Carmelo Giardina has curated this personalized guide to savouring the Okanagan—from boutique wineries to luxurious retreats
The Okanagan Valley, in Canada’s beautiful British Columbia, is a wine lover’s paradise. Stretching from the northern tip of Lake Country down to the sun-drenched vineyards of Oliver and Osoyoos, this region offers a dynamic blend of world-class wineries, exceptional dining experiences, and luxurious accommodations.
Known for its diverse terroir and stunning landscapes, the Okanagan is one of Canada’s most important wine regions, producing a broad range of varietals from crisp rieslings to bold Bordeaux-style blends.
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As I reflect on two recent visits to this beautiful region – one in May 2023 and the other in October 2024 – I can’t help but recall the ever-changing seasons that offer new perspectives of this picturesque landscape. Whether it was the fresh green of spring or the golden hues of fall, what struck me most from each trip was how seamlessly this region blends world-class wine tourism with authentic local culture and natural beauty.
Every stop along the way introduced me to world-class, stunning wineries, exquisite restaurants, and cozy yet upscale places to stay, all while showcasing the region’s incredible diversity.
Top and above photos courtesy of Wine Growers British Columbia.
Flying into Kelowna International Airport is the most convenient starting point for your Okanagan adventure. From here, you can head north to explore Lake Country’s emerging wine scene or venture south through Summerland, Naramata, and Penticton, eventually arriving at the famed wineries of Oliver and Osoyoos.
This guide takes you on a journey from north to south, highlighting memorable places to drink, eat, and stay along the way.
Map courtesy of Wine Folly.
Kelowna: The heart of Okanagan wine country
Kelowna is the gateway to the Okanagan Valley, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and countryside charm. Located along the shores of Okanagan Lake, the city is split into two key areas—Kelowna proper and West Kelowna. Both sides boast an abundance of shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The surrounding hillsides are home to some of the region’s most celebrated wineries, many of which offer breathtaking views and exceptional tasting experiences. With its warm summers and long growing season, Kelowna is ideally suited for growing a wide variety of wines, ranging from crisp whites to robust reds. This combination of natural beauty, top-tier wineries, and modern conveniences makes Kelowna the perfect base for exploring the Okanagan.
Wineries to visit
Mission Hill Family Estate
A crown jewel of the Okanagan Valley, Mission Hill Family Estate is renowned for its architectural grandeur and award-winning wines. The estate offers guided tastings, educational tours, and seasonal culinary experiences at their acclaimed Terrace Restaurant. Visitors can savour fine wines, including their flagship Oculus, while enjoying panoramic views of the lake and vineyards.
Quails’ Gate
One of the oldest family-owned wineries in the region, Quails’ Gate is celebrated for its pinot noir and chardonnay. Guests can take guided tours of the vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a selection of their finest wines. The winery’s lakeside location and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit in West Kelowna. Their Founders’ Collection represents the pinnacle of their winemaking expertise.
CedarCreek Estate Winery
Nestled on the slopes overlooking Okanagan Lake, CedarCreek Estate Winery is renowned for its organic, estate-grown wines. Visitors can enjoy structured tastings that highlight the winery’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and explore a range of premium-made varietals from chardonnay and pinot noir, to riesling and sparkling. The winery’s elegant tasting room and vineyard views create a serene atmosphere for wine lovers, while their focus on organic farming enhances the purity and expression of their wines.
CedarCreek Estate Winery.
Martin’s Lane Winery
Known for its small-batch, highly sought-after pinot noir and riesling, Martin’s Lane Winery is a hidden gem in Kelowna’s winemaking scene. This boutique winery is committed to producing wines that highlight the unique terroir of the region. With a focus on minimal intervention and sustainable practices, Martin’s Lane offers an intimate tasting experience, where guests can explore wines that showcase the area’s cool-climate characteristics and exceptional, artisanal craftsmanship.
Dining options
Home Block at CedarCreek
Located at CedarCreek Estate Winery, Home Block offers a farm-to-table dining experience rooted in local ingredients and seasonal flavours. The menu, crafted by Chef Neil Taylor, pairs perfectly with the winery’s organic wines. Guests can dine in a rustic yet modern space with sweeping vineyard views, enjoying dishes like wood-fired lamb and heirloom vegetable salads.
Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill
Perched above Okanagan Lake, the Terrace Restaurant offers one of the most picturesque dining experiences in the region. The seasonal menu showcases the best of the Okanagan’s bounty, with dishes that complement Mission Hill’s fine wines. From artisan cheeses to locally sourced seafood, every dish is designed to enhance the premium-driven wine selection.
The Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill Family Estate.
Old Vines Restaurant at Quails’ Gate
Old Vines Restaurant is a must-visit for food and wine enthusiasts. This award-winning dining destination focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, featuring local produce and sustainably sourced meats. Signature dishes, like braised short ribs and wild-caught salmon, are expertly paired with Quails’ Gate’s estate wines. Outdoor seating during summer is a must.
Oak + Cru Social Kitchen & Wine Bar
Located within the Delta Hotels by Marriott, Oak + Cru offers a lively atmosphere where guests can enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes paired with Okanagan wines in a sophisticated yet casual setting. The menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, offering everything from hand-crafted pastas to seafood delicacies. The wine list features a wide selection of Okanagan wines, making it the perfect place for both wine connoisseurs and casual diners. With stunning views of Okanagan Lake, Oak + Cru provides a memorable dining experience in one of Kelowna’s most happening settings.
Where to stay
The Cove Lakeside Resort
For those seeking a tranquil retreat with easy access to Kelowna’s wine region, The Cove Lakeside Resort is an ideal choice. Located on the quiet shores of Okanagan Lake in West Kelowna, this resort offers luxurious accommodations with beautiful lake and mountain views. Whether you’re staying in a suite or a lakeside villa, you’ll enjoy spacious, well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. The resort also features a private beach, a pool, and a full-service restaurant, making it the perfect base for exploring the local wineries or simply relaxing in style.
The Cove Lakeside Resort
Lake Country: A hidden gem for the adventurous wine enthusiast
Located just 20 minutes north of Kelowna, Lake Country is the Okanagan Valley’s most northern winegrowing sub-region – officially recognized as a sub-Geographical Indication (sub-GI) in June of 2022 – and is quickly gaining recognition for its distinctive terroir and exceptional wines. This picturesque region is home to a cluster of award-winning boutique wineries – with new, spectacular developments on the way – each offering stunning lakeside views and a diverse range of cool-climate, small-lot and terroir-driven wines, from aromatic rieslings and chardonnays to vibrant pinot noir and sparklings.
The region’s cool climate, northerly latitude, and proximity to Okanagan Lake provide a unique environment where late afternoon sunshine and gentle slopes create ideal conditions for a long growing season. It’s easy to feel a connection with nature when exploring this part of the Okanagan – a fulfilling destination escape for those seeking a fresh and more intimate wine experience beyond the main hubs.
Wineries to visit
Ex Nihilo Vineyards
With a name that means “out of nothing” in Latin, Ex Nihilo emphasizes creativity and craftsmanship. This boutique, family-run winery is best known for its limited-production wines, including a celebrated riesling and a rich, complex merlot. Guests can experience curated tastings that showcase the winery’s dedication to expressing the unique terroir of Lake Country. The elegant tasting room and art-inspired atmosphere create a refined setting for wine exploration.
Ex Nihilo Vineyards.
50th Parallel Estate Winery
Set against a stunning backdrop of mountains and vineyards, 50th Parallel specializes in pinot noir, sparkling, and aromatic white wines. The winery’s sleek, modern architecture complements its focus on precision winemaking. Guests can enjoy guided tastings that highlight the estate’s signature wines, all of which reflect the unique microclimate of Lake Country. The winery also offers vineyard tours and seasonal culinary experiences.
Gray Monk Estate Winery
A pioneer of the Okanagan wine scene, Gray Monk is one of the oldest and most iconic wineries in the region. Established in 1972, it is known for its pinot gris, a varietal the winery helped popularize in British Columbia. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Okanagan Lake while tasting a diverse selection of wines, including aromatic whites and bold reds. The winery’s hospitality and legacy make it a cornerstone of Lake Country’s wine culture.
Arrowleaf Cellars
A family-owned winery known for producing fresh, fruit-forward wines, Arrowleaf captures the essence of Lake Country’s cool climate. Specializing in aromatic whites like Bacchus, riesling, and petite arvine, as well as delicate reds like pinot noir and Zweigelt, the winery offers a relaxed tasting experience with sweeping views of Okanagan Lake. The tasting room is bright and inviting, and visitors can enjoy a picnic on the lawn while sipping their favourite wine.
Fall time vineyard views from Arrowleaf Cellars.
Peak Cellars
This is a modern estate winery that emphasizes small-batch, estate-grown wines crafted with precision and care. Known for its aromatic whites like gewürztraminer, riesling and pinot gris, there’s also pinot noir and other delicious reds. Guests can enjoy personalized tastings in a sleek, contemporary setting while learning about the estate’s sustainable farming practices. The on-site garden provides fresh ingredients for their culinary offerings, making it a destination that seamlessly blends food and wine.
Dining options
BLOCK ONE Restaurant at 50th Parallel
Located on the 50th Parallel Estate, BLOCK ONE offers a seasonal, farm-to-table menu that reflects the Okanagan’s local bounty. The restaurant’s open-concept design provides stunning vineyard and lake views, enhancing the dining experience. Dishes are carefully crafted to pair with the winery’s portfolio, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients like Okanagan fruits, heritage meats, and artisanal cheeses. Signature items include wood-fired flatbreads and sustainably-caught seafood.
An evening view of Block 50 Restaurant at 50th Parallel Estate Winery.
The Lookout Restaurant at Gray Monk
Perched above Okanagan Lake, The Lookout Restaurant at Gray Monk offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience. The menu highlights regional ingredients and pairs seamlessly with Gray Monk’s award-winning wines. Guests can savour dishes such as braised short ribs, seared scallops, and seasonal salads while enjoying panoramic views. The welcoming ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or sunset dinner.
Where to stay
Sparkling Hill Resort
For a luxurious retreat, Sparkling Hill Resort is an unparalleled destination in Lake Country. Renowned for its wellness focus, the resort features over 3.5 million Swarovski crystals throughout its design and offers a world-class, luxury spa (the largest in BC) with a variety of therapeutic treatments. Guests can unwind in elegant rooms with lake or mountain views, enjoy fine dining at PeakFine Restaurant, or relax in the heated infinity pool. This five-star resort blends opulence with the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley, providing a tranquil and rejuvenating escape. A must stay experience.
Sparkling Hill Resort in gorgeous Lake Country.
Naramata and Summerland
As you venture south of Kelowna, the charming communities of Naramata and Summerland offer a blend of picturesque landscapes and artisanal winemaking.
Naramata, located along the eastern shores of Okanagan Lake, is known for its magnificent views of the water. The area’s unique soils for winegrowing allow for the production of delicate, yet ultra-expressive red and white wines (aka: riesling, chardonnay, and pinot noir). Summerland, on the western side of the lake, is equally captivating with its rolling vineyards and a focus on sustainable wine production.
Visitors can explore the Naramata Bench Wine Route or enjoy the small-town charm of Summerland, both of which offer a slower, more relaxed pace compared to the busier wine core.
The Naramata Ranch Vineyard is one of the Okanagan Valley’s more prestigious grape-growing sites.
Penticton
Penticton sits between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, making it a central point for exploring the southern Okanagan. This vibrant city blends outdoor adventure with a thriving culinary and wine scene. Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore, visit nearby wineries, or indulge in the local food culture.
Dining highlight
Orolo Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Owned by the Time Family of Wines, Orolo Restaurant & Cocktail Bar offers an upscale yet approachable dining experience in the heart of Penticton. The menu emphasizes locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, skillfully crafted into contemporary dishes that pair perfectly with the winery’s extensive portfolio. Whether you’re enjoying a meticulously crafted cocktail or a fine glass of Meritage, the modern, stylish ambiance and attentive service make Orolo a standout culinary destination within the city.
Orolo Restaurant, in Pentiction.
Okanagan Falls
Further south lies Okanagan Falls, a breathtakingly picturesque region renowned for its dramatic landscapes and premium wines. Nestled between Skaha Lake and Vaseux Lake, the area is defined by its rugged beauty and diverse microclimates, which create ideal conditions for growing a range of grape varieties. This peaceful area is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying exceptional wine and dining experiences. Get your cameras charged up and ready.
Winery to visit and dine at
Liquidity Wines & The Restaurant at Liquidity
Liquidity Wines combines art, wine, and cuisine in a strikingly modern setting. Known for their expressive pinot noir, chardonnay and elegant viognier, the winery offers guided tastings that explore the nuances of their estate-grown wines.
The Restaurant at Liquidity takes a farm-to-table approach, serving beautifully crafted dishes that highlight seasonal, local ingredients. With floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views of the vineyard and surrounding mountains, it is an ideal spot to relax and savour the flavours of the Okanagan.
The Restaurant at Liquidity.
Oliver and Osoyoos: Desert landscapes and bold flavours
Situated in the southernmost part of the Okanagan Valley, Oliver and Osoyoos boast a warm, desert-like climate that is ideal for grape growing. This region, located just north of the U.S. border, is known as the “Wine Capital of Canada” due to its high concentration of vineyards and wineries. The area’s arid environment, combined with long sunny days and cool nights, allows for the production of bold reds like cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and syrah, as well as expressive whites such as chardonnay and viognier.
Visitors to Oliver and Osoyoos can explore the scenic wine trails, relax by Osoyoos Lake, or enjoy the blend of Indigenous culture and agricultural heritage that defines the region.
Wineries to visit
CheckMate Artisanal Winery
Known for its meticulous approach to winemaking, CheckMate Artisanal Winery specializes in ultra-premium chardonnay and merlot. Each wine is crafted in small batches, reflecting the unique characteristics of the vineyard sites. The winery offers private, appointment-only tastings where guests can sample limited-production wines in an intimate and elegant setting. These are, quite admittedly, some of the very best wines I have ever come across on a consistent basis – made right here, in Canada.
The view from the terace at CheckMate.
Road 13 Vineyards
Road 13 Vineyards embraces a hands-on, honest approach to winemaking, producing a range of Rhône and Bordeaux-style reds and crisp whites. The winery’s castle-like tasting room offers stunning views of the surrounding Golden Mile Bench. Guests can enjoy curated tastings that highlight the winery’s Old Vines Syrah and other distinctive varietals.
Red Barn Winery at Jagged Rock
Red Barn is a modern, design-forward winery focusing on small-lot wines that showcase the region’s diversity. With a commitment to minimal intervention, the winery crafts expressive, site-specific wines, like cabernet franc and merlot. Visitors can experience exclusive tastings in a sleek, contemporary setting surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Okanagan landscape.
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
Burrowing Owl is renowned for its sustainable practices and commitment to producing premium wines. Specializing in Bordeaux-style reds and aromatic whites (not to mention, fantastic rosé wines too!), the winery offers an immersive tasting experience. Visitors can explore the vineyard, enjoy tastings in the beautiful wine shop, and even stay overnight at the on-site guesthouse.
Where to stay and dine
Watermark Beach Resort
Located along the shores of Osoyoos Lake, The Watermark offers a luxurious escape with modern suites and breathtaking views. Guests can relax by the lake, enjoy the outdoor pool, or indulge in spa treatments. The resort’s signature restaurant, 15 Park Bistro, serves a refined menu highlighting regional ingredients and expertly crafted dishes that pair beautifully with local wines.
The Watermark Beach Resort.
While you’re in the area, make sure to visit…
District Wine Village
The District Wine Village is a unique destination featuring a collection of boutique wineries, a craft brewery, and artisanal food outlets. This vibrant community hub offers visitors the opportunity to explore diverse wines and culinary delights in one central location. With regular events and live music, it provides an immersive experience that celebrates the region’s rich winemaking culture.
An aerial view of the District Wine Village.
– Carmelo Giardina is the principal editor of VineRoutes, and most recently traveled to the Okanagan Valley in May, 2023 and again in October, 2024.
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