The light-dappled Similkameen Valley wine region is a tucked-away gem rich with nature experiences, a bounty of fresh ingredients, and terroir-driven wines. In the homelands of the Similamix and Smalqmix First Nations, the namesake river snakes through a verdant valley, bridging the Coast Mountains and the desert-like landscapes of the Okanagan. The terrain is shaped by powerful winds and raw elements. These distinct conditions have given rise to boutique wineries known for their bold reds and crisp, aromatic whites.

The area’s eclectic settler heritage is rooted in ranching, farming, and Gold Rush-era trails leading to the charming towns of Keremeos and Cawston, now celebrated for their organic farms, roadside fruit stands and (of course) wineries. Nestled in the Valleys and Vineyards iconic area, the land invites you to pause, reflect and connect with the land and its people. Savour the tastes, textures and traditions that define this place, from field to glass, and past to present.

Day 1: Immerse Yourself in the Terroir

Photo: Clos Du Soleil Winery

Begin your trip by connecting with the land. Early risers can take to the trails for sweeping views of the light-kissed valley. Gentle wanderers will enjoy the tranquility of Pine Park, skirting the Similkameen River. For those craving a challenge, the steep ascent to Keremeos Columns Park, rewards with dramatic vistas of lava-formed pillars that are silent monuments to the valley’s volcanic past.

Pick up post-hike treats at mom and pop stalls in town, because after all, this is the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada. These family-owned gems are a treasure trove of freshly harvested fruit and vegetables, local preserves, artisan goodies and even home-made samosas.

Keremeos’ constellation of wineries on the upper bench is just minutes away. Under the watchful eye of a towering mountain, Robin Ridge Winery pours an eclectic range, from Gamay Noir to Gewurztraminer. Clos du Soleil is a certified organic winery known for producing elegant Bordeaux-inspired varietals with a delicate touch. Keep your eyes peeled for patio pizza pop ups and special events throughout the season.

Meanwhile, Hugging Tree Winery, a name inspired by two entangled trees symbolizing connection, offers pre-ordered charcuterie boards and varied tastings with stunning vistas at their family-run estate.

Day 2: Fore, Then Pour

Photo: Eau Vivre Winery

Welcome the day with a birdie at St. Andrews by the Lake, an executive golf resort nestled amidst the sagebrush, and framed by plateaus and mountains. This scenic nine-hole course, voted the best in the South Okanagan, offers challenge and a rich sense of place. Grab a bite at the bistro before winding your way back to Cawston

In Cawston, Little Farm Winery, offers a selection of organic Chardonnay, Riesling and limited edition batches in their laid-back, rustic setting, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the valley’s terroir. Bottega Wine Studio pours a variety of wines under one roof, including the elegant Seven Directions Rosé portfolio. Try their Elevated Sip experience in the cellar to get an in-depth vineyard-to-glass tasting experience. Wrap up just down the road, Eau Vivre Winery is a family-run small batch winery that celebrates the Similkameen Valley through its whites, reds and rosés, all while embracing its French name that translates to “drink life.”

Day 3: History, Mystery, and Wine, Oh My!

Photo: Vanessa Vineyard

Start the day cycling the Similkameen Rail Trail, an old railway line transformed into a multi-use trail that runs between Keremeos and Cawston and winds along the river and through orchards. Find your way to the Ashnola Bridge, also known as “Red Bridge” for its fire engine colour. This historic landmark on the west side of Keremeos is the only covered bridge in Western Canada and pays tribute to the town’s coal mining and railway heritage. E-bike rentals are available at Bike Similkameen.

Continue the history tour with a visit to the Grist Mill & Gardens, the only working water wheel powered flour mill in the west of Canada. Tour the 1877 site, then stay for a picnic in the gardens.

Spend a sun-drenched afternoon visiting three amazing wineries at the south end of Cawston. Taste the fruits of the land at Vanessa Vineyard, where panoramic views and five distinct varietals await. Their curated tasting experience is an immersive journey that brings the stories of the land in every glass.

Down the road, Seven Stones Winery is known for its signature reds and underground caves that contain fine French and American oak barrels. Enjoy a glass on their patio overlooking the valley, and be sure to say hello to their four-legged greeters, Baloo and Benny. Continue on to S’Milka Vista Vineyards, a small producer with showstopping views and New World spirit. Be sure to try their Sparkling Rosé, Viognier and Syrah.

Where to Dine:
In Cawston, Crowsnest Vineyards offers “vine and dine” cuisine, including wood-fired pizza and tasting plates inspired by the local bounty. Order a wine flight or a bottle to pair with your meal. Live music brings an added ambiance to the experience.

Nearby, Row Fourteen Restaurant at Klippers Organics celebrates the fertile lands of Similkameen with creative menu collaborations between chef and farmer to honour the town’s credentials as Organic Farming Capital of Canada. In Keremeos, head to Tree to Me Organics, which serves nourishing bistro meals and market goodies, carefully curated from local seasonal ingredients.

Photo: Orofino Vineyards

Where to Stay:
Immerse yourself in the terroir of the Similkameen Valley at a vineyard guest stay. On the Cawston Bench, Orofino Vineyards, is a working winery with some of the oldest vines in the valley. This is Canada’s first energy efficient, solar-powered winery, with buildings designed for energy efficiency. Their beautiful, green-certified guest suites overlook the dramatic valley and namesake Orofino Mountain.

Corcelettes Estate Vineyards offers self-catered guest accommodation, inviting you to slow down and savour each moment. Sip estate-grown wines from your private wrapping patio, framed by sweeping views and sun-drenched vines. Wake up with the light, soak in the serenity and deepen your connection to the land behind each pour. This winery is also within biking distance of seven other wineries.

Getting Here:
The Similkameen Valley wine region is located along Highway 3 (also known as the Crowsnest Highway), an iconic Rainforest to Rockies driving route from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies. On the way, be sure to stop in at Manning Park for hiking and breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains. As you make your way back to Vancouver, plan a stop in Princeton, where you can visit the Granite Creek Ghost Town.