Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour

Thinking about a wine tasting adventure in Victoria? The Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour promises a relaxed, personalized way to sample some of BC’s best wines while soaking up the stunning scenery. This tour has gathered glowing reviews, thanks to its intimate vibe, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to visit multiple wineries in just a few hours. But, as always, it’s good to weigh what makes it special against what might be a consideration for you.

What we love about this experience is the personal touch of a private tour—no giant bus, just your group and a guide who genuinely knows the region. Plus, the scenic drives through backcountry roads make the journey just as enjoyable as the tastings themselves. On the flip side, it’s a half-day experience, so if you’re a serious wine enthusiast or want a longer in-depth exploration, you might find this tour a bit light on time.

All in all, this tour tends to suit visitors who are after a relaxed, flexible, and informative way to discover BC wines without the fuss of large groups or complicated logistics. It’s especially good for travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and a bit of scenic sightseeing alongside their tastings.

Key Points

• Fully private experience offers a personalized touch and avoids crowded wineries.
• Multiple winery stops deliver a broad taste of the Saanich Peninsula’s wine scene.
• Guided tastings help you learn about local wines and grapes directly from knowledgeable hosts.
• Scenic drives through picturesque countryside add a relaxed, leisurely vibe.
• Pick-up from your hotel makes logistics simple and stress-free.
• Good value for price, including tastings, with flexibility to customize or extend your day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of around $144.76 per person covers not only the winery visits and tastings but also the convenience of pickup from your Victoria hotel. This makes the experience smooth—no need to worry about transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads. The tasting fees are included, so what you pay upfront is pretty clear.

However, it’s worth noting that food is not included. If you’re planning a full day or have specific dietary needs, bringing snacks or planning a meal afterward might be a good idea. This way, you can fully enjoy the wines without feeling rushed or overly full.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in the Greater Victoria area, which is straightforward and convenient. The private vehicle takes you on a scenic drive to a series of charming wineries, where you’ll enjoy guided tastings and learn about the region’s grapes and wine production.

The stops include:

• Symphony Vineyard: A quick 30-minute tasting introduces you to BC wines, with a chance to savor some locally crafted options. The tasting here is free, and it’s a lovely starting point to get your palate ready.

• Deep Cove Winery: Another 30-minute stop, offering a different set of wines. Visitors appreciate the charming setting and the opportunity to ask questions directly to the winemakers.

• Church and State Wines in Brentwood Bay: This winery’s 30-minute tasting is a highlight for many, offering insights into the local wine scene, with reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude.

• Roost Farm Winery, Bakery, and Bistro: Here, the experience is a bit more varied, with the chance to enjoy wines along with baked goods and a cozy atmosphere. The 30-minute stop allows for a relaxed tasting.

• Rathjen Cellars: Your final stop, where a guided tasting rounds out the day. The reviews indicate that the guides here are particularly helpful and accommodating, making this a memorable finish.

The entire day lasts around 4 to 5 hours, depending on how leisurely you want to take it, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and savor the moment.

What the Reviews Say

Reviews are a strong indicator of what to expect. Travelers consistently mention knowledgeable guides and the beautiful drives between wineries. Jessica from her review noted, “Wonderful drives down back country roads combined with beautiful wineries and fantastic wine tastings made for an amazing day.” That sense of scenic relaxation is a big part of why this tour receives such high marks.

Michael appreciated the knowledge of the region and the wine operations and owners, which adds a layer of authenticity and depth that small-group tours often provide. Meanwhile, Darlene pointed out that “the road trip to each winery was beautiful,” and the driver’s local knowledge enhanced the experience.

The overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 10 reviews underscores the consistency of quality and satisfaction among travelers, especially those who value a more intimate, guided experience.

Practical Aspects & Tips

Since the tour runs Friday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it fits well into a weekend plan. Booking about 6 months in advance is recommended, given the average booking window of around 189 days, ensuring you secure your preferred date.

The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, which adds to the comfort and flexibility. Whether you want to spend more time at a particular winery or skip a stop, just ask your guide—this is one of the biggest perks.

The cost includes tasting fees but not food, so if you’re hungry, plan to grab a meal afterward or bring some snacks. The tour is most suitable for adults, especially those interested in learning about wine, enjoying scenic drives, and experiencing personalized service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a luxurious, relaxed, and informative wine experience in BC, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or even friends traveling together who want a private, curated day without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives and learning about local wines will find this especially rewarding. It’s a great way to discover the Saanich Peninsula’s burgeoning wine scene without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Sum Up

The Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and high-quality tastings, all wrapped in a private, comfortable experience. The inclusion of multiple winery visits and the personal attention from guides make it stand out from larger, more commercial tours. If you’re looking to explore BC wines in a relaxed, personalized way and value the comfort of a private vehicle, this tour could be a great fit.

While it’s not a full-day, in-depth exploration, it’s enough to give you a meaningful taste of the region’s wine culture, with the bonus of stunning countryside views along the way. If you prefer a flexible, intimate, and well-organized wine outing, this tour checks many boxes.

For those who want a hassle-free, engaging half-day experience with the chance to learn and drink some fantastic local wines, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodations in the Greater Victoria area, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on how long you want to linger at each winery.

Are tasting fees included?
Yes, all tasting fees are covered in the price, so there are no surprises at the wineries.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can request to spend more time at particular wineries or possibly skip a stop—just let your guide know.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is food included?
No, food is not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour, or bring some snacks along if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
No, this experience is geared toward adults interested in wine; it’s not designed as a family-friendly activity.

What is the price per person?
Approximately $144.76, which includes tastings and transportation.

Are there any restrictions on booking?
Bookings should be made about 6 months in advance, as the tour is popular and booked well ahead.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of scenic drives, expert-guided tastings, and the privacy of a small-group experience makes it stand out.

If you’re in Victoria and looking for a relaxed, insightful way to discover local wines, the Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour offers a memorable, hassle-free way to indulge your senses. Cheers to great wines and beautiful views!