A Full Day in the Okanagan: Private Wine Tour from Kelowna and Summerland

Picture yourself in the gentle warmth of a sunny day, exploring one of Canada’s lesser-known but equally captivating wine regions. For around $265 per person, you can spend about six hours soaking up the laid-back vibe of the Summerland Private Wine Tour. Starting from Kelowna, this tour whisks you away to five carefully chosen organic wineries in the Okanagan Valley, each with its own unique character and spectacular vistas.

What we love about this experience is how intimate and relaxed it feels. You’re not just part of a large bus crowd but with your own group, enjoying personalized attention. The fact that it includes pickup and drop-off within certain zones makes it all the more convenient, especially after a few tastings. And the chance to visit organic wineries, like Lunessence, adds a touch of sustainability and authenticity to your wine journey.

One potential consideration is the price, which is higher than some group tours, but this cost reflects the private setting, personalized service, and the quality of the stops. If you’re someone who appreciates a relaxed pace, genuine connection with winemakers, and scenic views, this tour is a perfect choice. It suits travelers who want an authentic, laid-back experience without the fuss of big group crowds—ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a more personalized outing.

Key Points

Authentic and intimate experience with five organic wineries in the Okanagan Valley.
Spectacular views at Lunessence Winery and Thornhaven Estates, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Flexible itinerary, with options for alternate wineries if requested, allowing personalized touches.
Convenient transportation with air-conditioned vehicles and included bottled water.
Includes tasting fees, with optional upgrades at extra cost—great for wine enthusiasts.
Tour duration of about six hours includes travel, making for a full but manageable day.

The Tour Itself: An In-Depth Look

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Starting Point: Kelowna & Summerland

This tour begins with your pickup in Kelowna or Summerland, two vibrant towns in the heart of the wine country. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort as you head out to your first stops. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, which means tailored attention and flexibility.

The day’s itinerary offers a taste of the Okanagan’s less traveled routes, avoiding the busy tourist spots in favor of smaller, family-run wineries. This focus on authenticity really comes through at each stop.

Sage Hills Organic Vineyards and Winery

Your first stop is Sage Hills, a family-owned organic vineyard. The tasting here lasts about 45 minutes, offering a chance to get familiar with organic viticulture practices and sample their wines. The winery’s free admission makes this a great way to start the day with relaxed, genuine conversations with the winemakers.

8th Generation Vineyard

Next, you visit 8th Generation Vineyard, which continues the organic theme, offering another 45-minute tasting. What makes this stop stand out is its commitment to sustainable practices, a common thread in the region. We loved the relaxed atmosphere here, where intimate tastings often include insights straight from the vintners.

SummerGate Winery

A highlight is SummerGate Winery, notable not only for its organic credentials but also for its setting—a gorgeous farmland in a lush valley above Summerland. Tastings are often led by the Owner or Winemaker, adding a personal touch. It’s a perfect spot to soak in rural charm and enjoy some delicious organic wines.

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Lunessence Winery & Vineyard

Lunessence provides perhaps the most panoramic views of the day. The outdoor tasting patio faces eastward towards Okanagan Lake, making it a superb spot for photos and relaxation. This winery’s focus on sustainable viticulture and organic certification aligns well with the region’s eco-conscious reputation. The outdoor tasting experience makes you feel connected to the landscape.

Thornhaven Estates

The final stop, Thornhaven, is perched on the slopes of Little Giants Head Mountain. Surrounded by flourishing vineyards, its quiet, rocky ambiance provides a stark contrast to the farmland of SummerGate. The spectacular views from the courtyard patio make this a fitting conclusion, especially after a day of tasting excellent wines.

Additional Options and Flexibility

If your group has specific wineries you’d like to visit or if you’re interested in tasting upgrades, the tour provider can accommodate those requests. This flexibility ensures your experience remains personalized and tailored to your tastes.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The cost of $264.62 per person includes tastings at five wineries, air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and the possibility for alternate winery visits if asked. While tasting fees are covered, additional upgrades or a sit-down lunch (which the tour arranges but does not include in the price) are optional.

The tour lasts around six hours, but this includes travel time between wineries, giving you a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to your private party, ensuring a more personal and intimate experience.

Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

The sole review available is glowing: “So so fun!! 7 of us went on an unreal wine tour around 5 wineries with Frank. Great choices, wine was amazing, food was tasty, would definitely recommend.” This highlights how personalized service and excellent wine quality make the experience memorable.

Another note from the reviewer emphasizes that the tour offers “great choices” and an enjoyable, relaxed day—perfect for those who want to savor local wines without feeling hurried or crowded.

Practical Tips for Your Day

Book early — this tour is popular, booked on average 64 days in advance.
Dress comfortably — as you’ll be outdoors at some wineries, layers are advisable.
Bring a camera — the views from Lunessence and Thornhaven are worth capturing.
Consider dietary restrictions — lunch reservations are made by the tour provider, so inform them if needed.
Plan for additional costs — tasting upgrades or extra food are available but not included.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private wine tour is ideal for travelers looking for a laid-back, authentic experience in a less crowded part of Canada’s wine scene. If you appreciate organic wines, stunning scenery, and personal interactions with wine producers, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer small group intimacy over large bus tours and want the flexibility to customize their day.

Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a memorable, relaxed wine adventure—this tour combines scenic beauty, quality wines, and genuine hospitality in a way that feels real and unpretentious.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation with pickup and drop-off within Kelowna, Summerland, and Peachland zones. Outside these zones, a surcharge applies.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about six hours, including travel time between wineries and tasting sessions.

Are tastings free? Tasting fees are included in the tour price, and you’ll visit five wineries. Additional upgrades at wineries are available at extra cost.

Can I request different wineries? Yes, alternate wineries are available upon request, allowing customization of your experience.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers? Since only those 19+ can participate in wine tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery and food but won’t be able to sample wines.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, camera, and perhaps a small bag for souvenirs. Remember to stay hydrated!

Can I upgrade my tastings? Upgrades are offered at an additional cost, giving you opportunities for more in-depth tastings or premium selections.

Is lunch included? Lunch is not included but can be arranged through the tour provider. The day typically includes a sit-down lunch reservation.

What makes this tour different from others? It’s a private, intimate experience with organic wineries, scenic views, and flexible options, offering a more genuine taste of the Okanagan.

What is the ideal group size? Since it’s a private tour, your group will be the only participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

To sum it up, the Summerland Private Wine Tour offers a relaxed, authentic way to explore some of the most scenic and sustainable wineries in the Okanagan Valley. Its focus on intimate tastings, organic wines, and stunning vistas makes it ideal for travelers who value quality over quantity and seek genuine connections with local winemakers. While it’s a slightly higher price point, the personalized experience and scenic charm justify the cost for those wanting a memorable, unhurried day in one of Canada’s best wine regions. Whether you’re passionate about wine, scenery, or simply relaxing with good company, this tour will likely meet—and even exceed—your expectations.