Just across the bridge from Kelowna, the new community of West Kelowna is a wine aficionado’s dream destination, and all nine of the area’s wineries have joined forces to provide an experience that is second to none.
Enter the Westside Wine Trail, an idea which began to be formulated four years ago. Since then, the Westside Wine Trail concept has become a strong, alluring tourism product.
Participating wineries include Mission Hill Family Estate, Quails’ Gate Estate Winery, Little Straw Vineyards, Volcanic Hills Estate Winery, Mt. Boucherie Family Estate Winery, Rollingdale Winery, Kalala Organic Estate Winery, Meadow Vista Honey Wines and Beaumont Family Estate Winery.
The driving force behind the Westside Wine Trail is the nine families who own these wineries, and their common desire to create and leave a legacy for decades to come. This group of wineries offer a common experience with unique elements.
Most wineries are located within 2 km of each other, and overlook Okanagan Lake. Volcanic Hills, Quails’ Gate, Mission Hill and Little Straw feature on-site restaurants, and several offer licensed picnic or patio areas.
The Westside Wine Trail’s representative, Salina Petschulat Curtis, explains the role of the wine trail.
“We are creating the quintessential wine touring destination in the Okanagan,” she says. “You can find anything from a tiny winery to the largest in the area. The Westside Wine Trail can be described as the area where rural and sophistication meet in the Okanagan. Some of them have been growing grapes since the 1950’s and 1960’s. They are here for the long term.”
The real beauty of the Westside Wine Trail, aside from the stunning scenery and delectable wines, is the elements which make this such a desirable tourism experience. It is a blend of wine, culture, food, art, events and music…all served up in fine fashion to visitors near and far.
~ Deanna Rainey