A day in Summerland moves at vineyard pace: scenic pullouts, guided tastings at up to four wineries, and a lakeside picnic. Read on for what to expect and how to plan your Okanagan wine day.
A day in Summerland moves at vineyard pace: scenic pullouts, guided tastings at up to four wineries, and a lakeside picnic. Read on for what to expect and how to plan your Okanagan wine day.
You step off the minivan onto warm pavement and the valley exhales around you — a patchwork of vines and orchards sloping to the blue of Okanagan Lake. The air smells faintly of sun‑warmed cedar and crushed grape skins; the road ahead climbs to Bottleneck Drive, where the lake narrows and the valley opens like a page turned.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Cheers Okanagan Tours Limited · Summerland, British Columbia
You step off the minivan onto warm pavement and the valley exhales around you — a patchwork of vines and orchards sloping to the blue of Okanagan Lake. The air smells faintly of sun‑warmed cedar and crushed grape skins; the road ahead climbs to Bottleneck Drive, where the lake narrows and the valley opens like a page turned.
Summerland’s vineyards sit on soils shaped by ancient glacial action and volcanic bedrock; the sloping terraces capture heat and drain quickly, which grapes here reward with concentrated flavor. The area began as orchard country in the late 19th century and shifted toward boutique viticulture in the last 40 years, forging a small‑town wine culture that balances family farms, tasting rooms, and picnic spots.
Expect guided stops at up to four wineries, leisurely tastings, and a relaxed picnic lunch; host commentary links varietals to slope, exposure, and local winemaking choices. Bottleneck Drive is a highlight — a short pullout that frames the southern lake and the valley’s agricultural mosaic.
Practical guidance: plan for a seven‑hour day with multiple short walks on gravel and lawn; bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Minimum drinking age applies and staff will pace tastings so you can savor rather than rush.
Timing matters — late afternoon light brings the best photos and softer heat. If you want quieter rooms, ask for earlier departures on weekdays. Leave space in your luggage for a bottle or two; many wineries will ship if you prefer not to carry glass on the return trip.
easy.
7 hours.
Light walking and ability to move on short uneven surfaces; moderate fitness recommended for short uphill viewpoints.
Yes — tasting fees and a picnic lunch are included as described, though specific venues may vary by availability.
Hotel pickup and drop‑off are included within the tour’s service area; confirm your pickup point at booking.
The provincial minimum drinking age is 19; all guests must comply and be prepared to show ID if asked.
The tour lists wheelchair access, but accessibility can vary by winery—advise booking staff of needs so they can plan appropriate stops.
Summerland evolved from late‑19th‑century orchards to a boutique wine region; many family vineyards were former fruit farms that converted production in recent decades.
Water stewardship and soil management are priorities for many Okanagan wineries—supporting certified or organic producers helps reduce agricultural impacts.
Cheers Okanagan Tours Limited operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.


You step off the minivan onto warm pavement and the valley exhales around you — a patchwork of vines and orchards sloping to the blue of Okanagan Lake. The air smells faintly of sun‑warmed cedar and crushed grape skins; the road ahead climbs to Bottleneck Drive, where the lake narrows and the valley opens like a page turned.
You step off the minivan onto warm pavement and the valley exhales around you — a patchwork of vines and orchards sloping to the blue of Okanagan Lake. The air smells faintly of sun‑warmed cedar and crushed grape skins; the road ahead climbs to Bottleneck Drive, where the lake narrows and the valley opens like a page turned.
Summerland’s vineyards sit on soils shaped by ancient glacial action and volcanic bedrock; the sloping terraces capture heat and drain quickly, which grapes here reward with concentrated flavor. The area began as orchard country in the late 19th century and shifted toward boutique viticulture in the last 40 years, forging a small‑town wine culture that balances family farms, tasting rooms, and picnic spots.
Expect guided stops at up to four wineries, leisurely tastings, and a relaxed picnic lunch; host commentary links varietals to slope, exposure, and local winemaking choices. Bottleneck Drive is a highlight — a short pullout that frames the southern lake and the valley’s agricultural mosaic.
Practical guidance: plan for a seven‑hour day with multiple short walks on gravel and lawn; bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Minimum drinking age applies and staff will pace tastings so you can savor rather than rush.
Timing matters — late afternoon light brings the best photos and softer heat. If you want quieter rooms, ask for earlier departures on weekdays. Leave space in your luggage for a bottle or two; many wineries will ship if you prefer not to carry glass on the return trip.