A Full-Day Adventure through Kelowna’s Westside: The Jason Parkes Trail Guided Tour
Imagine spending a day exploring some of Kelowna’s most interesting and diverse wineries, breweries, and cideries—all in one comfortably paced trip. This full-day guided tour costs around $148 per person and lasts approximately six hours, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a blend of relaxed tasting, authentic local flavors, and a dash of quirky fun. Your guide—presumably Jason himself—will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it takes you beyond the usual vineyard visit, heading to Black Swift Vineyards, The Hatch, Crown & Thieves, Truck 59 Cider, and The Hatching Post. Each stop offers a distinct vibe and tasting experience, from bold reds to crisp ciders and craft beers. Second, the tour includes a visit to Kelowna’s only speakeasy, adding a touch of clandestine excitement to your day, topped with an indulgent BBQ at Truck 59.
One consideration for travelers is that lunch is not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for a meal. However, the tour’s value lies in its comprehensive itinerary and the personalized attention with a small group maximum of 14 guests. This setup ensures you get ample time at each stop, without feeling rushed.
This tour is ideal for adventurous wine and craft beverage enthusiasts who appreciate a mix of fun, authenticity, and relaxed socializing. If you enjoy discovering hidden gems and learning about local drinks in a lively setting, you’ll find this experience a memorable highlight of your Kelowna trip.
Key Points
- Diverse Stops: Includes wineries, cideries, and a brewery, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.
- Guided Convenience: Pickup and drop-off included, with a guide to enrich your day.
- Authentic Local Flavors: Focus on craft beers, bold reds, and unique ciders.
- Unique Experiences: Visit to Kelowna’s only speakeasy and a renowned BBQ spot.
- Small Group: Max 14 travelers for a more personalized journey.
- Cost-Effective: Tasting fees are included, making the experience straightforward to budget.
An In-Depth Look at the Jason Parkes Trail Full Day Tour
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The Itinerary Breakdown
First Stop: Crown & Thieves — This winery is more than just the first on the list; it’s arguably the most intriguing. Its eccentric decor, 1930s vibe, and tasty wines make it a memorable start. The included visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to soak in the quirky atmosphere while sampling some of their interesting wines. The highlight here is the Angel Share rooftop restaurant, which offers the chance to enjoy your tastings with fantastic views and a lively setting.
Second Stop: Truck ’59 Ciderhouse — Known as a local favorite, Truck 59 delivers impressive ciders paired with stunning lake views. The 45-minute visit lets you sample their handcrafted ciders, which are well-regarded for quality. The relaxed environment and excellent scenery make this stop a highlight for cider lovers.
Third Stop: The Hatching Post Brewery & Smokery — Here, you’re in for a treat: a saloon-style brewery that offers handcrafted beers and ciders alongside mouthwatering BBQ. The two-hour visit is more than just tastings; it’s a full experience with food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of West Kelowna. Many reviews mention how this stop is a perfect blend of authenticity and fun.
Fourth Stop: The Hatch — This tasting emporium keeps things light-hearted, emphasizing that wine isn’t always too serious. It’s a place where you can learn about the labels, enjoy a variety of styles, and perhaps discover a new favorite. The 45-minute stay offers a nice transition from the more food-focused stops.
Fifth Stop: Black Swift Vineyards — Named after the elusive black swift bird, this winery produces bold reds and whites. The 45-minute visit is an opportunity to explore wines inspired by nature’s most agile flyer, and the tasting offers insight into the vineyard’s unique philosophy.
What You Can Expect
Throughout the tour, you’ll find that each stop reflects its own character and style. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort on your journey between stops. The small group size fosters a friendly, intimate environment where questions are welcomed, and you can really connect with the guide and fellow travelers.
The tastings are included, saving you the hassle of extra costs at each venue, and the bottled water keeps you hydrated—important after sampling various drinks. The timing is well-balanced, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, especially at the longer BBQ stop.
Authentic Experiences and Unique Highlights
One of the most praised aspects, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guide who enhances the experience by sharing stories about the wines and breweries. Brenda from one review remarked how much she enjoyed meeting new people and the fun atmosphere, with karaoke and a variety of wine styles making the day feel lively and inclusive.
The visit to Kelowna’s only speakeasy offers a glimpse into the local nightlife, adding an element of discovery and excitement. The BBQ at Truck 59 is another standout, with several travelers mentioning it as “mouth-watering” and a perfect complement to the beverages.
Value for Money
At $147.72 per person, this tour packs in five stops of tastings, a guided experience, transportation, and a memorable visit to a secret speakeasy. When you consider that tasting fees are included, the value becomes clear—especially for travelers seeking more than just a simple winery tour. The focus on craft drinks, authentic local venues, and a relaxed pace makes this experience a steal for anyone looking to explore the culinary and drink culture of the Okanagan.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits adventurous wine lovers who want to explore beyond the usual cellar doors. If you enjoy a mix of craft beer and cider, along with a bit of storytelling and local flavor, you’ll find this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic, offbeat spots—like the speakeasy—and enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.
Travelers who prefer a structured yet relaxed day with no extra surprises will also appreciate the included tastings and hassle-free transportation. Be aware that lunch is not included, so plan to bring some extra funds or pack a snack if you’re hungry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this tour suitable for all ages? Yes, as long as you’re of legal drinking age, this tour is suitable for most adults. It offers a mix of tasting and social experiences that appeal to a broad audience.
- What should I bring? Comfortable shoes for walking, a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, and some extra cash if you want to buy additional drinks or food beyond the included tastings.
- Are dietary restrictions considered? The tour description doesn’t specify, but since lunch isn’t included, it’s best to inform the guide beforehand if you have special dietary needs.
- How much time do we spend at each stop? Expect about 45 minutes at most venues, with a longer two-hour experience at Truck 59 Cider and The Hatching Post Brewery.
- Is transportation provided? Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Final Thoughts
The Jason Parkes Trail Full Day Guided Westside Wine Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Kelowna’s vibrant beverage scene. It balances fun and education, providing insight into local wines, beers, and ciders, all while enjoying picturesque views and lively venues. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, making it perfect for anyone eager to discover hidden gems beyond the typical tourist spots.
If you’re after a mix of good drinks, engaging storytelling, and a touch of adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate craft beverages and authentic local spots—and who don’t mind spending a relaxed day sampling and socializing. With knowledgeable guides and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a day well spent in Kelowna’s beautiful Westside.