The Perfect Penticton Day Trip: Wine Slushies, Tacos, and South Okanagan Views

We know the feeling. You’re waking up in Penticton, the sun is hitting the lake just right, and you’re craving an adventure that doesn't involve a stuffy, white-tablecloth tasting room. You want great wine, sure, but you also want a vibe that feels like a backyard party with your best friends.

If you are looking for the best wine tasting Penticton has to offer, the real secret is taking a short, scenic 15-minute drive north. We invite you to spend a day with us at Ve Oh Lay Acres, where the atmosphere is casual, the tacos are fresh, and the wine slushies are always flowing.

We’ve put together the ultimate itinerary for your next winery South Okanagan day trip. Follow this guide to turn a standard Saturday into the highlight of your summer.

1. Morning: Penticton Prep and Beach Vibes

Start your morning slow. We recommend grabbing a coffee at one of the local spots on Main Street or along the Okanagan Lake waterfront. Take a quick stroll through the Penticton Farmers’ Market if it’s a Saturday to see what the local artisans are up to.

Before you head out, make sure you have your sunglasses and a light sweater for the evening. Penticton is the perfect home base, but the real magic of wineries near Penticton happens when you start exploring the benches and hillsides of Summerland.

2. Mid-Morning: The Scenic Drive North

When you're ready, jump in the car and head north on Highway 97. This drive is one of the most beautiful in the country, hugging the shoreline of Okanagan Lake. Keep your eyes peeled for the "Peach" in Summerland, that’s your cue that you’re entering the heart of Bottleneck Drive.

We are located just off the beaten path, tucked away in a spot that offers some of the most serene South Okanagan views. We take pride in our "no-snobs-allowed" policy, so as soon as you pull into our driveway, you can leave the formalities at the gate.

3. Lunch: Tacos and Our Famous Wine Slushies

Four young adults laughing and toasting with glasses of bright red wine slushies

By now, you’ve likely worked up an appetite. Forget the tiny crackers and cheese samples you find at other spots. Our kitchen specializes in mouth-watering tacos and small bites designed to be enjoyed outdoors.

Our Taco Favorites

We believe food should be fun. Our menu features bold flavours like:

  • Barbacoa Brisket: Slow-roasted pulled beef with a charred jalapeño crema.
  • Chicken Tinga: Tomato-poached chicken that packs a punch.
  • Korean Pulled Pork: For those who like a little gochujang heat and kimchi crunch.

Pair your tacos with one of our legendary wine slushies. They are bright, icy, and the absolute best way to beat the Okanagan heat. We even offer apple slushies for the kids or those looking for a non-alcoholic treat, making us a top choice for families looking for things to do in South Okanagan.

4. Afternoon: Wine Flights and Relaxation

Wooden swing benches on a covered patio at Ve Oh Lay Acres Winery

After lunch, it’s time to get serious about your tasting, but only as serious as you want to be. Instead of standing at a counter, we encourage you to grab a wine flight and head to our patio.

Why Try a Flight?

A wine flight allows you to sample a variety of our award-winning wines at your own pace. Whether you’re into crisp whites, bold reds, or our signature honey wines, a flight gives you the full spectrum of our cellar.

If you are the designated driver or simply prefer to skip the alcohol, we are proud to serve Muse. It is widely considered Canada's best-tasting non-alcoholic wine. We want everyone in your group to have a glass in their hand and a smile on their face.

Take a seat on our wooden swing benches or spread out on the lawn. We’ve designed our space to be an experience destination, not just a retail shop.

5. Explore the Farm and Farm-Fresh Honey

A variety of Ve Oh Lay Acres award-winning wines displayed on a modern rack

Before you leave, don't forget to check out our farm-fresh honey. As a honey winery, we have a deep connection to the land and our bees. You can learn about the life cycle of a honey bee and how that gold nectar makes its way into our unique bottles.

It’s the perfect souvenir to take home to remember your day. Our honey is as local as it gets, harvested right here in the South Okanagan.

6. Late Afternoon: Nearby South Okanagan Stops

If you’re not quite ready to head back to Penticton, there are a few more gems nearby:

  • Kettle Valley Steam Railway: Catch a ride on this historic train for a trip back in time. You can find more info at the official KVR website.
  • Giant’s Head Mountain: If you have any energy left, the hike to the top offers a 360-degree view of the entire valley.
  • Summerland Sweets: Grab some world-famous fruit syrup or an ice cream cone for the road.

Tips for Your Day Trip

To make sure your day goes perfectly, we suggest keeping these few things in mind:

  • Book Ahead: While we love walk-ins, our patio can get busy on sunny weekends.
  • Bring the Pups: We are a dog-friendly winery! Your four-legged friends are welcome to join you in our outdoor areas.
  • Check the Kitchen Hours: Our kitchen typically runs Thursday through Sunday, but it’s always a good idea to check our latest updates before you arrive.
  • Dress Casual: We mean it, flip-flops and sun hats are the standard uniform here.

Come Visit Us

We take pride in offering the best casual winery experience in the region. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist visiting the South Okanagan for the first time, we can't wait to host you.

We understand that you have many choices when it comes to wine tasting Penticton, but we promise that the short trip to Summerland is worth every minute. Come for the wine, stay for the tacos, and leave with a new favorite summer memory.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about our current menu or events.

See you on the patio soon!

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