Sparkling Hill Full Day Guided Wine Tour with 5 Wineries

If you’re thinking about spending a day in Kelowna’s renowned wine region, the Sparkling Hill Full Day Guided Wine Tour might just be worth considering. While we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, we’ve gone over all the details to give you a clear idea of what to expect. From the sound of it, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—visiting five highly-rated wineries, sampling award-winning wines, and enjoying spectacular scenery along the way.

What jumps out immediately are two things that make this tour stand out: first, the expert guidance and engaging stories likely shared by the knowledgeable guides, and second, the stunning vineyard views that set the perfect backdrop for tasting. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the lack of included lunch—so you’ll want to plan for that separately. This tour seems best suited for wine lovers who enjoy a leisurely day of tastings, beautiful landscapes, and a touch of local architecture, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned enthusiast.

Key Points

• All-inclusive tasting fees make the day straightforward without surprises
• Scenic stops feature not only wine but also breathtaking views and picture-worthy moments
• The small group size (maximum 14) offers a more intimate experience
• Hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially if you’re staying nearby
• A full day of activities ensures you get a comprehensive taste of the region’s best wineries
• Expect a relaxing, guided day with plenty of opportunities to learn about local wines and the region

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

The Sparkling Hill Full Day Guided Wine Tour promises about six hours of wine-filled exploration, and from what we’ve pieced together, it seems to deliver on that. The fact that the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off is a real plus—no fuss about figuring out logistics early in the morning or after a long day. Plus, the air-conditioned vehicle means comfort is kept in check, which is especially helpful during warm sunny days.

Visiting 5 Wineries: A Taste of Diversity

You’ll visit five distinct wineries, each with its own charm and specialties.

Arrowleaf Cellars kicks things off, offering award-winning white and red wines. We love that it has a cozy picnic area, perfect for sharing a bottle with friends or family amidst beautiful lake views. The 50-minute stop allows just enough time to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps snap a few photos, and since admission tickets are included, it’s a smooth start without extra costs.

Next up is 50th Parallel Estate Winery, where you’ll find a modern, architecturally impressive tasting room—an Instagram-worthy spot in itself. Known for Pinot Noir, they also have a vineyard for photos, and the views of Okanagan Lake are said to be incredible. The 45-minute visit is a sweet snippet of this winery’s personality.

Gray Monk Estate Winery is a bit of a flagship in Lake Country, and the review mentions it’s where it all began for some visitors. The winery features the Lookout Restaurant, which offers arguably the best views in the region—think sweeping lake panoramas paired with a menu designed to match the wines. Two hours here give you ample time to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy a well-curated tasting experience.

Peak Cellars is a vineyard-set winery that highlights white wines like Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and a refined selection of Pinot Noirs. Its setting right on the vineyards makes for a picturesque atmosphere, perfect for those who love countryside wineries that feel more personal and intimate.

The final stop, Intrigue Wines, rounds out the day with a variety of easy-drinking whites and reds. The positive reviews mention their amazing patio experience and a gift shop that’s highly regarded, ideal for picking up souvenirs or wine-related goodies.

The Lunch Experience

While the tour includes many highlights, one notable part is the lunch reservation at a stunning winery restaurant—the Lookout at Gray Monk. Although the cost of the meal isn’t included in the ticket, the opportunity to dine while enjoying scenic views adds a special touch to the day. Keep in mind, meals are an extra expense, but given the quality of the setting and the food, many find it well worth it.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included features are quite comprehensive: pickup and drop-off, guided commentary, tastings, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water. That means you can relax and focus on tasting and sightseeing without worrying about extra fees or logistics.

However, the lunch is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. Since the tour ends around the early afternoon, you might want to plan a leisurely meal or picnic afterward.

The Group and Booking

With a maximum of 14 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate feel, perfect if you prefer more personalized attention or want to avoid crowded group experiences. Booking about 53 days in advance suggests it’s a popular option, especially during peak seasons.

What Others Say

The single review we found is glowing: “We had a fabulous full-day winery tour with Vivid Tours. The guide was very knowledgeable, and the visit to five wineries, including lunch at Gray Monk, was memorable.” Such feedback emphasizes the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the wineries visited.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting a curated, hassle-free day of tastings paired with gorgeous scenery. It also suits those who enjoy small group settings and appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized way to explore Kelowna’s top wineries without the stress of driving, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s less suitable if you’re on a tight budget, since the cost is around $140 per person, not including lunch or any additional purchases. Also, if you prefer a more flexible, independent experience—say, spending more time at one winery or exploring on your own—you might find a self-guided visit more suitable.

In The Sum Up

The Sparkling Hill Full Day Guided Wine Tour offers a luxurious yet relaxed way to sample some of British Columbia’s best wines while enjoying breathtaking views and learning from knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of five diverse wineries means you’ll encounter a variety of styles—from crisp whites to elegant reds—and the small-group format ensures a cozy, personal experience.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want a comprehensive wine day without the hassle of planning each visit themselves. The addition of a scenic lunch and the opportunity to see iconic wineries makes it a memorable way to spend a day in Kelowna’s wine country.

If you’re after a structured, informative, and scenic wine adventure, this could be just what you need. Just remember to budget for meals and any extra tastings or souvenirs you might want.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation within the area, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about six hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, taste, and relax without feeling rushed.

Are tasting fees included?
Absolutely. The ticket price covers all the tasting fees at each of the five wineries, so no extra charges for tastings during the day.

What kind of vehicle is used?
An air-conditioned vehicle is provided for transportation, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit five wineries, each with its own unique vibe and specialties.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the ticket price. You’ll have a reservation at Gray Monk’s Lookout Restaurant, but meals are extra.

What’s the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 14 travelers, creating a more intimate experience than large bus tours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the ticket offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing some flexibility if your plans change.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Ideal for wine lovers, small groups, and travelers seeking a structured, scenic, and educational tasting day. It’s perfect if you prefer guided experiences over DIY visits.

Do I need to be a wine expert?
Not at all. The guides are knowledgeable, and the focus is on enjoying the wines and scenery at your own pace.

Overall, if this tour aligns with your interests and schedule, it offers a fun, well-organized way to uncover the best of Kelowna’s wine scene without the stress. It’s a chance to relax, taste, learn, and take in some seriously gorgeous views—all in one memorable day.