Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour – 5 wineries on the tour

Taking a wine tour in Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley can be a fantastic way to unwind, enjoy gorgeous scenery, and taste some of Canada’s top wines. While I haven’t personally done this exact tour, I’ve looked into what makes it appealing—and from what I gather, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances quality, scenery, and fun. For those who love discovering new wineries, especially in a lively, social setting, this tour seems to deliver on all fronts.

One thing I really appreciate about this tour is the variety of wineries you get to visit—each with its own unique vibe and wine offerings. Plus, the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of vineyards and Okanagan Lake while sipping is a real bonus. On the flip side, the duration can vary from 3 to 6 hours**, so if you’re pressed for time or prefer a shorter outing, it’s worth considering.

If you enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with a hint of playful fun (like dressing up in costumes), this tour is likely to suit you. It’s especially great for groups looking for a lively experience with plenty of tastings, beautiful scenery, and knowledgeable guides guiding the way. Overall, it’s a solid choice for wine lovers eager to explore Kelowna’s South Slopes and beyond.

Key Points

• Visit 5 unique wineries with award-winning wines and stunning scenery
• Includes tastings and snacks, with the option to purchase wines directly
• Flexible timing between 3 to 6 hours, ideal for different schedules
• Guide-driven experience with knowledgeable hosts and lively atmosphere
• Cost-effective value at around $155, covering multiple tastings and transportation
• Dresses-up encouraged, adding a fun, themed element to your day

An In-Depth Look at the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour

If you’re considering this tour, here’s what you can expect from start to finish, along with the challenges and highlights.

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour starts at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna at 11:00 am, which is convenient if you’re staying nearby. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable regardless of the weather. The tour ends back at the same point, so planning your day around this timeframe makes it easier to coordinate.

Who It’s For

This experience is designed for small groups—maximum 14 travelers—which keeps things intimate and friendly. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility, as the tour provides door-to-door pickup and drop-off. However, because this is primarily a tasting tour, it might not be ideal for children or those needing a more family-focused activity. Still, anyone who loves wine, scenic views, and a relaxed social vibe will find it enjoyable.

Wineries and Itinerary Breakdown

The tour covers 5 wineries, each offering something unique:

The View Winery and Vineyard

Our first stop, The View Winery, boasts incredible vistas overlooking Kelowna and Okanagan Lake. This family-owned estate is well-known for its award-winning aromatic whites made from cool-climate grapes. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, tasting wines while soaking in the views—an ideal way to start your day. Guests often comment on the quality of the wines and the scenic setting.

The Vibrant Vine Winery

Next is The Vibrant Vine Winery, founded in 2003 by Wyn and Marion Lewis. They have a passion for wine, art, and music, which reflects in their wines and the lively atmosphere. After about 30 minutes of tasting, you’ll see why many consider this one of the more creative and welcoming wineries in the region.

Summerhill Pyramid Winery

A highlight of the tour is Summerhill Pyramid Winery, known for their organically and biodynamically grown grapes. They aim to create some of the most beautiful wines in the world, and their pyramid-shaped cellars add a distinctive touch. This stop is often praised for its excellent wine quality and serene setting.

Sandhill Wines

At Sandhill Wines, you’ll enjoy tasting wines made from grapes sourced from six different BC vineyards. This variety allows for a broad spectrum of tasting notes, and the winery’s focus on premium wines makes it a favorite among connoisseurs. Expect about 30 minutes here, soaking up the flavors and the vineyard views.

Priest Creek Family Estate Winery

The tour stops at Priest Creek, which offers a collection of quality premium wines. They aim to cater to both immediate enjoyment and cellaring, giving a well-rounded experience. The atmosphere here is relaxed, making it easy to chat and learn about wine production.

Additional Stops and Optional Experiences

Depending on the day, the tour might include stops at SpearHead Winery and Camelot Vineyards, both offering their own takes on BC wines. For example, SpearHead focuses on estate-grown products, while Camelot has a longstanding family history—each adds depth to your overall experience.

The tour also includes visits to Home Block at CedarCreek Estate Winery and Meadow Vista Honey Wines. Meadow Vista is particularly interesting because it combines wine with honey, providing a different tasting angle. Their location on a farm among orchards makes for a peaceful, scenic stop.

The Experience on the Ground

Guests have shared great feedback about the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer noted, “Rod was a great host. He was very flexible and easy to be around,” which suggests the group experience is personalized and relaxed. The small group size means you get plenty of attention and the chance to ask questions.

Fun, Themed, and Social

A standout feature is the encouragement to dress up in costumes—think Halloween or other themed outfits. This adds a layer of fun and camaraderie, making the day more memorable. Plus, there’s a chance to win a year’s wine club membership through their “WIN THE DRAW” contest, which is a nice little perk.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For around $155 per person, you get tastings at five wineries, snacks, bottled water, and transportation. The tour also covers admission fees (except possibly for specialty wines). Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, so plan to eat before or after the tour, and wine purchases are extra.

The Value and Practical Considerations

Considering the price, this tour offers a lot of value. Visiting five different wineries with tastings, snacks, and transportation included means you can indulge without the hassle of organizing your own visits. Plus, the small group size and guide’s attention make for a more personal experience.

However, the length of the tour varies, which might be a consideration if you prefer a shorter or more structured day. If you’re someone who enjoys tasting multiple wines in a lively, social setting, this flexibility can actually be a plus.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine aficionado, looking to explore a variety of wineries without the hassle of planning, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, topped with stunning views. The added fun of dressing up and the chance to win a wine club membership makes it appealing to those wanting a playful, engaging experience.

This tour isn’t necessarily geared toward serious connoisseurs who want in-depth education, but rather those who enjoy tasting, socializing, and soaking in the lovely Okanagan scenery. Perfect for groups, couples, or groups of friends wanting a memorable day out.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour offers a well-balanced mix of quality wine, scenic beauty, and fun. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making it a relaxed, engaging experience. If you’re after a lively, costume-friendly outing with excellent wines and views, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s a reliable choice for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Kelowna’s wine scene without the fuss. While not the absolute cheapest option, the inclusion of multiple wineries and the intimate group size makes it a worthwhile splurge for a special day in the Okanagan.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This is a wine tasting tour primarily aimed at adults. Children are generally not the target demographic, and the experience involves tasting wine, so it’s not really designed for kids.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 14 travelers, which keeps things small and friendly, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start aren’t refunded.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You might find it convenient to eat before or after the tour, or bring snacks if you like.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the tasting fees are included at most wineries. Some specialty wines like ice wine may have additional charges, which aren’t covered.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle transports you between wineries, making the experience easy and stress-free.

What should I wear?
There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable clothing is recommended. If you want to dress up for the fun costume element, go for it!

Are the wineries accessible?
Most wineries are accessible, but if you have specific needs, it’s best to check directly with the tour provider.

How long does the tour last?
The duration can range from 3 to 6 hours, depending on how many wineries you visit and how long you spend at each.

In essence, the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour promises a fun, scenic, and tasty day out in the Okanagan Valley. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy some of Canada’s best wines in a friendly setting, this tour is worth considering.