Victoria: Victoria Full Day Guided Wine Tour

If you’re headed to Victoria and love wine, this tour promises a relaxed, scenic, and flavorful day exploring one of Canada’s lesser-known but increasingly acclaimed wine regions. Designed for those who enjoy good company, beautiful scenery, and a variety of wines, this full-day experience combines the best of Vancouver Island’s rural charm with top-notch wine tasting.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guidance makes exploring four award-winning wineries both educational and easy—no fussing about reservations or lines. Second, the spectacular views of rolling vineyards and nearby orchards create a picture-perfect backdrop, making every stop feel like a mini getaway. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the driving time—about 45 minutes each way—so travelers who dislike bus rides might want to plan for that. This tour suits wine lovers, curious travelers, and anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic day outside the city.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience simplifies wine tasting and regional knowledge
• All tasting fees included, removing surprise costs
• Beautiful countryside views enhance the wine experience
• Visit 4 award-winning wineries with a variety of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines
• Luxury air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day
• Includes a lovely lunch at Unsowrth Vineyards for a well-deserved break

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Cowichan Valley Wine Region

Just a short 45-minute drive north of Victoria, the Cowichan Valley has quietly built a reputation as one of British Columbia’s premier wine regions. Known for its diverse varietals — from Pinot Noir and Merlot to Chardonnay and sparkling wines — the area offers something for every palate. The fact that there are nine wineries and vineyards in the region hints at its growing prominence.

The tour takes you through this beautiful landscape, where vineyards stretch across rolling hills, interwoven with orchards and farmland. It’s a landscape that’s not just pleasant to look at but also perfect for producing crisp, flavorful wines.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The standout features of this tour are the visits to four award-winning wineries and the all-inclusive tasting experience. The wineries are carefully selected, ensuring quality and diversity. The tour’s focus on off-the-beaten-path sites also means you avoid tourist traps and get to experience some hidden gems.

Plus, the luxury vehicle—new, air-conditioned, and comfortable—keeps the journey smooth and relaxing. And the guided aspect, led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable tour guide, adds immense value, providing insights into the regional wine scene, local culture, and even some hidden local secrets.

What to Expect on the Day

The tour begins with a pickup from your Victoria accommodation, making the start seamless. The 45-minute drive north whisks you away to the lush countryside, where each stop feels like a mini vacation.

Wineries and Tastings

At each winery, you’ll have ample time for tastings and questions. The guides have good relationships with the wineries, which translates into personalized service and often special access. You’ll sample a broad range of wines—reds like Pinot Noir and Merlot, whites such as Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, and sparkling wines that might surprise you.

One reviewer notes, “Lee, our guide, was very informative about the four wineries we enjoyed,” emphasizing how the guides help make the experience more engaging and educational. Expect to learn about wine-making processes, regional characteristics, and even get some tips for choosing bottles to take home.

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Scenic Break at Unsworth Vineyard

Halfway through the day, you’ll pause at Unsworth Vineyards for a delicious lunch reservation. The restaurant offers a relaxed, scenic setting that perfectly complements the wines tasted earlier. The reviews mention the lunch as excellent, supporting the idea that this isn’t just a quick snack but a proper meal that adds to the overall value.

The View and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the day, the views of rolling vineyards and orchards are breathtaking. Many guests appreciated the chance to wander the properties, snap photos, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a chance to disconnect from the city hustle and enjoy nature’s calm.

Return and Drop-Off

After a full day of tasting and sightseeing, the luxury vehicle returns you to your Victoria accommodation, completing a well-organized and enjoyable experience.

The Value of the Experience

At $136 per person, the tour offers excellent value. It covers all tasting fees, transportation, and a guided experience, which can otherwise add up quickly if you visited wineries independently. Plus, the lunch included (though additional costs for extra drinks or souvenirs are on you) makes it a well-rounded day for the price.

Many reviews highlight that the guides are personable and knowledgeable, making the experience more enjoyable. One says, “Lee made our trip,” emphasizing how much personality and professionalism add to the day.

Practical Details: Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The tour lasts about 7 hours, which balances enough time at each winery without feeling rushed. The new, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially in warmer weather. The tour is designed for small groups, which fosters interaction and makes for a more intimate experience.

Pickup and drop-off are included from Victoria accommodations, which means no stressful logistics or extra costs. The exact pickup time is confirmed the day before, so travelers can plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided wine tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore beyond the usual suspects, as well as couples and small groups looking for a leisurely, scenic day. It’s also suited for those interested in supporting local wineries and discovering hidden gems. But if you’re not keen on spending time in a vehicle or prefer a more active or adventurous outing, this might not be your best fit.

The Sum Up

This Victoria Full Day Guided Wine Tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and educational way to experience one of Vancouver Island’s most promising wine regions. With visits to award-winning wineries, a delicious lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, it provides excellent value for wine lovers eager to learn and taste without the hassle of planning.

The beautiful landscape combined with personalized service makes it a stand-out choice for those wanting to add a touch of elegance and authenticity to their Victoria trip. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a relaxing day of exploring, this tour will likely leave you with great memories and bottles to enjoy later.

If you appreciate expert guides, beautiful scenery, and a diverse wine selection, this experience is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a comprehensive, fuss-free introduction to BC’s emerging wine scene, all wrapped in the charm of Vancouver Island’s countryside.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Victoria accommodations are included, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving enough time at each winery and for the scenic drive.

Are tasting fees included?
All tasting fees are covered in the price, so there are no hidden costs when you arrive at each winery.

What is the vehicle like?
The tour uses a brand new, luxury, air-conditioned van, ensuring a comfortable ride and a smooth journey.

Can I choose my lunch?
Your lunch is reserved at Unsworth Vineyards, and the menu is typically included in the experience. Additional costs may apply if you opt for extra items.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenic views, the guide’s commentary, and the chance to purchase wines or explore the winery grounds.

What is the tour group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, fostering a more personal experience and interaction with the guide.

This guided wine tour offers a thoughtful, scenic, and educational way to discover Vancouver Island’s hidden wine treasures. With a balanced mix of beautiful views, expert guidance, and quality wines, it’s a memorable addition to any Victoria itinerary—especially for those who want to combine relaxation with a touch of luxury.

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