Lake Country sits just north of Kelowna, between Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake, and its wineries offer a different flavour from the better-known west-side estates. The vineyards here are generally cooler and sit on rolling hills with big lake views, which favours fresh, aromatic whites such as riesling and pinot gris and elegant reds like pinot noir. The tasting rooms are often smaller and more personal, so a guided tour is a good way to meet winemakers and learn what makes this part of the valley distinct without driving the winding roads yourself. A typical Lake Country tour picks you up from a Kelowna hotel or central meeting point, drives you north and visits several wineries in a day or half-day. At each stop you taste a flight, hear about the estate and have time to ask questions, and some tours include a lunch stop or a cheese board. The guide handles the logistics, from reservations to timing, which matters because many of these tasting rooms are small and work best when a group is expected. It is an excellent complement to the Kelowna and West Kelowna wine experiences, because you taste a different slice of the valley.
What to do
Be ready at the pick-up point, settle in and enjoy the drive north. At each winery, you will taste a selection of wines, learn about the vineyard and sometimes walk through the tasting room or terrace. Tours typically include tasting fees, but check your booking for inclusions such as lunch, gratuities and bottle purchases.
Pace yourself, drink water, and use the spit bucket if you want to keep a clear head. If a winery pours a wine you love, you can usually buy bottles at the tasting room, and some offer shipping options within Canada.
Practical planning
Tours run most of the year, with the busiest period from late spring to early autumn, and many are available in smaller groups for a more intimate feel. You must be of legal drinking age and carry photo identification. Wear comfortable shoes and layers, since tasting rooms vary between indoor and outdoor settings, and bring a bag for any bottles you buy. If you have dietary requirements, tell the operator in advance, since food stops are often pre-arranged. Because tours can sell out in summer and at harvest, reserve ahead where you can.
Fitting it in
Lake Country is a good choice if you already visited the west-side wineries or want a quieter, less touristy outing. It pairs naturally with a visit to Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, whose turquoise water is one of the most photographed views in the valley, and with a relaxed dinner back in Kelowna. If you are short on time, choose a half-day tour; if you want to settle in and taste more widely, a full-day tour with lunch gives you a fuller picture of the region.
What to expect
The experience
A guided, transport-included wine tour of several wineries in Lake Country, north of Kelowna.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn, with harvest season particularly scenic; tours also run at other times of year.
How long
Half-day and full-day options are common, so check the length of the tour you choose.
Tips
Carry photo identification, eat beforehand if lunch is not included, pace your tastings and bring a bag for bottles.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Wine lovers who have done the west-side estates and want a new area of the valley.
- Families
- Mostly an adult activity; check the age policy for teenagers.
- Couples
- A relaxed day of tastings followed by dinner by the lake.
- Pair with
- Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, the food tour or a lakeside dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day.
Good questions
What makes Lake Country wine different?+
The vineyards are generally cooler and sit on lake-view hills, which favours aromatic whites and lighter reds, though each estate has its own style.
Is transport included?+
Guided tours handle the driving, so you can taste freely. Check your booking for pick-up and drop-off details.
Are tasting fees included?+
Many tours include them, but inclusions vary, so read the details before you book.
Can I buy bottles?+
Yes, tasting rooms normally sell bottles, and some can arrange shipping. Bring a bag or ask the guide about storage in the vehicle.
Is it a good choice in autumn?+
Yes. Harvest season is beautiful and quieter than summer, though some venues change their hours, so check ahead.
