Introduction
Pentiction offers a delightful tour that marries the pleasure of cycling through lush landscapes with the joy of wine tasting. As you pedal along scenic routes, each stop offers a unique opportunity to explore local vineyards, learn about winemaking processes, and sample exquisite wines. From boutique family-run estates to well-known wineries with panoramic views, discover the diverse flavours and rich heritage of Penticton's wine scene. Ready your bike and your flavour palate for a day of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable tastings under the Okanagan sun.
Cycling the Scenic Routes of Penticton
Penticton is a dream for cycling enthusiasts, brimming with diverse routes that cater to riders of all skill levels. For a blend of topographical challenges, the cycling routes here offer a mix of flat sections and robust climbs providing excitement at every turn. One of the most beloved routes is the Lake-to-Lake Route, a well-developed network of trails connecting the scenic Okanagan and Skaha Lakes.
The city is also famous for the renowned Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) Trail, an historic railroad now transformed into a recreational trail network stretching almost 650 km. The KVR Trail offers leisurely rides underscored by stunning views of Penticton's landscapes, providing a genuinely immersive cycling experience.
The Wineries of Penticton: A Discovery of Flavours
With more than 170 wineries operating in the South Okanagan, you'll be spoilt for choice. The regions of Naramata, Okanagan Falls, and Summerland are home to over 80 wineries, all within a short 15-20 minute drive of Penticton.
Travellers and wine enthusiasts can enjoy wine tastings at some of the top-ranked wineries in Canada, such as Bench 1775 renowned for its Ice Wines, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and the White Meritage. Other notable wineries include the family-run Painted Rock Estate Winery, La Frenz Estate Winery, Upper Bench Estate Winery, and the enduringly popular Ruby Blues Winery.
Cycling to Wineries
Combining the thrill of cycling on a self-guided tour with the pleasure of visiting these wineries offers an enriching experience. Pedal through charming trails and vast vineyards, taking in the serenity and the scenery, then stop at wineries to bask in the shared passion for wine-making. This combination lets your journey be punctuated with flavourful sips of the region's finest wines, as you get to learn about the rich history and intricate processes behind each bottle.
Rentals and Guided Tours
If you can't bring your own bike and/or you prefer not to tour the wineries alone and want some local expertise, several local shops offer rentals and tours, including Penticton E-Kruise, Epic Cycling, Hoodoo Adventures, and Pedego Penticton. Another excellent choice is Velo Volt Mobile E-Bike Rentals, which will deliver e-bikes directly to your accommodation.
Cycling to the wineries brings not only a unique mode of transportation but an entirely fresh and invigorating perspective. The path from the bike trails to the wine tasting rooms is a journey through nature, human ingenuity, and the delectable treasures that result from the unity of both.
Conclusion
Here, in Penticton, the love for sporting and savouring combine to offer an exhilarating encounter, a blend of the senses in every way. Whether you are a devoted cyclist, a wine connoisseur, or an energetic explorer, discover a unique Penticton tradition, where every pedal brings you closer to the next sip of dynamic local wines.
