If you’re exploring Kelowna or the broader Okanagan Valley, chances are you’ll come across a variety of wine tours and foodie experiences. But if you’re after something that combines local craftsmanship, farm-fresh bites, and a relaxed, personal vibe, the Love Local! Taste the Okanagan Artisan Farm Tour might just be worth your consideration.
We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour promises a private, VIP-style experience that’s both educational and delicious. What really caught our eye is how they blend local wines made from honey, farm visits, and a laid-back garden happy hour—all for a reasonable price of just over $48 per person.
A heads-up: this tour is quite immersive, and if you’re not into bees, honey, or wine, it might not be your perfect match. Also, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a leisurely pace, great food, and engaging guides. Travelers with a curiosity for local products and farm-to-table culture will likely find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Private & personalized experience means you can ask plenty of questions and enjoy a VIP feel.
- Tasting of honey wines and local bites offers a unique twist on traditional wine tours.
- Beautiful outdoor setting with lawn games and garden views perfect for relaxing afternoons.
- Educational component about honey farming and wine making adds depth beyond just tasting.
- Great value for the price considering the guided tour, tastings, and farm-to-table luncheon.
- Accessible and inclusive, with options for non-alcoholic mocktails and service animals welcome.
What Is the Love Local! Artisan Farm Tour All About?
This tour is designed to highlight the best of what the Okanagan Valley offers—local wines crafted from honey, farm-fresh snacks, and a chance to learn about the farm-to-table movement. You’ll start at Meadow Vista Honey Wines, a specialized farm known for its award-winning honey wines and apiary, and spend about two hours exploring the farm, gardens, and tasting rooms.
The experience is set up as a private tour, which means only your group will participate. That’s a nice touch if you prefer a more intimate, tailored experience rather than a crowded group. From the start, you’re greeted with a seasonal mocktail or cocktail, setting a relaxed tone for the afternoon.
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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Arrival and Welcome
Your experience kicks off around 2:00 pm at Meadow Vista Honey Wines, located on June Springs Road in Kelowna. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a seasonal cocktail or mocktail—an inviting way to settle in and get ready for the adventure. This initial moment is simple but sets the tone of hospitality and focus on local ingredients.
Guided Tour of the Honey Farm & Gardens
The core of this experience is the in-depth guided tour of the apiary and culinary gardens. Here, your guide shares insights into honey production, bee care, and the farm’s role in supporting local food traditions. You’ll get to see the bees up close and sample raw, unpasteurized honey and infused varieties, which are quite different from what you find in supermarkets.
Honey Wines & Food Pairings
After the farm walk, the focus shifts to tastings. You’ll sample five different honey wines, each paired with a selection of local bites—think meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, homemade pickles, jams, chutneys, and organic crostini. Reviewers have raved about the quality and variety of these pairings, noting they’re all thoughtfully curated. One reviewer mentioned that “staff are welcoming and knowledgeable about their mead,” which really enhances the experience.
Farm-to-Table Charcuterie Luncheon & Happy Hour
Following the tastings, the group moves to a relaxed garden setting for a mix-and-mingle style charcuterie reception. Here, you can enjoy a bounty of local meats, cheeses, fruits, and homemade condiments. The option to choose your favorite wine to pair with your food adds a personal touch. It’s a laid-back way to soak in the garden views and chat with fellow foodies.
Lawn Games & Garden Views
To wind down, you’re invited to try some lawn games while enjoying the panoramic views of Kelowna’s landscape. This makes the experience feel like a true farm escape—calm, scenic, and social.
The Experience’s Strengths
Knowledgeable guides are repeatedly praised for their friendly attitude and depth of knowledge. Many reviews mention the welcoming staff and how they made the experience informative without feeling rushed. If you’re curious about how honey wines are made, or the local farm-to-table movement, you’ll find the explanations engaging and accessible.
The quality of the tastings is another highlight. Several reviewers remark that the wines made from honey are “delicious” and the pairings with local foods elevate the experience. One user said they loved the delicious meads paired with local cheeses and meats, which shows how well thought out the food pairings are.
The setting is another plus—being able to walk out onto the garden patio, snap photos, and enjoy the fresh air during the lunch or while playing lawn games makes this tour stand out from more traditional, indoor tastings.
The Value for the Price
At just over $48, this experience offers a lot of value. When you consider the guided tour, the tastings of multiple wines and honeys, the local farm-fresh lunch, and the relaxing garden atmosphere, it adds up to a pretty comprehensive and enjoyable afternoon. The reviews support this, with one reviewer claiming it was “worth the price” and highlighting the “wonderful staff” and “delicious wines and honey.”
Keep in mind that this is a two-hour experience, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a well-rounded, relaxed activity that doesn’t take up your entire day. It’s perfect for those wanting to indulge in local flavors without feeling overwhelmed.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best suited for wine lovers looking for something different—especially if you’re curious about honey wines or keen to learn about local honey farms. It also appeals to foodies who enjoy farm-to-table experiences and well-curated tastings.
If you’re a traveler who prefers a more personalized, private experience or wants to combine education with leisure, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings, relaxed social atmospheres, and engaging guides.
However, if you’re not particularly interested in honey or don’t enjoy tasting sessions, this might not be your ideal choice. Also, since it’s a guided experience, it’s best for those happy to participate in a somewhat structured activity rather than a free-form exploration.
A Few Downsides to Consider
Although overwhelmingly positive, some might find the two-hour duration a bit short if you’re seeking an extensive winery tour or a full day of activities. Also, as it’s primarily centered around honey wines and local bites, it might not be suitable for those looking for traditional grape wine tastings or a broader wine tour experience.
Lastly, since the experience takes place at the farm and garden, it might be less comfortable during bad weather, although the reviews never mention this as a significant issue.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
This experience is geared toward adults interested in honey wines, farm-to-table food, and relaxed outdoor settings. It might not be ideal for children unless they’re particularly interested in farms or honey, but there’s no explicit restriction.
Are there options for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-alcoholic mocktails are available, so everyone can enjoy the welcome drink regardless of their preference.
What does the private tour entail?
You’ll have your own group participating, which means more personalized attention from guides and a more intimate experience.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity.
What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the guided farm tour, five honey wine tastings paired with local bites, and the garden luncheon with local meats, cheeses, and more.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked about 19 days ahead, and it’s recommended to secure your spot early.
Is it accessible?
The tour is near public transportation, and most travelers can participate, though it’s best to check if you have specific mobility concerns.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour.
Love Local! Taste the Okanagan Artisan Farm Tour
“Such a great afternoon so interesting and the snacks and tasting were all 5 star A must do when you in Kelowna”
Final Thoughts
The Love Local! Taste the Okanagan Artisan Farm Tour offers a relaxed, genuine look into the local honey and farm-to-table scene, wrapped in a private and personable setting. It’s a fantastic choice for those interested in local food, unique wines, and beautifully kept gardens. The detailed tastings, friendly guides, and scenic views make it a well-rounded experience that won’t disappoint.
If you’re after a fun, educational activity that combines gourmet bites with a touch of farm life, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for foodies, wine lovers, and anyone wanting to enjoy Kelowna’s rural charm in style.
Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a memorable afternoon out, this experience offers a genuine taste of local craftsmanship and hospitality.
