Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour-Incl. Tastings & Guide Grat

Experience the Best of Kelowna & Okanagan Valley with the Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour

Imagine cruising along Lake Okanagan, with stunning water vistas on one side and rows of lush vineyards on the other. This full-day wine tour from Sip Happens offers an inviting way to explore some of the most scenic wineries in the region. For $144.55 per person, you’ll spend about six hours visiting five carefully selected wineries, tasting up to 24 wines, and enjoying two delightful lunches overlooking the vineyards. The tour is capped at just 13 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience with attentive guides.

What we love most? First, the expertly curated winery stops—each offering a unique vibe, from family-owned estates to modern tasting rooms. Second, the scenic drives and views along Lake Okanagan are stunning enough to make every moment memorable. Plus, the all-inclusive approach, including tastings, bottled water, and door-to-door pickup, makes this a hassle-free way to indulge in wine and local scenery.

One thing to keep in mind: lunch is not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for your meals at the stops, notably the beautiful Gray Monk Estate Winery and Peak Cellars. Also, since the tour does require a minimum number of travelers, it’s worth booking in advance—most guests do so about 3 weeks ahead—to secure your spot.

This tour suits wine lovers, scenery enthusiasts, and those eager to learn about local vineyards in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for anyone looking to combine a scenic drive with quality wine tastings, especially if you enjoy a good mix of guided insight and free time for shopping or photos.

Key Points

• Scenic Route and Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Lake Okanagan and surrounding vineyards.
• Diverse Wineries: Visit five distinct wineries with unique stories and wine offerings.
• All-Inclusive Tasting: Up to 24 wine tastings, bottled water, and professional guides enhance the experience.
• Flexible & Convenient: Door-to-door pickup in Vernon or Lake Country makes logistics simple.
• Quality Food Options: Lunch stops at Gray Monk and Peak Cellars offer delicious meals with scenic outdoor seating.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size (maximum 13) ensures attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour begins at Gray Monk Estate Winery, a favorite thanks to its charming backstory and stunning vineyard views. The founders, an Austrian-German couple, swapped hairdressing for winemaking, and their passion still shines through in the wines and welcoming atmosphere. The 30-minute visit includes an included admission ticket, giving you time to explore the estate and sample their wines. You’ll love the balance of history and modern viticulture, with many praising the delicious lunch options and scenic surroundings.

Next, you’ll travel to Ex Nihilo Vineyards, inspired by a sculpture representing creation. Here, expect a 30-minute tasting that emphasizes the vineyard’s commitment to embracing cold winters and nurturing the land. The wine offerings are crafted with passion, and many reviews highlight the warm, inviting atmosphere.

Your third stop is Intrigue Wines, a winery born from two families uniting over their love of wine. With a 30-minute tasting, you’ll find a lively, family-owned vibe, where the diversity of wines reflects the energy of its founders. It’s particularly appreciated for the knowledgeable guides who share stories behind each vintage.

The fourth stop is Peak Cellars, a newer addition to the scene, inspired by Dennis O’Rourke’s adventurous spirit. The estate grows its own grapes, and the modern, elegant tasting room offers some of the best views along the route. The 30-minute tasting here is complemented by the chance to explore the estate, with many visitors noting the beautifully curated wines and the scenic outdoor spaces.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy a longer session at Ancient Hill Estate Winery, dedicating around 45 minutes to savoring 4-5 wine samples. This stop gives you a chance to shop for your favorite bottles—something many guests appreciate, as the wines tend to be highly enjoyed and often purchased as souvenirs.

The tour then takes you to Arrowleaf Cellars, a Swiss-founded family estate. Their 30-minute visit includes tastings and the opportunity to learn about the family’s journey from dairy farming in Alberta to viticulture in the Okanagan. Visitors often comment on the friendly staff and the diversity of wines, making it a highlight of the day.

Finally, the tour returns to Gray Monk for a scenic lunch at The Lookout Restaurant. With a 46-minute slot, you can relax over shareable dishes and classic entrees, all with sweeping vineyard views. Many reviews rave about the quality of the food and the ambiance, making it a perfect end to the wine-filled day.

Transportation & Group Experience

Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, and the pickup is door-to-door in Vernon or Lake Country. This convenience is a favorite among guests, eliminating the stress of finding parking or navigating unfamiliar routes. The small group size (maximum 13) creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere where everyone can chat easily and ask questions.

The Guide & Overall Atmosphere

Reviews consistently praise guides like James, Penny, Harry, and Nick for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. We found that guides add significant value, sharing insights that deepen your appreciation for the wines and the area’s history. Many reviewers also mention how guides go above and beyond—taking photos, helping with purchases, and making everyone feel at home.

The Value in the Price

At $144.55, this tour offers excellent value. The included tastings and transportation, combined with the scenic stops and guided insights, make it a convenient way to experience the region without the hassle of planning. The lunch—not included in the fee—is a delightful addition that many reviews highlight as a highlight, especially given the beautiful vineyard settings.

Considerations Before Booking

While the tour is well-organized, it does require a minimum number of travelers to operate. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a refund. Also, remember that lunch is extra, so plan your budget accordingly. For some, the pace might be a bit full, but most find the timing at each stop just right for tasting, exploring, and shopping without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to sample a variety of local wines in a single day. It’s perfect for small groups who appreciate personalized service, scenic drives, and a relaxed atmosphere. If you enjoy learning stories behind the wines, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food, you’ll find this tour well worth the price. It’s also great for visitors wanting a convenient, guided day that combines wine, scenery, and good company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included but is served at two stops—Gray Monk and Peak Cellars—and many guests find it a worthwhile addition, especially given the beautiful vineyard settings.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit five wineries in total, with tastings at each. The stops include Gray Monk, Ex Nihilo, Intrigue Wines, Peak Cellars, Ancient Hill Estate, and Arrowleaf.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, starting at 10:30 am and including time for tastings, lunch, and sightseeing.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, door-to-door pickup and drop-off are available in Vernon or Lake Country, with comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles for the journey.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely, and many guests take advantage of the shop time at Ancient Hill or purchase at other wineries. Please note, wine purchases are not included in the tour price.

What if the tour doesn’t meet the minimum number of guests?
If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be rescheduled or offered a full refund, so booking ahead ensures your spot.

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, especially since the tour is small and the scenery is spectacular, but tastings are for adults only.

Is gratuity included?
A 15% gratuity for your guide is suggested, in line with standard service industry practices.

Final Thoughts

The Lake Country Full Day Lunch Wine Tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Okanagan’s best vineyards, combined with stunning scenery, expert guides, and relaxed pacing. Its small group size and personalized touches make it stand out as an experience that balances education, leisure, and the simple pleasure of good wine.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious traveler eager to explore British Columbia’s wine country, this tour provides an accessible, enjoyable way to savor the region’s flavors. It’s especially suited for those who value scenic drives, delicious food, and friendly, knowledgeable guides that turn a simple tasting into a memorable adventure.

Feel free to book early—most guests do about three weeks in advance—and come ready for a day filled with beautiful views, fascinating stories, and some of the region’s finest wines.