It's no secret that B.C.'s Okanagan region is a wine-lover's paradise, but there's one region you need to check out to truly get the best combination of vino and adventure — Penticton.
This South Okanagan gem is experiencing a bumper growing season thanks to weather that's brought absolutely stellar fruit quality this year.
At the same time, Penticton is an adventurer's dream, offering activities galore that take advantage of the towering Skaha Bluffs, access to Okanagan and Skaha Lakes, vineyards, trails and even a nearby desert.
And the cherry on top? You can enjoy the best of Penticton almost entirely fuel free, with most things to do an easy walk, ride or paddle away, making for a more sustainable escape.
If you love the idea of pairing a next-level adventure with a delicious wine, here are seven not-to-miss pairings that make this sunny city totally worth the trip.
Hike the KVR trail during golden hour
The entire Okanagan Valley glows at golden hour.
One of the most iconic — and scenic — things to do in Penticton is hike the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, which is easily accessible starting from downtown. The golden hour is the perfect time to hike, with gorgeous vineyard, orchard and lakeview photo ops awaiting.
After you've put in your steps, it's time to match those epic views with an equally epic wine. Pair the views with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Poplar Grove — lush with late-summer foliage and panoramic patio vibes.Cruise the Naramata Bench by ebike
Cycling is one of the best ways to take in the landscape.
Continue your Penticton adventure with a breezy ebike journey along the Naramata Bench, one of the most scenic (and wine-rich) routes in the region. You'll get a guided ride through vineyard-lined roads and panoramic lake-front routes while enjoying some jaw-dropping views, followed by, of course, some local vino.
At Evolve Sparkling House, nestled at the start of the Naramata Bench, you can enjoy the Splash+Dash — a tasting flight of three house favourites from this winery dedicated to excellence in effervescence. It's a sweeping journey for your taste buds that pairs perfectly with your day spent zooming across the landscape.
Paddle across Okanagan Lake
Get a whole new perspective of the South Okanagan by paddling the sparkling lakes.
Take to the water with the Okanagan Lake Kayak Wine Tour, another fab offering from Hoodoo Adventures. You'll enjoy a scenic paddle along the shoreline, lounging on the beach, a scrumptious picnic and a fruit stand stop for some just-picked orchard treats.
Pair your post-paddle euphoria with a smooth, fruity Malbec, and Painted Rock Estate Winery delivers a great one.
Climb the epic Skaha Bluffs
Skaha Bluffs are a must for all levels of climbers.
Ready to push your limits? Skaha Rock Adventures offers climbing excursions for all skill levels on the legendary Skaha Bluffs, overlooking the lake. Once you've conquered the rock wall, celebrate your courage with a wine that's just as bold.
At Blasted Church Vineyards, just a 10-minute drive down the road, you can pair your climb with a robust red like the Cabernet Franc that goes great with your boosted confidence.
Make Penticton your South Okanagan base
Penticton is a perfect hub from which to visit the greater surrounding areas. For example, you can explore one of Canada's rarest ecosystems with Sagebrush Tours' Desert Tour in nearby Osoyoos.
You'll wander through sage-scented trails, learn about Indigenous plant use and spot wildlife that thrives in this dry, sunbaked terrain. It's a total reset — earthy, grounding and unexpectedly moving.
Post-desert, a chilled Gewürztraminer from Wild Goose Vineyards is like an oasis in a glass and is the perfect nod to the desert flora and fauna you've just explored.Explore the South Okanagan by bike
More intrepid cyclists can join up with Epic Cycling Tours to push their limits.
Level up your cycling game with a full-day guided route from Epic Cycling Tours that takes you through the area's wine country, complete with scenic outlooks (and optional shuttle service if your legs tap out early).
Once you've pushed through hills and perused some vineyards, settle down to a lush, full-bodied Merlot from Chronos Winery in downtown Penticton — the perfect post-ride recovery.
Sail Okanagan Lake
Cap off your trip with an ultra-relaxing sailing excursion on Okanagan Lake from Winds of Change Experiences. On your four-hour cruise, you'll be treated to calm waters, dreamy shoreline views and a little breeze in your hair — captain's hat optional.
This kind of vibe demands a glass of bubbly, and Three Sisters Winery is your go-to. Their Rebecca sparkling wine is bright and fresh, basically the taste equivalent of wind in your sails.
From crushing climbs at Skaha Bluffs to sailing Okanagan Lake or cruising vineyard-lined backroads, you'll find that Penticton serves up summer adventure with a side of seriously good wine.
And this season, both the trails and the grapes are having a major glow-up, with outdoor and winery experiences that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
To enjoy your perfect pairing of top-notch wine and intrepid activities in the heart of the South Okanagan, now's the time to plan your harvest getaway and lock in an adventure in Penticton.
Learn more about what Penticton has to offer on Visit Penticton's website, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
Narcity does not condone the overconsumption of alcohol. If you're going to drink alcohol, please do so responsibly and only if you're of legal age.