Summerland Private Wine Tour – Full Day

Discover the Charm of the Summerland Private Wine Tour

For those seeking an authentic and laidback wine experience in the less travelled Okanagan Valley, the Summerland Private Wine Tour offers a compelling option. Priced at $264.62 per person and lasting around 6 hours, this tour provides an intimate exploration of 5 carefully selected wineries, each with its own character. The tour is perfect for small groups, with pickup included in the Penticton, Summerland, and Peachland areas, ensuring a smooth start to your day. Whether you’re limited on time but want to enjoy a relaxed tasting experience or prefer a private, personalized visit, this tour delivers.

One of the main strengths of this experience is the diversity of vineyard stops, all free of charge for tastings, with optional upgrades available. The air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water keep the journey comfortable, and the lunch reservations—though not included—offer flexibility for a sit-down meal. The tour’s positive review highlights the great wine choices and tasty food, making it a rewarding way to spend a day in the Okanagan.

Key Points

• Private, full-day experience visiting 5 wineries in the Okanagan Valley
• Approximate 6-hour duration with transportation included
• Cost of $264.62 per person, with optional upgrades and custom winery requests
• Stops include Sage Hills, 8th Generation Vineyard, SummerGate, Lunessence, and Thornhaven Estates
• Tastings are free at each winery, with additional options available for purchase
• Pickup offered in Penticton, Summerland, and Peachland with a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance

An Authentic and Laidback Wine Tour in the Okanagan

The Summerland Private Wine Tour stands out for its focus on a less travelled wine region, allowing a more relaxed and personal experience. The tour emphasizes small-scale, organic, and farmgate wineries, such as SummerGate Winery, where tastings are often led by the Owner/Winemaker. This personal touch enhances the atmosphere and provides insight into sustainable viticulture practices, notably at Lunessence Winery, which is organically certified.

The itinerary balances 45-minute stops at each winery, giving ample time to savor the wines and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The beautiful farmland setting of SummerGate and the panoramic views from Lunessence create a memorable backdrop for tastings. The surroundings of Thornhaven Estates, perched on Little Giants Head Mountain, offer spectacular views overlooking vineyards and the local landscape.

Exploring the Wineries and Their Unique Qualities

Each stop on the tour offers something special. Sage Hills Organic Vineyards is the first, providing a free wine tasting amidst organic farming practices. Next is 8th Generation Vineyard, where tastings are also free, and the focus is on quality small-batch wines.

SummerGate Winery provides a farmgate experience, often led by the Owner/Winemaker, in a beautiful farmland setting above Summerland. This stop gives visitors a chance to taste organic wines in a rustic, welcoming environment.

Lunessence Winery & Vineyard is notable for its panoramic outdoor tasting patio, which faces eastward toward Okanagan Lake. The winery’s emphasis on sustainable, environmentally sensitive viticulture and its organic certification make it a meaningful stop.

Thornhaven Estates is located on the slopes of Little Giants Head Mountain. Surrounded by flourishing vineyards, the quiet surroundings and spectacular courtyard views create an ideal setting for tasting. The tasting at Thornhaven is included in the tour price, highlighting its importance in the overall experience.

Logistics: Transportation and Group Size

The tour features an air-conditioned vehicle that ensures comfort during the 6-hour journey. The pickup service is available in Penticton, Summerland, and Peachland, making access straightforward. For travelers outside these zones, an additional surcharge applies, ensuring flexibility.

This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the personalized atmosphere. The group discounts are available, making this a good option for families or friends traveling together.

Customizable Experience with Additional Options

While the standard tour includes tastings at five wineries with admission fees waived, there are options to upgrade tastings at extra cost. If desired, lunch reservations can be arranged, although the price of lunch is not included in the tour fee. Plus, alternative wineries can be visited upon request, allowing for a more personalized experience.

The tour’s flexibility extends to timing, with daily departures available in the morning or afternoon. This makes it easy to tailor the day to your schedule, whether you prefer an early start or a relaxed afternoon tasting.

The Experience of the Wineries: Views, Wines, and Atmosphere

Sage Hills Organic Vineyards offers a chance to taste wine in an organic setting. The 8th Generation Vineyard impresses with its small batch wines, often presented in a casual, friendly manner. SummerGate Winery stands out for its beautiful farmland backdrop and personal tastings often led by the owner or winemaker.

At Lunessence, the outdoor patio provides breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake, making tastings feel like a peaceful retreat. Thornhaven Estates combines spectacular mountain views with a surrounding vineyard landscape, creating a serene setting for wine tasting.

All stops emphasize sustainable practices and organic methods, aligning with modern trends in eco-conscious viticulture, which adds an educational layer to your experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private wine tour is ideal for those who value intimacy and authenticity over large group tours. It’s well-suited for wine enthusiasts who appreciate small wineries and organic wines. The scenic views and laidback atmosphere appeal to guests seeking a relaxed, stress-free day.

Travelers who prefer personalized attention and flexibility in their itinerary** will find this tour particularly satisfying. It also suits those wanting to explore a less crowded side of the Okanagan and learn about sustainable viticulture.

Practical Tips and Important Details

The tour includes transportation and tastings, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind. Participants must be 19 years or older to legally consume alcohol. The tour is most suitable for those able to walk or stand comfortably during tastings, but no strenuous activity is involved.

Although lunch is not included, reservations can be made, giving flexibility for a sit-down meal. Be sure to book your tour at least 64 days in advance to secure your spot, as it tends to fill quickly.

Final Thoughts on the Summerland Private Wine Tour

This tour offers a relaxed, authentic experience with a focus on small wineries, organic practices, and scenic views. The personalized approach and flexibility make it a top choice for wine lovers wanting a laidback, intimate day in the Okanagan Valley.

While it does not include lunch in the price, the option to add a sit-down meal allows for a customized experience. The positive review highlights the great wine selections and friendly guide, ensuring a memorable visit. This private tour provides excellent value for those seeking a less commercialized, genuine wine adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of this private wine tour?
The tour costs $264.62 per person, including visits to 5 wineries with tastings.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time between wineries.

Which wineries are visited?
Stops include Sage Hills Organic Vineyards, 8th Generation Vineyard, SummerGate Winery, Lunessence Winery, and Thornhaven Estates.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, tastings are free at each winery, with options for upgrades at extra cost.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates.

Can I request specific wineries?
Yes, alternative wineries are available upon request.

What is the pickup zone?
Pickup and dropoff are available in Penticton, Summerland, and Peachland.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch reservations can be made separately; the cost of lunch is not included.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Sagebrush Tours.