Visiting Okanagan Valley wine country and need help planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

I’m Tanya, a Canadian travel blogger, and I’ve been visiting the Okanagan Valley since I was a kid. Back then, it was mostly roadside fruit stands, quiet vineyards, and lazy days at the lake. 

My parents were big wine fans, so our family vacations often took us west from Alberta into BC’s interior, where I tagged along on more winery tours than I can count. I didn’t know it at the time, but those early trips shaped a lifelong love of wine in Canada and the rest of the world.

Today, the Okanagan has grown into one of the top wine destinations in North America. Every time I sip a crisp local white, I’m transported back to hot, sunny afternoons in Kelowna. I was a kid with sticky fingers from fresh peaches, surrounded by the quiet stillness of vineyards baking in the heat.

In recent years, my husband and I have explored more than 25 Okanagan wineries, from small family-run vineyards to larger estates with sweeping lake views.

In this post, I’m sharing some of our favorite places to sip, savor, and stay. You’ll find hidden winery recommendations, wine-focused restaurants, unique accommodations, and tips to help you plan your own unforgettable trip to BC wine country.

🍷Pro tip: The best way to explore Okanagan wine country is through a guided wine tour—like a Kelowna Wine Tour by E-bike or a Lake Country Half-Day Wine Tour.

Okanagan Valley Wine Country Overview

Long before the Okanagan Valley earned its reputation as one of the best wine regions in Canada, it was better known for fruit orchards and family-friendly British Columbia road trips. 

When I was growing up, my parents would bring home cases of crisp white wine and sun-ripened peaches after our vacations there. My dad even tried making his own wine a few times using fruit from the valley and a bit of homemade ambition.

Back then, an Okanagan wine tasting experience was relaxed and personal. You could walk into a small vineyard, chat with the winemaker, and sample a few pours without a fee. 

Over the years, the region has grown into a world-class wine destination. Today, many wineries charge for tastings, and the architecture and experience often reflect the elevated status of Okanagan wines.

The climate plays a big part in what makes this region so successful. Long, hot summers, cool nights, and the lake’s influence create ideal growing conditions for wine grapes. 

I once had a winemaker explain how even wildfires can impact the taste of a vintage. The smoke and weather patterns can influence the grapes’ flavor in surprising ways, and sometimes even improve the final product (which can be hard to replicate). 

Personally, I gravitate toward white wines like Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Riesling in the Okanagan, but I also love discovering local blends that have unique and interesting combinations.

There’s one in particular from Intrigue Wines that is incredible. My favorite Okanagan red is an Old Vines Foch from Quails’ Gate. I’ll share more about these later in the post.

Okanagan Valley Sub-Regions

Locals and regular visitors know the Okanagan Valley isn’t a single destination. It stretches over 250 kilometers (155 miles), and each area has its own microclimate, grape varietals, and character.

When someone says they love “Okanagan wine,” it helps to ask which of these five distinct regions they’ve been to.

1. Lake Country is the northern gateway to wine country, known for cool-climate whites like Pinot Gris and Riesling. It’s home to scenic vineyards and sweeping lake views.
   
2. Kelowna and West Kelowna feature a mix of iconic estates and family-run wineries. Many have patios overlooking Okanagan Lake and offer approachable, crowd-pleasing wines.
   
3. Peachland and Summerland feel a bit quieter, ideal for relaxed tastings and discovering small producers off the main wine trail.
   
4. Naramata Bench is packed with boutique wineries that specialize in small-batch reds and experimental blends.
   
5. Oliver and Osoyoos, at the southern end of the valley, offer a more arid, desert-like climate that’s perfect for full-bodied reds like Merlot and Syrah.

If you have time, it’s worth visiting more than one area. The diversity in soil, elevation, and temperature means no two tasting experiences are exactly the same.

Best Wineries In The Okanagan Valley

British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley is home to over 180 wineries and vineyards, spread across distinct regions like Lake Country, Kelowna, Summerland, and Naramata. Each area brings its own character to the glass, from high-elevation whites to bold, sun-soaked reds.

While this list is far from exhaustive, here are a few must-visit wineries in the Okanagan Valley.

Intrigue Wines

Address: 2291 Goldie Rd, Lake Country, BC

🍇 Why visit: For fun, approachable wines, family-friendly service, and one of the best white blends in the valley.

Tucked into the hills of Lake Country, Intrigue Wines was one of the first Okanagan wineries that really felt personal to me. The staff are always welcoming, and the atmosphere is relaxed and playful. Their labels reflect that too, with names like “Social” and “I Do,” which make great gifts or celebration bottles.

They offer a lovely patio space, a small picnic area, and a little wine shop that’s stocked with more than just bottles. You’ll find local preserves, gifts, and handmade wine accessories that make it easy to linger a while.

One of my absolute favorite Okanagan blends comes from here: “Social White” is a fresh and fruity white wine that’s light, citrusy, and incredibly drinkable. It’s become a go-to bottle at our house.

🍷 Perfect pairing: Social White with a goat cheese and peach salad on a summer patio.

Gray Monk Estate Winery

Address: 1055 Camp Rd, Lake Country, BC

🍇 Why visit: For sweeping lake views, classic whites like Pinot Gris, and a wraparound deck perfect for sipping and taking in the scenery.

Gray Monk is one of the most established wineries in the Okanagan Valley and was one of the first to plant Pinot Gris in British Columbia. Located in Lake Country, this family-run estate sits high above Okanagan Lake and is completely surrounded by rows of vines, making the main building feel like an island oasis tucked into the landscape.

I remember visiting with my toddler and walking out onto their stunning wraparound deck. It’s the kind of place where people gather for photos with friends and loved ones (glasses in hand, of course) with the lake shimmering in the distance, and vineyards stretching out in every direction. Whether you’re stopping for a quick tasting or spending the afternoon, it’s easy to feel at home here.

Gray Monk is known for its crisp, aromatic whites like Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Gewürztraminer, as well as its sparkling wines. Their Lookout Restaurant also makes this a great lunch stop if you’re touring the “Scenic Sip” Lake Country wine trail.

🍷 Perfect pairing: A chilled Pinot Gris on the deck, paired with their West Coast seafood salad at The Lookout Restaurant.

Tantalus Vineyards

Address: 1670 DeHart Rd, Kelowna, BC

🍇 Why visit: For small-lot wines, stunning vineyard views, and a focus on sustainability and craftsmanship.

Tantalus Vineyards is one of those Okanagan wineries that quietly impresses. The tasting room is modern and minimalist, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views of the vineyard and Okanagan Lake beyond.

The focus here is on quality over quantity. It’s one of the best wineries in Kelowna, with a small portfolio of wines that showcase the local terroir. Their balanced and beautifully structured Chardonnay is my personal favorite. I try to bring home a bottle (or two) whenever I visit.

Tantalus is also known for its sustainable growing practices and artistic wine labels, which feature works from local and Indigenous artists. It’s a place that blends creativity, care for the land, and serious winemaking all in one.

🍷 Perfect pairing: Their estate Chardonnay paired with roasted chicken and creamy potatoes. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor.

Mission Hill Family Estate Winery

Address: 1730 Mission Hill Rd, West Kelowna, BC

🍇 Why visit: For the iconic bell tower, elegant architecture, and a grand estate setting perfect for special occasions.

Mission Hill is easily one of the most iconic wineries in British Columbia. With its dramatic entrance, manicured flower gardens, and sweeping views over Okanagan Lake, it feels like a destination in itself. My young son loves roaming the grounds while the bell tower chimes softly in the background. 

This is a popular spot for weddings and private events, and it’s easy to see why. The lush landscaping, dramatic lake views, and sophisticated design create a picture-perfect setting for anything from tastings to full celebrations. Even a casual visit here feels a little elevated, without being too formal.

Mission Hill offers a wide range of wines from approachable bottles you can enjoy on the patio to reserve selections worth aging. Their guided tastings and vineyard tours are thoughtfully done, and there’s also an on-site fine dining restaurant that takes the experience to the next level.

🍷 Perfect pairing: Their Reserve Chardonnay paired with the catch of the day on the patio after a vineyard tour.

Quails’ Gate Winery

Address: 3303 Boucherie Rd, West Kelowna, BC

🍇 Why visit: For a serene setting, incredible lake views, and some of the Okanagan’s most elegant Pinot Noir and unique red blends.

Every time I hear the name Quails’ Gate, I picture the little families of quail that scurry across the roads throughout the Okanagan. If you’ve driven around the valley, you’ve probably had to slow down for them; they’re easy to miss, but it’s impossible to forget how cute they are!

One of the top Okanagan wineries, this spot holds a special place in my heart. My family began visiting Quails’ Gate not long after it opened in 1989, and I have vivid memories of walking through the vineyard in the early 1990s. It’s one of the most peaceful and scenic wineries I’ve ever visited, with wide lake views, perfectly kept gardens, and a calm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to slow down and stay awhile.

Quails’ Gate is best known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but my personal favorite is their Old Vines Foch. It’s bold, earthy, and depending on the vintage, you might even catch a faint note of pickle brine, which is unexpected but surprisingly good. It’s a wine that keeps you curious with every sip.

The tasting room is bright and airy, and their Old Vines Restaurant is one of the best winery dining experiences in the valley.

🍷 Perfect pairing: Old Vines Foch with grilled lamb chops and a rosemary glaze at Old Vines Restaurant.

Dirty Laundry Vineyard

Address: 7311 Fiske St, Summerland, BC

🍇 Why visit: For fun, cheeky branding, live music on the patio, and beautiful views over the Summerland hills.

Dirty Laundry is one of the most memorable wineries in the Okanagan and not just for its wine, but for its playful approach. The name comes from the building’s supposed past life as a 19th-century Chinese laundry that doubled as a brothel. 

That history is woven into everything from the labels to the merchandise, making this one of the most entertaining tasting experiences in BC wine country.

The winery itself sits on a hillside with gorgeous views of the surrounding vineyards (the Kettle Valley Historic Railway is just a few minutes away too). There’s a large patio with plenty of space to relax, sip, and enjoy a snack or light lunch. They often have live music, and it’s one of those places where people linger longer than planned.

The wine list is wide-ranging, with something for every palate. You can savor everything from crisp whites and bold reds to fun sparkling options. While some come for the aesthetic and atmosphere, the wines are most definitely impressive.

🍷 Perfect pairing: Their Naughty Chardonnay paired with a charcuterie board while enjoying live music on the patio.

Frind Estate Winery

Address: 3725 Boucherie Rd, West Kelowna, BC

🍇 Why visit: Touted as Canada’s first beachfront winery, with a lively atmosphere, lakeside tastings, and a patio that flows right onto the sand.

Frind Estate Winery sits right on Okanagan Lake, making tastings here feel more like a beach getaway than a typical vineyard stop. You can book a guided tasting for $10, enjoy an al fresco meal at Annie’s Beach Café, or simply grab a table on the patio or sand and soak up the lake views.

The wines are approachable and fruit-forward, with crisp whites and easy-drinking reds. Their rosé is especially popular in summer, and the food menu pairs well with it—think wood-fired pizzas, salads, and shareables.

Pro tip: If you want to save money, buying a bottle is often more economical than paying per glass. For instance, a bottle of their rosé is about $20, while a single glass runs $10–12.

🍷 Perfect pairing: A chilled bottle of rosé with creamy artichoke dip, enjoyed barefoot in the sand at sunset.

Okanagan Valley Wineries Map

To help give you a lay of the land, this map has the above-mentioned Okanagan wineries pre-plotted:

Top-Rated Okanagan Valley Wine Tours

If you’d prefer to ditch the car completely, there are several private and group wine tours in the Okanagan Valley, all departing from Kelowna:

• 🍇 Tour and Taste Okanagan’s Wine Country
• 🍷 Kelowna 5 Winery South Slopes Wine Tour
• 🚴‍♀️ Kelowna Wine Tour by E-bike, Okanagan Valley Views & Lunch
• 🍾 Full Day Okanagan Falls Private Wine Tour
• 🥂 Lake Country Half-Day Wine Tour

➡️ Click here for a full list of top-rated Okanagan Valley wine tours!

Best Okanagan Valley Winery Restaurants

There’s nothing quite like relaxing in a local vineyard or on a terrace overlooking Lake Okanagan and enjoying a good meal with family or friends. For some delicious food paired with local Okanagan wines, check out:

• Old Vines Restaurant at Quails’ Gate Winery. This is one of the most scenic places to dine in West Kelowna. The menu features seasonal, farm-to-table dishes like halibut and lamb, paired with Quails’ Gate wines. Their Old Vines Foch and Stewart Family Reserve Chardonnay are highlights. Try to book a table at sunset to enjoy the lake views during your meal.
• The Lookout Restaurant at Gray Monk Winery. A relaxed and approachable spot in Lake Country, perfect for a midday break while wine touring. The wraparound patio has beautiful views, and the menu includes fresh salads, seafood, and other West Coast-inspired dishes. Their Pinot Gris is always a reliable choice with food.
• The Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill Winery. Ideal for a special occasion, this refined restaurant sits on the Mission Hill estate with views over the vineyards and lake. The chef’s seasonal tasting menu pairs perfectly with their Reserve line of wines. The setting is elegant without feeling stuffy.
• Shaughnessy’s Cove. While not located on a vineyard, this wine-forward restaurant in Summerland is just minutes from Dirty Laundry. It offers lakeside dining with a solid list of Okanagan wines and a menu focused on local ingredients. A great option if you’re looking for a relaxed spot after wine tasting nearby.

Best Winery Hotels In The Okanagan Valley

If you’d like to truly immerse yourself in Okanagan wine country, consider staying overnight on a vineyard or within minutes of a few different locations. Some of my personal recommendations include:

• The Cove Lakeside Resort. Located just a short drive from Quails’ Gate and Mission Hill in West Kelowna, this lakeside resort features full condo-style suites, a private beach, two pools, and beautiful sunset views over the lake. It’s a great option for couples or families looking to unwind between tastings.
• Manteo at Eldorado Resort. This waterfront resort sits right on Lakeshore Road in Kelowna and offers easy access to the wineries in Lake Country and South Kelowna. With indoor and outdoor pools, onsite dining, and lake access, it’s perfect for a more central stay with resort-style amenities.
• The Royal Kelowna. This all-suite hotel is located right downtown and offers full kitchens, spacious living areas, a rooftop infinity pool, and a hot tub overlooking the lake. While not on a vineyard, it’s within quick driving distance to Kelowna’s urban wineries and is walkable to local wine bars and tasting lounges.
• Predator Ridge Resort. Situated near Vernon, about 25 minutes from Lake Country’s winery region, Predator Ridge is a luxury resort with lodge rooms and vacation rentals. It’s popular for its golf courses, wellness spa, hiking trails, and proximity to wineries like 50th Parallel Estate and Intrigue Wines. A great pick if you want space to relax between tastings.

➡️ Click here for a full list of top-rated Okanagan Valley hotels, or check out the accommodation map here. It’s currently set to West Kelowna, but you can easily change it to your preferred destination:

Things To Do In The Okanagan Valley (Beyond Wine)

The Okanagan Valley has so much more to offer than wine. We love exploring this entire area and creating memories for ourselves and our young son. A few of my family’s favorite activities include:

• A helicopter tour in West Kelowna for a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful vineyards and lake from above.
• Kettle Valley Railway is a great afternoon activity near the Dirty Laundry Vineyard. Learn about the history of this area with a steam-train ride—or opt for a bike tour.
• Davidson Orchards in Vernon, where you can pick apples, shop at the farm store, or let the kids run around and explore. This place is a must for us every time we’re in the area.
• The Kangaroo Creek Farm in Lake Country is a unique and interesting farm where you get to see and experience kangaroos, capybaras, and other animals.
• Scandia Golf & Games in Kelowna is our go-to for family fun. We celebrated my son’s birthday here, racing go-karts and playing arcade games until we were all completely wiped out.
• Okanagan beaches and lakeside parks offer a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon. It’s even possible to rent your own boat on Lake Okanagan.
• Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market for local produce, baked goods, and handmade items
• Knox Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in the area. From the top, you’ll see one of the best lake views in the area.