Central Okanagan
West Kelowna, Kelowna and Lake Country
Central Okanagan Wine Region: Discover Kelowna, West Kelowna & Lake Country
Located in the heart of British Columbia’s Wine Country, the Central Okanagan is where the province’s wine story began. Anchored by the scenic 135-kilometre-long Okanagan Lake, this vibrant region is home to Kelowna, West Kelowna, and Lake Country—each offering a unique blend of vineyard experiences, culinary excellence, and natural beauty.
This area should be at the top of your list if you’re looking to pair wine touring with fine dining, nightlife, theatre, art galleries, concerts, outdoor recreation, golf, and sun-drenched beaches. Whether you’re paddling on the lake or sipping wine on a patio, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the valley.
A Legacy of Wine in the Central Okanagan
The region holds a special place in BC wine history. In 1859, Father Charles Pandosy planted the first vineyards near Kelowna at the Oblate Mission to produce sacramental wine. Fast forward to today, the Central Okanagan boasts over 40 licensed grape wineries, along with a thriving scene of craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries—many of which offer tastings, tours, and on-site dining with panoramic views of lakes, mountains, and vineyards.
Explore the Region: Kelowna, West Kelowna & Lake Country
Kelowna’s International Airport (YLW) is a primary gateway to the Okanagan Valley and interior regions.
Kelowna and West Kelowna are connected by the William R. Bennett Bridge, which spans the lake at its narrowest point. Both cities feature diverse winery clusters with stunning architecture and immersive wine experiences.
Lake Country, located just north of Kelowna en route to Vernon, is known for its tranquil setting and boutique wineries nestled between Okanagan Lake, Kalamalka Lake, and Wood Lake.
Many of these wine routes are ideal for E-bike tours, offering easy access to tasting rooms with minimal travel time between stops.
Beyond the Glass: Outdoor Fun & Cultural Attractions
With miles of sandy beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic hiking and biking trails just minutes from downtown Kelowna, the Central Okanagan is perfect for travelers who want to blend wine touring with adventure and relaxation. The region also offers:
• A wide range of accommodations
• Historic sites and cultural attractions
• Farm-to-table restaurants and artisan markets
• World Class Golf courses, nature preserves, and winter escapes
Just 60 minutes from downtown, you’ll find Big White Ski Resort, a popular winter destination famous for its champagne powder snow and family-friendly atmosphere—a perfect complement to the valley’s year-round appeal.
Common Varieties Grown: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Gamay Noir
Key Wine Events: Cheers to Cheese! – Westside Wine Trail (May), Sip & Stroll Artwalk (June), Okanagan Spring Wine Festival (May), Okanagan Fall Wine Festival (October)
Central Okanagan Greatest Hits
Featured People and Places
Okanagan Valley Regions and Maps:
9 Distinct Wine Region of British Columbia
Explore BC's wine regions by clicking these links: