Planning a girls’ getaway to Kelowna? One of the best ways to spend a day together is exploring Lake Country wine tours, where stunning vineyard views, elegant tasting rooms, and relaxed countryside charm create the perfect setting for a memorable wine experience.
Located just 20–30 minutes north of downtown Kelowna, Lake Country is home to the Scenic Sip Wine Trail, a collection of award-winning wineries overlooking Okanagan Lake and Wood Lake. Compared to busier wine regions, Lake Country offers a quieter, more intimate atmosphere — ideal for girlfriends looking to enjoy exceptional wine, beautiful scenery, and meaningful conversation.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, reunion, or simply enjoying time together, Lake Country wine tours deliver a refined yet relaxed wine country adventure.
Why Choose Lake Country Wine Tours?
The Okanagan Valley is Canada’s premier wine region, with over 200 wineries, according to Wine Growers British Columbia. While areas like Naramata and Oliver are well known, Lake Country offers something special: accessibility, beauty, and boutique experiences all within minutes of Kelowna.
Close to Kelowna
Lake Country is the closest wine region to Kelowna International Airport, making it incredibly convenient for visitors. You can leave your hotel or Airbnb and arrive at your first winery in under 30 minutes.
This proximity allows for a relaxed schedule without long drives between stops.
The Scenic Sip Wine Trail
The Scenic Sip trail connects several Lake Country wineries along a picturesque route overlooking vineyards, lakes, and rolling hills.
Wineries on this trail consistently receive recognition at competitions such as the National Wine Awards of Canada, highlighting the quality emerging from this cool-climate region.
Boutique and Relaxed Atmosphere
Unlike larger wine destinations, Lake Country wineries often feel personal and welcoming. Smaller tasting rooms create space for genuine conversations with knowledgeable staff and winemakers.
This relaxed pace makes the region perfect for girlfriend groups seeking connection and quality over crowds.
The Perfect Lake Country Wine Tour Itinerary
A well-balanced wine tour typically includes four to five wineries plus time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. Here’s what a beautiful Lake Country wine day could look like.
Gray Monk Estate Winery
Gray Monk is one of the most iconic wineries in the Okanagan Valley and a must-stop on Lake Country wine tours.
Founded in 1972, it helped establish the region’s reputation for high-quality wines. Today it remains known for expressive whites and welcoming hospitality.
Signature wines include:
- Pinot Gris
- Riesling
- Cabernet Franc
The winery’s patio overlooks Okanagan Lake and surrounding vineyards, creating one of the most scenic tasting environments in the region.
Arrowleaf Cellars
Arrowleaf Cellars offers breathtaking panoramic views that make it one of the most photographed wineries on the Scenic Sip trail.
The winery specializes in bright, aromatic whites and beautifully balanced reds.
Popular wines include:
- Riesling
- Pinot Noir
- Zweigelt
Guests often enjoy picnics on the outdoor terrace while overlooking the lake — an ideal pause for conversation and laughter with friends.
Ex Nihilo Vineyards
Ex Nihilo blends wine, art, and culinary excellence in one elegant destination.
The winery’s tasting room showcases contemporary artwork while visitors sample premium wines crafted from estate-grown fruit.
Standout varietals include:
- Cabernet Franc
- Chardonnay
- Bordeaux-style blends
Ex Nihilo also features a restaurant called Chaos Bistro, making it a popular dinner destination in Lake Country.
Intrigue Wines
Intrigue Wines is known for its relaxed, welcoming vibe and vibrant wine portfolio.
The winery’s colourful labels and creative blends add a playful element to the tasting experience while maintaining serious winemaking quality.
Favourites include:
- Pinot Gris
- Rosé
- Red blends
Intrigue’s outdoor seating areas make it a wonderful place to slow down and soak up the sunshine.
Ancient Hill Estate Winery
Located near Kelowna International Airport, Ancient Hill Estate Winery is a family-owned vineyard producing small-batch wines with impressive attention to detail.
The winery focuses on cool-climate varietals that thrive in the Okanagan Valley.
Top wines include:
- Baco Noir
- Chardonnay
- GewĂĽrztraminer
The quiet countryside setting creates a peaceful ending to a day of wine tasting.
Lake Country Wine Tour Overview
| Winery | Specialty | Atmosphere | Best For | Views |
| Gray Monk Estate | Pinot Gris & whites | Iconic & welcoming | Classic Okanagan wines | Lake views |
| Arrowleaf Cellars | Riesling & Pinot Noir | Scenic & relaxed | Photo-worthy tastings | Panoramic lake |
| Ex Nihilo Vineyards | Bordeaux blends | Elegant & artistic | Wine and dining | Vineyard |
| Intrigue Wines | Rosé & blends | Fun & casual | Relaxed tastings | Vineyard |
| Ancient Hill Estate | Pinot Noir | Boutique & quiet | Small-batch wines | Countryside |
This combination provides a well-rounded experience across styles, atmospheres, and wine varieties.
Best Time to Book Lake Country Wine Tours
The Okanagan wine season typically runs from May through October, with summer being the busiest travel period.
According to Tourism Kelowna, thousands of visitors arrive each year specifically to experience the region’s wine routes.
Ideal Times to Visit
Late Spring (May–June)
Warm weather and fewer crowds.
Summer (July–August)
Lively patios, sunny vineyard views, and peak tourism season.
Early Fall (September–October)
Harvest season brings golden vineyards and a beautiful atmosphere.
Booking wine tours at least two to three weeks in advance during peak months is recommended.
What to Wear on a Lake Country Wine Tour
Wine country style is effortless yet polished.
Outfit Ideas
- Flowy dresses or stylish linen sets
- Comfortable sandals or wedges
- Light sweater or jacket
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Crossbody bag
Because vineyard grounds often include gravel paths and grass, comfortable footwear is essential.
What to Expect on Lake Country Wine Tours
Most guided Lake Country wine tours include several conveniences that make the day seamless and enjoyable.
Typical inclusions may include:
- Transportation between wineries
- Reserved tasting appointments
- Knowledgeable local guides
- Flexible itineraries
- Door-to-door pickup in Kelowna
This allows everyone in your group to relax and fully enjoy the experience without worrying about driving or planning logistics.
Why Lake Country Is Perfect for Girlfriend Getaways
Travel experiences with friends are often about slowing down and reconnecting.
Lake Country wine tours offer exactly that.
Visitors enjoy:
- Scenic vineyard drives
- Boutique tasting experiences
- Exceptional wines
- Lake and mountain views
- Relaxed, welcoming hospitality
The region provides an atmosphere that feels refined but never overwhelming — ideal for meaningful time together.
Tips for an Unforgettable Wine Tour
A few simple tips can elevate your wine tour experience.
Start with a good breakfast
Wine tasting is much more enjoyable on a full stomach.
Stay hydrated
Drink water between tastings to stay refreshed.
Limit to four or five wineries
This keeps the day relaxed rather than rushed.
Take photos early
Lighting and energy are best earlier in the day.
Buy wine from your favorite stop
Support local and purchase wine at every stop, or choose one or two wineries you truly love.
Discover the Best Lake Country Wine Tours
With scenic vineyard roads, award-winning wines, and welcoming tasting rooms, Lake Country offers one of the most enjoyable wine touring experiences near Kelowna.
From iconic estates like Gray Monk to boutique producers along the Scenic Sip trail, every stop offers something unique — whether it’s breathtaking lake views, elegant wines, or memorable moments shared with friends.
For groups planning a Kelowna getaway, Lake Country wine tours provide the perfect blend of relaxation, discovery, and celebration.
Book Your Wine Tour Today
If you’re visiting Kelowna with your girlfriends and looking for a relaxed yet refined wine experience, Lake Country wine tours are the perfect choice.
Enjoy scenic vineyards, exceptional wines, and unforgettable moments together.
Book Your Wine Boss Tour Today.