estate Winery

Hours and Location

How to get to Cedar Creek Winery

Lake Breeze Winery

Overall rating based on reviews from tripadvisor.com:

If you’re already doing a stop over in Penticton, B.C, why not check out this friendly local winery?

Located only minutes from the Penticton Lakeside Resort, Lake Breeze Winery boasts a cozy, homey feel with a wide range of wines for tasting.

While the tasting fee is $3, the amount is donated to charity.

Oh, and if you happen to buy a bottle of their wine?

The entire fee is waived.

What Can You Expect?

Want to have some wine delivered directly to your door?

No problem.

Lake Breeze Winery has an awesome online shopping system that allows your favourite blends to be delivered anywhere in Alberta and British Columbia!

The Menu:

Before heading off, I grabbed a bite at their Patio restaurant.

Chef Mark Ashton served my friends and I the perfect wine accompaniment of portobello mushroom carpaccio (simply to die for!) along with their vibrant semillon/chardonnay.

Unreal.

The epic sunset in the background didn’t hurt either.

Wines

Lake Breeze wines are crisp and fruity, made from grapes straight from their vineyard or Naramata Beach.

Their most popular blends include Ehrenfelser, Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris as well as Bordeaux, Merlot, Pinotage and Pinot Noir.

My personal favourite is the red Meritage, which I made sure to stock up on before the end of my winery tour.

Wine Tasting?

Hours and Location

La Frenz Estate Winery

Overall rating based on reviews from tripadvisor.com:

La Frenz is easily one of the most successful and reputable wine brands in the Okanagan Valley region, raking in three international winery of the year awards since 2013.

Georgia Straight magazine named La Frenz as the number three best B.C Winery Tasting Room this year and so my only question to you now is…what are you waiting for?!

La Frenz’s tasting room comes with two tasting flight options, ranging from $5 to $10 in price (the fee is waived if you purchase wine yourself). The Portfolio Tasting Flight experience gives guests the chance to sample up to five wines, including all of their latest and greatest releases.

The Reserve Tasting Flight tour, however, focuses on La Frenz’s Reserve wines: Reserve Pinot Noir, Reserve Chardonnay, Vivant, Ensemble and the Grand Total Reserve. This was the tasting tour I personally preferred as I was able to sample the wine collection I’d been curious about prior to stopping at La Frenz winery.

If you’re having trouble deciding between two bottles, I recommend the 2014 Reserve Pinot Noir!

How to get to La Frenz Winery

• Merge onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E
• Continue onto BC-3 E
• Take exit 286 for British Columbia 5A/BC-97C toward Merritt/Kelowna/BC-8/City Centre
• Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Kelowna
• Turn left onto BC-5A/BC-97C (signs for Kelowna/Princeton/British Columbia 5A S/British Columbia 97 Connector E)
• Continue to follow BC-97C
• Take the BC-97 S exit toward Peachland/Penticton/Osoyoos
• Keep right, follow signs for British Columbia 97 and merge onto Okanagan Hwy/BC-97 S
• Continue onto Eckhardt Ave W
• Make a slight left onto Haven Hill Rd
• Turn right onto Johnson Road
• Slight left onto Upper Bench Rd S
• Turn right onto McMillan Ave
• Slight left onto Naramata Rd
• Turn right onto Randolph Rd and you’ll arrive at La Frenz Winery

Red Rooster

Overall rating based on reviews from tripadvisor.com:

Red Rooster Winery boasts an atmosphere like no other winery in the province.

Its quirky, fun vibe makes Red Rooster one of the most fun wine tours to take part in in the Okanagan Valley.

From its funky art displays and statues, to its large patio and open grounds, Red Rooster has the kind of hospitality and quality that’ll make you want to visit again and again.

Their wines follow a similar approach, offering premium crowd pleasing blends that range from their fruity Gewurztraminer to their spicy Cabernet Merlot.

Their Riesling ice wine is an excellent gift to take home as well, offering a unique candied lemon, honey and pineapple flavour that I just couldn’t resist- I took home two bottles. 

Perhaps the most recognized wine brand in the Okanagan Valley, Quail’s Gate winery boasts over 60 years of experience, making this winery one of the pioneers of Okanagan wine making.

Over the course of three generations, Quail’s Gate has expanded its winery to include fine dining and accommodation.

What to Expect?

This winery offers hotel stay!

Guests can stay at either at the estate’s 10 person private Lake House or their beach-front cottage Nest, providing guests the ultimate weekend escape right on the Okanagan Lake.

The Menu:

If you’re in Kelowna only for a short time, Quail’s Gate wine tour and Old Vines restaurant will more than quench your thirst for premium wine.

The winery’s fine dining restaurant is considered one of the top 100 restaurant in Canada and offers the freshest local dishes, for a premium Okanagan dining experience.

Wine Tour:

Their wine tours change by the season, giving guests in depth guided tours through the vineyards and delicious wine sampling in their exclusive Wine Library.

Gray Monk

Overall rating based on reviews from tripadvisor.com:

Gray Monk is the oldest family owned and operated winery, with plenty of prestige to boot. Located in Lake Country, a short 30 minute drive from Kelowna, Gray Monk is situated on 75 acres of vineyards directly overlooking the breathtaking Okanagan Lake.

What Can You Expect?

Gray Monk wines have been picking up awards left, right and centre for years, most recently being recognized in Vines magazine for their Cabernet Merlot and Odyssey Meritage blends. The winery is known for its elegant Grapevine restaurant, which features everything from salmon tartare to duck confit. Yumm.

Gray Monk’s wines are recognized for their fine wines and are celebrating three milestones this year: Founders George and Trudy Heiss celebrate 35 years of crafting wine, 45 years of grape growing and (drum roll please) 55 years of marriage. Shall we toast to that? Cheers!

Wines

They’re best known for their red, white and sparkling wines, notably being the number one selling Pinot Gris in British Columbia. If you’re at a loss as to which blend to take home with you while visiting Gray Monk, you can’t go wrong with Latitude 50: this unique creation is the number one selling white blend in the province. Not too shabby Grey Monk.

Hours and Location

by Lauren Martineau