Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour-Incl. Tastings & Guide Grat

An Honest Look at the Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour

If you’re considering a day of wine tasting in the Kelowna and Okanagan Valley area, the Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour by Sip Happens Wine Tours is one experience that frequently catches travelers’ attention. It’s praised for its scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to sample a variety of local wines, making it a solid choice for those wanting a relaxed, yet comprehensive, wine adventure.

What really stands out about this tour is its balance: offering five winery visits, up to 24 wine tastings, and ample time for a scenic lunch at a vineyard—without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Vernon or Lake Country adds a layer of convenience that many will appreciate.

One possible consideration is the price point, which at about $144.55 per person, covers a lot but does exclude the lunch and wine purchases. This means you’ll want to budget accordingly if you plan to buy bottles or indulge at the vineyards.

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts, casual tasters who enjoy picturesque settings, and travelers craving a full day of sightseeing and sipping with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Scenic Views & Relaxed Pace: You’ll enjoy gorgeous Lake Okanagan vistas throughout the day.
• Multiple Wineries & Tastings: Visiting five wineries with up to 24 tastings provides a great variety.
• Expert Guides & Friendly Service: Guides like James, Penny, and others are highly praised for their knowledge and warmth.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing, tasting, and delicious vineyard lunches.
• Comfort & Convenience: Door-to-door service, air-conditioned transport, and a small group size (max 13) make for a comfortable experience.
• Additional Costs: Lunch and wine purchases are extra, so plan accordingly to get the full experience.

Exploring the Tour Itself

The Itinerary: A Day Spent Among Wineries

Starting at Gray Monk Estate Winery, you’ll appreciate its deep-rooted history and charming vibe. The winery was founded by an Austrian-German couple who switched careers from hairdressing to winemaking in the early days of the region’s wine scene. Expect a warm welcome and an ambiance that combines tradition with a picturesque setting. With a 30-minute tasting included, you’ll get an introduction to some of their best wines, and it’s a good way to kick off your day.

Next, your journey takes you to Ex Nihilo Vineyards, inspired by the story of creation. This stop offers a chance to appreciate the passion poured into each vintage while learning about how they nurture their land through cold winters and vibrant summers. Again, 30 minutes here allows for a tasting and sightseeing, and reviewers mention how the wines are thoughtfully crafted.

From there, you visit Intrigue Wines, a winery born from two families united by their love for wine. With its modern approach, Intrigue is known for blending family passion with innovation. The guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm shine, making it a highlight for many guests who leave with a deeper appreciation of the local wine scene.

Peak Cellars, the newest hotspot in Lake Country, offers an energetic vibe inspired by adventurous spirits. Their estate-grown lineup includes wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir. The winery’s contemporary style and inviting atmosphere make it a perfect stop for those who enjoy exploring innovative wines.

The afternoon begins with a longer visit to Ancient Hill Estate Winery, where guests typically enjoy 4-5 tastings and time to shop for their favorites. The longer duration here allows you to really savor the wines and ask questions—something many of the reviews highlight as a memorable part of the experience.

Following that, Arrowleaf Cellars, a family-owned operation with Swiss roots, offers a warm, welcoming environment. Founded in 2001, Arrowleaf’s wines are well-regarded, and the personal touch from the family makes for a more intimate experience.

For lunch, you’ll return to Gray Monk Estate Winery at The Lookout Restaurant, where Chef Graham Momer serves up a variety of shareable dishes and classic entrees. While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, reviews rave about the quality and views from the restaurant, making it a highlight of the day.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a visit to Peak Cellars’ Garden Bistro, where you can relax on the patio with scenic views over vineyards, orchards, and Lake Okanagan. While this stop doesn’t include tastings, the setting itself is worth the visit for a leisurely conclusion to your day.

The Experience: What’s Included & What’s Not

Your ticket covers tasting fees, bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, a wine concierge, and door-to-door service in Vernon or Lake Country. The small group size ensures personalized service and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or take photos. The guides are often praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism—many reviews mention guides like James, Penny, and Nick as highlights.

However, the lunch at Gray Monk and wine purchases are not included, so you should factor in extra costs if you plan to buy bottles or indulge in the restaurant menu. The tour costs around $144.55 per person, which on the surface might seem steep, but considering the number of tastings, the quality of the wineries, and the included transportation, many find it a fair value.

The Group & Timing

This tour operates with a maximum of 13 travelers, fostering a cozy, social atmosphere. It starts at 10:30 am and lasts around six hours, making it a full but not overwhelming day. The timing is perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely pace, with ample time at each stop to savor wines, ask questions, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

User Feedback & Highlights

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Words like “entertaining,” “attentive,” and “full of wine wisdom” come up often. Many reviews highlight how guides like James, Athena, and Penny go above and beyond—taking photos, sharing local tips, and making sure everyone feels comfortable.

The views and the wines themselves are also frequently mentioned as memorable. Reviewers describe the wineries as beautiful and carefully selected, with some noting that the lunch at Gray Monk was “spectacular,” and the wines were “excellent.”

Downsides & Considerations

While the tour is highly rated, a few points are worth considering. The cost can add up, especially if you plan to purchase wine or dine at the vineyard restaurants. Also, since the lunch isn’t included, it’s an extra expense, though many find the quality and views at Gray Monk worthwhile.

Some reviewers mention that the tour’s success depends on meeting the minimum number of guests, so if you’re booking last-minute, availability might be limited. It’s best to plan ahead and book at least 22 days in advance on average.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers who enjoy scenic landscapes and want a comprehensive look at the Okanagan wine scene. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups who appreciate good company and engaging guides. If you’re seeking a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of tastings and beautiful views, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, if you prefer a more flexible, DIY day or are traveling with children, this might not be the best fit, as the focus is on tasting and touring wineries with a small group.

The Sum Up

The Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour offers a charming, scenic, and well-curated experience that showcases some of the best wineries in the Okanagan Valley. With friendly guides, a relaxed pace, and stunning vistas, it’s a great way to spend a day soaking up local culture and flavors. The included tastings, combined with the beautiful setting and knowledgeable guides, make it a solid choice for those wanting a taste of the region’s wine richness without feeling overwhelmed.

While it’s not the cheapest option, many guests find that the overall experience, quality of wineries, and scenic stops justify the price. It’s especially perfect for travelers who want a curated, educational, and enjoyable day with plenty of social moments along the way.

If you’re a wine enthusiast looking for a memorable way to explore Lake Country with a group, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but it’s available at Gray Monk Estate Winery’s restaurant, which many guests find worth the extra cost for the views and quality.

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit five wineries with the possibility of tasting up to 24 different wines throughout the day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately six hours, starting at 10:30 am and ending around 4:30 pm.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Vernon or Lake Country.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 13 travelers, creating a cozy, personalized experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable and friendly?
Based on reviews, guides like James, Penny, Athena, and Nick are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to enhance the experience with tips, photos, and good humor.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, wine purchases are not included but can be made at each winery if you wish to bring home some bottles.

This tour strikes a good balance between guided expertise, scenic beauty, and wine sampling, making it a solid pick for a memorable day out in the Okanagan.