It seems to be the summer of staying local, or at least local-ish, and lucky for us, B.C. is filled with spots that cater to all sorts of travellers.
While the Okanagan has always been a hot spot for wine lovers, especially in the summer, there are some quieter areas that are definitely worth a visit — including Summerland.
Summerland is tucked away on the west side of Okanagan Lake, among the rolling hills and vineyards, and is the perfect spot to add to your B.C. bucket list.
One of the highlights of the region for both connoisseurs and casual fans of wineries, cideries, distilleries, and breweries is Bottleneck Drive, a unique tasting route featuring 20 stops to explore.
Dirty Laundry Winery/BestEver.Studio
There are several different touring routes so you can enjoy tastings and tours throughout the year and discover the charm of the “friendliest town in the Okanagan.”
While many wineries sell their wares at liquor stores around the province, you’re also going to get to discover some varieties only available at the wineries.
Some spots, including Haywire Winery, also offer delicious bites and a seasonal menu for visitors.
Haywire Winery/BestEver.Studio
If you want to expand beyond the amazing wineries like Dirty Laundry, Haywire, Solvero, and Pamplemousse Jus, the cideries are a must-visit.
One of our favourites is Millionaires’ Row Cider — a family-run spot on a historic apple orchard. The team there has been harvesting apples grown on its century-old orchard to create crisp, clean and refreshing ciders.
Millionaires’ Row Cider/BestEver.Studio
You can find the full list of all the spots, plus tour routes and maps on Bottleneck Drive’s website, which also has details on seasonal events in the region.
One of the most popular summer events is the Grand Sommelier Express, which sees members of Bottleneck Drive gather at the Kettle Valley Steam Railway for tastings, snacks and a steam train ride where wineries jump on board and offer tastings while you ride through the rolling hills of Summerland.
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The event is only offered one weekend per summer and sells out extremely fast. If you are hoping to check it out next summer, make sure to sign up for the Bottleneck Drive newsletter for details on ticketing.
If you can’t make it up for that event, the Kettle Valley Steam Railway offers a number of trips where you can take in the incredible scenery around the Okanagan.
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After train rides and wine tastings, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head, and Summerland Waterfront Resort may just be the spot to do that.
Summerland Waterfront Resort
The resort itself is a special one — offering warm welcomes, incredible lake-view rooms, and exceptional service from the entire staff.
People from across the country we spoke with during our stay have been coming back for decades — praising the location, staff, and family feel.
The family and dog-friendly resort is also home to the iKhaya Day Spa and offers a ton of activities for visitors of all ages.
Just a few steps away from the resort, you’ll find Shaughnessy’s Cove Restaurant, which is a great spot for bites and drinks — everything from fish and chips to hen to the must-try Cove Margarita!
Cove Margarita at Shaughnessy’s Cove/Amanda Wawryk
In addition to the tasty sips, you’ll be treated to some of the best views in the area, whether you are sitting inside or on the incredible patio.
Did we miss any of your favourite Summerland spots? Let us know in the comments!
The author of this article was hosted by Bottleneck Drive and Summerland Waterfront Resort and Spa.