Penticton: Naramata Bench Full Day Guided Wine Tour

If you’re planning a trip to British Columbia’s famous Okanagan Valley, the Naramata Bench Full Day Guided Wine Tour offers a fantastic way to explore one of Canada’s most beautiful wine regions. This tour, rated nearly perfect with a 4.9 out of 5 from 15 reviews, promises an immersive experience rich in scenic views, exceptional wines, and knowledgeable guides. It’s a package designed for those who love good wine, stunning landscapes, and a touch of local charm — all in a comfortable, well-organized setting.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the access to five award-winning wineries, each with its own character and story, and the VIP concierge service, ensuring a smooth, personalized experience. The newly upgraded, luxury air-conditioned vehicle adds to the comfort as you hop from vineyard to vineyard. A potential consideration? The tour is about six hours long, which means you’ll want to pace yourself and be ready for a full day of tasting and sightseeing.

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to taste some of the big reds like Cabernet Franc and Syrah, while also enjoying breathtaking views of lakes and mountains. It’s suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of education, relaxation, and scenery without the hassle of planning each visit individually. Just keep in mind, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those under 19, and lunch isn’t included in the price.

Key Points

• Premium wineries: Visit five top Naramata Bench wineries, each offering exclusive tastings.
• Stunning scenery: Expect panoramic views of lakes and mountains at every stop.
• All-inclusive tasting fees: No surprises — all tastings are covered, so you can focus on enjoying.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights about wines and the region.
• Comfortable transport: A brand new, air-conditioned vehicle makes traveling between stops a pleasure.
• Flexible and convenient: Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, plus skip-the-line reservations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The Itinerary and Wineries

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation—an effortless start that sets a relaxed tone for the day. The 50-minute drive south from Kelowna offers a scenic introduction to the region, with anticipation building for what’s to come. Once you arrive on the Naramata Bench, you’ll be visiting five carefully selected wineries, each offering a unique slice of the region’s winemaking tapestry.

The wineries are known for producing bold reds like Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, which will satisfy those who love a robust glass. But don’t worry—there’s a good mix of whites, rosés, and sparkling wines as well, so everyone’s palate is catered to. Many reviewers comment on the quality of wines, noting that each stop offers “awesome” tastings, with wines that impress both amateurs and connoisseurs.

The Wine Tastings

Each winery visit provides ample time for tastings, questions, and photos—a major plus for travelers who want to savor the experience rather than rush through it. The included tasting fees mean you won’t be surprised with extra charges, and the guides’ wine concierge service helps you select and purchase your favorites.

Views and Atmosphere

What really sets this tour apart are the breathtaking vistas. Expect to be wowed by views of Okanagan Lake, surrounding mountains, and lush vineyards. These make for perfect photo moments and add to the overall pleasure of the day. As one reviewer put it, “All of the views were spectacular,” and that’s a common sentiment.

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Lunch and Dining Options

For lunch, the tour offers an optional reservation at several charming spots, like Lake Breeze Vineyards’ patio, Hillside Bistro, Wesbert Winery’s pizza patio, or Bench 1775’s Asian fusion. The lunch costs extra ($20-$40), but many find it well worth it for the quality and the setting—imagine enjoying farm-to-table dishes or fusion cuisine with panoramic views.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

Guides like Vicky, Murray, Casey, and Steeve earn high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. One reviewer described their guide as “amazing,” highlighting how guides make a difference in making the experience memorable. The group size is intimate enough for interaction but large enough for lively conversations, adding a convivial touch to the day.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a brand-new, luxury, air-conditioned vehicle, you stay cool and comfortable as you hop between wineries. The transportation arrangement ensures you can relax and focus on the tasting rather than logistics. The pickup and drop-off service from your accommodation adds significant convenience, especially if you’re staying in Kelowna or Penticton.

Price and Value

At $136 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the inclusion of five wineries, all tastings, transportation, and a guided experience. The extra cost for lunch is reasonable and optional, giving you control over your budget. For those wanting a hassle-free, comprehensive wine adventure in a stunning setting, this price point hits the sweet spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore top wineries without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s well-suited for groups or couples who want a relaxed but informative day, with plenty of beautiful scenery to enjoy along the way. If you’re interested in bold reds and picturesque landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, travelers who prefer more flexibility, specific winery choices, or a more casual outing might want to consider other options. Those with dietary restrictions or who want an included lunch should be prepared to spend extra. And of course, this isn’t a tour for minors or pregnant travelers due to alcohol restrictions.

The Bottom Line

This Naramata Bench wine tour offers a balanced, well-organized experience blending spectacular scenery, award-winning wines, and expert guidance. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of one of Canada’s premier wine regions, especially if you’re short on time but want to maximize your wine and scenery exposure.

The guides’ professionalism and friendliness shine through in the reviews, making the experience feel personal and special. The all-inclusive tasting fees and luxury transport mean fewer worries and more focus on enjoying each moment—whether it’s swirling a glass, snapping photos, or chatting about the region’s wines.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and wine-filled day with excellent value, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately six hours long, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Are all tasting fees included?
Absolutely. All tasting fees are covered, so what you see is what you get—no hidden costs.

Can I bring snacks or buy wine during the tour?
You can ask questions about wines at each stop, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase your favorites. Snacks are not provided, but you can bring bottled water and buy wine to take home.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the base price but can be reserved at an additional cost ($20-$40), with options at several scenic vineyards and bistros.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s perfect for wine lovers, couples, and small groups wanting a comprehensive but relaxed wine tasting experience. It’s not suited for pregnant women or those under 19.

What kind of wines can I expect?
Expect a focus on full-bodied reds like Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, along with whites, rosés, and sparkling wines.

Is this experience suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
The tour involves visiting multiple wineries, some of which may have uneven terrain or stairs. Check specific winery accessibility if needed.

To sum it up, the Naramata Bench Full Day Guided Wine Tour offers a stellar combination of scenic beauty, premium wines, and expert guidance. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to experience the best of what Naramata has to offer without the stress of organizing each detail. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a memorable day in nature, this tour delivers a genuine taste of British Columbia’s wine country.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby